Matthew B.
The food and atmosphere were fantastic, the service could have been a little more meticulous for the price. Delicious coctails, fresh seafood and veggie antipasti, better paella than resturants that specialize in paella! The seafood was perfectly seasoned and charred. The grill chef must be a magician. We had looked forward to the tiramusu, but the lemon cake was moist and sweet and wonderfully tart.
On the other hand, it would be better to make sure plates are cleared before setting down the next course, and returning the check wallet while standing at another table talking to the patrons there was a little rude.
… moreK B
We celebrated our birthdays here tonight and were welcomed with such wonderful service from the moment we walked in. It truly felt like we’d been transported to Italy. The staff was incredible! Lennon took great care of us, and the food was absolutely 5‑star!
Two of us ordered the veal Marsala and it was outstanding. They even offered a gluten‑free option for one of us, which was so appreciated. Dessert was divine… the pistachio gelato (with a delicious topping) and the tiramisu were both perfection.
We love Italian food and we absolutely recommend this restaurant! We heard it was under new ownership as of a year or so ago … and it’s very obvious they know what they are doing! I hope they stay and prosper in Issaquah – it’s a true gem of a place!
… moreSuzan Bartee
Our ragamuffin crew of 4 adults and 2 toddlers was welcomed with open arms last night. We’re from out of town and went in based on the reviews. Our expectations were moderate — and our experience was FABULOUS. The staff were so kind, patient, and accommodating. We’d had a hard day and came in our working clothes (!). Our server, Juan, has the hospitality skills of a fine dining restaurant gentleman combined with the genteel personality of a favorite uncle. Perfect. We ordered the bruschetta (you must!), the meatballs (that sauce!), beet salad, gnocchi, plus 2 other pasta dishes. Everyone LOVED their meals, we shared, we had great conversation — and then we had dessert. My husband had a single malt scotch he’d wanted to try — the drinks were great. If we lived nearby, this would be on our regular rotation. An absolute gem in Issaquah — what are you waiting for? Go.
… moreJoyce McMurran
A great experience at Nicolina’s Italian Restaurant! The maitre d’ was inspirational and helpful, making us feel so welcome in this small, quaint, and charming place. The food was delicious with a very authentic taste… I ordered the fettuccine with pesto and it was good but heavy. Have a big appetite when you visit. Highly recommend!
Wonderful service- thank you Ella Mae!
… moreRicardo Vela
Great food, nice place, and excellent service. Christian, the owner, and his staff were very attentive. I would definitely come back.
… moreTL Miz
Delicious, fast and friendly. We had lunch and didn’t expect much but the ravioli with prawns and bruschetta were terrific! Will definitely be back.
… moreBill Posey
First thing when I went in to place my takeout order, the waiter taking the order was very condescending I Just asked if they serve lasagna? It’s an Italian restaurant. He was very rude and snarky we don’t sell lasagna or pizza. The meal taste and smelled like it was burnt this was the smallest portion of food that I have ever received for $70 the food was horrendous It was just plain disgusting no flavor I ate the bread and nothing else, we also had to hunt in our car for silverware because there was none in our bag. This place is a disappointment It was not worth our money or time. Will never eat Here again we were just passing through and happened to find this place in google. You need to do better.
… moreKirk Maringer
Our experience here was good and bad. It was extremely busy when we got there and the hostess said they had seating outside in the covered patio which was heated. So we accepted and went outside thinking we would be able to eat much quicker than waiting for a seat inside. We were unfortunately wrong, it didn’t get us served any faster. I believe they were just short staffed, but seemed to continue to forget about serving the patio. They were definitely friendly and working hard, so that’s really the reason I didn’t rate it less. The food was very good, but the Caesar salad is more traditional, meaning it was a little more fishy than I like. Though the diner entrees were excellent! If we’re in the area again and craving Italian, it would be worth another try.
… moreArianna Fuller
We had a lovely evening here with the family. The waiter was able to bring out a small taste of pomodoro sauce to see if my daughter would like it (she loved it) before we even ordered. All of our meals were well plated and tasted wonderful, and the service was kind and helpful. My kids have both decided this is their “new favorite Italian restaurant”. Will definitely be visiting again.
… moreGail Chase
First visit with the new ownership. Atmosphere has been upgraded with new lighting and comfortable chairs. Food was delicious Staff was very good. We will definately eat here again.
… more