Best Experience I've Ever Had at a Restaurant…read more Today is one of the most important days of my life--I got married. I chose to celebrate this special moment with my wife and my daughter at Melo's in Walnut Creek, and I will never forget how they treated us. From the moment we walked in, the staff went above and beyond. The service was not just professional--it was genuinely kind, warm, and full of heart. They made us feel like family. What truly touched me is that they refused to charge us for our meal. In a world where everything is business, this level of generosity and humanity is rare. It wasn't just about the food (which was amazing, by the way), it was about the way they made us feel on a day that means everything to me. To the entire team at Melo's: thank you for making our wedding day even more special. You didn't just serve us food--you gave us a memory we will carry for the rest of our lives. If you're thinking about where to eat in Walnut Creek, don't think twice. This place is not just a restaurant--it's a place with heart.

For family friendly Italian food, Melo's Italian Table is such a great spot :)…read more It can get a little cramped when it's busy, but honestly that kind of adds to the lively family dinner energy. The atmosphere feels warm, fun, and full of people having a really good meal together. Everything we've had has been absolutely delicious! My go to is always the lasagna!! Rich, comforting, flavorful, and exactly what you want Italian comfort food to taste like. My daughter absolutely loves the pizza... and honestly, so do I lol! The crust, the cheese, the flavors... so good!! :P This is the kind of place where the table gets quiet for a few minutes because everyone's too busy happily eating. Sauce on the plates, pizza crumbs everywhere, happy kid energy, and zero regrets ordering extra food. Nomnomnomnomnomnomnomnomnom!!!!

Always a great meal at Benvenuti. Great variety compared to most Italian restaurants. Stellar wine…read morechoices and the most interesting cocktails

Went for the Valentine's day prix and they were pretty busy, but we had a reservation. Seating in…read morethe main room, outside, or in the back room where it's quieter, but not as cute. Interior is interesting, it's like you're dining at someone's home? Street parking or there are lots nearby with the first hours or so free. Service was good  The Valentines prix consisted of an app, entree, and dessert, some of which are not on their regular menu!!  -bread and marinara (4/5): bread was great, thick slices and nice crust. Marinara was standard -potato-leek puree (4/5): came in a cute little cup to drink out of, good flavor -gamberoni (5/5): prawns were a good size and perfectly grilled. The sauce was a good addition -polette (4/5): meatballs were juicy and the pesto was flavorful and creamy. Interesting thing to have as an appetizer though -fettuccini carne (5/5): I always have an internal struggle about getting a red sauce or a cream sauce, so this was the perfect option as a creamy red sauce pasta. Serving size was good, and there was also plenty of meat and mushrooms, which I loved! Flavor was great! -lamp chop (4/5): good grilled flavor, but one was slightly too raw for our liking so we had to send it back to the kitchen to cook it some more. Our waitress was very understanding though! The mashed potatoes and veggies were also good. -tiramisu (3.5/5): good flavor, but there was wayyy more cream than ladyfinger, so the textural balance was off. And I love cream! -peanut butter chocolate brownie (4/5): really good but also pretty sweet. Loved how thick the whipped cream was, but didn't taste as much peanut butter as I would've liked Overall, I had a great experience for their valentines day prix menu. Food was great and I would definitely go back to try their pasta!

We made a reservation for a party of six at 6:30 PM on a Thursday night, arrived on time and were…read morewarmly greeted and seated immediately. We were promptly greeted by our server, Jess, who was "wonderful and lovely" as described by one member of our party. She gave us a quick review of off-menu specials and recommended we order before a party of 20 fully arrived. We didn't feel rushed and appreciated her looking out for us. The pace of our dinner moved along exactly as expected. Service (Jess, et al) is friendly, professional and timely. Members of the service staff moved in and out efficiently to refill water, remove plates and keep our table uncluttered. The dining room is busy and loud (or maybe we're old), so there was quite a bit of "what did you say" in our conversations, but it did not diminish the experience. The wine list provides a great selection to complement the menu without breaking the bank. Menu prices are in line with what we see these days - and the large portions make dining here a great value. Our table ordered Pollo Scallopini, Vitello (veal) Scallopini, Melanzane (eggplant) Parmigiana, and the off-menu special Salmon Piccata. Everything was excellent. The veal was a big hit with the table. Strongly recommend making a reservation. Looks like they do a good job with larger parties without impacting smaller tables and couples. This place is a mainstay in Walnut Creek for a reason.

