Angela's
Grilled Pizza, Authentic Italian recipes, Homemade pastas, Hot Pies
Italian food is well-loved by all, but who serves the best authentic Italian fare? Mama Ricotta is one strong contender for this coveted honor. Italians often take pride in hearty meals and lavish spreads of well-seasoned and mouth-watering food, and the restaurant certainly seems to achieve that. This eatery is a quaint little place that serves up the most genuine Italian food. The food is prepared using made-from-scratch mozzarella cheese, fresh seasonal veggies, and soft bread. In addition, the establishment also has a well-stocked bar to complement the delicious meals. Mama Ricotta also hosts private events and caters to off-site occasions.
Portofino's story is one of family, friends, and love of food. Our story starts with two young men, Giosue (Josh) and Luigi (Gino), who were childhood friends in Naples, Italy. They immigrated to the United States when they were very young - Josh to the north, and Gino to the south.Josh went to New Jersey to work for his older brother, Valentino, who had opened a restaurant there. Gino went to Winston-Salem, NC, to work with his cousin. When Gino's and Josh's paths crossed again, they saw an opportunity to work together. This joint venture was the birth of Portofino's Ristorante Italiano e Pizzeria as the two friends opened their flagship restaurant on Eastway Drive in Charlotte in July of 1996.Josh's little sister, Carmela, who followed in his footsteps via New Jersey, and Josh's wife, Margherita, helped open the first Portofino's and were there for the subsequent openings. Portofino's on Park Road opened in 2001.The call of family beckoned and big brother Valentino sold his restaurant in New Jersey, made his way south to Charlotte and the third Portofino's opened on South Tryon Street at Ayrsley. Giovanni, a family friend, also became a manager during this time.Most recently, Portofino's at the Arboretum opened in the summer of 2012. Carmela got married in September 2008 and her husband Raffaele is the manager at the Arboretum restaurant.So remember, when you dine at Portofino's Ristorante Italiano e Pizzeria, you are truly sitting at the family's table.
Fiamma Restaurant is an Italian eatery tucked away in the polished streets of Uptown Charlotte, serving as the perfect destination for romantic occasions and little celebrations. Fiamma is one of the more popular Italian restaurants in the neighborhood. The ambiance is reminiscent of a quaint European trattoria, cozily warm with dim lighting and comfortable seating. The bar's wine selection is extensive and one of the most sophisticated. The service effectively complements its reputation.
