Fazoli’s, the popular fast-casual chain specializing in Italian-American cuisine Kentucky-born restaurant begun from humble beginnings back in 1988, and now they have over 200 locations around the U.S. With two locations in just Wichita at 37th and Rock, as well as off West Central where we dropped by for our review; Fazoli’s menu is synonymous with deal and being easy, not to mention its iconic breadsticks actually meaning ‘all-you-can-eat’.
Why We Opt for Carryout: the Current Climate
Typically this is meant for a dine-in visit to Fazoli’s, especially if you’d like those unlimited breadsticks that everyone loves. But we decided to do carryout because of everything going on in the world right now. We were wooed by a $20 family meal deal that came with spaghetti, fettuccine alfredo, an entire pizza (score!), one gallon of iced tea, and 16 breadsticks. At that price, it was the perfect time for a #SaturChains review.
Order Now: Fazoli’s Menu App
A great way to capitalize on this deal is by using the Fazoli’s menu. Good news is that the app was intuitive, and with just a few clicks here and there, I ended up ordering pretty fast. When we walked into the place, our order was waiting for us at a pick-up point, and it really did make my life easier from when I ordered to picking up.
First Impression – Food For Your Eyes?
Opening our order, we were immediately greeted by tons and tons of food. It was literally impressive in quantity, but at a relatively low price you would pay. Unfortunately, the quantity of food far surpassed its quality.
The Pasta Dishes: When Quantity Wins Over Quality: Fazoli’s Menu
The meal: Spaghetti with meat sauce and fettuccine alfredo (available in pasta dishes). It is a relatively bland sauce, unfortunately. The meat sauce was shallow, and despite being completely offbeat, nothing much to mention about the alfredo. But never fear, there was no shortage of noodles. The portion was generous, but the taste fell way short. So if your palate is calling out for genuine umami tastes, we’re not so sure Fazoli’s menu will be your first choice.
The Pizza: Disappointing in a Box: Fazoli’s Menu
When it comes to the pizza, well I have just one comment…M-E-H. The pizza itself was thick-crusted, with a thin rationed layer of cheese and pepperoni on top. In the end, it was like eating bad mall pizza. Although the serving itself was extremely large, it disappointed in terms of flavor and also texture. For fast-casual pizza—which I expect should be held to a lower standard by now—this was not as enjoyable.
The Iced Tea: Something (Cool) to Look Forward To: Fazoli’s Menu
I have to say that one thing did stand out, their unsweetened iced tea. It is one of my go-to drinks, and the version from Fazoli’s menu lives up to the benchmark I have created over the years with this item. It was a different taste in what had otherwise been an uninspired meal.
The Breadsticks: Real MVP
But let us cut to the chase…the breadsticks, Fazoli’s menu redeeming quality. Chances are these breadsticks need no introduction. Every breadstick was pillowy soft, salty, and aerated delightfully. The breadsticks were the only item on order that stood out, if just barely, and they were good enough for us to be distracted by them more times than we care to remember.
Why Visit Fazoli’s? Breadsticks is Everything
Fazoli’s menu isn’t fine dining Italian, but it has its benefits. It is high on the list of affordable and fast options for a family to eat together somewhere outside their own homes. I suspect most of us, myself included, go to Fazoli’s menu for the breadsticks. They are the headliner, while all else on hand is a mere side act. They’re so popular that I tend to go back time and again just for the breadsticks.
Comparing the Local Italian Options: Fazoli’s menu to the Rescue!
A local Italian restaurant crushes Fazoli’s. Your best bet is local eateries, where you get higher quality Italian dishes for less than half the price. Fazoli’s, on the other hand, serves Fast Casual customers looking for a quick and cheap meal—not out to be blown away by gourmet dishes. Those breadsticks, though, bring customers in and could have first dibs on Fazoli’s menu convenience factor despite its other culinary failings.
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag with a Highlight
So, at the end of the meal, I had mixed feelings about Fazoli’s. All in all, while the pasta may disappoint those looking for a full-bodied taste and genuinely Italian food, it is difficult to ignore the fast service from paying only “single digits” at this tip-through hole shop. That said, the breadsticks are especially great and worth a visit on their own. Sure, Fazoli’s menu isn’t going to replace your local all-natural Italian spot… but as a quick in-and-out for salty carby goodness, it very well could do the trick.
Final Thoughts: Would We Go Back?
Would we return to Fazoli’s? Yes, with caveats. We probably wouldn’t go back for the pasta or pizza, but those breadsticks are a reason enough to come every now and then. When you are looking for an affordable, easy meal and need homemade breadsticks included as a side, then make the trek to Fazoli’s.
