When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Dante's Italiano
Why Dante's Italiano is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dante's Italiano is a beloved Italian restaurant located in Raleigh that offers a welcoming and intimate atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. Known for its traditional family-run vibe, Dante's combines warm customer service with authentic Italian dishes that evoke the flavors of New York-style Italian cuisine. Visitors frequently highlight the friendly presence of the owners, who often greet guests personally and make diners feel like part of the family. The menu offers a wide range of options from classic pastas and hearty pizzas to fresh salads and delicious desserts, making it ideal for groups with varied tastes. The restaurant also features a cozy ambiance that suits both casual gatherings and special occasions. The addition of take-out service adds convenience for those who prefer enjoying their meal at home without any hassle. With generous portion sizes and hearty drinks, Dante's Italiano promises a satisfying and memorable dining experience for friends looking to share good food and good company.
Here's what people think of Dante's Italiano
As of recent, Dante's Italiano holds a 4.4-star rating based on 360 reviews.
Reviews of Dante's Italiano reflect a generally positive experience with a few variations. Many patrons praise the restaurant for its authentic Italian flavors, consistent high-quality meals, and friendly, attentive service. Positive reviews specifically commend the family-run feel of the place, the genuine hospitality of the owners, and the intimate, cozy atmosphere that makes guests feel at home. Several reviewers also appreciate the value for money, generous servings, and the availability of take-out options. Conversely, some critics note occasional inconsistencies, such as meals arriving lukewarm or issues with service speed. A few reviews lament that the quality has dipped from previous visits, expressing disappointment in specific dishes or slower service times during busy hours. Despite these mixed experiences, the overall consensus celebrates Dante's Italiano as a delightful spot for Italian cuisine in Raleigh, with its strengths in atmosphere, authentic flavors, and welcoming staff largely outweighing isolated negative feedback.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
jack prucha
Excellent food in a strip mall location. Went here with some friends based on the online reviews. Lasagna was very good as were our other pasta dishes. We ordered a pizza also as an appetizer which was also tasty and light. One of the better pizzas around. We split desserts which was rich and full of flavor. We had more than we could eat so our server Victoria took our plates away and returned with our boxed up leftovers. Very classy.
Amanda
I used to love this place but the pizza is seriously lacking lately. I’m not even sure they put any cheese on it. I think the cheese made it one inch from the center. I’m starving five minutes later. It’s gonna be a pass until they make some changes.
Elizabeth Stone
I cannot say enough! If you want a good dirty martini, get it here! Calamari is on point. I didn’t take a picture of the lasagna but it is the best!!! Treat yourself!
Jim and Lori Hill
Cozy place to get some great Italian dishes! Friendly staff, good food and great pricing!
Melissa Leigh-Ann Palahnuk
Dantes is by far an AMAZING place to eat! Danny and his wife Randi are two of the kindest most supportive people. What makes them the best is their support for the arts and independent filmmakers. They not only allowed our production to film there, they went ABOVE AND BEYOND with the hospitality while also bringing in some of their own regulars to be featured as extras. It was truly an experience of a lifetime and we cannot wait to work with them again!!! NC is big on the arts and it’s amazing to see businesses support LOCAL ARTISTS! The food is wonderful. I haven’t had anything bad from there! I’m fact Danny gave me some soup when I had a cold. They even gave us a signature cocktail called the Blind Date! Check them out in Blind Date releasing the end of this year! What makes them even more special is the fact that I have been going here since I was a kid!
How to reach Dante's Italiano
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Why Dante's Italiano may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dante's Italiano with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Dante's Italiano offers a uniquely warm and inviting atmosphere that makes every meetup memorable. This charming Italian restaurant, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is renowned for its authentic and hearty Italian cuisine served in a cozy, intimate setting that feels much like a home away from home. The owners are actively involved, greeting guests personally and ensuring everyone feels welcomed and well cared for, which adds a personal touch to your group experience. With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 across 360 reviews, Dante’s consistently impresses diners with generous portions, attentive service, and a genuine neighborhood vibe—perfect for those who want to enjoy good food while connecting with loved ones. Whether it’s a casual catch-up, a special occasion, or just a night out, Dante's Italiano provides a relaxed yet vibrant backdrop where the joy of Italian flavors and heartfelt hospitality come together to make your gathering truly special.
What group activities and experiences does Dante's Italiano offer?
Dante’s Italiano excels at creating a social dining experience tailored for groups of friends or family. The restaurant’s menu features traditional Italian favorites like lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo, sausage and peppers, and pizza, all crafted to satisfy a variety of tastes within a group. This wide selection allows everyone to find something they love, making it ideal for shared meals or sampling dishes family-style. Additionally, the restaurant offers a noteworthy wine list, including half-price bottle specials on Tuesdays, which encourages convivial rounds of toasting and celebration. The intimate interior, described as cozy and relaxed, encourages conversation and laughter, while attentive staff ensure your group is well served without being intrusive. For those who want a more casual option, guests can also enjoy dining at the bar where simple yet delicious meals await. Dante's Italiano also accommodates takeout orders, perfect for groups who prefer to enjoy their meal in a more private setting. These options highlight why Dante’s is so well suited to group meetups, blending excellent food with a welcoming atmosphere and flexible dining styles.
Why is Dante's Italiano ideal for hosting family or friend meetups?
