These are just some of the apx 150 five star reviews Yelp has removed with no explanation.

o
Sandy d.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
1 friend
o
19 reviews
12/16/2011
Great food, great service. Authentic Italian cooking in downtown Issaquah. My only complaint? The
restaurant is too small and very busy on weekends. I hope they get more space soon. Love all of their
homemade pastas, the gnocchi, lasagna - excellent. I could do without the singer though. I think the space
is too small to have someone singing so loud and I never know what to do while they're singing - stop
eating?

o
Bob K.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/13/2011
Everything little thing about this restaurant is fantastic. Food, atmosphere,service,servers, vibe,Italian family
owners, decor....I could go on and on. I will just say Well Done!

o
Neil M.
o
Seattle, WA
o
35 friends
o
3 reviews
12/11/2011
Excellent Italian food, great service, friendly atmosphere and live Italian guitarist. Molto Buono!

o
David B.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/21/2011
We've eaten here several times since it opened earlier this fall for both dinner and lunch. The food is
fantastic, served in a quaint setting of just 10 or so tables. The owners, Fernando and Cindy take great care
to make sure the service, food and experience is perfect. They will make you feel like you're part of the
family. Enjoy!

o
Mitzi V.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
23 reviews
11/19/2011
Great service from owners and staff. Mama singing to the room (!). Ambiance is awesome; intimate and
warm without being stuffy or pretentious. Wide ranging menu of well prepared food accompanied by a nice
variety of wines.
If you go on the weekend, leave time to find parking. Friday at 7 p.m. in downtown Issaquah is way more
happening than you might think. Restaurant is tucked away behind Vino Bello on Front and Alder. Pop into
Vino Bello before or after dinner for live music and fun crowd.

o
Lois B.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
11/9/2011
Had a wonderful dinner here last weekend. Upon arriving (without a reservation) the owner informed us
apologetically that there were no tables available, so we left. Just as we were pulling out in our car, he
came running out to say that a table had opened up since there was a no show. Lucky us! The meal was
fabulous-Lobster Ravioli for my husband, Lobster Spaghetti for me and Pasta Gorgonzola for my 10 year old
son. We also had a caesar salad which was to die for and Bruschetta-also amazing. Finished off with
Tiramisu and complimentary after dinner drinks. The service was perfect and we also were able to enjoy the
Guitar player that came around to each table. My suggestion would be to reserve ahead since it seats only
28. Very warm,welcoming ambience-just made reservations to go back with friends next weekend!

o
JB C.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/8/2011
Simply AMAZING!
It is a quant treasure found just off of Front Street in Issaquah. We love the aspect that it is a family run
restaurant focusing on making its patrons feel as if we are experiencing a part of Italy in our back yard. We
have had the pleasure of trying a variety of dishes, and the items have been nothing short of fantastic!
We look forward to dining at Montalcino's for many, many years to come!
Cheers!

o
Sandra D.
o
Roswell, GA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/25/2011
Hands down the best place you will ever experience! The food is beyond excellent and the service is
exceptional! Amazing!!!

o
Dane B.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
12 friends
o
20 reviews
9/30/2011
Wow, what a great time and meal we had at Montalcino! The staff are great and very personable, makes
you feel like you are part of their family, and the food was VERY good and very well prepared. We'll be back
for sure!

o
Tory M.
o
King, WA
o
0 friends
o
14 reviews
9/13/2011
This is a great restaurant. It's not cheap but not too expensive either. Everything is stated to be imported
from Italy. The Lasagna is awesome! I rarely order Lasagna at a restaurant because I prefer my own. This
blew my Lasagna away. Mama makes it fresh daily. The Nocchi is also excellent. You won't be disappointed
if you go. The food is excellent!

o
Jane B.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
6 friends
o
4 reviews
3/24/2015
This is the BEST Italian eatery I have ever been to!! The food, staff, service is amazing. Very romantic.
Make reservations for sure if you go on the weekends. Will definitely be back. Thank you Montalcino for the
best food ever!

o
Kimberly Y.
o
Redmond, WA
o
1 friend
o
7 reviews
3/4/2015
I have been wanting to go to Montalcino for quite a while and finally had a chance to check it out. The
ambiance is cozy and romantic. The robust wine list features a wonderful variety of Italian wines, which
happen to be my favorite. The menu captured my attention for quite a while before I was able to decide on
just one entree as they all sounded amazing. I chose the Salumi e Formaggi to start and had the Lobster
Ravioli for my dinner. The appetizer included a Wild Boar hard salami, made in house. The ravioli were large
and the dish includes a succulent lobster tail as part of the presentation. To finish this repast, I ended with a
Tiramisu that was to die for! I WILL be back for sure! Thank you Fernando and your lovely family!

o
Suzette H.
o
Portland, OR
o
0 friends
o
16 reviews
2/19/2015
I'm giving 5 stars to this amazing family from Tuscany , wine and food, thumbs up! Hands down best Italian
on the Eastside

o
Denis T.
o
Renton, WA
o
0 friends
o
5 reviews
2/19/2015
Good customer service, so far one of the best in Seattle area that I went to.
Food was really good as well.
Romantic atmosphere, best place to take your girlfriend out.
You will pay between $100-150 for 2 people, not expensive for a good dinner.
I hope this place will extend some day

o
Micky J.
o
Lynnwood, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
2/16/2015
Wow! Outstanding restaurant. Exceeded our expectations. Saw them on KING-TV this weekend and was
able to get a reservation for Sunday night. The food...the wine...amazing! I have eaten in a lot of Italian
restaurants around Seattle but none can compare to Montalcino's. It is just like being in Italy in terms of the
food and ambiance. A wonderful family restaurant with friendly owners and great service. One of the best
parts of our evening was music provided by their singer Tony...a fantastic Italian tenor and great
guitarist. The restaurant needs to list the days he plays more clearly on their website because you definitely
want to make a reservation for one of the nights he is singing. Between Tony's voice and the fabulous
Italian food and wine...this simply is the BEST Italian dining experience we have had in a long time. By the
way...the lobster ravioli is to die for...and the family Brunello wine is some of the best we have ever
tasted...not to mention Mama's tiramisu for dessert. This place is a real gem for the Puget Sound area.

o
Jen P.
o
North Bend, WA
o
0 friends
o
8 reviews
2/16/2015
My husband and I tried this restaurant for the first time last night and I can honestly speak for the both of
us..... BEST Italian food we've ever had (and we eat a lot of it). The wait staff is extremely attentive without
being invasive and the whole feel of the place is wonderful. Like others have said, make sure you get a
reservation as there are only about 10 tables. We will DEFINITELY be coming here again. To the patrons
complaining about the "short" time to eat? If it takes you longer than 90 minutes to eat a meal, go to Olive
Garden. We didn't feel rushed at all and can't wait to come back!!

o
Jennifer L.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
5 reviews
2/6/2015
Atmosphere, price point, and oh-so-delish! Try the caviar ravs and you'll fall in amore!

o
Drew P.
o
Shawnee, KS
o
11 friends
o
14 reviews
2/4/2015
We brought a client here for dinner and had a great experience. This is a quaint, authentic Italian
restaurant. Great food, generous promotions and fantastic service.

o
Jillian F.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/27/2015
When I first walked in, 2 things caught my eyes...Its small and its extremely quaint. Perfect lighting for a
romantic dinner. The brick walls add to the atmosphere. My sense of sight was exploding....then I smelled
the delicious aroma from the kitchen...and my sense of smell also lit up. I sat down and instantly, the
attentive wait staff was helpful without being overbearing. I started with a glass of delicious red
wine...yup...my sense of taste launched up to where my sense of sight and smell were. The hardest thing
about dinner was choosing a menu item. Everything sounded amazing. I picked the pasta with boar
meat. Amazing in every way! The presentation, the taste, the texture. They add a delicious balsamic
vinaigrette to the plate, plus a few pieces of bread. Absolutely delicious!! The guitar player/singer also
added to the atmosphere. What a prefect evening of all my 5 senses. Nothing was bad....geez...nothing was
even average. All 5 stars! I need to come back and have the dishes I didn't order last night.

o
Christine P.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/26/2015 Updated review
My favorite restaurants is on the top 100 of the U.S. Montacino!!!! I truly recommend this restaurant to
anybody that loves authentic Italian food...the staff really makes you feel at hm especially the owners
Fernando & Cindy...they always welcome you with a fresh glass of wine!!
12/10/2011 Previous review
Since I moved from L.A I have missed my favorite Italian restaurant, until now. I grew up enjoying… Since I
moved from L.A I have missed my favorite Italian restaurant, until now. I grew up enjoying quality cuisine but
not one to write a review , until now. I waited until I dined at least three times to make sure they are
consistent. Consistent they are with a great atmosphere and the Italian owners have a history and great
knowledge of food and wine. Some dishes I have enjoyed as ape's Calamari; great traditional sauce
Bruschetta; great balance of flavor with not to much garlic. Even the free bread they bring at the table is
good lightly toasted with a little EVOO. I have tried the Veal Marsala; wonderful Marsala sauce not to heavy
and the veal so very tender. The Spaghetti and Meatballs is well prepared and like most of there pasta
dishes not over sauced menu is amazing with other dishes I will soon try. I understand the family has a
namesake wine Brunello Di Montalcino, after researching this wine I really enjoyed, I found it had very high
marks in many wine publications and the price I paid was very reasonable. This place is great ! Read more

o
Lesleyann P.
o
Renton, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/24/2015
This was the best Italian restaurant in Seattle area in my opinion. Everything we ordered (and I took a picky
date) was amazing. The wine selection, the pasta, desert, and everything was to die for. This was a savory,
amazing restaurant. The staff was beautiful and amazing. There is a small, family environment and I felt the
love in every bite. I would definitely come here again. This is a perfect place for a date.

o
Melodie D.
o
Snoqualmie, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/14/2015
Best New Year's Eve ever at Montalcino's.
My husband and I went to this little gem of a restaurant in Issaquah for New Year's Eve and it was
outstanding in every way. The food, the wine, the service was great. Best Italian we've had outside of
Italy. The music was fabulous. WE went there because it was highly recommended to us by friends. We
are planning on going back frequently because it surpassed all our expectations. Three items of advice: 1)
Make sure you get a reservation in advance; 2) Try the family Brunello wine as it is fantastic; 3) Go on a
night that Tony sings as it caps off the experience and will make your evening perfect. We can't wait to
return.