I called to ensure they would be open on Easter Sunday, spoke to the owner, he was so nice. Upon…read moreentering we were warmly greeted and shown to a great table in the corner. The place is fairly small, but tables aren't too close together so you can have a conversation without hearing other people. Our server, Alex (female) was amazing! She was so warm and authentic, the service was exemplary. The wine list is extensive, with a comprehensive list of old world wines and some new world faves. They feature Pride Mtn. Merlot, one of the best local reds. The food was on point, my Dad had the shrimp scampi, he said it was excellent. I had the pork chop, so good. The chop was pounded thin and had a crispy texture to it (yum). It was covered in demi-glace and mushrooms, just delicious. Overall, great experience. Highly recommend.

What a find! I had heard about Montesacro on Check Please (PBS) and decided w needed to…read moreinvestigate. Their Pinsas (Roman style pizza,) are incredible, and the artichoke appetizer was heavenly. Great wine list and attentive service just added to the pleasure. We had reserved an outdoor table weeks in advance, but the night we went it was pouring rain. They graciously accommodated us on a busy Saturday night, which was so appreciated. This is not your typical Italian dinner, as it is Roman style cuisine, and it is outstanding. A definite must try!

The food was excellent- they offer authentic Roman italian food, with simple yet fresh, good…read morequality ingredients, and they also offer gluten free options for pasta and pizzas- which is a plus. I really enjoyed their pizza dishes- the crust is fresh, fluffy, yet perfectly crispy. the toppings weren't too complicated- it was just delicious, simple food. I would also say that the price points weren't too bad at all- the food and the prices were pretty aligned. I enjoyed the atmosphere, and decor, however I wasn't a fan of how they played nightclub/dancing music- which made it all that much louder and difficult to talk. I will also say that the service was very good- considering that it was very crowded at the time, however I had an odd experience with a hostess. I made a reservation in advance to celebrate my mom's birthday- when my family arrived, we were quite literally ignored by the hostess for about 10 minutes. She looked at us, and said "I will be right with you", only to come back 7 more times and ignore us again. She then made us wait 20 minutes into our reservation because another table wasn't finished with their meal. I initially didn't think anything of it (after all, it was a busy night)- until another group of white women who had made a reservation were immediately attended to by this hostess, and were given a table at a significantly better lit area. My indian family was made to sit at the corner of the restaurant, by the bathrooms. However I want to keep in mind that maybe it was a bad day, and the rest of the staff were very polite to us.

Food 5/5 Service 5/5…read moreAmbiance 5/5 Value 10/10 We came as a large group for NYE late seating and although it was raining cats and dogs outside, dinner was magical. This is our second year here and I was floored. I started off with a new cocktail for me the French 75 with vodka vs gin and my husband had bourbon neat. The lady bartender was so good, friendly and easily took care of our crowd with wonderful cocktails. The menu and the food quality is exceptional. Stephanie MA, was our server and she was friendly, met our table of 12 every need which is hard with a big group. The menu is pre fix and we couldn't been happier I started with grilled oysters topped with butter and caviar. My husband had focaccia topped with crap and prawns. I had seared scallops and my partner had the fig salad and a huge portion of filet mignon topped with crab and prawns. I had the seared duck breast and for desert chocolate lava cake for me and a lemon foam concoction. Each of the food offerings were plated beautifully and our group was happy with everything. We finished our meal and at midnight we had a champagne toast, a balloon drop and old school dj music encouraging all of us to join on the dance floor. Massimo's outdid themselves and I intend to come in for dinner throughout the year as we live close. It is without reservation,I encourage you to dine here. I'm definitely coming next year for NYE. Bravo!

Had an excellent meal at Massimo. The food was excellent!…read more Was a little uncomfortable when check in. The restaurant had lots of empty tables as it was around 5p Sunday. We were asked if we had reservations, which we didn't. The guy says, ' no problem', then walks us through the 2/3 empty restaurant to a side room. Really didn't appreciate that, but there was a large party also sitting in the side room. The service was good, but I think our waitress may have been helping guest in the main dining room. We didn't see her nearly enough. Thankfully, the extended staff kept the water glass covered. Side note, there were a few misses between request not actually making it to the table. At the end of the day, we just reasked the busboy and continued enjoying our food. Definite communication ussues between the waitress and the bus staff. I'm pretty sure at least two of our request went to the other party. Then when paying bill, had more circle communication just trying to break a $20. We wanted to leave extra for the busboy, but he was literally scared to touch the money. ‍ At the end of the day... will try another day.... the food really was excellent.

