Italian Deli And Market Brings Authentic Tastes To Matthews North Carolina
I love a story of a family owned business doing what they’re passionate about. And, that’s exactly what happened when Rick and Enza Pilla relocated to Charlotte from New York. …


I love a story of a family owned business doing what they're passionate about. And, that's exactly what happened when Rick and Enza Pilla relocated to Charlotte from New York. Nonna Maria's Italian Deli & Market in Matthews, North Carolina grew from what the couple noticed was missing in the area. After searching unsuccessfully for the comfort foods they missed from back home, they opened the spot in December of 2022. The family told the Charlotte Observer they hope it reminds folks of what they'd expect from the Bronx's Arthur Avenue Retail Market. And, the family brings quite a resume of travel and heritage that shape their palettes. Enza spent summers in the Campania region of Italy northeast of Naples. And, the Italian Deli and Market gets its name from her late mother Nonna Maria. So, what can we expect from Nonna Maria's?
First, there's plenty of fresh pasta along with gourmet made sauces, bread, cheeses and Italian meats. Then, there's the baked goods like New York style bagels with plenty of popular flavor choices. And, Nonna Maria's also serves breakfast and lunch. Diners have options of breakfast sandwiches and omelets, hot and cold sandwiches, salads, wraps or soups for lunch. And, they have Italian wines available, too! Their food sounds amazing and the pictures on their website are beautiful. I can't wait to try this new Italian deli and market bringing a taste of "Little Italy" from New York to Matthews, North Carolina. Find them at 2332 Matthews Township Parkway.
List: The 15 Best Italian Restaurants In Charlotte According To Open Table
There is just something about Italian food. Whether you want pizza, pasta, seafood, something light, or a little heavy. The flavors are simply to die for. And it can be done so many ways. But in a city like Charlotte with so many restaurants, it can be overwhelming to know where to try next. It seems like every day somewhere new is opening. Should you keep going to that chain you love? Is the neighborhood spot really the best? Are you missing out on incredible food? So let me offer you at least a little help. I went to OpenTable.com to figure out what are considered the top Italian restaurants in Charlotte.
Several of these I've not yet tried. I have to say that after eating in the North End in Boston, nothing has compared. And I still dream of eating my way through Italy. But a lot on this list may be more authentic and closer to that. At least I hope so! This list features a variety of locations across the area. There are also date night spots and places you can go with your friends for a quick bite. Spoiler alert however there are some CLASSIC Charlotte spots that didn't make this list. Keep in mind anything on it does use Open Table for reservations. So keep that in mind. That doesn't change the fact that all the restaurants on this list come highly recommended. Some have 2-3,000 reviews!
Top 15 Italian Restaurants In Charlotte According To Open Table:
15. Buca di Beppo
Neighborhood: Pineville
Rating: 4.3
Reviews: 960
14. Angeline's
Neighborhood: Uptown
Rating: 4.3
Reviews: 947
13. Zinicola
Neighborhood: Ballantyne
Rating: 4.5
Reviews: 723
12. Aria Tuscan Grill
Neighborhood: Uptown
Rating: 4.5
Reviews: 3500
11. Arooji's Wine Room
Neighborhood: Ballantyne
Rating: 4.6
Reviews: 303
10. Cicchetti
Neighborhood: Uptown
Rating: 4.6
Reviews: 43
9. North Italia
Neighborhood: South End
Rating: 4.6
Reviews: 820
8. The Jimmy
Neighborhood: Myers Park
Rating: 4.6
Reviews: 245
7. Via Roma
Neighborhood: Waverly
Rating: 4.7
Reviews: 796
6. Novanta Pizzeria Napoletana
Neighborhood: Mooresville
Rating: 4.7
Reviews: 174
5. Primo Prime
Neighborhood: Myers Park
Rating: 4.7
Reviews: 392
4. Indaco
Neighborhood: Charlotte
Rating: 4.7
Reviews: 535
3. Luce Ristorante
Neighborhood: Uptown
Rating: 4.8
Reviews: 2217
2. Toscana Ristorante Italiano
Neighborhood: South Park
Rating: 4.8
Reviews: 2017
1. Dolce Ristorante
Neighborhood: Dilworth
Rating: 4.8
Reviews: 1218