o
Jim M.
o
Snohomish, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/13/2015
We have been coming here practically every month for the last couple of years since they
opened. Generally I don't write reviews, but I am compelled to do so now in light of some of the reviews I
have read on Yelp in regards to this restaurant. I have traveled many times in my life to Italy and can say
that Montalcino's is the best Italian restaurant outside of Italy in which I have ever eaten. Any of the reviews
here that complain about the food are obviously written by ignorant local people who have never actually
traveled to Italy and never eaten authentic Italian cuisine. Furthermore...as much as we love the food at
Montalcino's, we ONLY book dinners there on the evenings that Tony is singing. He is a first class singer of
Opera and Sinatra who has appeared with the best in the world. It is the combination of the great Italian
food and Tony's great Italian voice that keeps us coming back month after month. That is what makes
Montalcino's special and makes it number one when compared to any other Italian restaurant in the
region. What other Italian restaurant in the area has BOTH world class food and a world class singer? We
have introduced at least 30 other couples to Montalcino's over the last 2 years and they all agree on BOTH
of these points. So anyone who complains about the food or the music at Montalcino's is nuts and has no
comprehension of what they are getting. My advice to them is "stay away" and leave more space for the
rest of us...as it is hard to get a reservation at Montalcino's because the food and singing are so popular with
people in the area. Trust me...over the last 2 years of coming here on a regular basis...90% of the
customers come for the Nardone family's great Italian food combined with Tony's amazing singing. That is
the fact, Jack!

o
Robert L.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/8/2015
Not sure why mine and noticed other 5 star reviews are remoived from this restaurant.Re-posting.
I heard about this new little Italian place opening just off Front Street.
Excellent food and service. Very Italian setting intimate yet crazy in a good way on a packed evening.
Very inventive nice menu, food presentation was amazing and taste even better and we eat out often. We
are wine people and prices / quality on wine list is excellent. I had the lemon chicken and homemade gelato
for dessert. Appetizers were an excellent Caesar salad and the scallop / prawn dish (great sauce) a must
try.
Service was excellent! Very attentive and welcoming.
There was definitely something special... felt like everyone knew each other and family-like.
Pleasantly noisy, a fellow wanders the shop guitar in hand singing to all tables and chatting at each table;
the owner visits tables, he explained and served us our wine.
We consider ourselves foodies yet not in a snobby way. Not sure how anyone can rate this restaurant less
than 5 stars, I didn't see one unhappy person in the restaurant.
I recommend making a reservation beforehand. PS I'm not sure how anyone could rate this restaurant less
than 5 stars
Wonderful experience!

o
Gabriel S.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
6 reviews
1/4/2015
Thanks to a recommendation from my sister and her husband, my husband and I just had one of the most
delectable meals we've had in quite awhile.
When planning on dining here make sure you get a reservation. It is a very small, family run restaurant
which adds to the personal quality of this restaurant. Each time slot for dining is 90 minutes so keep this in
mind.
The atmosphere is intimate and romantic.
The food was fabulous! We both had entree specials. My husband's halibut and risotto was perfectly
prepared, and my truffle ravioli with wild boar in mushroom cream sauce ... Let's just say that words are
inadequate. I've eaten real Italian food in Italy and this meal is up there on my list of best meals ever eaten.
We finished the evening with Chocolate covered cannoli - Mama's recipe - and it was delicious! I was glad I
had just enough room to enjoy the perfect end to the meal.
We will certainly back. Don't miss this wonderful family owned restaurant where you are sure to have a
marvelous meal.

o
ted g.
o
Snoqualmie, WA
o
17 friends
o
9 reviews
1/4/2015
This place is hands down the finest Italian I've ever been exposed to. You must make a reservation, if you
just stop by, you may leave disappointed. Use OpenTable to reserve.
Their take on the Caesar Salad, will set the tone for what promises to be an excellent date night, or dinner
worthy of great friends. Saturday night atmosphere may include live music... Fantastic! It's exactly what
Italian should be! Perfect execution.

o
Jewels L.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
7 reviews
1/1/2015
Best Italian food! We love this place. Owners and staff are amazing. We have visited this restaurant at
least 25 times and every meal both lunch and dinner were absolutely terrific.

o
Sam S.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/7/2014
Authentic and excellent Italian fare in the best ambience in the Puget Sound area. The staff is professional
and attentive in just the right way. This is the perfect place to take a date or an important client. This is the
closest thing I have found to Italy itself.
.

o
Jared K.
o
Renton, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/6/2014
What an amazing experience!! The food atmosphere and people were perfect. Came here for our
anniversary and had the best experience! Candles, romantic atmosphere, amazing!
I read the negative reviews and was worried about going, but so happy I did! Ignore the 2 or 3 reviews that
are negative, this place is a must. The lobster ravioli and spaghetti was incredible, fresh, hand made, the
closest thing to Italy.
Tony is an amazing musician, funny and wonderful to speak with. The only negative thing I can say is he
plays music too quiet! :) go ahead tony and turn it up a bit!
Must visit!!!! Don't miss out!

o
Cate E.
o
Seattle, WA
o
1 friend
o
7 reviews
12/6/2014
I am using a friends account to post this review. I met my buddy there after he had asked multiple times to
come meet him and try this restaurant. Did it last night and the food, wine, service and ambiance was
awesome. Home made pasta from scratch, fresh seafood, guitar playing in background, good wine flowing
and staff very attentive. Tough place to get in without a reservation so plan ahead! Highly recommend.

o
Alex P.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/5/2014
This is the most authentic crazy little Italian restaurant I've ever been to. And I'm from San Fran. Food was
world class with a top wine list including some of the Italy's best. We were with a group if 6 and each and
every person loved the dish. We are food buyers for a certain big co. Bear buy and we could be more
impressed. Montalcino is by far the best restaurant in the area if you understand good authentic food. If you
don't it might be over your head. Can't say enough great things about this restaurant including the great
service and knowledgable staff and owners. Thank you for a great experience. We will all be back often.

o
Leanne B.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
7 friends
o
7 reviews
11/18/2014
Fantastic place. Small, intimate setting; friendly, efficient staff. Great wine list; the Lasagne was
incredible. Lemoncello gelato - yum. Bonus is the shot sized flashlight! Highly recommend. Be sure to
make a reservation. Fernando & Montalcino are outstanding!!

o
Sam K.
o
Gig Harbor, WA
o
0 friends
o
14 reviews
11/15/2014
Every plate ended up empty from starting to dessert. Yes it was that good. I've been to a lot of good hole in
the wall Italian restaurants but nothing like this.

o
William N.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/15/2014
Issaquah with an incredible Italian restaurant.
The intimate atmosphere, delicious food , great Italian wines and very attentive service.
I had the Halibut daily special with their family wine offering. Amazing and the protions are very generous!
I like a family run business as the owner takes a special interest in every table.
It is a small restaurant so make sure you reserve a table in advance ..
Will be back next week for sure.

o
Pauletthp N.
o
Bonney Lake, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
11/15/2014
If you don't appreciate this restaurant as the finest dining you can have then I have no idea what five star
dining is.

o
Lynn T.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/15/2014
One of those restaurants that make you glad to be alive...
To qualify this...we went to one of the "premier" restaurants in Wash DC, "The Blue Duck Tavern" where the
Obama's had an anniversary dinner, yada yada yada. I had the "short rib" special there...outstanding. I just
had the "short rib special" at Montalcino in Issaquah and it was better, much better than the Blue Duck
Tavern and that says a bunch. I don't know who the chef is at Montalcino, but they understand the layering
of flavors, the compliments to the dish etc. Just excellent flavor, tender...and rich rich color of deep
brown. (go ahead and drool at this point) Sort of like a "hug" wrapped in a meal.
We have been recommended this restaurant for over a year, and because I try to eat a "no carb" diet we
dragged our feet going. Silly me. There is plenty on the Montalcino menu for "no carb" diets. I had the
excellent caprese salad with perfect tomatoes and mozzarella. The presentation is impressive, they offer
olive oil as an addition, (take it!). Then, as said, I had the short rib special with risotto and the hubby had the
lamb shank. Both taste like someone has been slow cooking all day, with that rich home cooked
caramelized onion concoction of a sauce. The risotto makes you want to lick the bowl...
Then because we had to know...we split the tiramisu. Worth every bite. Rich but not too cloyingly
sweet...perfect, again.
We had wine with dinner, the server was very knowledgeable and my wine nerd hubby really enjoyed the
Italian wine flight before having a second glass of the sangiovese. He finished his meal with an espresso
and was very pleased. Not always easy with him. They even brought us a complimentary dessert wine
splash. So good...
The service was perfect. The timing of each course exactly what you'd want. When we were leaving my
hubby remarked that he'd like to do it all over again...I see many visits to Montalcino in the future...
Don't do what I did and wait to visit. It is on the high side of cost, but worth every darn penny. This is not a
production line restaurant, this is a restaurant for people who love & want to savor their food. Go. Just go.

o
Cin K.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/15/2014
We ate at Montalcino Ristorante Italiano last night and, I can honestly say it was the best dining experience
we have hand in a very long time. The atmosphere was intimate but casual. The restaurant capacity is only
35 people so reservations are a must. The restaurant is family owned and operated and walking in you
become family. The food was absolutely incredible! I had the veal piccata which was prepared perfectly.
For dessert, we had the limoncello gelato and the tiramisu. Both were wonderful. The tiramisu was
homemade and perfect! I normally do not give out 5 stars, however, my wife and I can not stop talking
about our most recent dining experience at Montalcino Ristorante Italiano.
Thank you Fernando! We have a new, favorite italian restaurant

o
James G.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/11/2014
This is a hidden gem of a place. Food and hospitality are great, conveying the intimate appeal of a small
Italian family restaurant. Met owner Fernando on our first visit, and when telling him we were visiting
Tuscany in the coming weeks, he put us in touch with family friends and Montepulciano winery owners for a
generous tour and tasting. The added value of this kind of personal service was a good complement to an
already very good dining experience.

o
Emory S.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
11/6/2014
We ate at Montalcino Ristorante Italiano last night and, I can honestly say it was the best dining experience
we have hand in a very long time. The atmosphere was intimate but casual. The restaurant capacity is only
35 people so reservations are a must. The restaurant is family owned and operated and walking in you
become family. The food was absolutely incredible! I had the veal piccata which was prepared perfectly.
For dessert, we had the limoncello gelato and the tiramisu. Both were wonderful. The tiramisu was
homemade and perfect! I normally do not give out 5 stars, however, my wife and I can not stop talking
about our most recent dining experience at Montalcino Ristorante Italiano.
Thank you Fernando! We have a new, favorite italian restaurant.
o
Janet F.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/3/2014
This place made me feel like I was in Italy. Quality all the way from presentation , authentic flavors , quality
and freshness. The few poor reviews on this restaurant via Yelp reflect bitter people, not the quality of this
restaurant. Other rating sites are much more accurate -this is why I chose to write on yelp. You must go and
see for yourself Montalcino stands almost alone in the area for 5 star restaurants. Owners are family from
Italy and you can see they know what they are doing. Will return very soon

o
Will W.
o
Kent, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/2/2014
This is the best kept secret in Issaquah.
Italian food at its best and the wine list is tremendous.
Menu, service,and ambiance is the best.
Portions are hugh and very delicious.
I will be returning very soon.
If you are looking for authentic Italian then Montaklcino is the best.
Make sure you make reservations

o
John V.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
10/30/2014 Updated review
My partner and I just visited this restaurant this evening. I hardly ever write reviews, but I was compelled to
leave feedback after such a wonderful evening. The food was delicious, authentic and most importantly,
fresh! The service was fantastic, very polite, attentive and informative in regards to the food and wine. We
will definitely be returning...

