Valentino's Cucina Italiana

- 195 Liberty Square, Norwalk, CT 06855

Introduction / Overview

Nestled in the heart of Norwalk, Connecticut, Valentino's Cucina Italiana is a highly-regarded neighborhood restaurant that captures the essence of classic Italian dining. Established by local residents, the Promuto family, the restaurant is a celebration of authentic Italian heritage, specializing in time-honored dishes and a welcoming, cozy atmosphere. It is the perfect spot for Connecticut residents who appreciate genuine Italian flavors, generous portions, and a dining experience where you truly feel like family.

Valentino's Cucina Italiana is best described as a dual-concept eatery, excelling both as a traditional Italian restaurant and a dedicated pizza restaurant. This combination ensures a diverse menu that can satisfy almost any craving, from a casual family pizza night to a special occasion featuring classic veal or seafood entrées. A significant point of pride for the establishment is its focus on making homemade pastas, which elevates the dining experience beyond standard fare. They offer a full menu of appetizers, pasta dishes, meat and seafood entrées, and an impressive selection of Italian desserts, complemented by a full bar and an acclaimed wine list. Popular dishes frequently highlighted by local diners include the celebrated Chicken Francaise, the hearty Lasagna Pizza, and the perfectly cooked wood-fired ribs. The atmosphere is consistently described as casual and cozy, making it a local favorite for lunch, dinner, and solo dining alike.

Location and Accessibility

Valentino's Cucina Italiana boasts a charming and convenient location for local Connecticut patrons. You can find this Italian gem at 195 Liberty Square, Norwalk, CT 06855.

Situated across from the scenic Veterans Park and overlooking the Norwalk River, the restaurant’s setting in Liberty Square contributes to its warm and inviting ambiance, particularly in the heart of South Norwalk (SoNo). The strategic location makes it easily accessible for residents across Fairfield County. Furthermore, the restaurant has gone to great lengths to ensure comfort and convenience for all guests, offering numerous accessibility features, which include:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating

Services Offered

Valentino's Cucina Italiana provides a complete range of services to meet the diverse needs of its Connecticut clientele, ensuring their authentic Italian cuisine can be enjoyed in various settings.

• Dine-in and Table Service: Guests can enjoy a casual, cozy atmosphere with full table service for lunch, dinner, and even brunch. Dinner reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours, to secure a table.
• Takeout: All menu items, including pastas, entrées, and pizzas, are available for convenient pickup.
• Delivery: The restaurant offers a delivery service, bringing hot, fresh Italian food directly to homes and businesses in the Norwalk area.
• Full Bar Service: A bar is onsite, offering a comprehensive selection of alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and a highly-regarded wine list.
• Catering: Extensive catering options are available for special events, parties, and corporate functions. Catering includes full and half trays of favorite dishes like Lasagna, Penne Ala Vodka, Sausage & Peppers, and various Chicken and Veal preparations.
• Dessert Service: A separate dessert menu features delectable house-made items like Tiramisù, Lava Cake, and various Gelato and Truffle options.

Features / Highlights

Valentino's Cucina Italiana is celebrated for several unique aspects that set it apart as a premier Italian dining destination in Connecticut.

• Authentic and Diverse Menu: The restaurant serves a full spectrum of classic Italian fare, from beloved appetizers like Calamari ($17.95) and Artichokes Romanos ($16.95) to substantial entrées prepared in styles such as Parmesan, Marsala, Piccata, Francaise, and Saltimbocca.
• Homemade Pasta Excellence: A true highlight is the dedication to fresh, homemade pasta. The menu features specialty pasta dishes like Gnocchi Truffalina ($26.95), Linguini Clams ($28.95), Pappardelle Al Forno ($26.95), and the luxurious Lobster Ravioli ($29.95).
• Wood-Fired Pizza Specialties: Beyond the traditional menu, the restaurant operates as a quality pizza place. Unique offerings like the Lasagna Pizza ($20.00), Clams Casino Pizza ($24.00), and the Chicken Milanese Pizza ($22.00) are major draws for pizza aficionados.
• Exceptional Customer Service: Customer reviews frequently praise the warm, attentive, and personalized service, noting that staff members like Michele and Sincere create a genuine 'family' atmosphere that makes every visit memorable.
• Highly-Rated Beverages and Desserts: The bar is praised for a "Great wine list" and "Great cocktails," while the homemade desserts, including Tiramisù ($13.00), Cannoli ($12.00), and Gelato ($10.00), receive high marks. The availability of great coffee and espresso rounds out the dining experience.
• Unique Specials: The daily specials often feature seasonal and upscale options, such as Frutti Di Mare ($36.00), Veal Chop Parmesan ($42.00), and Butternut Squash Ravioli ($26.00), adding variety to the already expansive menu.

Contact Information

For residents in the Norwalk and surrounding Connecticut areas, reaching Valentino's Cucina Italiana is simple.

Address: 195 Liberty Square, Norwalk, CT 06855
Phone: (203) 956-7300 or +1 203-956-7300

It is advisable to call ahead for dinner reservations, as the restaurant is a local favorite and table seating can be limited, especially on weekends.

What is Worth Choosing Valentino's Cucina Italiana

For those seeking an authentic taste of Italy without leaving Fairfield County, Valentino's Cucina Italiana is an exceptional choice. What makes this Norwalk establishment a must-visit is its unwavering commitment to quality, tradition, and customer experience. You are not just getting a meal; you are getting a piece of the Promuto family’s Italian heritage, presented in generous portions and made with evident care. The ability to find classic Italian comfort foods—like Spaghetti & Meatballs ($24.95) and Lasagna ($25.95)—alongside elevated entrées and specialty wood-fired pizzas is rare and highly appealing.

The dining experience is often lauded as feeling "like family," a hallmark of a great local spot. From the moment you try the renowned Chicken Francaise, described by one diner as "hands down the best I’ve ever had," or sample a seasonal dish like the pumpkin ravioli, the quality of the fresh ingredients shines through. Whether you need a full-tray catering order for a large family gathering, a delicious pizza delivered to your door, or a cozy evening out enjoying great wine and a Lava Cake ($13.00) for dessert, Valentino's Cucina Italiana is a reliable, high-quality, and deeply appreciated culinary institution in the Connecticut restaurant landscape. Choosing Valentino's means choosing a local gem that consistently delivers on its promise of authentic, satisfying, and welcoming Italian dining.

Valentino's Cucina Italiana

195 Liberty Square, Norwalk, CT 06855, USA