Dante's Italiano stands out as a perfect venue for family or friend meetups due to its blend of authenticity, service, and ambiance. The restaurant's owners are personally present during service, greeting guests and sharing stories about their dishes, which adds a unique and personable dimension to the dining experience. This level of care makes each guest feel valued and at home, fostering a comfortable environment for meaningful gatherings. The food portions are generous, ensuring that no one in your group leaves hungry, which is especially beneficial when dining with larger parties. The menu variety caters to different preferences and dietary needs, making it easier to please everyone at the table. The ambiance itself is both casual and cozy, featuring a small, inviting space tucked away in a strip mall, which translates into a quieter, more intimate dining experience free from the rush of larger establishments. This combination of heartfelt hospitality, ample dining options, and relaxed environment makes Dante’s Italiano not just a restaurant, but a cozy hub for connection and enjoyment with your favorite people.
What kind of dining atmosphere does Dante's Italiano provide for groups?
Dante's Italiano offers a cozy, neighborhood-style atmosphere that is distinctly intimate yet lively enough for groups to enjoy a vibrant dining experience. Unlike large, impersonal eateries, this restaurant emphasizes a homey environment where guests feel like part of a community. The seating arrangement accommodates moderately sized groups comfortably, allowing friends or families to share space without feeling cramped. The owners’ presence and regular interaction with diners contribute to a welcoming, friendly vibe reminiscent of a family-run trattoria you might find in Italy. Comfortable lighting and warm decor enhance the inviting feel, encouraging guests to relax and linger over their meals and conversations. Because the space is tucked away in a strip mall, it also promises a quieter dining experience free from the hustle and bustle common in busier downtown locations. This combination of intimacy, warmth, and attentive service makes it an ideal backdrop for group celebrations, catch-ups, or casual dinners when you want to really connect without distraction.
What makes the food and beverage selection at Dante's Italiano perfect for group dining?
The food and beverage offerings at Dante's Italiano are both diverse and satisfying, crafted to appeal to groups with varied palates. The menu covers a broad range of classic Italian dishes including hearty pastas like lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo, and pasta with sausage and peppers, as well as wood-fired pizzas, all made with fresh ingredients that highlight traditional Italian flavors. Portions are notably generous, encouraging sharing and allowing groups to sample multiple dishes without feeling rushed or needing to order excessively. The presence of a decent wine list, including specials such as half-price wine bottles on certain days, further complements the food, making it easy for groups to enjoy a well-rounded dining experience that suits any occasion. For those with lighter appetites or preferences for casual dining, there are simpler options available at the bar, broadening the restaurant’s appeal to diverse dining styles within a group. This mix of quality, variety, and generous servings ensures that everyone leaves satisfied and the shared dining experience is enhanced by complementary beverages.
Why do customers recommend Dante's Italiano for group visits?
Many customers highly recommend Dante’s Italiano for group visits because of the restaurant’s consistent delivery of authentic Italian cuisine paired with top-notch service and a convivial atmosphere. Frequent diners share stories of feeling welcomed as if by old friends and praise the owners for their personal attention, which creates a unique and memorable experience for groups. Reviews often mention how the food maintains traditional flavors reminiscent of classic family-run Italian restaurants, making it a place where groups can enjoy comfort food that feels prepared with love. The attentive but not overwhelming service ensures that groups receive timely help while maintaining the privacy needed for good conversation. Furthermore, the restaurant’s size and layout promote a comfortable, intimate vibe perfect for celebrations or casual meetups without the noise or distraction of larger chains. Overall, guests choose Dante's Italiano to host their gatherings because it combines excellent food, a warm setting, and thoughtfully personalized service that together foster meaningful moments with friends and family.
How accessible and convenient is Dante's Italiano for hosting meetups?
Dante's Italiano benefits from a convenient location in Raleigh’s Falls of Neuse Road area and offers flexible dining hours Tuesday through Sunday evenings, which make it accessible for a variety of group schedules. Although it is closed on Mondays, its opening times are well suited for after-work gatherings, weekend dinners, or special celebrations in the evening. Being situated in a modest strip mall setting makes parking relatively easy compared to downtown areas, adding to the convenience for group visitors. The restaurant also offers takeout options, giving groups the flexibility to enjoy the same great food at home or another venue if desired, which can be especially handy for larger gatherings. Its moderate size means that groups should consider reservations or early arrival to ensure seating, especially on weekend evenings when it tends to be busiest. Altogether, Dante’s Italiano is a conveniently located, easy-to-access spot that offers multiple options to accommodate group dining preferences, making it a practical and inviting choice for meetups.
What sets Dante’s Italiano apart from other Italian restaurants for group dining?
What truly sets Dante's Italiano apart is its distinct combination of authentic Italian cuisine, family-style warmth, and highly personalized service that is difficult to find in larger or more commercial Italian restaurants. The owners’ active involvement in greeting guests and sharing stories behind dishes offers a unique, intimate dining experience that fosters a community feeling among diners. Unlike many larger chains or high-volume restaurants, there is a strong emphasis on quality over quantity, with fresh ingredients and generous portions that reflect true Italian traditions. The ambiance, tucked away in a small strip mall but full of charm and character, removes the hustle of busier locales, allowing groups to relax and savor their meal. The consistently high ratings and positive reviews underscore the restaurant’s success in balancing great food, cozy surroundings, and attentive service — all factors that contribute to making group gatherings at Dante’s Italiano both enjoyable and memorable. This combination of authenticity, warmth, and attention to detail makes it an exceptional choice for hosting friends or family in a welcoming Italian setting.