o
Hailey L.
o
Tacoma, WA
o
0 friends
o
5 reviews
10/28/2014
My husband just came home from deployment and I was in search for a romantic date night for just the two
of us. A friend recommended this restaurant and it was beyond perfect. This was a dining experience Iike no
other. It truly exceeded all of my expectations. The food is absolutely AMAZING!!!! The wine list was
equally pleasing, and don't even get me started on my review of the dessert (you must try the desserts). Our
date was made extra special by being able to have an incredible wait staff. Our server Mya was extremely
knowledgeably and super sweet. She truly helped in making this an extra special night for my husband and
I. We can't wait for a chance to make another getaway from the kids and come back.

o
Billy W.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/27/2014 Updated review
I love this restaurant. Great food and wine and the service is efficient and timely.
I expect great service in an intimate setting and also the classy approach of the ownership and Montalcino
offers that.
Portions are fresh and plentiful and the daily specials along with a great bottle of wine makes the evening
fun and special.
This is a hidden gem in Issaquah and is as classy as it gets.
I will be back again and again.
7/26/2014 Previous review
I have been to montalcino 4 times now and will continue to do so.
It goes without saying that the… I have been to montalcino 4 times now and will continue to do so. It goes
without saying that the food and wine is surpurb. I like this restaurant for many reasons It has an intimate
setting and there is lots of attention to detail. The noise level is low and you can actually have a conversation
with your guests it is on the east side and there are very few restaurants that offer this type of setting I really
look forward to going back and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere. Reservations are suggested as they are
always full as more people now know about this gem. . Read more
6/30/2013 Previous review
Found Montalcino on a recommendation from a friend that is a regular. Must have reservations as it…
Found Montalcino on a recommendation from a friend that is a regular. Must have reservations as it is a
small intimate setting. A pleasant surprise and never anticipated the atmosphere and ambiance. There are
tons of Italian restaurants in the area but this one sets itself apart with a very extensive menu and wine
selection. Truly a slice of Italy.I can only compare it to the many family owned restaurants that I have
frequented in my trips to Italy. The entre staff is very pleasant and knowledgable. I returned for a second
visit with a group of 8 and we had a blast. We were serenaded by a true Italian singer and the owner could
not do enough to make our evening fun. Highly recommend but not too much becasue if i do i will have to
make a reservation months in advance as Montalcino will not remain my little secret for very long.. Enjoy
Read more

o
Janis L.
o
Mercer Island, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/26/2014
Being Italian myself I tend to stay away from Italian restaurants, but the food was just like my Dad & Nonna
make. It is authentic , fresh with quality. A great restaurant with polite friendly staff providing a first class
service. I and my family found this restaurant and have been on several occasions. On each visit the
standard of service and food has always been the same fantastic. I would have no hesitation in
recommending a visit. So pleased to have found this place and would recommend it to anyone whether you
are a couple, family, group of friends or just on your own. O the atmosphere is the best I've seen since my
move from Europe.

o
Flower P.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/25/2014
My wife and I spend a great time in this small restaurant, the food is delicious and the service excellent, we
loved it, highly recommended.

o
Bernie S.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/23/2014
Great restaurant. Outstanding food, quality service, and superb wine. Very good Italian singer who adds to
the ambiance. We will definitely return soon.

o
Don A.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/21/2014
I agree with Brendan K "the poor reviews on this restaurant reflect bitter or neurotic people, not the quality of
this restaurant." We were all blown away as well by this restaurant and believe me when I tell you I have
been around many great restaurants. We loved our experiences here very unique, excellent quality
restaurant. We now dine here once a week and hooked many friends to this place. Still receiving thanks that
I told them about Montalcino. Because I don't believe they do any advertising at all. Thank you Montalcino
for bringing such a quality restaurant to my neighborhood.

o
Kl C.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
10/18/2014
What an amazing find of truly authentic Italian food in Issaquah! Since leaving Italy and moving to the
northwest I have had great difficulty eating out without being disappointed. The atmosphere is cozy, it feels
as if the family invited you into their own home. And for all the reviewers below that were furious about not
drinking their own wine ... It is a restaurant that works very hard to have wine that pairs well with
the handmade dishes. I appreciate that and will enjoy my own wine when I cook meals at my home. Can't
wait to return!

o
San G.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
10/18/2014
A real gem of a restaurant tucked away perfectly off Front street like a true Italian restaurant. Cuisine is
innovative, featuring some new twists on Italian favorites including several excellent fish dishes.The food
was so delicious and amazing. Being that my girlfriend is in the food industry as a chef herself. Owner
introduced himself to us and they spoke about food really know his stuff she said. This was an absolute
delight. I would absolutely refer someone to this restaurant.... Just with the heads up make a reservation and
be on time we seen at least 10 people get turned away at the door. We will visit again.

o
Jp U.
o
Snoqualmie, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/15/2014
Best restaurant from food to service and atmosphere. We all had a great time Food was quality and service
was spot on. Be back soon

o
Rob M.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/14/2014
Best restaurant around and I have been to many , I love to fine dine and like to think I know my food and
wine. Dishes were absolutely on the money with flavors, quality and freshness. Great atmosphere with a
couple of crazy Italians walking around. Service is very good European style what I'm a custom to. Will
return next week with friends.

o
Matt F.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/11/2014
What a fantastic place! 5-star atmosphere, 5-star friendly service, and 5-star food. This restaurant is now
my favorite in the entire Seattle metro area. Romantic, but so much more.

o
Jim F.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/6/2014
My wife and I have been going to this restaurant since it opened. You will want to make a reservation as they can
only seat about thirty guests. The food is excellent and created from family recipes. They source the best ingredients
available to make their dishes and it shows. We have turned our friends on to this place and have had nothing but
compliments back from them. Also, you will find Tony playing the guitar weekly which adds to the experience.

o
Priscilla P.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
9/30/2014
Montalcino is a family owned restaurant that makes you feel like part of the family! They always strive their
best to make you feel right at home with their friendly atmosphere, and on some nights they even have live
music. The guitar player plays romantic and traditional Italian songs and also takes song requests from the
audience. I highly recommend the pesto gnocci and the tortellini!

o
John C.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
9/26/2014
Wow! This place was awesome. Probably the best Italian food I have found in recent times around the
Greater Puget Sound area. The venue is small and intimate, so be sure you make a reservation. It took us
a couple of tries to get in, but well worth the wait. It is an authentic Italian family run restaurant and very
classy. The owners and staff are warm and friendly. Best of all, the food and wine is incredible. A wide
variety of Italian meals; each prepared exquisitely. While the prices definitely cater to a higher end crowd,
they are totally justified by the food quality. The wine selection is also wonderful. As a bonus, they have an
Italian singer who is fantastic. Performs everything from opera to Sinatra. Not too loud, but just enough to
add the perfect ambiance to the experience. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who
enjoys fine dining.

o
Melinda s.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
9/26/2014
We arived to be greeded by a butifull young lady are service was excelent food amazing I will tell you i will
make this a once a month dinning.Our entrees arrived and were also incredibly ample. We all agreed that
we could have split two starters and one entree between the three of us and left comfortably. I had the truffle
and caviar pasta which had what I think is house made ravioli in a heavy cream sauce with caviar and truffle.
It was decadently delicious but mostly because of things like cream and cheese. There wasn't a complex
flavor profile and the truffle and caviar were very very subtle. However, the pasta was really perfect in
texture. My sister ordered the lobster ravioli We heard the specials and my sister made her decision. was
also deliciously rich with a slight tang for balance. I agree with the other reviews that the flavors were not
complex, but the preparation is really on point. Again, pasta texture was really top notch. My mother enjoyed
Pasta alla Champion. Her sauce was slightly peppery with sun dried tomatoes and nutty whole olives. Good
balanced flavors, no complaints there. I am a full blooded italian and my mama food and mine is the best but
this menue is top notch I HIGHLY RECOMEND Good food butifull people LOVE IT
overall. Very cozy place and wonderful ambience.
Food was special, the service impeccable. The owner went out of the way to make sure my mother (who is
an elderly person) was comfortable, and when we decided we wanted to skip dessert they brought us
dessert on the house i highly recommend this place, and we will definitely be coming back!
AGAIN LOVE
IT BADA BING

o
Roberto D.
o
Manhattan, NY
o
0 friends
o
1 review
9/25/2014
Oh man, what a place! I came here on a business trip with my company and this restaurant came highly
recommended. All the dishes were just perfect, incredibly flavorfuls of quality ingridients. Staff was very
professional, giving our table first rate service. Hands down the best Italian I have ever had. We sought this
place out after reading about it. and most of us are from NYC.

o
Lara S.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
17 friends
o
3 reviews
9/23/2014
This is a smaller restaurant so I recommend making reservations. The decor is fantastic and the food is
amazing. My friend and I went to celebrate her birthday and she brought her infant. They were very nice to
us (thankfully, the baby was quiet and happy) We got the cheese / salami appetizer which was a lot of food
for 2 people but really good. The bread is so tasty! I got the tortellini and my friend got the gnocci. We both
loved our dishes and the portions are huge so I'm looking forward to my dinner again tonight. Of course we
still HAD to order dessert. We split the cannoli (comes with 2) and I liked it but it wasn't my favorite. I will
have to go back and try the tiramisu next time.
It's not inexpensive, but for the quality and the service it's worth the extra $$.

o
AnneCherise J.
o
Edmonds, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
9/7/2014
The fresh Halibut was by far the best I've ever had. Perfect for a romantic getaway, and the house Brunello
family wine was some of the best we have ever had. This is a great, quaint, romantic, and fun little authentic
Italian place hidden in Issaquah, and the service was phenomenal.

o
Sean L.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
9/5/2014
I really loved this place, food is delicious! Nice atmosphere, and excellent service.

