Welcome to Pinocchio's Italian Restaurant.
Nestled in Spencer, NC, Pinocchio's Italian Restaurant offers an authentic Italian dining experience that transports you straight to Italy. With a warm and intimate atmosphere, this charming eatery is beloved for its homemade dishes, including exquisite Zuppa Di Pesce and delectable Ricotta Dumplings. Guests rave about the impeccable service, with friendly staff ensuring every visit feels special. Highlights include the mouthwatering gnocchi and traditional desserts like tiramisu, which evoke childhood memories of true Italian cooking. Perfect for date nights, this hidden gem requires reservations due to its cozy size, guaranteeing a memorable culinary adventure.
-
518 S Salisbury Ave, Spencer, NC 28159, United States518 S Salisbury Ave, Spencer, NC 28159, United States Hotline: +1 704-636-8891
If you're searching for an authentic taste of Italy nestled in the heart of Spencer, North Carolina, look no further than Pinocchio's Italian Restaurant. Located at 518 S Salisbury Ave, this charming eatery not only specializes in time-honored Italian dishes but also embodies the warm, welcoming spirit of Italian culture. With its intimate ambiance and dedicated staff, Pinocchio's emerges as a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike.
As you step inside this cozy restaurant, you're greeted by a passionate team committed to delivering exceptional service and mouthwatering cuisine. The atmosphere is both quaint and romantic, making it the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience—whether it’s a casual night out or a special occasion.
One of the highlights of Pinocchio's menu is its commitment to authenticity. The house-made bread and olive oil, rich lasagna, and decadent tiramisu have all received rave reviews, with diners like Ellen Garner praising the restaurant for reviving cherished memories of family Italian meals. Each dish—from the creamy Fettuccine Alfredo to the savory Spaghetti & Meatballs—offers a taste of Italy that echoes with both nostalgia and craftsmanship.
The appetizer options are nothing short of tempting, with choices such as Bruschetta and Ricotta Dumplings paving the way for a delightful culinary journey. Meanwhile, customers like Lorenzo Milliken are quick to recommend the Gnocchi as a must-try, describing it as the best they've ever had.
For those with smaller appetites, the small plates menu is the perfect answer. From the Cheese Baked Ziti to the Penne with Butter, each offering showcases the restaurant's attention to detail and quality ingredients. Amy Bacigalupo notes the extensive menu with seasonal specials, ensuring that there’s always something new to savor on each visit.
Reservations are highly encouraged due to the limited seating, especially during peak times. But rest assured, the cozy ambiance adds to the charm of dining here—a sentiment echoed by Amber H, who described her first experience as “perfect” for a date night. With a glass of refreshing sangria and a plate of expertly crafted dishes, you’ll quickly understand why Pinocchio's attracts such loyal patrons.
In summary, Pinocchio's Italian Restaurant offers more than just food; it invites you into a deep-rooted tradition of Italian hospitality and culinary excellence. With each bite, you taste the love, history, and artistry that defines authentic Italian cooking. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Italian cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, Pinocchio's promises to deliver an experience that lingers in your memory long after your meal is done.
For reservations and inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out at +1 704-636-8891.
Great food and very good atmosphere. Small place but the hostess Viviana was very welcoming.
Excellent food, service was great without being intrusive. Very quaint setting,. My grandmother was full blooded Italian, so I was raised on very good authentic Italian food. I am from up North, and there are a lot of mom and pop restaurants that are phenomenal. My point being, I have lived in NC for upwards of 10 years and this is the best little Italian restaurant that reminds me of home. Everything was homemade and authentic. From the bread and oil, the lasagna, the cannoli, everything, home made and phenomenal. I am so glad we found this little gem! Definitely will go again and again, make sure to make reservations, very small location, but that makes it that more special.
The service, atmosphere, and food were just perfection. I could not recommend this place more. I would recommend the gnocchi because it was the best that I’ve ever had! The seating is limited so please make a reservation to ensure you have a table. It looked a little empty in the photo because it was near closing.
Authentic Italian cuisine with an extensive menu and seasonal specials weekly. Small and intimate so be sure and get a reservation during peak times. We've been on a Tuesday and a Thursday when it was not crowded. Service was impeccable and the good delicious. Came highly recommended by friends and it didn't disappoint. The chicken or veal is great (marsala, piccata, cordillo, Parmigiana). Desserts are tasty especially the tiramisu.
It was our first time. We really enjoyed ourselves. It's a very cute, cozy, quiet, romantic atmosphere. Perfect for a date night. I made last minute reservations that evening because I was torn between a few different places. I am glad we chose this one. I had the spaghetti and meatballsand my fiance had the Hake fish with lemon and butter sauce. The fish, meatballs and tiramisu were perfection. Growing up with an Italian step-father, I can tell true authentic Italian cooking and this brought me back in time. I also had the sangria which was delicious, it reminded me of my favorite bottle of Roscato wine.
Exceptional service, great food. This place is a hidden gem. Apparent husband and wife team. I only issue high recommendations (rare), and this is one.
My mom came to visit this weekend and I did not want to take her to a chain restaurant. I asked a friend if she had any suggestions and she suggested taking her to Pinocchio’s. We had a wonderful experience. I loved the atmosphere and the food was excellent! I ordered the crab and shrimp ravioli and tiramisu for dessert. I will definitely be back!
A lovely place for real authentic Italian food. Great family restaurant. The staff are very friendly and well knowledgeable on the food items. They also have great wine selections. The food is AAAAAWWWWEEEESSSOOOMMME. Cooked fresh on the spots for. No frozen microwave food. And no processed stuff, just plain REAL FOOD.. We really enjoyed the place. WARNING: You must call ahead to make sure their is seating for you. Or just make a reservation.. The place is always packed.. The best times for walk ins are Tuesday’s and Wednesday.. It is worth the wait. You will not be disappointed.. We LOVE THE PLACE.