When a server says, “I have some bread coming for the table,” I assume it’s complimentary… but not at Carmelina Restaurant. While not an exorbitant charge, we did notice a $3-per-basket fee on the bill. You can upgrade to garlic bread for $13, which gets you four slices of fluffy, warm bread brushed with oil and garlic, topped with shredded parmesan, plus a trio of dips and olives. Again, not outrageous, but a bit more transparency would’ve been appreciated.

Especially since I didn’t really need the extra carbs. Carmelina’s portions are generous. The grilled calamari ($22) arrived as two smoky pieces of squid on a bed of tropical salad with grilled peppers and olives. It was nicely cooked: tender, full of flavour and felt fresh thanks to all the vibrant accompaniments. Unfortunately, I barely made a dent in the salad, let alone the toasted poppadum bowl, before the mains came flying out.

Pacing is a real issue here. For a restaurant with live entertainment - a loud but talented musician serenading us first on piano, then guitar - Carmelina seems eager to rush you through your meal. The busboy repeatedly tried to clear the wooden garlic bread board while there were still pieces on it. We joked that maybe they were running low on boards and needed it back immediately.

Sure enough, when the lobster and shrimp risotto ($37) hit the table, I hurriedly finished my last bite of salad before the remaining calamari was whisked away. The champagne and saffron infused risotto was rich and plentiful. While the half lobster tail was overcooked and chewy, the five sizeable prawns were well prepared and thankfully made up for it.

The pappardelle al verde ($33) was a flavour bomb: mushrooms, caramelized onions, arugula, gorgonzola, and sundried tomatoes folded into a creamy, nutty sauce. The noodles had that proper fresh chew, which made the dish especially satisfying. And finally, once the mains landed, we were mercifully left alone to eat and enjoy the crooning serenade.

Even though we couldn’t finish our mains, we still made room for tiramisu ($14). Moist, creamy, and unmistakably homemade, it was a comforting end to the meal. A slightly stronger espresso hit would’ve made it perfect, but I was happy regardless.

Carmelina delivers generous portions and comforting Italian flavours, but the rushed pacing and lack of transparency take away from what could otherwise be a relaxed, enjoyable night out. Slow down the service, be clearer with pricing, and this place could really shine.