o
Marta A.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
12 reviews
9/3/2014
Our party of 5 dined here on Sunday evening. This was our 5th or 6th visit for dinner. Our table was
awaiting us upon arrival @ 7:00 PM. Our dining experience was great, but with one flaw.
We ordered a bottle of their Montalcino family wine, and ended up ordering a second. Excellent! Both the
Caesar salads and the Heirloom tomato salads were generous and very tasty as starters. We five ordered
Veal Piccata, the Kobe Beef Lasagne, and a special, the Veal Chop. Each of us loved our entrees. The
food quality here is always top notch. The portions generous.
The one flaw: the lighting was so dimmed down that we could barely see our food. So unfortunate, as the
meal presentation here is gorgeous. Could be that as it got darker outside, the staff didn't turn up the
overhead wattage a bit. Most tables had candles, but ours did not. I asked for a candle, which they brought,
but still needed another for the other end of the table. Seriously, it was almost too dark to see our friends
faces across the table.
The staff was attentive, the food arrival flowed nicely. When we arrived, the ceiling fan was zooming so fast
there was a cool breeze, but when asked, it was turned down.
We love having this neighborhood gem in Issaquah. Be sure you make reservations, as it is a very small
and very popular restaurant.

o
Ellie M.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
9/1/2014
DELICIOUS!!!! This is a sweet little gem of a restaurant - tucked away on a side street in historic Issaquah.
You might not notice it unless someone tells you about it. We had often wondered about this restaurant and
finally had a chance to go. Crisp, white tablecloths, candles, nice table settings. Small and intimate with very
personal service. I had halibut with risotto which were prepared to perfection. I can still imagine how
wonderful it was 3 weeks later!!! My husband ordered a pasta seafood dish that was quite spicy. It was
actually too spicy and too HOT - he really couldn't eat it without breaking into a sweat. It would have been
nice if the server had noticed that his plate was basically still full and asked if it was too spicy. Had a
substitute been offered, my husband would have gladly taken her up on it - but we didn't want to make a
fuss. The cannoli was TO DIE FOR. WE will DEFINITELY be back though! The night we were there - it was
warm and a torrential downpour of rain began with some lightening and thunder. The front door was opened
and we could hear the rain - kind of added to the whole experience on a summer night. As we left and were
getting into our car, parked across the street, the owner came out and waved to us and said thank you and
good night - made us feel like valued customers. I love to see local businesses like this offering great food
and great service. We have so few great dining choices in the Issaquah/Sammamish area.
Couple of very minor things:
1. the owner carried on a conversation in pretty close proximity to our table - which kind of took away from
our own experience.
2. There was a table behind us with a party of 6. A couple of the men were wearing tank tops and had a lot
of body hair showing (eeew). They got up and stepped outside for a smoke a couple of times - which sort of
made it feel like we were in a bar, rather than a fine dining restaurant. I know the PNW is casual - but
really?

o
Arvind N.
o
Redmond, WA
o
7 friends
o
20 reviews
8/26/2014
Superb experience overall. Very cozy place with dim lighting and wonderful ambience. Food was special,
the service impeccable. The owner went out of the way to make sure my mother (who is an elderly person)
was comfortable, and when we decided we wanted to skip dessert they brought us dessert on the house!
Needless to say I left a tip well over 20% ;) i highly recommend this place, and we will definitely be coming
back!

o
Leslie W.
o
Renton, WA
o
0 friends
o
44 reviews
8/17/2014
Fernando and staff were warm, pleasant and accommodating. The food was exceptional, from Bruchetta to
Bombi dessert! With "Mama" in the kitchen, how could it be anything but the best. While our first visit found
us cramped against the window at a "bar counter", the staff was most accommodating to move us outside as
a table became available. Terrific spot for true Italian food. An 9.5 out of 10!!

o
Stephen C.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
8/8/2014
This place is a gem. The pasta with lobster, scallops, and prawns was outstanding. The service was
excellent. The Italian guitarist came to our table for a song. It was quite romantic. I'll be back. Steve

o
Thomas L.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
8/7/2014
I have been eating here for almost a year after a friend told me about it. Very small so reservations are
important. I have never had a bad meal and the service is always outstanding. Pretty good wine list but
food is the best reason to go. Try the filet or the halibut (if in season) they are just outstanding. Great for
that nice evening out with someone special. Tom L.
5/10/2014 Previous review
Went there on a recommendation. Best place I've been to hands down tucked away in issaquah. Wine list was
amazing , a lot of there family wines & staff had knowledge to recommend. My buffalo mozzarella was perfect to start
with & my seafood pasta was so good . Sauce was like nothing I've had before. Loved it. Small intimate & exclusive .
Already taking my mom back for a late Mother's Day gift so she can experience Read more

o
Lynn Y.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
5 reviews
7/19/2014
One of those restaurants that make you glad to be alive...
To qualify this...we went to one of the "premier" restaurants in Wash DC, "The Blue Duck Tavern" where the
Obama's had an anniversary dinner, yada yada yada. I had the "short rib" special there...outstanding. I just
had the "short rib special" at Montalcino in Issaquah and it was better, much better than the Blue Duck
Tavern and that says a bunch. I don't know who the chef is at Montalcino, but they understand the layering
of flavors, the compliments to the dish etc. Just excellent flavor, tender...and rich rich color of deep
brown. (go ahead and drool at this point) Sort of like a "hug" wrapped in a meal.
We have been recommended this restaurant for over a year, and because I try to eat a "no carb" diet we
dragged our feet going. Silly me. There is plenty on the Montalcino menu for "no carb" diets. I had the
excellent caprese salad with perfect tomatoes and mozzarella. The presentation is impressive, they offer
olive oil as an addition, (take it!). Then, as said, I had the short rib special with risotto and the hubby had the
lamb shank. Both taste like someone has been slow cooking all day, with that rich home cooked
caramelized onion concoction of a sauce. The risotto makes you want to lick the bowl...
Then because we had to know...we split the tiramisu. Worth every bite. Rich but not too cloyingly
sweet...perfect, again.
We had wine with dinner, the server was very knowledgeable and my wine nerd hubby really enjoyed the
Italian wine flight before having a second glass of the sangiovese. He finished his meal with an espresso
and was very pleased. Not always easy with him. They even brought us a complimentary dessert wine
splash. So good...
The service was perfect. The timing of each course exactly what you'd want. When we were leaving my
hubby remarked that he'd like to do it all over again...I see many visits to Montalcino in the future...
Don't do what I did and wait to visit. It is on the high side of cost, but worth every darn penny. This is not a
production line restaurant, this is a restaurant for people who love & want to savor their food. Go. Just go.

o
Heather B.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
6/10/2014
Food was fantastic, service was great, best meal in a long time. My husband and I ordered each
special. They were amazing. Bottle of wine was so good, like butter melting in my mouth. Cannoli made
the angels weep. Do make reservations. They are a small, intimate place. We had reservations for 6:15,
arrived at 6:10. They brought us a glass of champagne while we waited. Great experience. Will be back a
lot!!

o
Tonya G.
o
Snoqualmie, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
6/5/2014
Montalcino is a gem for sure! It's our families favorite Italian restaurant. I love everything on the menu, but
the homemade gnocchi is my favorite! Authentic in every way. Staff is friendly and helpful. Our kids love it
too! I recommend calling ahead for reservations. A++++ for Amazing Food, Staff, Service and Atmosphere!

o
Darren B.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
4 friends
o
3 reviews
5/24/2014
Really enjoyed our appetizer/dinner/dessert here. Great food, amazing ambiance. I can't believe this place is
in issaquah--a real gem.

o
Julien D.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
15 friends
o
8 reviews
5/22/2014
I highly recommend this restaurant:
-The service is fast and have good advice
-The atmosphere is really cool, nice place and quiet
-The plate are insanely huge, not sure if it's a plus or not. But you will not be able to finish your plate for
sure. It's a lot of food.
-From the started to the desert, everything was well done, with a lot of flavor, well cooked.
The owner is also nice.
A -little- expensive but it deserves it.

o
James M.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
5/19/2014
This place is outstanding! We have dined here a couple dozen times and have never been disappointed
with the food or service.
Fernando and his staff always make an evening here a great experience.

o
Lynn M.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
5/15/2014
Fantastic! Been in issaquah for almost two years and finally made it here. I'm just sad that we wasted 2
years heading into Seattle for a disappointing meal. I come from an italian New York family and this place
hits all the marks. Food is fresh, cooked perfectly, portions surprisingly larger than expected. I've come
across two italian restaurants out west that are worth talking about, one in Santa Monica and this being the
second. We ordered prawn and scallop app, Kobe meatball/pasta, veal Marsala, and a halibut special with
risotto. Lots of leftovers, but we were able to taste a lot. The live music was a bonus for us on a
Wednesday. Can't wait to go back and try more

o
Matthew S.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
5/15/2014
By far our favorite place on the east side. True authentic Italian in Issaquah, amazing.

o
B K.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
5/14/2014
The poor reviews on this restaurant reflect bitter or neurotic people, not the quality of this restaurant. This
restaurant was suggested to me about a year and a half ago. I was blown away the first time, upon returning
last night I saw that nothing had changed. I had an upset girlfriend on my hands and suggested we go to a
gorgeous authentic italian restaurant. She scoffed and said "All the way out here? I don't see an Olive
Garden around here big spender." I chuckled and called Montalcino. The gentleman answered the phone
and I requested if they had an open table. He replied realistically "If you can get here in 15 we may have an
opening.". I know the size and demand for this restaurant. I was there in ten.
Upon entering my girlfriend was greeted with live italian music, a rustic authentic feel and aromatic smells.
I romantically (and regretfully) whispered in her ear "in your face." as we were brought wine while waiting for
the table to open up. We were seated , brought menus and the most delicious bread ever baked. The server
was extremely knowledgeable and offered practically an extended menu right from the top of her head. A
feat of memorization reserved for Buddhist monks and ancient Greek scholars. We settled on the
Bruschetta, the Crab Cakes and the Wild Boar Pappardelle.
Things got a little tense when I revisited the Olive Garden comment (I'm a glutton for punishment) but the
onslaught of well deserved life criticism was instantly silenced by the gorgeous presentation of the
Bruschetta. The emasculating tirade that was poised to thoroughly destroy my ego was replaced by wide
eyes, bated breath and "That looks really good.". If an $8 appetizer can save me that much verbal abuse,
keep it coming!!
The Crab Cakes were superb and the Pappardalle was cooked to perfection. Those who complain about
things being cooked al dente' have either never been to Italy, or gathered their italian culinary prowess from
a blue box of macaroni. The crab cakes were delicate and accented, not smothered in a delicious sauce. For
those who say the food is bland, not all food must be coated in high fructose based syrup disguised as
"chipotle" or "honey ranch". If that is more of your style, I'm sure there is an Applebee's in close proximity.
Montalcino's is the epitome of a small family owned italian restaurant. My girlfriend finished the evening
apologizing for the snide remark. (that's right. Apologized) and proceeded to tell me how special she felt by
me taking her to that restaurant. The quality is unparalleled and the service is exquisite (not tacky). Those
turned off by high value recommendations can either know what they want when they come in or not be
blown away by the price of an upscale dining experience. My girlfriend and I will return here because the
food and wine selection is outstanding, the atmosphere is warm and inviting and the staff makes us feel
special. I could not ask for anything more in an italian dining experience.

