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    Aventino Cucina

    3.9 (154 reviews)
    PriceyItalian
    Open 11:30 am - 2:30 pm, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    Updated 3 months ago

    Order Aventino Cucina Takeout or Delivery

    Aventino Cucina Italian Restaurant Photos

    AVENTINO CUCINA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Trendy
    Intimate
    Romantic

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    Recommended Reviews - Aventino Cucina

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    Expresso martini
    Michelle K.

    We stopped by for drinks and upon recommendation, we ordered the ricotta with chickpea "panelle". The bartender was friendly and attentive. The space has a chic, modern vibe, perfect for unwinding with good conversation and cocktails. I recommend trying their espresso martinis. Definitely a spot I'll be returning to!

    Pesche - Swordfish
    Philip L.

    I would say the interior and location for a nice sit down restaurant is the appeal here. The inside is nice and clean and spacious. Having a larger table is definitely not the issue at this location. The service was impeccable as we were the only large table. They were attentive and always filling up water and checking in. I would say that the food is the one that leaves you wanting more. The food was okay in my opinion, but the amount and the seasoning of the dishes do leave you with a feeling of not really being full. For the ones who enjoy smaller portions, this works for them, but for me, it ends up being harder to justify getting appetizers and an entree and then considering another entree because I didn't eat enough. As for the seasoning, I would probably lean into adding a bit more spice into the dishes or fresh cracked pepper for some spice. The salt levels were fine, but a bit more black pepper would have given the dish more oomph.

    Pizza rossa
    Justine K.

    Best Italian restaurant in the DMV!! We continue to come back for the excellent service and the quality of the food. All the dishes are shareable, although not large portion size. We noticed the meat entrées keep changing put everyone we've tried was delicious. We celebrated our 10 year anniversary in the restaurant made us feel very special. The last time we dined, we had a pork prime rib style dish that was tender and flavorful. The pasta dishes are also unforgettable and delicious. Oh, and I forgot to mention their cocktails are always super satisfying. The lighting in the restaurant sets the mood just right.

    Jasmine G.

    3.5 stars. Came here for Sunday lunch with some friends. Friendly service and cute aesthetics inside. Brunch / lunch menu is a bit limited, and food portions & cocktails were small as well. I ordered the seafood spaghetti (Manila clams) for my entree & the peach palazzo cocktail, and both were good but not amazing.

    Emily P.

    Had the most magical pesto gnocchi with truffles here- it was fluffy and gorgeous. The staff here is warm and welcoming and the amaro program is really fun for first timers and experienced tasters alike!

    The vibe

    Service is the best I've ever had never an empty glass food was great too the ambiance was there

    Trout
    Peiling C.

    We chose to dine at Aventino Cucina for a girl date due to the cute interior. The food and drinks were decent, no complaints but also nothing spectacular; small menu. We went on a Sunday afternoon at 1pm and there were only 3 parties there but they sat us right next to another couple. Did wish they spaced us out a bit since the entire restaurant was available.

    Seasonal tart with pomegranate seeds and pine nuts
    Marisa H.

    We went here for a late Sunday brunch/lunch. This was a treat. Our table got a mix of pasta and brunch items. The spaghetti Alle vongole was so good with just a hint of red pepper. The cacio e peppe was perfect. My omelette was a perfect French cook with delicious fontina cheese and mixed mushrooms. I love the mixed greens salad. It seemed to have a kumquat dressing which was light and a great complement. The desserts were great as well. We will definitely be back for dinner! It's such a restaurant and I love the green decor. The staff and prompt and professional, while also friendly. Very clean restrooms as well. Free parking across the street on the weekends!

    Crudo
    Sheridan S.

    I really enjoyed my evening at Aventino! The atmosphere is chic and timeless, and I immediately was impressed by the decor. Everything we had was delicious, and I loved how gluten free friendly their menu is. My friend and I also did the amaro tasting, which was such a unique and special experience we really enjoyed, and we found some lovely amaros we would never have otherwise known about! The staff's knowledge was such a meaningful touch that really brought the experience from a normal dinner out to a memorable one.

    Susie W.

    When my family came to town, I finally had the opportunity to try out Aventino! Pretty spacious inside, with a massive bar in the middle and cool modern decor. They were busy in a Friday night, but the manager stepped up to help take our drink orders and ensure we were not forgotten or slowed down! I was surprised to learn that there were not too many protein options on the menu - or the options that did have meat they were very light. However, we all thoroughly enjoyed our pasta choices. The classic cacio e Pepe "Tonnarelli" was a hit, the "Pappardelle" with mushrooms was delish, and the "Lumache" hit the spot! Serving sizes were just right - not too big, just enough to get us full! Excited to come back and try more of the appetizers and pizzas on this menu!

    SALTIMBOCCA veal with sweet potato crema
    Jennifer R.

