Romano's Macaroni Grill - El Cerrito, California

Benjamin R.

It's typical corporate dining at its most meh. It's fine. It's neither good nor bad. The servers clearly don't give a damn (Why would they? This isn't a place for big spenders to leave generous tips.) but they're competent and polite. It's just... an "Italian" place to eat. If you go in expecting a chain restaurant that typically inhabits shopping centers, you won't be disappointed.

Amir M.

I’ve been a regular at this place for some time now, and the food quality has always been consistently great. However, during my recent visit, I did experience some service issues that I’d like to highlight.

The unlimited soup and salad, which are usually a delightful part of the dining experience here, were not refilled even once throughout our meal. Additionally, the famous bread and oil, which I always look forward to, were served after the main meal, and only because I inquired about their absence. The same goes for the water service

Wes H.

Well, let me tell you, Romano's Macaroni Grill ain't exactly Nonna's kitchen.

Let's start with the good stuff: the location is pretty convenient with plenty of parking, which is always nice. We strolled in at 5 PM on a Sunday, and the place was practically a ghost town.

When we walked in, we were greeted by the hostess, but it was a little odd when she just pointed to some booths in the bar area and told us to go sit in one of those. She followed us with an extra plate for the third person in our party and mentioned that the server would be right with us. Well, it took about 10 minutes of sitting there before our server finally showed up and asked what we wanted for dinner. We decided to start with an appetizer and drinks—three sodas for the table seemed simple enough. But both the sodas and the calamari took their sweet time to arrive. There was only one other table in our section, so what was the holdup?

We were promised bread when we arrived and were told it was on its way, but it never showed up. Once our main courses came, the disappointment really set in. The Pollo Caprese was underwhelming with tomatoes that were barely passable and massive chunks of what was supposed to be mozzarella. At this point, we asked for the bread again, and the server said, "Oh, I didn't think you wanted it, I didn't put the order in." The bread was a non negotiable for us. Yes, always bring bread.

The Italian chopped salad was equally sad, with lettuce that looked and felt lifeless. When our drinks were running low, we had to remind the server for refills, and he looked at us like it was the first time he'd ever heard of such a thing.

For the price, this place ain't worth it. If the service was good but the food was so-so, or if the food was great but the service was lacking, maybe I could overlook it. But when both the service and the food are subpar, forget about it. We won't be coming back.

Andrew P.

Pretty good food, pretty tasty. My only complaint is that it seems a bit pricey for the overall quality of the food. We got an appetizer, 2 entrees, 2 side dishes and dessert (no alcohol) and it was $120.00 for 2 people. It could have been $150+ if we had drinks on top of that. The food was decent, but I expect better at this price point.

Vincent P.

THIS IS THE WORST RESTAURANT I'VE EVER BEEN TO.

We waited 30 minutes to be seated, and then waited another 30 minutes at our table, but no one came to take our order. At first, we thought they were just busy, but then we saw another table that arrived 20 minutes after us get their order taken within 5 minutes. I simply can’t understand this.

We left the restaurant without having a meal. As we were walking out, one staff member rushed over to us—but what was the point? It was the worst hour we've ever experienced.

Aaron J.

The food is ok. I have no complaints about the service. But I’ve been there 2-3 times in the last couple of years and have noticed the same weird thing both times: the chefs are constantly yelping (not like Yelp the reviews site, actually little shouts). I don’t know if it’s to signal that an order is ready or what. My best guess is there’s like a missing bell or timer or something and instead of that they just give a little (extremely loud) shout. A hoot. A holler. Like to the point that it’s got to disturb someone else besides me! It’s part of the place’s … charm, I guess? But I need to know what the hell it actually is! Especially since it’s not a fluke but something I’ve noticed multiple times. UPDATE: if it’s Tourette syndrome or similar, my apologies.

laura G.

Great service, good food, and drinks (blood orange cosmopolitan)

Tine R.

Haven't been here for over a decade! Shrimp Portifino and caeser salad are my fav!!! The cannolli does not disappoint! A must try! Our server, Hollis is exceptional! Be sure to come down, ask for him and tip him BIG! ...bc he deserves it! 👏 👍👏👍👏 Macaroni Grill should recognize how well he represents their company. Completely above and beyond service!