o
Matthew F.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
5/13/2014
Great atmosphere, great service, great food, great wine! Best Italian restaurant....no...best overall
restaurant in WA State! The grilled prawns and scallops with saffron sauce is heavenly!!!

o
Josh P.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
5/13/2014
Another quality dinner. We love our experiences at this amazing little restaurant.
We lived in Italy for 16 years and his is authentic as it gets.
The chef continues to amaze us with the preparation and the quality produced. Consistent and always
inventive with their featured dishes.
We just Love it

o
Miranda C.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
5/12/2014
My boyfriend and I had a wonderful evening in this place, food was amazing, really good service.
. Just a wonderful experienceYou will need to make reservations a few days in advance

o
Steve A.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
9 friends
o
6 reviews
5/9/2014
When I go to an Italian restaurant I order the veal. Maybe Marsala or Picatta, or even Scaloppine. It depends
on my mood. This time I ordered the Marsala, I was not disappointed.
A thick, tender veal cutlet cooked to perfection in a fresh, sweet, tomato-y Marsala sauce with a little too
much cheese bubbling on top. Each shared bite was a knife in my heart. Early in I stopped offering tastes.
Mine!

o
Jonathan B.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/27/2014
My wife and I went to Montalcino last night and had a great dining experience. The food was fantastic, and
the overall ambiance made it more than just a nice meal. The service was very attentive, friendly and
helpful; they all seemed to truly care. The guitar player played at the right volume, and it really added to the
evening that he went around once to each of the tables (only 9 or 10) to play a request. Some of food
combinations were really unique as well (I had a ravioli with shiitake mushrooms & wild boar), and the taste
was top notch. This was a memorable evening and we will definitely go back.

o
Abella b.
o
Redmond, WA
o
1 friend
o
5 reviews
4/17/2014
The family who owns this restaurant is authentic Italian. They know their wine and food! I am not a pasta
eater nor a wine drinker (even though 2nd generation Italian), so this menu offered me a few options. And a
wine picked for me by the owner was very good. I was pleased with the steak. I order mine medium well,
which usually leaves me with little to enjoy, but not here. This steak was tender and flavorful. Even the
risotto had such a unique flavor. All around, excellent!

o
Sky B.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/10/2014
I liked this place , food is delicious! Good service and romantic atmosphere.

o
J. F.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
21 reviews
4/3/2014
Warm, welcoming Italian atmosphere. Excellent dishes for lunch and dinner. Host and wait staff really aim to
please. Live music some nights adds to the experience. Nice selection of wines. This little spot is somehow
able to work for romantic dinners and family occasions alike.

o
Thomas C.
o
Edmonds, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/3/2014
This place is a gem...one of the best Italian restaurants we have found in the Northwest. Small, intimate
with great ambiance. Family run with a great wait staff. Food is sensational. You would have to go to Italy
to find something comparable. Also great selection of wine. We started with the Anti-pasto plate and
enjoyed a wonderful variety of imported Italian cheeses and salamis. After that we enjoyed one of the best
Ceasar Salads I have ever tasted. My main entre was the Lobster Ravioli, which is to die for...literally an
exquisite experience for your pallet. My date enjoyed the Chicken Marsala, which I can say (after stealing a
bite) is the best I have ever had. The family's label Brunello wine is amazing and not over-priced; especially
if yo consider it won #1 in the world in its category (something you can read about when you visit the
restaurant). In terms of desserts...I had the canolli's, which are equal to those you would find if you went to
New York City...out of this world. My date had Mamma's Tirimisu, a homemade family recipe, which was
better than any I have ever before eaten. While the restaurant is not inexpensive, you get great value for
what you pay and it is not out of line, price-wise, with other upscale fine dinning establishments. There was
a gentleman playing guitar and singing Italian and Sinatra songs while we dined...perfect volume level for
the room and added tremendously to the atmosphere. All and all, I would highly recommend this restaurant
for that "special night out on the town." Make sure you get reservations in advance as they are popular and
frequently full.

o
Alex A.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/3/2014
This is my favorite place to take dinner, food is so good.
Add owner reply

o
Michael H.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/3/2014 Updated review
I loved this place, the food was really really good! Nice atmosphere, great service.
3/31/2014 Previous review
Food is delicious, my girlfriend was so happy.

o
John S.
o
Seattle, WA
o
2 friends
o
18 reviews
3/29/2014
Gorgeously authentic romantic restaurant. Exceptional food. Reservations absolutely required more than a
day ahead. Now you get the idea. Italian wine selection much better than average. Most plates are large
enough to easily share. If you live in Seattle, then this is well worth a nice drive to Issaquah.
marsala pasta and a halibut truffle dish .....very well done. O and a limoncello ice-cream dessert to die for.

o
Carrie W.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
18 reviews
3/6/2014 Updated review
Update: have been here several times since our first visit. This is my husband and my favorite restaurant in
all of the greater Seattle area. Seems the secret is out: reservations are now a must. I love promoting great
businesses - my only hesitancy to promote this business is that it will be all the more difficult to get a
seat! Food continues to be excellent. Love that it's so small - not mass produced food. Wine that was
made on the family's vineyard in Italy was truly amazing
7/1/2012 Previous review
I typically avoid Italian restaurants - sauces aren't usually all that interesting to make it worth… I typically
avoid Italian restaurants - sauces aren't usually all that interesting to make it worth the carbs. However, this
restaurant blew me away! I ordered their special, a saffron sauce with prawns. They didn't skimp on the
saffron, using it just to color the sauce; the sauce was deliciously flavored with saffron & other yummy
ingredients. The other two people I was with also enjoyed their meal. We shared the tiramisu for dessert,
which we all thoroughly enjoyed. The owner (of Italian decent) made sure to visit every table. I wouldn't say
this is a fancy restaurant (wait staff friendly and competent, but clearly not "professional."). But for what it is,
a quaint bistro/restaurant, it was excellent. It's only downfall (not even worthy of lowering my number of
stars) is that their complementary bread was very plane, even though it had olive oil and a garnish of parsley
on top. The owner said he can't seem to find any decent bread in the area. Perhaps somewhat true, but they
could do better than what they're getting now. Finally, the prawns were not shelled. The owner said it's to
keep the prawns moist and keep the flavors in. This could be true since the prawn were amazing. However,
in the future, as the owner suggested, I will request my prawns be de-shelled before being served. Bottom
line: definitely worth a try! Read more

o
Divany G.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
2/28/2014
I had a dinner with my boyfriend in this place, and we really liked it, food was delicious! romantic atmosphere
and great service, the live music is super nice, very italian style, and the musician sang for us, very
romantic!!

o
Matt R.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
2/25/2014
I had a great moment with my wife, it was our anniversary, food was excellent!

o
Michael A.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
2/25/2014 Updated review
This place is amazing! ! My girlfriend loved it, good food, nice atmosphere, nice live music. Its a really good
place for a date.
2/13/2014 Previous review
Five starts for this place, i had a very romantic dinner with my wife,live music and excellent food… Five
starts for this place, i had a very romantic dinner with my wife,live music and excellent food with great
service! i Read more

o
Paul W.
o
Asbury Park, NJ
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
2/24/2014
Our 2nd visit started with complimentary glass
of Perseco from owner. We are from East Coast and
know good Italian food and Montalcino was as
good as we've ever had. We had special- quail
over mushroom risotto and wild boar pappardelle.
Both were abundant and excellent. Teramisu was
outstanding. Another complimentary after dinner
drink. Great service. Will be back---- many more
times.
facebook.com/brandi.weil…

o
Misha R.
o
Snoqualmie, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
2/18/2014
My mother and I ate at Montalcino's on Valentine's day. This was to be a bittersweet evening for us as it
was the anniversary of the day my father died. The only expectation we had really was to spend time
together and have a nice meal.
I had made the reservation through Open Table and the only time slot I could get was 4. This was fine as
we are early eaters anyway. We arrived hungry and promptly at 4 and were seated right away.
The manager or owner, (not sure) took our coats and was friendly. The place was set up with 10 tables (two
of them were for very large parties so I figure normally this place seats about a dozen) and we were lucky
enough to be seated by a window. First impression visually was good. Not too bright, or loud. Intimate,
cool. Had an accordion player which really added a wonderful touch. Loved that!
Our waitress was friendly and sweet. AND she was quite knowledgeable about the wine and food. Which
was good for us because there were many specials. She answered our questions quickly and courteously.
We ordered 2 appetizers, the crab cakes and the antipasti plate. There were 3 crab cakes which were
moist, flavorful and very good. The Antipasti plate contained a variety of bites: one large shrimp, generous
helpings of proscuitto, a bruschetta, a single caprese style tomato bite, and sun dried tomato bits. Ample for
two people. and tasty. We were served 3 slices of bread drizzled with olive oil and balsamic. The bread
was more of an incidental, so I didn't mind if it wasn't 5 star bread. It was just okay.
For the main course my mom had the gnocchi and I had a lobster tail with pasta in a saffron cream
sauce. (abut $32) My tail was cooked very nice, not over done. and I enjoyed my pasta, but found it on the
bland side. It wasn't bad or disappointing just needed a bit more oomph seasoning-wise to give it a bit more
complexity. I saw another reviewer complain about having to remove the tail herself. I just asked them to
do it and it was NO problem.
The gnocchi on the other hand was fabulous!! (about $22) Fresh, pillowy dumplings with just the right
amount of sauce, which was quite complex flavor-wise. The portions were generous and there was just the
right amount of sauce in the pasta dishes. I really liked that dish. Throughout the meal, the server checked
in on us to see if we needed anything and how we liked the food.
For dessert: Chocolate dipped cannoli and taramisu. Both were delicious. Not too much of any one
ingredient on either (I hate when taramisu swims in espresso or too much marscapone). Nicely balanced. I
should also mention that the coffee was outstanding!! It's served black with a cute little swizzle stick of rock
sugar. The only negative about it though was that our server seemed annoyed she we asked for a
refill, She told us they had to make each cup separate with some sort of "pod" of coffee (not a Kureg) from
Italy etc. so maybe this was a lot of trouble to go through for her? Not sure why annoyed. We still had a half
hour to spare on our reservation. She did bring the coffee, but only about 1/3 full in each cup...didnt charge
us for that either...We were also treated to an aperitif of a sort of berry wine or liqueur which was a
thoughtful touch.
When we left the same guy (owner? manager?) gave my mom and I a hug and a red rose (for Valentine's
day)
MAIN POINT: While I'm not a huge fan of Italian food, I would definitely eat here again for the ambiance,
food, and ease of parking/location. I've simply GOT to try that gnocchi again. It was fabulous!
Things to improve upon: quite minor things that I think could be improved upon but wouldn't keep me from
recommending this place to friends and they are:
Grooming of server: She was a gorgeous girl and super friendly, but so much makeup, glitter nail polish,
and the sleeveless (was it a tank top?) uniform were too much. Other servers had shoulder tattoos which
were visible when wearing the sort of sleeveless top Maybe re-think the server attire? Again a VERY minor
thing, but noticeable, and I think establishment would look more upscale this way.
Coffee: While outstanding, we drink a lot of coffee in this region and are accustomed to having more than
one tiny cup. I understand each cup is made individually, but a refill would be much appreciated.
Open Table: Not sure about this new way of reserving tables, Customers should take note and read the
agreement: Your reservation is only for an hour and a half. While this was plenty for the two of us, Not sure
how that flies with lager parties. I totally understand that Holidays such as Valentie's day are huge money
makers for restaurants and they need to turn tables, but admittedly I did feel slightly put off by a time
restraint. NO ONE at Montalcino's made us feel hurried at all. On the contrary, as I said above, they asked
how we liked our food and if there was anything we needed. Quite attentive.