Il Fornaio; An Authentically Italian Experience…read more On my first visit to Il Fornaio, I confirmed something I have always believed: when the cuisine is truly authentic, the real taste of Italy is immediately felt on the palate. However, a memorable dining experience is not built by the kitchen alone; it is also defined by its atmosphere, attention to detail, and above all, the human quality of its service. From the very beginning, Roberto, the restaurant's General Manager, welcomed us with warm and genuine hospitality that set the tone for the entire evening. From that moment on, every member of the team contributed to making the experience smooth, elegant, and memorable. Special recognition goes to Agustín, our server, whose service was impeccable; attentive, friendly, and always ready to guide us through the menu with knowledge and enthusiasm. The appetizers were simply outstanding: the classic Bruschetta, crispy Calamari Fritti, traditional Polpette, and a delicate Beef Carpaccio, all of which opened the palate with fresh and authentic flavors true to Italian tradition. Then came the stars of the evening: a spectacular Tomahawk Steak, perfectly prepared, accompanied by a delicious Penne al Vodka, a dish that balances richness and elegance in every bite. The experience was elevated further by a remarkable Italian wine, a Brunello di Montalcino, whose robust yet refined character created the perfect pairing with the meal. And as every great Italian meal deserves a memorable finale, the evening ended with a delicate Affogato, the perfect marriage of Italian espresso and creamy gelato. Enjoying this feast is, without a doubt, allowing the palate to travel directly to Italy... while having the privilege of experiencing it here in the United States.

Huge Italian American restaurant chain in downtown Walnut Creek…read more My girls and I celebrated a birthday here for lunch and definitely had a carb fest. Interior was spacious and classy. Food was pretty good but a bit commercial tasting. I did like my pappardelle that I customized by switching out the chicken for shrimp. The creamy sauce was tasty. The other dishes were ok, but nothing stood out. Also prices were $$$. Service had its ups and downs. Our server was friendly but slow to bring our entrees, forgot to refill waters a few times, and charged us for a dessert that she had told us was complimentary due to a birthday, which she had awkwardly fixed by giving us the extra charge back in cash, which also took a long while. I'd come back if I had to for an event but wouldn't go out of my way.

I have been here twice so far. The first time we hosted a large gathering in the private room, and…read morethe entire experience was outstanding. Chef Hassan created a customized menu for our group, and every dish was beautifully prepared. I ordered the Beef Wellington, well, because there was absolutely no reason not to when that's on the menu! HA! It was incredible. The flaky dough wrapped around that filet mignon, ooh, amazing. It sat on creamy potatoes and veggies of some sort (it's been a minute, I can't recall the exact option). The private room was nicely lit, there were some candles and flowers across the table as well as wall decor. The server and busser took a little to get things rolling, but eventually things were moving along. We also had a few children in our party, and the staff was wonderful accommodating, which made the evening even more enjoyable. We were so impressed that we came back a second time - just my lady, my 6-month-old daughter, and myself - and it was on a busy Saturday night when you typically need reservations. We were lucky enough that Onur (manager) welcomed us with no hesitation and have us a little space to relax with our daughter and enjoy a wonderful dinner. We ordered the Appetizer for Two, which includes: Bruschetta, Caprese, Prosciutto Melone, & Beet Salad - a perfect amount for the two of us. Then we each got the Beef Wellington. Again, never a disappointment. YOU MUST TRY IT! To finish the night I had a latte and we shared a salted caramel gelato. Absolutely delightful. If you haven't tried La Fontaine, I highly recommend giving them a try. The weekends are busy, so if you're able to step out on a week night, do it. Ask for Onur the manager and he'll take care of you. Enjoy

