Nido Italiano

We have been to Nido's several times and we love it. It so so cozy and quaint. It's not a fancy place. Pretty simple. The food is really good. Very authentic. We have been to Italy and their food is just like what we had in Rome. It's great! The service is wonderful. We highly recommend this place.

Posted 11/23/08 | Report Abuse

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I've been to Nido's at least 20 times over the past few years, and it remains my favorite Italian restaurant. It is located on E. Patrick Street downtown, across from the library and parking garage. (though sometimes you can find street parking right out front). The restaurant is easily recognized by its green & red awning.

You enter the main door, walk down a creaky wood floor hallway, and reach a cozy lobby area. There are three cute dining rooms. Most have brick-style walls, Italy posters, and Christmas lights! The restaurant is not fancy... simple tables and silverware, and the server will light a small table candle for dinner.

The menu is simple, and only about 3 pages long. Two pages of typical Italian meals: pasta, some seafood and meats, and a page of wines. My friend (who lived in Tuscany for a year) was impressed with the small but adequate wine list-- they even carry her favorite Montepulciano.

I almost always get the manicotti. It is delicious. I always want to try something new but tend to stay with what I know I will love. My husband's favorite dish is the baked ziti with sausage. Unlike the big chain places, salad does not come with the entrees, so you have to order it separate if you want it. (I usually skip it.) You do get fresh bread with your meals. We are usually too full for dessert, but I have had the cannoli before and it was yummy. Prices are not outrageous, but not as cheap as some other places. I feel the warm atmosphere and locally-owned business add to the value.

Nido's is great for any occasion. I sometimes go for lunch during the week, but usually it's for dinner. Sometimes there is a wait on Saturday nights but not too bad. (Note: We were there for an early Valentine's Day dinner and when we left, the line was out the door.... definitely a romantic restaurant for special occasions.)

We've always been happy with the mature, polite servers, and the delicious food quality. We've stopped going to the big chain "Italian" places because we much prefer the intimate atmosphere of Nido's.

Posted 09/18/08 | Report Abuse

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