    We had dinner at Aventino Cucino tonight and we had an amazing experience from the food, service, to the ambiance. We ordered several dishes and all of them were excellent. The food was great quality and authentic Italian dishes. We tried the pizza rossa, PROSCIUTTO DI PARMA which was sweet and savory flavors with the prosciutto and pineapple with focaccia bread. We had also PAPPARDELLE which had wild mushrooms and it was delicious. We also tried the SALTIMBOCCA with veal loin and sweet potato crema. We even ordered their special dessert which was the Opera cake, which was perfect with the fior di latte gelato. The ambiance was very classy, upscale, and modern. We enjoyed it even with our kids. The service was excellent as well. Our server was knowledgeable, friendly, and precise. From the friendly greetings from the hostesses as you enter into the restaurant. You are welcome and greeted with a smiling face. We definitely had a great experience and would return to try other dishes.

    Rigatoni
    Paola L.

    I loooved Aventino! The interior and exterior signage is beautiful. Interesting wallpaper, colorful seating areas and overall a clean and intriguing design concept. Our waiter was great, knowledgeable on the menu and so kind. I loved my pasta! Warm and filling meal. Dessert was an interesting mix of flavors from the cake having a cinnamon kick and the gelato being sweet. Not usually something I note but the bathrooms smelt like strawberries... so random but pleasant? I'd recommend stopping by Aventino anytime

    LUMACHE
    Fred K.

    This is what Bethesda really needed. Upscale Italian food with delicious food and finally something that doesn't read like your typical suburb menu. It's very nicely decorated with some noise reducing elements like the fabric booths, but it's quite loud still so you have speak with a louder voice. Big bar in the middle. Have to come back to the bar with their awesome cocktail menu. Best dirty martini! I liked their BRUTUS & BOOTS drink too. We were a group of 6 and our server recommended two entrees and several pasta dishes. We had to try their three pasta dishes. He was a good server and was so helpful. I didn't take a pic of their carbonara pasta but wow I could just this dish alone and just that only. I really enjoyed their cacio e pepe dish too. Both pork chop and steak entrees are meant to be shared and both were so good too. Perfectly cooked per temperature as requested. Highly recommend to give this place a try.

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    Ask the Community - Aventino Cucina

    Do they have gluten free pasta?

    I am not sure. I did not notice any gluten free pasta options on the menu. That being said; not sure if they could have a separate menu. Sorry!

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    Olazzo - Penne Primavera with Salmon

    Olazzo

    4.1(834 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$

    What an amazing lunch!…read more I'll start by saying I have been to Olazzo before, but today's lunch was special. I was introducing my girlfriend and my mom to each other. The host was so friendly and helped get us seated in a booth, and very shortly after seating we were greeted by our server Josh. Josh was very polite, and I felt good vibes before the food ever hit the table. He recommended their special, a trout on pasta dish. The entree had a very generous portion of fish, and our server made sure to drop off everything we needed to accompany our food, extra cheese, water refills, he was attentive and took great care of us. Next time I dine at Olazzo, I'm going to be looking for Josh!

    Sunday February 15th 4:00pm…read more I normally don't include personal feelings when reviewing. This is an exception. We were in the area and decided to try this spot. Hostess, gentleman who seated us, and our server were wonderful. The food wasn't the best ever but it was good. We decided to give it a shot despite low customer ratings. We are Black Americans. When we walked in I picked up on a negative vibe but dismissed it. When you walk into a small establishment and it get's quiet or you get the looks turn and no one speaks turn around and leave. There were a few people at the bar chatting up staff (regulars). As we walked by the bar headed to the table I glanced over to the what clearly was the person in charge. I smiled no response. We eat, I head to the ladies restroom. I passed the same gentleman who, again looked directly at me, I smiled and he turned his head. I passed by him on the way back to the table. I specifically looked him the face and smiled. He looked at me and again turned his head blatantly. We are aware of prejudice so I didn't let him get under my skin. I smile and speak to anyone and am happy to do so whether it is reciprocated. It takes negative energy to be mean spirited. Willing to take our money but refuse to acknowledge us as paying customers. We spent quite a bit for two people. I will not recommend this place if it was the last Italian restaurant. To the owners- I could not tell if you were the person I encountered today or a manager. Either way- Just Wow.

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    Family

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    Olazzo - The view

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    Caruso's Grocery - Spicy Neapolitan Ragu

    Caruso's Grocery

    3.9(211 reviews)
    4.9 mi
    $$

    Came here recently for lunch Sunday. They have two sections inside and we sat in the bar area. You…read morecan order off both of Caruso's and Owen's food menus. Bar area is very chill. Food was very good! To start, we tried the Garlic Bread Quattro Formaggi which was so flavorful they even had fresh garlic inside the bread. We got two pasta dishes: Chicken Parmigiana and Spicy Neapolitan Ragu, both generous portions, very well flavored and overall delicious! Our cocktails were great too. Tried the Lemon Ricota Donuts--they were just okay, a bit too doughy for my preference.

