Best Italian Restaurants in Port Washington

Excellent food and service as expected from all the Poll brothers restaurants. I was surprised to see a huge crowd on a Tuesday night, but I’m told it’s always busy. The food is delicious, and there are lots of good salad options and a great wine selection. I like the pizza with olives and prosciutto. I think I will put this on my rotation

Best Italian food around. Staff is incredibly welcoming and professional. The pasta is as good as any pasta I’ve eaten in Italy. The owner is wonderful and makes you feel at home.

It was really crowded so we waited by the bar area got a drink first and had to stand a while until 2 seats opened up…then they sat us after our reservation time but the service was great and so was the food so worth the wait.

One of our favorite Italian restaurants. We are an Italian family that travels often, so that is high compliment. There is a reason this place is so successful for so long - the food, the service, the vibe. It’s a little like if your rich uncle came to America and wanted to style a restaurant after Sunday dinner, but make it elegant enough for special occasions. When you sit, you are immediately asked the usual about allergies and water preference. Then you are left alone. Do not misinterpret this - use the time to get settled and begin to talk, let the laid back Italian approach to eating unfold - hint, it’s as much about the company and the conversation as the food. Next will arrive their signature wheel of fine, aged Italian cheese and some complimentary appetizers - kind of like french amuse bouche - you didn’t order them, but they are so good, the only thing keeping you from asking for more is you are beginning to see this is going to be a very satisfying experience. (As of late, chilled sautéed zucchini with garlic and olive oil, and bruschetta with fresh diced tomato.) Next are menus - the cocktails are excellent here and they have an extensive wine list. The multiple menus, (specials, prix fix, classics), contain an extensive choice of classic Italian dishes that, while Americanized, are still made with flair, fresh ingredients, and are generous in portion. Take your time crafting the perfect meal - hint, do a pasta course. A basket of various baked bread follows and you are already satisfied. Don’t worry, nothing is rushed… by the time your chosen apps and mains arrive, if you are like our family your lite dinner convo is now a debate you are trying to keep quiet - even the teens and kids at the table aren’t looking at their phones. Don’t be afraid to ask to take home - if the host of an Italian meal doesn’t serve an abundance, it’s a fail… and if you don’t take it, you must not have liked it. End with decadent desserts and a grappa digestif. Perfect.

At Diane's, the food, service and ambiance are always excellent. It's especially nice when the weather warms up and the deck is open, and to celebrate any special day.