Ciao Osteria

Michael Gracey

I visited on a quiet Monday evening for some pre-game watching eating. Found my way to the longer bar (they have two actually — one about eight seats and the other three). Sam was one of the most pleasantly engaging barkeeps I have experienced in quite some time. He provided recommendations as well as a detailed explanation of the pizza oven and food philosophy of the restaurant and instances when owners greet customers. I ordered a hearts of palm salad, octopus with asparagus, and meatball/fries sides to eat there. I also took a superiore pizza and tiramisu dessert to go. The salad had great portions and proportions of ingredients (hearts of palm, artichokes, red peppers, and olives) which tasted crisp and fresh. My first time having octopus was well rewarded with good texture and meatiness feel to the octopus and again an appreciated portion size. Nice acidity from the accompanying lemon caper sauce too. Sam’s recommendation on the meatballs was well placed, as I enjoyed three meatballs that had good meat flavor with little binder, texture not too soft and not too firm, and fresh marinara. Fries were crisp and hot as well as not salty at all. I liked experiencing pizza the Italian way — lightly sauced with nearly perfect topping proportion, a little char on the bottom, and a great tasting crust. Ending with the homemade tiramisu (first time eating this dessert ever) was definitely the right call. Soft but such a light interior, well controlled sweetness from the marscapone cheese, and just the right amount of cocoa powder. Prices seem only slightly higher than what might be typical for the area. I definitely feel one can get satisfying value in any section of the menu. I have to try one of the pastas on my next visit and maybe a special or two and the housemade cannoli. I can totally see why this place has the popularity it does!

Ahmad Rahim

Solid locally-owned Italian restaurant in the Centreville area. Convenient location with plenty of parking. Made a reservation via Yelp app and the entire process was streamlined. Hostess was friendly and seated us immediately. Server was very personable and clearly passionate about her work. Our dishes were all flavorful with decent sized portions. Pizza was good but I'd recommend they bake them slightly more as it was a bit soggy. Prices are on the higher end but worth it for quality Italian food. Overall, definitely recommend giving them a try.

Heather Shaffer

Dinner was amazing! I had been waiting for them to bring back the Lobster Parmigiano Reggiano so when they announced it earlier in the week I rushed to make a reservation. However ended up in the area a little over 4hrs before my reservation time and they were beyond accommodating. Antonio my server was nice and helpful and Sal (the owner) made his way around to the table. He was kind and so sweet. You really feel like you are a part of the family and the food was delicious!!!! Can't wait to go back and try some more menu items.

Chris B.

This is a very good Italian restaurant for Northern Virginia. The grilled octopus appetizer was awesome, very tender and clean. The Arancini was not bad, not my favorite though. The chicken Parmesan was good, not outstanding. My date liked the garlic seafood pasta a lot. They have an excellent wine selection. Extremely busy for dinner, expect to wait even with a reservation.