    The restaurant was busy on a Saturday night. It was loud, which management likes because it gives…read morea sense of patrons having a good time. The walls were an homage of old photos with an eclectic and whimsical feel. Service was excellent. A variety of staff kept checking to see if everything was satisfactory. It was. Our salad was the tomato panzenella special. The ingredients were fresh and the vinaigrette was just right. A complimentary bread basket with olive oil and balsamic vinegar options was available. The glass oil dispenser was coated in oil making it messy to grasp. The bread was not fresh and not exciting. I had the eggplant rollatini. It had a generous flavorful red sauce and the herb ricotta filling added a nice contrast. My only complaint would be how thin the eggplant slices were. More eggplant please. My wife loved her linguini and clams. I couldn't taste it because I have a clam allergy, but she loved it. Someone also got rigatoni and enjoyed it. The generous portions left us too full for dessert. This solid Italian restaurant has good food at a good price and needs to be on your list next time you feel like Italian.

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    Caruso's Grocery - Christmas tree

    Christmas tree

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    Leave the gun, take the cannoli.

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    Il Pizzico - Spaghetti allo scoglio

    Il Pizzico

    4.3(849 reviews)
    9.2 mi
    $$

    What does Il Pizzico mean in English - perfection perhaps??? I know that's not what it means - but…read moreit should. This unassuming restaurant in a rather seedy strip of Rockville Pike exceeds expectations at all levels. The dining room is neutral and simple, relaxing and quiet. The service is fantastic. Honestly, there are not too many professional waiters left in the world but, the ones that remain, all work at Il Pizzico. Service is impeccable. Danny was perfect. The owner, Enzo, is charming and enlightened with his menu. When we mentioned how much we liked ramps (which Enzo had picked himself out in the woods, by the way), he went and got some pickled ramps he made for himself only (not on the menu) so we could taste. Charming. Inspired. Elegant even! My main course was ramp risotto with scallops. OMG great! The risotto was luxurious and complex and filling and surprising - all at once! I hate to throw out the word "perfect" again but this dish was in fact perfect! The rice was perfectly cooked and satisfyingly crispy at its center. Honestly, I got lost in this dish. There were other things in the risotto - onions? Scallops for sure. Green shavings (what the heck was that)? Who cares! The risotto was that good. My dish was so good that it could have been ONLY risotto and I would have loved it! The risotto was so good, in fact, that I ordered creme brulee for dessert and I don't even like creme brulee. I know this doesn't make sense and I know it doesn't paint me in a good light - but it's true. I wanted the outstanding dining experience to continue so I ordered something that I usually overlook in order to keep it going. Ok, so I do not need to say this. BUT I WILL. I highly recommend Il Pizzico. Full stop!

    Il Pizzico was such an outstanding experience. From the outside, it's tucked away in the most…read morerandom little area in Rockville, so we honestly weren't expecting much walking in, but once you step inside, it completely transforms. The restaurant is beautiful with a warm, romantic, old Italian vibe. The food was great and surprisingly reasonably priced for how nice the restaurant feels. I wouldn't say it's the most mind-blowing Italian food I've ever had, but it tasted like a truly delicious homemade Italian meal. The wine prices were also fair. On top of that, our server was incredibly attentive and friendly throughout the night. Overall, such a lovely dinner and definitely a place we'll be back to again. One note: you have 2 hour limit so just be aware you may be a little rushed!

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    Il Pizzico - Inside

    Inside

    Il Pizzico - Appetizer special - Croquettes w/cod - 2025

    Appetizer special - Croquettes w/cod - 2025

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    L'Ardente - Soft Serve - Vanilla Fior di Panna Gelato (v,gf) | Mango-Passion Fruit Sorbet (v+,gf) |

    L'Ardente

    4.5(1.6k reviews)
    7.1 mi
    $$$

    I give l'ardente 5 stars and the 3 g's: Gorgeous, glamorous , and glorious. I was solo dining and…read morefelt so well taken care of. The waitress I had was so sweet and their guest service coordinator constantly checked in with a warm attitude. I got the focaccia and was between the girasoli and spaghetti pomodoro. I am so glad I went with my waitresses recommendation and got the girasoli! It was unlike any pasta I've ever had. Similar to a ravioli, but has a veggie puree opposed to cheese on the inside. The leek and lettuce within the lemon butter sauce was to die for, and the girasoli itself was pleasant and unforgettable. The focaccia was also SO FLUFFY. The outer crust was not too crunchy and just right. The inside is so glamorous but also feels Italian. Very clean, nice and spread out, and overall a fabulous vibe. If I'm ever back in DC, this is on my list of restaurants to be coming back to!

    I think I am in "my finally" season - trying all of the things I have been meaning to get to…read more Ever since L'Ardente opened in 2021, I've wanted to try it. Unfortunately, I never got a chance to while I lived in DC, because to be honest, I never got in an Italian mood. Now that I no longer reside in the DC area, I use every visit to eat my faves and occasionally a new spot. So, after another popular (and cheaper) Italian place closed before I could finish my delivery order, I spotted L'Ardente. I ordered the famous Lasagna - their 40-layer specialty - with short rib sugo, truffle mornay, and Sottocenere Cheese. The truffle mornay added a smooth, melty, creamy cheese sauce. It is good, but I am not sure if it is worth the hype at $40 lagnasa. I think the cost is built into the work but not the flavor profile. I think the meal is better without the sauce - it made it too salty with it.

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    L'Ardente - Dining area

    Dining area

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    40-Layer Lasagna.

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    Aventino Cucina - italian - Updated May 2026

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