For many more eateries that dabble or specialize in Italian cuisine, check out our searchable restaurant database.
Ideal Italian
Some picks from Reno and Sparks
By Amelia Calvert
Special to MetromixJanuary 4, 2009
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La Vecchia Italian Restaurant
3501 S. Virginia St. - Reno775-825-1113
For a real Italian experience, visit Chef ’Berto at this Reno restaurant. The ambiance is warm and welcoming; the food is straight from an Italian kitchen and the full bar, decked out with vintage Ducati memorabilia, feels a lot like Bologna. Don’t miss the Ravioli di zucca e ricotta – Pumpkin ravioli – with sausage and brown butter sage sauce.
Luciano's
6135 Lakeside Drive, Suite 145 - Reno775-828-0400
This neighborhood restaurant is a local favorite. They take their food and wine seriously, but the atmosphere is light and fun. The staff knows the regulars and treats diners like neighbors, even if it’s your first time. Smallish portions allow diners to save room for dessert. One look at these delights and you won’t be sorry.
La Famiglia
180 E. First St. - Reno775-324-1414
This one has such a reputation, don’t expect to dine without reservations. Seafood lovers – check out the cioppino – discriminating diners say it’s the best in Reno. The wine list gets major props, so don’t be afraid to try something new. It’s all good. Dine European style – long courses with good conversation and lots of wine among friends.
Biscotti's at Peppermill
2707 S. Virginia St. - Reno775-826-2121
This Peppermill restaurant features international cuisine, including flatbread pizza and pastas, gelato and crepes. The Singapore garlic noodles and Tuscan tortellini are standouts. Get breakfast weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and weekends till 11 a.m.
Carino's Italian Grill
13901 S. Virginia St. - Reno775-852-8875
Although it’s a chain, Carino’s offers a warm atmosphere and generous helpings of pasta, panini, appetizer and pizza. The angel hair and artichoke is a good one for something on the lighter side, but the menu offers hearty meals like Skilletini, spicy Romano chicken or spaghetti with homemade meat balls for those with a larger appetite. Beware the jalapeño tilapia. Sometimes the cooks are heavy-handed with the peppers.
Olive Garden
4900 S. Virginia St. - Reno775-829-1500
Yep, there’s one in every city, and this one is no different. Lines out the door at peak dining times prove people can’t resist the never-ending breadsticks and salad. Check out the To Go menu for convenience. The Portobello ravioli never disappoints. Great for folks far from home looking for something they know and trust.
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Be brave and eat your fish raw
Reno is stuffed with sushi places like some sort of gambling handroll. Don't just pick wildly when you crave uncooked pisces — try one of our favorite places to chow down.
