A Slice of Italy in Norfolk: Top Restaurants for Every Craving
Norfolk, VA, offers a delightful journey through Italian flavors, from upscale trattorias to casual pizzerias. This list explores the top-rated Italian restaurants catering to every taste and budget. So, grab your fork and get ready to savor a taste of Italy in Norfolk!
Hidden Gem with Authentic Delights (Most Interesting Feature: Unique Salumi & Cheese Selection):
- Amale Tre Focacceria & Italian Deli (5 stars, 35 reviews): Don’t let the small number of reviews fool you! Amale Tre Focacceria & Italian Deli is a hidden gem for authentic Italian fare. This intimate spot offers a unique selection of cured meats (salumi) and cheeses, alongside classic Italian sandwiches and pastas. (Price: $) Google Maps The friendly service and European atmosphere make it a great spot for a quick and delicious lunch or a casual dinner with a focus on quality ingredients.
Family-Friendly Favorite with Generous Portions (Most Interesting Feature: Longstanding Reputation):
- Del Vecchios (4.5 stars, 1626 reviews): (Price: $$) Google Maps A Norfolk institution, Del Vecchios offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for families. Their menu features classic Italian-American dishes like Chicken Parmesan, Lasagna, and Fettuccine Alfredo, all prepared in generous portions. They’re known for their delicious homemade bread, making them a local favorite. The friendly service and casual vibe make it a great spot for a relaxed and satisfying meal.
Upscale Ambiance & Creative Cuisine (Most Interesting Feature: Seasonal Menu):
- (Tie) Luce (4.6 stars, 734 reviews): (Price: $$$) Google Maps Experience modern Italian cuisine in a stylish setting at Luce. This upscale spot offers a seasonally changing menu featuring fresh, local ingredients and creative twists on classic dishes. (Popular Dishes): House-made pastas, Seared Scallops, Branzino (Mediterranean sea bass), Ossobuco (braised veal shank) The attentive service and elegant atmosphere make it a great spot for a special occasion or a memorable meal.
Delicious Brick-Oven Pizzas (Most Interesting Feature: Coal-Fired Oven):
- (Tie) Lo Mo Pizzeria (4.8 stars, 87 reviews): (Price: $$) Google Maps Craving a delicious and authentic pizza experience? Look no further than Lo Mo Pizzeria. This casual spot boasts a coal-fired oven, creating pizzas with a unique smoky flavor and crispy crust. (Popular Dishes): Neapolitan-style pizzas with various toppings, Calzones, Arancini (fried risotto balls) The friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Familiar Favorites in a Casual Setting (Most Interesting Feature: Extensive Menu):
- (Tie) Olive Garden Italian Restaurant (4.1 stars, 2835 reviews): (Price: $$) Google Maps A familiar name in Italian-American dining, Olive Garden offers a vast menu featuring classic dishes like Chicken Alfredo, Lasagna, and Shrimp Scampi. Their extensive menu caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences, making it a great choice for families or groups with diverse palates. The friendly service and casual atmosphere make it a comfortable spot for a relaxed dining experience.
Award-Winning Pizza & Neighborhood Gem (Most Interesting Feature: Family-Owned):
- (Tie) Fabio’s Pizza & Delivery (4.7 stars, 149 reviews): (Price: $) Google Maps This family-owned gem offers award-winning pizzas alongside classic Italian dishes like Stromboli and Calzones. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and delicious flavors has made them a favorite among locals. The friendly service and casual atmosphere make it a great spot for a quick take-out or a relaxed dine-in experience.