Opinion

Christina’s is an underrated Pembroke staple that serves amazing Italian food, and I have been there countless times to enjoy it. Ever since I was a child, my family and I have been visiting Christina’s to enjoy the vibrant vibe of the restaurant and the wholesome and welcoming atmosphere it brings. The wait staff are all incredibly outgoing and kind, and we have been going so much that most of them know us personally by name. It is truly one-of-a-kind, and it might be the restaurant that I recommend the most out of the 3 that I have reviewed.

I have to start like any meal does: with my favorite appetizer. Whenever I go, I always start out with their focaccia bread and olive oil. I always pair it with black pepper and parmesan cheese, and it is the most addicting food I have ever had in my life. I literally have to force myself to stop eating it so I don’t get full on just bread. It’s herby, salty, and has an incredible crunchy texture, and it contrasts extremely well with the flavor of the olive oil. I rate the bread an 11/10, it is to die for.

After the appetizer…comes a second appetizer. I always order the caesar salad before any meal. And I have to say, I’m a caesar salad enthusiast, and this is one of the best I have ever had. The dressing is tangy and flavorful, and the croutons have the perfect texture. They are also incredibly well-seasoned which is always a big plus in my book. This one is also an 11/10, it is amazing.

For dinner, one of my go-tos is the mac and cheese, which is cavatappi pasta in a three-cheese blend topped with cracker crumbs. It is creamy, salty, and decadent, and it is one of my favorite comfort foods. If I don’t fill up on bread, I become a part of the clean plate club every time. I rate this one a 9/10.

I had to save the best for last. My absolute favorite dish at Christina’s is the penne, chicken and broccoli, which comes in a garlic butter sauce and romano cheese. I have gone to many restaurants that serve this, and it is my safety meal whenever I am unsure what to get. I am never unsure at Christina’s and I almost always order the penne, chicken, and broccoli. It is the best version of this dish that I have ever had. The chicken is tender and flavorful, the sauce is intensely garlicky and cheesy, and the broccoli soaks up all of the flavors of the butter and garlic perfectly. It is 10pm right now, and I am salivating just writing this. 20/10 I truly cannot think of something that tops this.

In my overall experience with Christina’s, I would have to give it a score of 12/10. I have never been disappointed when going there, and the environment is also so welcoming and nice. If you couldn’t tell already, it is my absolute favorite restaurant of all time, and I actually really hope this article convinces people to try it out. They will not be disappointed!