When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Stromboli's Express
Why Stromboli's Express is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Stromboli's Express is a standout Italian dining destination that combines the quality and authenticity of traditional Italian cuisine with the convenience essential for today’s busy lifestyles. Originating from the Boston area and inspired by the famous North End's culinary excellence, Stromboli's Express brings a rich Italian heritage to the forefront. Chef Vito DiSalvo, a Culinary Institute of America graduate with a background in 5-star Italian restaurants and television cooking shows, perfects every dish with passion and expertise. The restaurant offers a broad menu featuring specialty pizzas baked in unique wood-fired ovens, gourmet pasta prepared from scratch with fresh ingredients, strombolis, calzones, salads, soups, and focaccia sandwiches. This diverse menu caters to a variety of tastes including vegetarian options, providing an ideal setting for friends to gather and enjoy a meal that balances flavor, quality, and affordability. The laid-back ambiance invites casual dining yet maintains a refined standard, making it a great place to relax and savor Italian comfort food. Its convenient hours throughout the week accommodate different schedules, making Stromboli's Express a reliable choice for both lunch and dinner meetups.
Here's what people think of Stromboli's Express
As of recent, Stromboli's Express holds a 4.2-star rating based on 636 reviews.
Customers generally praise Stromboli's Express for its delicious and authentic Italian dishes, highlighting the flavorful specialty pizzas and hearty strombolis as favorites. Many reviewers appreciate the fresh ingredients and chef-driven menu that elevates typical casual Italian fare, noting the food as "absolutely delicious" and the service as "awesome." Positive reviews consistently mention the genuine Italian taste and the inviting atmosphere that makes for a pleasurable dining experience. However, some negative feedback touches on occasional inconsistencies with service speed and order accuracy, which can detract from the overall experience. A few reviewers wish for more seating or express minor concerns about the restaurant’s busy times. Despite these criticisms, the majority of customers consider the food quality and overall value to outweigh these issues, contributing to a strong rating around 4.2 out of 5 stars across numerous reviews. The positive consensus reflects satisfaction with both the menu offerings and the blend of convenience and tradition Stromboli's Express provides. Overall, reviews underline that Stromboli's Express is a reliable and appealing spot for Italian cuisine enthusiasts looking for great taste in a comfortable and accessible dining environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anastasia
My husband and I received the menu in the mail and decided to give Stromboli's a try. And we were not disappointed. The food was delicious and quick. The prices were amazing. Less than $20 for a filling meal for two people. We will definitely be back.
Jim Kennedy
Super tasty pizza, freshly baked bread, and yummy pasta served by very friendly staff! You gotta give it a try.
chris duke
I had the Lemon Chicken Alfredo Ravioli at Stromboli Express, and it was outstanding. The creamy lemon Alfredo sauce struck a perfect balance between rich and tangy, coating tender sautéed chicken, spinach, mushrooms, and ravioli. Each bite was flavorful and satisfying, with the fresh ingredients shining through. If you’re dining here, don’t miss this dish. I’ll definitely be back for more. Bring your family too!
Robert Dixey
Overall Rating: 6.8/10 This restaurant impresses with its cleanliness, spaciousness, and user-friendly online ordering system. The quality of the food stands out, matched by efficient service and a comfortable atmosphere. Service: 7.1/10 The welcoming staff, cleanliness of the venue, and seamless online service contribute to a positive dining experience. The ease of ordering through the website, coupled with notifications and convenient payment options like Apple Pay, enhances customer satisfaction. Food: Chicken Calabrese: 6.8/10 This dish excels with its perfectly cooked pasta and tender chicken, providing a balanced and clean taste that's both satisfying and not overly complex. Cheese Pizza: 6.9/10 A very tasty option featuring abundant cheese and minimal grease, although the slicing could be improved to prevent cheese from sticking between slices. A slightly crispier crust would elevate this pizza further. Bruschetta: 7.1/10 The bruschetta presents well visually and delights with its flavor. The sauce on top pairs well with the dish, though the marinara sauce is just satisfactory. Value: 7.3/10 At $45 for three entrees, the restaurant offers good value, especially considering the quality and portion sizes of the meals provided.
Ralph Nannola (Ralph's Electric Service)
I eat at the Spring Forest location, at least once a month, sometimes two times a month. This Sunday I decided to order online the anti pasta salad which cost fourteen dollars. It was snot worth it, It was not fresh, the meat and cheese were shavings. I would not buy it again. If the food continues to be poor, they will loose a regular customer. Owner responded, but offered no refund, or replacement, I will no longer to to this place to eat.