o
Paul J.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
2/10/2014
I spent a beautiful time with my girlfriend in this restaurant, the food was good, nice service and pretty good
live music, my girl was really happy :) romantic night ...

o
Daniel A.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
2/9/2014
I just wanna say, my family and had a very good evening in this restaurant, food was very very good!
excellente service, and really good desserts, it was my mother's birthday , she was really happy, we be back
soon in this place.

o
Candy T.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/22/2014
My husband and I have been wanting to visit this restaurant for some time, and finally decided to do a "date
night." While parking for someone with mobility issues can be a challenge, he was able to find a parking spot
on Front St. not far away.
They did tell us about the 90 minute limit per table. Thought that was kind of odd, but since it is a small
establishment, it made sense. The service was extremely efficient - we had our wine just minutes after
ordering! Our food also came out quickly, almost too quickly. Almost. It worked out great! We ate our
fabulous dinners (I had the lamb shank and my husband had the gnocchi), and then we were able to stay for
awhile, enjoy our wine and the wonderful live guitar music. We had plenty of time and didn't feel rushed at
all.
We will definitely be back for another "date night.

o
David D.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
1 friend
o
12 reviews
1/15/2014
I have had nothing but wonderful meals here! This is a small family Italian restaurant, their staff are all
wonderful, they do know what they are doing and the food is as good as it was when I was actually in Italy! I
know excellent Italian cuisine and and this is as good as it gets!
The atmosphere is terrific and fun, the food is top notch, if you want rewarmed pre-cooked crap, don't come
here.

o
Dorin D.
o
Snoqualmie, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/12/2014
Went to Montalcino few time ago but just found time to write the review after a bad experience with another
restaurant.To make the story short this is the best italian I found in NW or at least Issaquah-Bellevue
area.The ambiance,the food and that rose desert wine carry you in some italian forgoten place and
time.Went there with wife and was perfect .Not sure if work the same with kids though.

o
Amy W.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/10/2014
One word-AMAZING!! My husband and I ate here the other night and had a wonderful experience from start
to finish. We had a delicious mixed antipasto plate for our first course-nice variety of flavors with cured
meats, cheese, grilled prawn and bruschetta pomodoro. My husband had their Osso Bucco special-tender
and succulent; I ordered their Kobe meatball pasta special finished in a marsala and truffle sauce-decadent
and beautiful flavors. We finished our meal with a piece of their house-made tiramisu-ladyfingers were
perfectly soaked with espresso. Great wine list, as well-we can't wait to return and try more of their menu!

o
Alex J.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/10/2014
The food es really really good, and excellent service, i love this place, my girlfriend wa really happy and we
enjoyed the moment in this place.

o
Bryan W.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
1/9/2014
I just wanna give 5 stars to montalcino because the amazing service they gave us,my girlfriend was really
happy and the food excellent!

o
E J.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
12/29/2013
Loved it! So small and intimate! Great service and terrific food. Everyone was wonderful! So much to
love! We will definitely return!

o
A W.
o
Maple Valley, WA
o
0 friends
o
9 reviews
12/17/2013 One of the best Italian restaurants I have ever been to. Amazing food and top-notch service. It is
a quaint place with great ambiance. I love that the restaurant is small. It does not get loud, so you can
actually talk with the people you are dining with. Yes, the food is very tasty! Their home-made pasta dishes
are to die for. I tried the wild boar with papardelle pasta and the pasta with gorgonzola cheese sauce.They
both were so flavorful. I know some people complained about the 1.5 hr time limit on the reservation. But, I
understand. It is a small place and very popular. A lot of people want to get in. Also, if they let people sit
there for hours, they would go out of business. The prices are fair; not too inexpensive but definitely
affordable. They also have some great wines. At the end of dinner, they serve a dessert wine which is
wonderful. So far, I was not able to find any place in the US that sells it. They also have live music on
Wednesdays and Saturdays. I definitely recommend this restaurant. It is great for a girls night out, for a
romantic dinner with your sweetie and for a casual family dinner.

o
Michael R.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/12/2013
highly recommended this restaurant, food is delicious! great atmosphere , excellent service, and they have a
good family's wine, I liked the live music (very Italian) and my girlfriend was really happy, this restaurant is
really good if you have a date with someone you care.

o
Robert S.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/9/2013
Hello this place is fantastic! my girlfriend loved it, we had a lovely evening , food is delicious and great
service, they have a family wine that is excellent! very tasty, highly recommended for all the guys don't know
where to invite your first date.

o
Alicia M.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/8/2013
I spent the evening with friends in this place and I really enjoyed it! great service , the food is delicious, live
music, and the family's wine is so good, I highly recommend this place.
Thanks.

o
Michelle B.
o
Redmond, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
12/7/2013
Definitely as good as it gets!
I don't order risotto often at an Italian restaurant, because I find it's not always to my liking. Wow, they do it
right here! It was on the top of my top 5 list. I made my bf promise to bring me back this weekend with my
little sister. I'm going to try some seafood off the menu. I have a feeling I'll be equally impressed.

o
Kendra L.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/3/2013
Hello I just want to say this restaurant is amazing! I had a really nice and romantic evening with my
boyfriend, the food is really good, they have a really good wine, and the service is incredible, loved it! and
we'll be back for sure.

o
Sammy A.
o
Redmond, WA
o
0 friends
o
10 reviews
12/2/2013
I went to this restaurant 2 years back on Valentines day. It was an awesome experience. I wasn't expecting
any special valentine special treatment, as I didn't see that advertised on the website. I just wanted, what I
heard, was an intimate and atmosphere filled place to take my girlfriend for a great valentine dinner.
What I got was way over an above my expectations. First off, we got there a little early and our table wasn't
ready. The host said, please sit over here and enjoy some complimentary wine while we get your table
ready. Wow, already starting off pretty nice for the inconvenience of waiting 5 minutes for our table.
Then we get to our table and there's a rose at my girlfriends seat already. Now, I look like a hero! I played it
off, as if I planned that, as we finished up our complimentary wine :- )
My girlfriend is vegetarian and they didn't have a lot of vegetarian choices. But, that was ok, the server said
she could make up any kind of pasta with veggies that my gf thought of and that's what she did and it was
tasty as I got a taste later. I had lobster ravioli (which she didn't get to taste, but it was delicious!
During the meal a lady came around and asked us if it's ok for her to sing some opera for us. But of
course! She was great and it really added even more to the ambiance.
We finished off with tiramisu and It was awesome.
I just recently returned to the restaurant last night night with a buddy and had a great time. This time just
great food and drink. started off with some absolutely delicious brushetta. It was so good that after the bred
was gone we kept nibbling away at the tasty marinated morsels left behind. Loved that brushetta! Then
some Wine, classico lasagna and some good conversation. I was really jealous of the special he ordered
which was scallops, prawns and lobster over pasta. Man, my mouth was watering at that dish. I'm going to
order that next time!
Great place ans awesome service, I'll be coming back again soon.

o
Florencia M.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
11/29/2013
I want say thank you to Montalcino Restaurant for the excellent service you gave us!! my friends were really
happy, excellent wine, and the atmosphere was perfect! I really loved this place, I will come back for sure.
r

o
Tamara S.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
11/29/2013
wow!! I really loved this place!, its really romantic and comfortable, specially if you have a date, my
boyfriend loved it! highly recommended!

o
Benny I.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
11/10/2013
I love this place!!! live music!! excellent wine list, great service and delicious good! they deserve 5 stars!!!
highly recommended.

o
Sasha S.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
11/10/2013
I had an incredible experience in this place last night !! they have a really good wine, amd live music, I had a
very romantic moment with my boyfriend! the food was so good! and the service excellent!!
o
Bibiana G.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
5 reviews
11/7/2013
i love this place! the place is small but nice, this special for a date, the food is excellent, service is very good,
and they have a good quality of wines imported from Italy, also have live music, highly recommended!

o
Miranda R.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
5 reviews
11/7/2013
Hello the food at this place is delicious!!, I liked the service I think is excellent, my boyfriend took me to
Montalcino, and really had a lovely evening, they have brought exquisite wines from Italy, live music, what
more could you ask for a date with your partner?
o
Gustavo G.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
6 reviews
11/6/2013
Hello I want to thank Montalcino Restaurant for the evening so enjoyable that I had with my family, the food
was delicious, the live music very nice, and the service very good. If you want to find a good wine this is the
perfect place, they have autenthic Italian wine.
o
Alejandro O.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
5 reviews
11/6/2013
Hello this place is amazing, I celebrated my girfriends's birthday and everything was perfect!
1 exquisite food
2 small very intimate place, especially for 2
3 Live Music, (also the singer sang for my girlfriend, it was very romantic for her)
4 excellent service.
Thank you!!!
ps. highly recommended.
o
Gabriel G.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
11/3/2013
Hi I want to thank you for the incredible experience we had friends and I truly exquisite food, have live
music, plus the singer sings at your table (if you have a date, your partner will feel very happy), I went with a
group of friends and had an amazing evening, authentically exquisite Italian wine, and first class service, will
definitely recommend this place.

