Tarantelli's in Wilmington NC
Nestled in the heart of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, Tarantelli’s stands as a culinary wonderland that captivates the palates of locals and visitors alike. It is a family owned restaurant that acquired their inspiration from their grandparents, Anthony “Tony” Salvatore Tarantelli and Mabel Tarantelli. With it’s authentic ambience, diverse menu, and commitment to culinary excellence, Tarantelli’s has etched it’s name as a must-visit restaurant in the area. It is at the top of my list when I think of favorite Italian restaurants in Wilmington.
The Ambiance
As soon as you walk into the restaurant you feel at home. Tarantelli’s allows you to be transported to Italy with it’s warm, inviting atmosphere, exposed brick walls, and gorgeous decor. There is also a great patio area that allows you to take in the fresh air while enjoying an incredible meal.
Whether you are looking to celebrate a milestone or seeking a more intimate dinner spot, Tarantelli’s is a haven for all occasions. The attentive, knowledgable and friendly staff ensures that all guests are well taken care of and feel like family while embarking on their culinary journey.
The Culinary Experience
The diverse menu allows for each dish to tell it’s own unique story of flavors and textures. During my most recent visit for my real estate team’s yearly celebration, I ordered the Pappardelle Al Funghi Porcini E Panna. It came highly recommended by the waiter and I could not have been more pleased. The dish comes with homemade pappardelle pasta, Italian porcini, shiitake mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, shallots, and thyme in a velvety cream sauce. It was absolutely delightful.
I would encourage you to start your culinary adventure by ordering the Wagyu filet mignon bruschetta as well as the calamari. However, if you want to jump straight into the experience, I would recommend ordering the Spaghetti al Formaggio Parmigiana. This is essentially a wheel of parmesan cheese that is presented, heated and served to you right at the table on top of a bed of spaghetti.
Personally, my favorite entree is the Filetto Di Bue Alla Da Vinci which is Wagyu aged filet mignon with grilled asparagus and sauteed mushrooms. Simple yet elegant. That particular meal has been one of my favorite filet experiences in town in recent memory.
Tarantelli’s prides itself on sharing their family recipes as well as some of their favorite Italian cuisines from all over the world. They want to make sure that your experience stays with you long after your table is cleared.
The wine list, curated with care, boasts an impressive selection that complements the diverse menu. The staff is always ready to assist in choosing the perfect wine to elevate your selection, ensuring that each sip enhances the symphony of flavors on your plate.
Beyond Dining: Location
Tarantelli’s should definitely be considered when you are planning a date night, late night out, or staycation. I love it’s location as your are in walking distance to the Cape Fear River, bars, and everything else that downtown Wilmington has to offer. A great vacation or staycation idea would be to book yourself a room at Arrive right across the street and conveniently walk to dinner in under a minute.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Tarantelli’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience waiting to be savored. From it’s welcoming ambiance to the commitment of an authentic Italian experience, they invite you to embark on a journey of taste and discovery. Whether you’re a local seeking an escape or a traveler eager to test out Wilmington’s culinary gems, Tarantelli’s promises a wonderful dining adventure for you.
For more information on the restaurant, check out their website here!
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