When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
Why Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria in Raleigh, NC, stands out as a cherished destination for friends and families seeking an authentic Italian dining experience with a warm, inviting atmosphere. This establishment offers a broad menu featuring old-world Italian classics and renowned New York-style pizzas crafted from age-old recipes, ensuring each dish delivers rich, genuine flavors. Whether meeting for lunch or dinner, Vic's provides a cozy setting complemented by professional, personable service. Patrons often highlight the attentive staff, including servers like Daniel, whose informative and friendly approach enhances the dining experience. The menu includes standout dishes such as the Pollo Del Re, linguine with white clams, pasta primavera, and penne vodka, praised for their vibrant flavors and generous portions. The New Yorker pizza and original stromboli are also customer favorites, representing the pizzeria’s dedication to satisfying classic taste buds. Live music ambiance on select evenings adds to the convivial environment, making Vic's an ideal spot for casual meetups or celebrating special moments. Conveniently located on Lake Boone Trail, Vic's also offers takeout and delivery services to surrounding areas including Cary and Glenwood, making it accessible for various social occasions. Their consistent quality and genuine hospitality make Vic's a standout choice for Italian cuisine and pizza lovers to gather.
Here's what people think of Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
As of recent, Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1199 reviews.
Reviews of Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria reflect a predominantly positive dining experience, with an overall rating of 4.4 from more than 1,199 reviews. Guests consistently praise the quality and authenticity of the Italian dishes, noting flavorful sauces, tender meats, and perfectly cooked pasta. The New York-style pizza receives strong acclaim for its thin, crisp crust and balanced sauce and cheese, though some reviewers mention a preference for slightly more or less sauce depending on their tastes. The ambiance and charm of the restaurant are frequently highlighted, including its old-school feel, warm wood interiors, and live piano music on some evenings, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Staff receives commendations for being personable and attentive, often enhancing the overall dining experience. On the negative side, a few customers mention occasional delays in service, including waits for seating, ordering, or receiving drinks such as wine, which can slightly detract from the experience. Some reviewers suggest the pizza sauce could be adjusted to personal preferences, as it is sometimes described as too thick or too abundant. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus affirms Vic's as a reliable option for delicious Italian meals and pizza, with service and atmosphere that encourage repeat visits. The overall impression is of a well-loved restaurant that delivers on taste and conviviality, making it a popular meet-up spot in Raleigh and beyond.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
K Lorna
Loved it! The ambiance was so nice and comfortable. Service was also very pleasant. The food was amazing in every dish that we ordered, especially the risotto balls, which were so crispy and savory on the outside and cheesy in the middle. Also loved the piano music in the background, and the pianist was also so lovely and sweet to talk to as well! Will definitely be coming back for future food runs 😋
Joe Byrd
Same as all of the other glowing reviews of this restaurant, our waiters name was Bennett. He was friendly, informative, and gave excellent service. He made ordering food a part of the experience. The food itself was equally excellent, one of the best Italian restaurants I’ve been to. They also have live piano on some days playing a wide variety of music: classical, modern and even renditions of more niche music. Ordered pepperoni and garlic pizza on a later date which was also splendid, would have taken a picture if we didn’t eat it so fast. I recommend the garlic topping especially. Highly recommend this location to anyone who likes Italian food in Raleigh.
Dena LaRocca
This is a quant little restaurant off of Lake Boone Trial that if you blink, you would miss it. This is a family owed restaurant and their Italian accents gave the whole visit a true delightful Italian experience. The service was great. The food here was very good, however I will not lie, this is not my favorite local Italian restaurant. I would recommend the Mozzarella Caprese and the Garlic knots. The Chicken and Veal Parmigiana were good, but there was nothing special about the sauce. My mom is a huge fan of the Lasagna here, but once again for me, it taste like a basic Lasagna. We had someone order the Linguine Alla Pescatora, the Linguini with clams (needed more sauce), and one other dish that I cant remember ( but I think it had a vodka sauce over spaghetti with shrimp). All the dishes were good, but nothing that wowed us as far as the food goes. They did have a piano player who entertained us the whole meal and at times made it hard to eat because were we singing. I tried to load the video of the piano player, but sadly it wouldn't load on here
Donald Minor
The food here was very delicious, and our waiter, Bennett was wonderful. The portions were big enough that everyone had leftovers. We will definitely come back when we visit Raleigh again.
Liza Lucas
Best Italian in Raleigh - hands down. Great service. Live piano music most nights. Half prices bottles Weds. , glasses on Thursday. Space to eat outside. Great Italian wine. Exactly what you think of for a night out at a real Italian restaurant. Get the grouper with lemony caper olive artichoke sauce. Elegant and delicious. The simple marinara may be my favorite thing. And the pizza. Too good. Yum.
How to reach Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
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Why rally at Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria with your friends? Because it offers an exceptional blend of authentic Italian cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for social gatherings, making it an ideal destination to share memorable moments. With a strong 4.4-star rating based on nearly 1,200 reviews, visitors consistently praise the large, shareable portions, which encourage communal dining and laughter over hearty dishes. This restaurant is family-owned, reflecting a genuine passion for both food and togetherness, fostered by the Longo family’s decades of experience in Italian culinary traditions. Whether you crave classic New York-style pizza or old-world Italian flavors, Vic’s invites you and your group to relax in a cozy, inviting environment, enjoy quality service, and savor dishes that feel like a labor of love. Its convenient location, attentive staff, and options for everyone including vegetarians and gluten-free diners ensure everyone can find something to enjoy, making it a quintessential spot to reconnect, celebrate, or simply unwind with friends or family.