It was just me 'n' Mumsy this year so I suggested we go out for Thanksgiving lunch…read more The host was so gracious and our server, Dennys, was attentive and charming! Everyone else was lovely too, TBH. The food? Oh yeah! I had the octopus appetizer from the regular menu which was melt in your mouth deliciousness with a fava (or broad bean?) base - in different circumstances, I would have wiped the plate clean with a piece of bread French country style! I had the lobster ravioli special, which was both decadent and delicate - the taste of the lobster wasn't overwhelmed by the light creamy sauce, and the pasta was the perfect bite. Mumsy had the turkey cordon bleu special which both satisfied turkey tradition without the (alleged) tryptophan coma! Too stuffed for dessert (but that's okay as we aren't really "sweet" people!). Mind you the chocolate wotnot looked very tempting... I am very thankful for everyone who worked today - it was the most relaxing Thanksgiving we've had in a long time and I am grateful that you made it possible. As Arnie says, "I'll be back!"

If you're craving pasta, pizza, anything Italian under the sun, come here!!…read more The foods hella bussin bussin. We got the carne pizza, garlic bread, and spicy shell pasta with chicken. & don't forget the wine' We got a recommendation from Jake (our server) and it was really really good' 11/10 come again & if you're reading this, give Jake a raise pronto!!

This was our first time at Tomatina and my husband and I just weren't impressed overall…read more Service: It was alright. They forgot/lost my order so I ended up waiting a long time for it while my son and husband ate. They also brought out our entrees separately instead of one by one so that was kind of weird. They were very apologetic about my entree and did make it right so I won't fault them on that. But it just seemed a little - disorganized? My husband had to asked for my son's ice cream twice and after the first time he found the person he asked on his phone...not getting it for us. So, that wasn't a good look. Food: The garlic rolls were very good! Too much olive oil for my taste, but still very tasty. My husband wasn't a fan of his shrimp alfredo and my pizza was unimpressive. It had roasted red peppers on it that just didn't taste fresh and were very tough. The chicken also lacked flavor. Unfortunately, we don't think we will be coming back. It wasn't horrible by any means, but with all of the restaurant options in downtown Walnut Creek, I think other places are better.

food and service was great, had soup shots and salad and gnocchi, we also enjoyed a sampler of…read moredesserts and also wine flights this restaurant is always amazing

We had dinner at Va de Vi tonight for a friend's belated birthday. To start the review on a…read morepositive note, the fountains are GORGEOUS. We dined outside in the back and we were comfortable temperature wise and were able to talk at a normal volume. We ordered the seafood paella, linguine with clams, rack of lamb, and steak. I appreciated that they were able to leave the chorizo off the paella. The paella was delicious BUT (and this is a HUGE BUT) the portions were TINY. Initially I was pleasantly surprised to see a $19 paella on the menu as it's usually more than that. We often share food but didn't as the portion was barely enough for one person. Though I didn't order drinks, my friends got the kiwi margarita and the Starfall. I tried a sip of both and the consensus was that the Starfall was better. While our server himself was friendly, the actual service left something to be desired. My paella came out before the other 3 dishes. Also, it took a while for us to get the check. While I would love to try other items on the menu, I don't plan to return because of the small portion sizes.

I've been here a couple of times for business events…read more Today we had the salmon and lamb, and both were excellent. The wines are always tasty, and the complimentary bread with herb butter is soft and fluffy. The strawberry salad was especially good, even better than the arugula salad. Lemon tart and tiramisu are both great.

We dined here to celebrate my son-in-law's birthday. I have mixed reviews about this place. The…read moreambience is nice, cozy, intimate, and fun. Menu items are on the high side, so be prepared to shell out some dough. We had a nice waiter, pleasant, cheerful, and very accommodating. I would give the waiter a rating between 4 and 5 stars. It was near closing time when we got there, but we didn't feel rushed to order or eat our dinner so that they could clean up and close the restaurant and head on home. We started with an appetizer and garlic bread (see picture). We had about six pieces of bread and as you can see in the picture, it was on the burnt side. I cannot believe that for the price you pay for a bread, they would serve this. I also ordered a black coffee, but it tasted like it had been sitting there since the morning and tasted really nasty. I asked to have a hot tea instead. Food was good. We ordered spaghetti, carbonara, some chicken dish, and a grilled salmon. All the food tasted delicious and we cleaned out the carbonara and spaghetti. After we ate our dinner, they gave my son-in-law a slice of tiramisu with a lighted candle. Overall, it was a pleasant evening and we enjoyed our food (except for the garlic bread). I'd like to see them do me good and give me a nice garlic bread the next time I eat here.