How to reach Stromboli's Express
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Website: None
Why Stromboli's Express may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Stromboli's Express with your friends?
When you’re considering a spot to gather with friends or family, Stromboli's Express stands out as an excellent choice that combines great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and convenient service. This Raleigh gem, highly rated at 4.2 stars from over 600 reviews, offers more than just a meal—it provides a space for connection and enjoyment. At Stromboli’s Express, the focus is on authentic Italian cuisine crafted with fresh ingredients and a nod to traditional techniques, courtesy of their chef’s extensive culinary background. The casual yet warm environment invites groups to relax and savor dishes like wood-fired specialty pizzas, gourmet pastas, calzones, and strombolis themselves. Whether you’re looking for a lively dinner experience or a cozy catering for a casual meet-up, this place checks all the boxes. Plus, ample seating, takeout, and delivery options make it incredibly easy to tailor your experience to how you want to socialize. In all, Stromboli’s Express is a perfect rally point that respects your time, your palate, and your companionship, making it a memorable gathering spot for any occasion.
What group activities can you enjoy at Stromboli's Express?
Stromboli’s Express offers a variety of activities and experiences catering to groups looking to have a fun and fulfilling meetup. First and foremost, the dining experience itself is a social event where friends and family can share multiple dishes and explore Italian flavors together. Sharing a wood-fired pizza or a large stromboli fosters interaction and conversation around the table. The restaurant’s menu features an array of options, including salads, soups, calzones, and foccacia sandwiches, suitable for diverse tastes and dietary preferences—including vegetarian-friendly choices. Guests can enjoy the comfort of a relaxed sit-down meal with attentive service or opt for takeout to enjoy the feast in a more private setting. Beyond food, Stromboli's often hosts live music events (noted at some locations with ongoing music nights), creating lively evenings perfect for groups to enjoy tunes while they eat and chat. The atmosphere is casual yet vibrant, supporting both intimate dinners and more festive gatherings, ideal for celebrations or casual meetups.
Why is Stromboli’s Express perfect for a group meetup?
Several factors make Stromboli’s Express particularly suited for hosting group meetups. Its spacious seating and friendly environment ensure that groups can comfortably gather without feeling rushed or overcrowded. The diverse menu allows everyone in your party to find something they love, from classic Italian pastas to unique specialty pizzas cooked in wood-fired ovens—a distinctive feature that enhances flavor and authenticity. With service options including dine-in, takeout, and delivery, organizing a group meal is flexible and hassle-free. The convenient location in North Raleigh is easily accessible, with parking options nearby, making it simple for everyone to arrive without stress. Furthermore, the reasonable prices mean you can enjoy a flavorful, high-quality Italian meal without breaking the bank, which is always a plus for group outings. The staff’s attentiveness contributes to a smooth and pleasant experience, accommodating special requests and ensuring your group’s needs are met.
What makes the food at Stromboli’s Express stand out?
The culinary appeal of Stromboli's Express lies in its dedication to authentic Italian cooking paired with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The kitchen is led by a chef trained at the Culinary Institute of America with experience in five-star Italian restaurants, which guarantees a professional touch behind every plate. Their specialty pizzas, baked in wood-fired ovens, have a depth of flavor and crispness that sets them apart from generic pizzerias. Beyond pizza, homemade gourmet pastas crafted from scratch underscore their commitment to traditional Italian techniques. The strombolis themselves—which the restaurant is named after—are generously filled with fresh ingredients, baked to perfection, and make for a satisfying, shareable dish. The extensive menu variety allows for customization, catering well to groups with different tastes and dietary needs, including vegetarian options. The combination of culinary skill, ingredient quality, and generous portions makes every meal here a memorable experience and great value.
How convenient and accommodating is Stromboli’s Express for large groups?
Stromboli’s Express is designed with convenience and group accommodation in mind. Their hours of operation are generous, with dinner service available well into the evening on weekends, allowing groups to meet at flexible times. The restaurant offers multiple ordering options, including direct dine-in, which allows for personal service and a communal experience, as well as takeout and delivery, perfect for gatherings that prefer to stay in or have a potluck-style meet-up elsewhere. Wheelchair accessibility ensures that all guests can be comfortably accommodated, reflecting the restaurant’s inclusive approach. The staff is known for attentive service, which helps facilitate smooth orders and any special requests groups may have, from food allergies to split bills. Additionally, the restaurant accepts reservations and can handle larger parties, making planning your meetup straightforward and stress-free. These aspects combine to make Stromboli’s Express not only a great place for good food but a reliable venue to host groups comfortably and with ease.