!!
Add owner reply

o
Andrey And Natasha S.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/30/2013
This restaurant is absolutely beautiful! As soon as you walk through the door, you are welcomed by caring,
enthusiastic staff, and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Montalcino Ristorante gives off a strong Italian vibe, that
makes you feel as if you are eating in the streets of Italy itself. The food is exceptionally exquisite and you
are provided with many different delicious varieties of sea foods, meat, pastas, etc. The entertainment
makes the dinner interesting and fun, and gives you a memorable experience. I would recommend this
restaurant to everyone.

o
Suzanne J.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/23/2013
This is a beautiful Italian authentic restaurant. The ambiance and food exceptional, takes you to a memory
of travels to a small town in Italy. Family owned, very hospitable have great knowledge of wines from Italy.

o
Elizabeth F.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
10/22/2013
Every celebration going forward will be spent here! Ambience incredible. Service impeccable! Food
delectable! My favorite restaurant on earth and I've lived in NYC, LA, and now Seattle! An absolute gift to
anyone who dines here!

o
Paola B.
o
Oceanside, CA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/21/2013
I was visiting my brother in WA I am from Del Mar, CA. Being Italian I am very hesitant about going out to
Italian restaurants. My brother reassured me that it was authentic and the atmosphere brought you back to
Italy. I will have to say I was very surprised to say the least. The ambiance and the food were superb. I
would recommend this restaurant to anyone traveling to the WA area. Thank you for a great meal and great
memories! Paola

o
Sara R.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
6 reviews
10/14/2013
my fav place in issy... love it... would highly recommend for all the reasons you can think of. food, price,
atmosphere, staff, location... all awesome.

o
Bev K.
o
Renton, WA
o
2 friends
o
2 reviews
8/30/2013
What a treat! I met a friend here for an early dinner on a Thursday evening. The service was great and the
staff were friendly, inviting and professional. The food was awesome! I'm planning to visit again with my
husband. Another reviewer (Chet M.) mentioned that they only had beer - I wonder if that reviewer was at
the same place because they have a wine rack covering one wall full of wine bottles - front and center!

o
Robert S.
o
Marysville, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
8/27/2013
Dinner was AMAZING!
We started with antipasto, and the assortment and bread were really good.
For dinner, I had the lamb shank, served with almond risotto and blanched vegetables. The lamb was
braised perfectly, falling off the bone tender, and covered with "mama's homemade sauce" (the owner's
words). No knife needed, and the taste was incredible! The risotto was tender and tasted great, too. I didn't
care for the kale, but the carrots were really fresh and crispy.
My friend had the seafood pasta. It was a mix of various shellfish, and a gigantic crab leg that looked like a
weapon. He said it was all really good, too. I'm not a big seafood fan.
The portions were HUGE! I left full, and my friend couldn't finish all of his.
For dessert, he has the lemoncello, and I had the Chocolat Bomba-- chocolate & vanilla ice cream with a
maraschino cherry, covered in a dark chocolate shell, sitting on top of candied pistachios. I have a new
favorite dessert.
The service was great, our waitress was right on the ball, and the owner came to check on us a few times. If
you're in the area, it's definitely worth a try. I know I'm going back.
The place is small, seats about 30, so do yourself a favor and make a reservation
.

o
bernis m.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
25 reviews
7/16/2013
We have dined here about 10 times. The food is exquisite (REAL DEAL Italian, not American-Italian) and the
service has always been prompt, courteous and knowledgeable. I have lived in New York City, have traveled
to Rome and Naples, and I would put the food here up against any of that I experienced there. The pasta is
always cooked perfectly, and the wine list is fabulous and very reasonable. Many if not most of the
ingredients are imported from Italy. The restaurant is very popular so I recommend that you make
reservations days in advance, and this includes weekdays. For a special treat ask for the "mafia table". I
can't relate to any of the poor reviews listed here on Yelp. I have never experienced any of those things
mentioned.

o
Gilda F.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
5 friends
o
3 reviews
7/15/2013
Why not five stars you may ask! Because I reserve the fifth one to commend the hard working staff. As often
as I have gone to this place, I have always been welcome and attended to. Even if at times they forgot my
lemon wedge for my San Pellegrino. As far as the food and the prices? Well, I am a believer in that you get
what you pay for, and more. And if you want more, all you have to do is ask for it! There has not been one
time where I have not gotten little freebies before, during and after dinner. I taught Italian language for
thirteen years in the greater Seattle/Tacoma area, and I wish I would have had a place as authentic as this
one to take my students to for good Italian food and music and ambience. Shame on all of you that have left
nasty,negative reviews. Specifically mentioning tight pants and inappropriate attire by the female staff. God
has blessed them all with great bodies and looks, and beauty should be always appreciated and admired,
and not compared with Hooters, of course unless you have been there, and probably would pay anything for
a peep down that blouse, and big money for a lousy beer and greasy food! And the comment about the one
that went to the bathroom to come back to have the boyfriend tell her that the waitress asked for his
number??? WOW, you must be both very insecure, or do not have any idea about each other! But then
some folks would do anything for attention. Maybe you are better off eating at McDonald's, sharing a
$4.99, 20piece Chicken McNuggets, and probably bitch about that, because the nuggets did not all point in
the same direction. And maybe you should take your boyfriend to the bathroom with you, if you cannot trust
him! Whatever! I am not in any shape or form affiliated with Montalcino, but just a very happy customer!
Nobody is perfect, and there is always room for improvement in anything you do. But let's focus on the real
here for a moment! Food is great, staff is friendly, owners are warm and professional, and from what I
understand, they are soon gonna have liquor as well to add to their great choices and never ending specials.
God Bless Them All! They deserve four Stars, and one more for being the Best! And I just saw the other day
that they just got the award for "Best Service". BOOM! Just sayin......
rating.

o
Brent H.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
7/15/2013
We've eaten at Montalcino several times now and we have yet to order from the regular menu; the specials
divert us every time. Last week we were offered 5 entree specials (at a 30-seat restaurant!), any of which I
could have ordered. My wife and I ended up ordering an appetizer special, split the Caesar salad (best
Caesar I've had in at least a year), and veal and a lobster and shrimp pasta for main dishes. We tasted each
other's and agreed they were the 2 best meals we have had on the Eastside (John Howie Steak aside) in
several years. We followed that up with the cannoli, which we have had every time we eat here because it is
the best we have had outside of Florence. We also couldn't resist a 2nd bottle of the owner family's Brunello
from their own winery in Montalcino because they were offering it at a splendid price point.

o
Sal P.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
6/29/2013
This restaurant is as authentic as it gets......the food, wine, service and entire atmosphere. Anyone that
doesn't understand that does not know authentic Italian.

o
Jeff C.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
7 reviews
6/23/2013
This is really a unique place in the Seattle area. As an Italian restaurant, it is very much like restaurants that
I've been to in Italy in terms of both the food and the atmosphere. This is probably the best Italian restaurant
in the Seattle area and one of the best that I've been to in the US.
This is not an American-style Italian restaurant so both the food served and the culture of the restaurant are
somewhat different than what you might expect at a typical Italian restaurant in the US. I believe the owner's
mother is in charge of the kitchen. All of the dishes and the desserts that I've tried have been excellent. It is
wonderful to have dishes that don't often appear on Italian restaurant menus in the US. The atmosphere of
the restaurant is also friendly and fun in a way that won't be unfamiliar if you have been to restaurants in
Italy. As others have said, leave your inhibitions at the door, try something new and have a great
time. Going for dinner at Montalcino is truly a treat to savor for both romantic occasions and with friends and
family!

o
Steven C.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
6/22/2013
After a dinning experience of a life time I went on line to research this great place. I am not one to write a
review but I felt I had to respond to Michael of Renton for he could not be more wrong and I didn't want
people to get the wrong idea. Negative reviews? every place will have some, this restaurant has a 4.5 rating
not to many restaurants could say that. I also had the lamb shank as did another at our table and it was full
of fresh and quality flavors not over salted to compensate for poor quality -this lamb shank was first quality
cooked to perfection melting off the bone. Liquor really? not for this delicate cuisine, a big red wine paired
well. At least he did mentioned this was REAL ITALIAN and didn't seem he was used to it. This restaurant is
for dinners who know, understand and appreciate quality. PS- I believe they do have a food network chef in
the kitchen I saw her on TV , this is why I went.

o
Tom E.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
6/22/2013
Amazing Italian Restaurant...probably the best one in the greater Seattle area. The food is exquisite. The
Seafood Risotto was outstanding and the Veal Marsala was the best I've ever eaten anywhere. The staff is
attractive, friendly and attentive to all your needs. We enjoyed the Caprese appetizer with REAL
mozzarella...imported directly from Italy. The restaurant uses all fresh organic ingredients...many of them
imported from Italy...with old family recipes that no one else can duplicate. Truly authentic Italian
cuisine...you would simply have to go to Italy to get anything similar. And the Cannoli's...in the words of
Tony Soprano, "Trust me...you'll love them." These are the ONLY real cannoli's I have found anywhere in
Seattle...just like you get back East in Little Italy. The wine is all first rate...with the family's award winning
reserve from their vineyard in Tuscany leading the way. To top off the evening, we enjoyed their Italian
singer, Tony, who performs there weekly. An internationally acclaimed Opera Singer who is a close family
friend and performs at the restaurant weekly when he is in town. Make sure you get a reservation on a night
he is singing. This is a place we plan on enjoying time and again.

o
Karleen E.
o
Maple Valley, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
5/24/2013
I too was with the large group the other day. I can not say enough about this wonderful family owned
restaurant. I have been here many times and never disappointed. The food is wonderful the staff delightful
and the owners very gracious. You will be missing out if you do not visit the quaint little Italian ristorante!

o
Mary G.
o
Renton, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
5/24/2013
I was part of the large work group that went for lunch the other day and yes, the specials were priced a lot
higher than the regular menu items, but the food was fantastic! I have been to this restaurant many times
and have always had a great meal. I've recommended it to many of my friends and they have all loved
it! And you won't find friendlier owners. Fernando is a sweetheart!!
In my opinion, this is the best Italian place around and I will continue to eat here time and time again. Love
it!!!

o
M M.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
5/24/2013
I was at the same party as the last two reviewers. Both gave two stars and I know they loved the food but
were not happy with the price. The price is more than reasonable for what you get...quality cost more and
I'm a foodie and I know. The special caprese was buffala mozzarella with amazing large fresh heirloom
tomatoes . The ravioli was stuffed with fresh Copper River salmon, topped with large scallops and large
prawns in a delicate saffron reduction. I found out that many of the ingredients used were local and organic.
Even the pasta and meatballs is amazing...fresh, clean and simple flavors. You can taste the quality in their
dishes. I found out their chef is well known from Italy and top rated. I have dined at Montalcino several times
and could go on and on about how great this place is...the food, ambiance, music and service. I just wanted
to let people know this restaurant is 5 star all the way. That is why Montalcino was voted one of the best
restaurants in the state.

o
Boe A.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
1 friend
o
6 reviews
5/19/2013
Best Italian Restaurant in the Eastside. Their Prawn & Scallops were cooked to perfection. The halibut with
risotto and rack of lamb with mushroom ravioli specials were so delicious. The ambience is very private, I
love it. Best place to have a date.

o
Maria K.
o
Mercer Island, WA
o
5 friends
o
7 reviews
5/10/2013
This is easily the best Italian food I've eaten in Seattle. I hesitate to post this publicly, because it will be even
harder to get a reservation! Definitely try the wines from the family winery in Italy.

