Il Giardino Ristorante
910 Atlantic Ave.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
(757) 422-6464
https://ilgiardino.com/

Italian | $$$

Our week at the beach almost always falls over the Fourth of July, and for more than ten years, I’ve made the same reservation months in advance: dinner at 5 pm on the 4th, at Il Giardino. That one booking takes care of the busiest night of our week. It wasn’t always that way. For years, we walked right past Il Giardino, chasing the oceanfront holy grail — seafood — somewhere else. Then one evening, tired and hungry, the group finally said, “Let’s just try it.” We never looked back. It was exceptional.

Il Giardino Ristorante has been serving up old-world Italian charm for over four decades. What started with a single inspired trip has grown into one of the most beloved dining traditions of our week at the beach.

The decor is comfortable and inviting. The waitstaff is professional and friendly. We see the same staff year after year.

We started with a favorite we try in all Italian restaurants, Calamari. It was perfectly fried, tender rather than rubbery, and served with a nice marinara sauce.

My wife likes pepper.

I have the same dish every year. I look forward to having the Tortellini Della Nonna with Scallops all week. The pillowy housemade cheese tortellini, prosciutto, mushrooms, and peas paired with plump, perfectly seared scallops in a rich cream sauce is just wonderful. The scallops are an add-on.

My wife chose the Lasagna. It is one of the dishes Il Giardino is known for. A hearty, layered Italian comfort food that makes you think you’re at grandma’s house. The portions are generous and it’s packed full of flavor.

Dessert is why we eat. A towering slice of six-layer chocolate cake, with rich chocolate mousse between every layer and a fresh strawberry on the side was a perfect ending to the meal.

The second dessert we shared was this awesome Napoleon dessert. Crisp, flaky layers of puff pastry filled with rich vanilla pastry cream.

Another big draw is the wood-fired pizza. Perfect for those picky kids with you.

Il Giardino is open year-round, but come prepared: there’s some parking behind the restaurant, though spots are tight in summer, especially on weekends. It’s busy most nights, so reservations are a must. If you’re staying on the south end of the oceanfront, make the stop — you won’t find better Italian food in Virginia Beach.