Menu of Carlo's in Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines

Menu Overview

Carlo’s, nestled in the Asian Century Center in Taguig, Metro Manila, brings a distinct Italian-American flair to the local pizza scene. From the moment you step inside, the warm ambiance and attentive service set the tone for a satisfying meal, highlighted by an inviting, spacious seating arrangement and friendly staff, especially notable servers like Sir Jake and Ray who enhance the overall dining experience.

The menu offers a thoughtful selection that showcases both classic and creative Italian-American dishes. Among the stars, the Spicy Vodka Rigatoni stands out—a dish that blends a mild heat with creamy, smooth vodka sauce. While some may find the spice a little dominant, it works well with the pasta’s al dente texture and Ricotta cheese, delivering a balanced, comforting bite. This dish reflects Carlo’s commitment to bold flavors anchored by Italian tradition.

The Chicken Parm offers a generous portion draped in a rich marinara sauce and cheese melt. The breading’s unexpected sweetness is unique, potentially polarizing, but it accentuates rather than overpowers the savory layers beneath. This dish feels hearty, a genuine homage to Italian-American comfort food with a twist.

Agnolotti, pocketed pasta filled with sweet pumpkin, reveals Carlo’s finesse in creating subtle yet memorable dishes. The butter sauce remains delicate, allowing the pumpkin’s natural sweetness to lead the flavor profile. This dish exemplifies the kitchen’s skill in balancing richness and restraint.

Pizza enthusiasts will appreciate the 18” pies with the option to split flavors. The crust, characterized by a thin, crisp texture with a subtle char, lends a crunch but lacks the structural thickness some may prefer. The MuPeSau topping is a highlight, featuring Italian sausages bursting with fennel aroma and a robust marinara, though slightly lacking in the expected sweetness which might elevate it further. Conversely, the Vodka PEP side delivers spicy creaminess, although the heat can overshadow finer toppings like ricotta.

Complementing the mains are excellent starters and sides. The Garlic Cream Pasta and Pesto Cream with Burrata showcase rich, velvety sauces with fresh Italian influences, while the Mozzarella Sticks and Caesar Salad offer reliable, crave-worthy moments. Desserts such as Pistachio Gelato and the Italian Orange Coffee provide delightful finishes, marrying tradition and innovation.

Service consistently receives praise, from rapid attentiveness to a welcoming atmosphere. Carlo’s strikes a balance between a casual hangout and a refined dinner spot, making it an excellent choice for dates or group gatherings. The happy hour drink deals enhance the experience, adding a lively but relaxed vibe.

Some areas for improvement include the outside seating, which currently falls short compared to the cozy interior. Also, adding fresh herb notes to pizzas could elevate the complexity and bring the flavors closer to authentic Italian nuances. Still, Carlo’s remains a standout in the Metro Manila pizza landscape—delivering well-crafted dishes with character and robust, satisfying flavors that make it worth returning to.