Ciao! Italian the Way It Should Be Done

In the vibrant heart of Fernandina Beach, Florida, there’s a little gem known as Ciao Italian Eatery. Nestled on Centre Street, this restaurant is a beacon of deliciousness that promises a delightful dining experience. Spoiler alert: it delivers.

As soon as I set foot inside, I was greeted by a surprisingly spacious interior. Ciao might seem like a quaint little spot from the outside, but the space unfolds like a magic trick once inside. Going further in, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming ambiance that set the stage for the upcoming dining experience.

Ciao stands out from the crowd because of its staff's warmth, starting with the owner himself, Luca. I was welcomed like an old friend. The comfortable atmosphere immediately put me at ease and set a high bar for what was to come.

My journey at Ciao began with a selection of appetizers. I couldn’t help by eye the novel 'mozzarella lollipop.' This tasty starter, featuring giant chunks of mozzarella skewered with cherry tomatoes, came beautifully presented on a bed of fresh greens and topped off with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. It's a refreshing and light start, which prepped my palate for the main course.

I can’t tell you how excited I was to see the spaghetti and meatballs come to my table. This meal is a staple in any Italian eatery and is a standout dish at Ciao. Larger-than-life meatballs accompanied by perfectly cooked spaghetti, all topped off with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, had me in heaven.

The star of the show, though, is the tomato sauce. This isn't your run-of-the-mill, overly tangy sauce; instead, it's a velvety concoction that's sweet, inviting and a perfect companion to the spaghetti and meatballs.

If you're a pizza lover, Ciao won't disappoint. I ordered one of their signature pizzas, the formaggio di capra, which is a culinary masterpiece. Topped with a generous helping of goat cheese, caramelized onions, tomato, arugula, and a drizzle of pesto, this pizza was a feast for the taste buds. The super-thin crust made the flavors pop with each bite.

If you fancy a drink to complement your meal, Ciao's extensive wine list will leave you spoiled. With a dedicated menu featuring a wide variety of wines, this restaurant ensures a perfect pairing for every dish.

However, no Italian meal is complete without some sweet indulgence, and Ciao's dessert menu doesn't disappoint. The Limoncello cake, a light and airy lemon cake topped with a smooth, creamy custard-like topping and a drizzle of tart blueberry sauce, was a refreshing end to my meal.

Ciao Italian Eatery is more than just a restaurant - it's a smorgasbord for your tastebuds. With its inviting atmosphere, friendly staff, and, most importantly, delicious food, it's a place that left me wishing I could eat more. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Ciao is a must-visit spot for all Italian food lovers. Try it once, and you're sure to return for the spaghetti and meatballs!

Ciao Italian Eatery

Address: 614 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

Phone: 904-206-4311

Website: https://ciaoitalianeatery.net