What is the overall atmosphere like at Stromboli’s Express?
The atmosphere at Stromboli’s Express is relaxed and inviting, striking a balance between casual dining and authentic Italian charm. The setting is perfect for groups looking to enjoy a laid-back evening filled with laughter, good conversation, and delicious food. The décor and ambiance focus on warmth and comfort, enhanced by the aroma of wood-fired pizzas and freshly prepared pasta wafting through the air. This sensory experience adds a cozy, homey feeling that complements the friendly service and fresh food. While the environment is casual enough for everyday meetups, it’s also welcoming enough for small celebrations or group get-togethers that call for a bit more flair. Whether you arrive early for a relaxed lunch or later in the evening for a lively dinner, Stromboli’s Express provides a consistent vibe that encourages guests to unwind and savor the moment together.
How does Stromboli’s Express support dietary preferences and needs?
Understanding that groups often have varied dietary needs, Stromboli’s Express pays careful attention to providing options that satisfy different preferences. The menu includes vegetarian-friendly dishes crafted with the same care and quality as all their offerings. This ensures that those who avoid meat still have a satisfying and flavorful selection, whether it be a vegetable-based stromboli, specialty pizza, or fresh salad. Additionally, the kitchen’s commitment to fresh ingredients and scratch cooking allows them to accommodate certain food allergies or special requests more easily. Guests needing gluten-free or other special diet accommodations can inquire, and the staff is typically ready to help navigate the menu to find suitable dishes. This thoughtful approach makes Stromboli’s Express a truly inclusive spot where everyone in your group can enjoy their meal without compromise.
What customer experiences highlight Stromboli’s Express as an ideal meetup place?
Customer reviews consistently celebrate Stromboli’s Express for its delicious food, friendly service, and welcoming environment, all contributing to why it’s a favored spot for group meetups. Patrons frequently mention the “awesome food & service” and describe their meals as “absolutely delicious,” underscoring the satisfaction that comes with every visit. The combination of tasty, well-prepared Italian dishes and attentive staff creates a positive dining experience that encourages return visits and group recommendations. Many reviews praise the quality of the specialty pizzas and strombolis, which are standout hits among groups who want to share a memorable meal. The diversity of the menu also ensures that groups with mixed tastes and dietary preferences leave happy and full. Taken together, these firsthand experiences reflect a restaurant that not only meets but exceeds expectations as a communal dining destination.
What special features or conveniences does Stromboli’s Express offer?
Beyond the excellent food and friendly atmosphere, Stromboli’s Express provides several special features and conveniences that enhance a group meetup. One notable aspect is its wood-fired ovens, which impart a unique, artisanal quality to their pizzas—something that guests often highlight as a signature element. The restaurant’s location in North Raleigh is easy to reach and offers convenient parking, reducing any logistical concerns for group travel. Stromboli’s also emphasizes quick, efficient service without compromising quality, ideal for groups with busy schedules or those planning events with time constraints. The option to order online streamlines the ordering process, allowing groups to save time and customize their meals in advance. The restaurant being wheelchair accessible adds another layer of convenience for inclusive group gatherings. Together, these features make Stromboli’s Express a practical and enjoyable choice for hosting your next get-together.
How can you plan your event or meetup at Stromboli’s Express?
Planning your event or meetup at Stromboli’s Express is straightforward thanks to their accommodating staff and flexible dining options. It is recommended to call ahead or make a reservation, especially for larger groups or special occasions, to ensure adequate seating and smooth service. The staff can assist in crafting a menu that suits your group’s preferences and dietary requirements, making sure everyone leaves satisfied. For more casual group meetings or ongoing gatherings, takeout and delivery options offer versatility if you prefer to host elsewhere but want the convenience of high-quality catering. Since the restaurant operates with extended weekend hours, you have the freedom to select a time that works best for your group’s schedule. Their friendly and professional team is eager to help facilitate a seamless, enjoyable experience, whether it’s a family celebration, a casual friend meetup, or a business lunch.
In conclusion, Stromboli’s Express in Raleigh is more than just an Italian eatery—it’s a prime destination for groups who want to enjoy authentic, flavorful food in a welcoming setting with convenient service options. From their wood-fired specialty pizzas and freshly made pastas to the attentive staff and accommodating environment, they create the perfect backdrop to rally with friends, celebrate family gatherings, or simply enjoy a social meal together. With flexible hours, an extensive menu, and thoughtful conveniences, Stromboli’s Express makes hosting a meetup effortless and enjoyable.