What activities can you enjoy at Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria? Primarily, the venue shines as a dining destination where you and your group can bond over authentic Italian meals like pizzas, pastas, and strombolis. The menu’s variety caters to all tastes and dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, enabling inclusive group dining without compromise. Beyond eating, the restaurant’s ambiance lends itself well to casual celebrations, whether birthdays, meetups after work, or weekend family reunions. The presence of free Wi-Fi and ample parking makes planning meetups seamless and comfortable. Some groups take advantage of the calming and spacious setting to enjoy leisurely conversations accompanied by wine or beer, which Vic’s serves to complement the food perfectly. For larger parties, the family-style servings foster a communal, interactive dining experience that naturally sparks connection. Additionally, Vic’s offers takeout and delivery, giving groups flexibility if they prefer to gather elsewhere but still want to enjoy the same great food.
Why is Vic’s perfect for a group meetup? First, the restaurant prides itself on a warm, family-oriented atmosphere, driven by the Longo family’s philosophy that guests should feel at home. This approach creates an inviting space where groups can feel comfortable and valued, whether it’s a casual lunch or an evening celebration. The restaurant’s size and layout accommodate sizable groups without crowding, and servers are known for their attentive, friendly service that enhances the overall experience. Large portions encourage sharing, which is ideal for groups wanting to sample multiple dishes and engage with one another around the table. Their commitment to quality ingredients and authentic flavor ensures that food is consistently delicious, which adds to the enjoyment of gathering with friends or family. The mix of classic Italian traditions with a modern, casual ambiance makes Vic’s versatile enough for anything from a lively, spirited night out to a relaxed family dinner.
What makes the food experience special at Vic’s? The menu features time-honored Italian recipes including New York-style pizzas made with traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients, a hallmark that sets Vic’s apart in the Raleigh dining scene. Dishes like the Linguine with white clams, Pasta Primavera, and Penne Vodka have garnered particular acclaim, praised for their robust flavors and authentic preparation. The portions are generous, designed to be shareable or saved for later, making them perfect for groups that like to sample and exchange dishes. The availability of a monthly prix-fixe menu adds a unique option for groups seeking an elevated dining experience at a fixed price, ideal for special occasions or foodie gatherings. Many customers also note the service alongside the food as exceptional, contributing to an overall experience that feels both genuine and enjoyable.
How accessible and convenient is Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria for meetups? Located at 4035 Lake Boone Trail in Raleigh, NC, Vic’s offers ample free off-street parking and street parking options, easing access for groups arriving by car. The restaurant accepts major credit cards and welcomes patrons with free Wi-Fi, which can be useful for groups needing to coordinate plans or work remotely before or after their meal. Operating hours are flexible, with service from lunch through dinner across Tuesday to Sunday, accommodating varied schedules. The staff’s professionalism and timely service reduce wait times, benefitting groups with limited time or those wanting a smooth dining experience. Vic’s also provides takeout and delivery options for groups preferring to host meetups at home or other venues but still enjoy restaurant-quality food.
In what ways does the family ownership influence the atmosphere and service? The Longo family's involvement in Vic's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, rooted in over 30 years of restaurant experience, infuses the establishment with a genuine sense of hospitality and tradition. Owner Mario Longo Sr. and his children actively operate the restaurant, reflecting a hands-on commitment to maintaining high standards and a welcoming environment. This family-oriented management style manifests in servers who are personable, attentive, and eager to provide a memorable dining experience. Regular guests often mention staff members like Shawn and Daniel for their warmth and engaging service, contributing to a repeat-worthy atmosphere. The familial ethos helps transform Vic’s from merely a place to eat into a community hub where friends and families can create lasting memories.
How does Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria cater to diverse preferences within a group? One of the restaurant’s strengths lies in its extensive menu that thoughtfully includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes alongside traditional meat and seafood options. This inclusivity means no guest is left out, and groups with varied dietary restrictions can all find satisfying choices without stress or compromise. Beyond diet, the menu features a range of flavors and dish sizes to suit different appetites, from light lunches to hearty dinners. Wine and beer offerings complement meals, catering to those who enjoy pairing alcoholic beverages with Italian cuisine. The establishment’s adaptable nature makes it easy for groups with different tastes and preferences to dine together happily in one place.
What overall ambiance and vibe can guests expect when meeting at Vic’s? The ambiance at Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria strikes a harmonious balance between casual comfort and authentic Italian charm. The dining room features a cozy, family-style setting that encourages easy conversation and connection while resonating with the warmth of traditional Italian culture. The buzz of helpful staff and the aroma of fresh-baked pizza and simmering sauces add to the lively yet relaxed vibe. Occasional echoes of Italian spoken among diners and servers enrich the cultural authenticity, reinforcing a sense of place and experience. This atmosphere is perfect for groups seeking a relaxed yet spirited environment where good food and companionship are the focus.
How can groups maximize their meetup experience at Vic’s? To get the most out of a group visit to Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, consider arriving during off-peak hours for quieter, more personalized service or making an online reservation especially on weekends. Sharing several dishes from the menu allows everyone to sample a variety of tastes and makes the meal an interactive, collective experience. Asking the server for recommendations or learning about weekly specials and the monthly prix-fixe menu can also elevate the outing. Take advantage of Vic’s accommodating staff for any special requests or celebrations—whether it’s hosting a birthday or a casual catch-up, their warmth and professionalism enhance the occasion. Lastly, lingering over dessert or a glass of wine extends the visit, making it a true social event rather than just a meal.
With superb food, welcoming service, and a family-focused atmosphere, Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria is a top choice for groups looking to share a delightful Italian dining experience. Its blend of tradition, quality, and casual comfort creates the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with friends or celebrating special occasions with loved ones.