Dining with Natalie Da Carlo

As a native of culinary melting pot Malaysia and the daughter of a restaurateur, UG student Natalie Voo knows her food. Every other week, she reviews Groningen’s student-friendly dining scene. This time: Da Carlo.

I’ve been loyal to Anno Domini for so long that trying a new Italian restaurant almost feels like cheating. But Da Carlo has always tempted me, like that sexy yet slightly suspicious guy at a party. So, I took the plunge, and honestly? I’m glad I did.

We went all out: tagliatelle carbonara, mushroom and saffron risotto, and the tartufo di limoncello. The carbonara was solid – could’ve used more sauce, but the flavor was definitely flavoring. 

Existential crisis

The risotto, though, was a revelation – I’m talking full existential crisis here. Was every risotto I’d ever eaten just… wrong? This one had a bite to it, wasn’t mushy, and was perfectly cooked. Am I a risotto fraud? Have I been living a lie for 22 years? Risotto isn’t supposed to be mushy? Someone call Gordon Ramsay. Either way, it’s one of my favourite vegetarian dishes I have had in Groningen.

Dessert was okay. If I wanted vanilla, I’d order vanilla, but I wanted lemon! Where was the zesty citrus drama I was promised? 

Italian sitcom

As for the vibe, it was a 10/10. Everyone seemed to really enjoy working there, the bartender was singing Italian tunes, and the whole place felt like you’d walked onto the set of a cozy Italian sitcom. Warm lighting, inviting decor, and an atmosphere that screams ‘grab your friends and order wine’.

Between the generous portions and stunning flavors, Da Carlo has officially joined Anno Domini on my ‘best Italian in Groningen’ list (for now – we gotta keep them on their toes). Who knew I had room in my heart for two Italian favorites?

Da Carlo, Gedempte Zuiderdiep 36

An Italian restaurant in the city centre. For two people we spent €47.90.

Ratings:

Food 8/10
Presentation 7/10
Service 9/10
Ambience 9/10

Dutch

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