o
Marc M.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
5/8/2013
Several times I have dined at Montalcino Ristorante Italiano over the last year and can say the food, wine
and service have always been exceptional. Probably one of the best Italian restaurants in the Puget Sound
area. The atmosphere is terrific and they have a very talented Italian musician several nights a week who
plays everything from Opera to Sinatra. If you want to feel like you are in Italy...this is the place to go for
great Italian food, wine and music.

o
Larry S.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
8 reviews
5/1/2013
Quaint, quiet when we were there at lunch but could be noisy if filled with talkers. The lasagna was fantastic,
(fresh made pasta) sauce was super as was the veal scaloppine. We will definitely return.
Service was very good.

o
Janet J.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/30/2013
Let me start by saying I am an Italian food SNOB, and this was by far the BEST Italian food in the state! The
home made pasta and bread are divine! We drank a few bottles of family's brunello di montalcino, hands
down the best wine I have ever tried, and with the menu having so many amazing choices I asked the lovely
waitress to help pair my wine with my dinner {wild boar pasta} thankfully so. WE WILL BE BACK!

o
Kanisha P.
o
Milton, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/30/2013
My finance and I dined at this fine establishment last week. We decided to try their family wine which was a
brunello and has had rave reviews. I must say it was very good, very full bodied. The food was the best I've
had in a long time. We started off with a cesar and an heirloom caprese which were both very good. For
dinner I had the sea bass dinner special which was to die for! I am a huge seafood fan and this was the best
preparation of sea bass I've ever had. Even my fiance who doesn't like seafood tried it and liked it! She had
the filet with a cognac mushroom sauce and she was in love. The filet was super juicy and the sauce was
wonderful. After all that we didn't have any room for desert, but our server said their canolies were her
favorite, so we thought we'd give them a shot. Glad we did! Ended up taking one of them home. They also
served us a complimentary sampling of their desert wine which was slightly sweet and fizzy. Service was top
notch throughout our entire night. We will definitely be dining here again.

o
Sonia W.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
4/22/2013
I went to Montalcino last night for dinner. This is about my 10th time since they have opened.I have never
left a review for them but felt I should. The food is fantastic! It seems like even though they have been open
a while now their dedication to freshness and creativity doesn't change. I have had several different things
and have never been disappointed. The family atmosphere with the owners and staff makes you feel so
warm and welcome. I read a couple of reviews regarding the waitress uniforms. They are a little sexy ,but
nothing that I think anybody should have a problem with. The people that serve you are so nice and helpful.
Possibly the other reviewer wasn't very secure with herself? I can't wait to go back. This is hands down the
best restaurant in the Issaquah area.

o
Ioulia A.
o
Kent, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/8/2013
This is probably the most romantic and friendliest place in the area. Hospitality and food are truly authentic.

o
Vesna N.
o
San Diego, CA
o
4 friends
o
1 review
3/21/2013
This hidden gem, tucked away in beautiful Issaquah is one of the best Italian restaurants in the Seattle, bar
none! Food is authentic - my favorite being the Pappardelle al Pesto con Funghi. The food quality is home
cooked - it really can't get better. Fernando's mom runs the kitchen, puts her heart and soul in the food and it
truly shows. Fernando and Cindy are a great couple with two super cute kids who are sometimes there,
totally adding to the family-friendly touch of the place. The servers look great too and the overall
atmosphere is very pleasing to the eye and quite often to the ear as well!
I highly recommend you pay Montalcino a visit - you will love it!

o
Tim R.
o
Fall City, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
3/20/2013
Great food and service. Well rounded menu with reasonable prices. An Italian gem in Issaquah.


o
Matt S.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
3/7/2013
Recently I had the pleasure of dining in Issaquah at Montalcino's. This place has great food! Real Italian
dishes...delicious! The wines are equally wonderful. The staff is warm and friendly with Italian owners who
make you feel like family. They also feature a terrific Italian singer who provides just the right level of
background music and ambiance. We had a fabulous time and will be returning again soon.

o
Jill K.
o
Kent, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
3/4/2013
This is the pefect restaurant. Perfect food, perfect service, perfect atmoshpere. Had a wonderful evenig-dont
want to mention to much I want to keep this place a secret but it is not easy judding from the line of people
at the doo trying to get a table. Bellisimo

o
Mike W.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
1/22/2013
There just aren't enough good restaurants in Issaquah. But now that I have found Montalcino, I can add a
GREAT one to my list. Had my wife's birthday dinner here recently and we all loved the place. The food
was great, the service was great and both left me wanting to come back for more. Can't wait until the next
time we walk through their door. This is a MUST if dinning in Issaquah.

o
Paul A.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
1/21/2013
A 5 star Italian family
serving 5 star dishes
with 5 star hospitality and warmth
in a small 5 star place
with 5 star ambience.
Need I say more?
We went there tonight, and there were five of us, and everything was wonderful. The nicest people you've
met, serving the best Italian dishes in the Eastside, and among the best in Seattle.
The dishes we had (all highly recommended): Pollo al Limone con Carciofi, Pollo di Montalcino, Linguine ai
Frutti di Mare, Pasta alla Champion, plus an improvised kids dish of pasta with butter and clams. And of
course the Tiramisu.
.

o
Grace B.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
1/7/2013
This place was absolutely hands down amazing. There are a lot of great places in Issaquah that border the
quality and attentiveness of Mantalcino's but I haven't found anything that compares yet!
The service was fantastic. The owner himself brought my and my boyfriend out a goat cheese palette
cleanser, and a desert, fresh made tiramisu. It was amazingly friendly and attentive and on top of that the
food was outstanding! And i have to say that the tiramisu was the most delightful dessert I think i've ever
had.
We had the caesar and prawns/scallops for an appetizer. The portions are generous with out being over kill.
The menu is true to what comes on the plate and it all tasted divine. For dinner, the tortillini on one side and
the chicken in lemon cream sauce on the other. Both again, delighted taste buds with out being too heavy
for creamy sauces.
It felt like family.
The restaurant is really small, but it doesn't hinder, but adds to the charm of the place. Defiantly make
reservations, it only holds 35 people at a time. As far as parking, they have a few spaces behind their
building, but other than that it's street parking like most of 'downtown' issaquah.
I hope you enjoy this place as much as we did. It will not be our last visit.

o
Michele C.
o
Edmonds, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/13/2012
I've eaten here several times and the food is always top quality, authentic Italian in a small intimate
setting. The wine selection is fabulous and they have an amazing Italian singer who will sing all your
favorites and introduce you to some contemporary Italian music too. Be sure to make a reservation though,
they are always full.

o
Mark M.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
12/13/2012
Outstanding Italian-authentic. Great family run ,intimate place. Menu is terrific and the salads and desert to
die for. Attentive service......

o
Natalie C.
o
Edmonds, WA
o
3 friends
o
1 review
12/5/2012
Hey :) recently had a FABULOUS dinner here with fam. The staff is so warm and helpful; I was
recommended to try the Nardone Brunello (family sells own wines they produce in Tuscany) and I loved it!
Also Enjoyed their rich, flavorful chicken Gorgonzola pasta. Best thing about Montalcinos? The LIVE music!
There was a gentleman musician Tony who serenaded the tables with his guitar and he even took requests
for songs! I loved his rendition of The Way You Look Tonight and thought he really added ambience to the
place as a whole :) Definitely check this place out!

o
Mario E.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/29/2012
Recently I had the great pleasure of dining at Montalcino Ristorante Italiano in Issaquah, WA. The food
there is sensational and the ambiance is just like being in Italy. It is a quaint restaurant, owned and
operated by the Nardone family from Italy. The service is great and the staff makes you feel welcomed with
the owner coming right to your table to make sure everything is perfect. The food is truly authentic delicious
Italian...Mama's recipes...and while you are there you feel transported to Italy. The wine is every bit as good
with some award winning options from the family label. To top off the experience, they present a world class
Italian Tenor who performs several nights each week...Opera to Sinatra...at just the right level for the
room. The entire experience is fabulous...great food, wine and music. If you want true Italian cuisine in a
classy warm environment, you must go to Montalcino Ristorante Italiano

o
Anita P.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/1/2012
We were expecting 5 stars and we got them. This is an attractive place with a cozy and congenial
ambiance. Staff are attentive but not too much so. We trusted the server and went with the specials, halibut
steak and veal chop, which were both very generous portions and perfectly cooked. We tried the owner's
mama's tiramisu, homemade daily. Thank you, Mama. It turned out that several tables were celebrating
birthdays ... it may be the local go to place for B-days.
We look forward to working our way through the long menu on subsequent visits.

o
Joanne W.
o
Mercer Island, WA
o
21 friends
o
3 reviews
10/11/2012
This restaurant is a must if you are looking for an excellent Authentic, Italian restaurant in the Seattle area.
We were first greeted by one of the owners when we first stepped inside the nicely decorated restaurant. it
was small and intimate but not overcrowded.. I felt like I was in Italy with the Italian musician playing at our
table. The food was exquisite. The mozzarella buffalo was fantastic as well as the halibut over spinach
risotto. My boyfriend had the veal which was scrumptious. The staff was very friendly. I felt like I was eating
in Mama's kitchen or at least like we were good friends of the family. The wine was an excellent
accompaniment to our meal. For dessert, we shared the tarimisu which was the best I've ever had. We will
sure be returning time and time again.thenk you for making us feel like we were guests in your own home.

o
Lori S.
o
Ventura, CA
o
0 friends
o
7 reviews
9/30/2012
I love an evening at Montalcino's with my family and the Montalcino Ristorante family when I come to town!
The food is delicious, the atmosphere festive, and Fernando, Cindy, and Ernesto and their team have
become fast friends! They care about their customers' dining experience, and they have a great zest for life!
Wonderful food, wine, and fun! Looking forward to a vino toast and another charming time at Montalcino's
next time I come home....Thanks and cheers to Montalcino Ristorante Italiiano!

o
Marjory M.
o
Maple Valley, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
9/21/2012
Our current favorite restaurant !

o
Cindy W.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
8 reviews
4/29/2012
Love this place. It is about time Issaquah gets a great restaurant (beyond Jaks) that the ambiance and price
correspond. It is quaint with character. Plan to make reservations on the weekend - there are only about 8
tables and you don't want to rush.
I have recommended this it to several friends. The food, music, atmosphere, service were all superb and I
didn't need to go into downtown Seattle.

o
Scott M.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
5 reviews
4/19/2012
Wow, where to start. This place has got to be one of the best I've been to in a long time. Certainly the best
Italian I've ever had. The night we went they had a mix of recorded music and live regaling of some
authentic Italian music from the owner's wife/mother?. Created a wonderful atmosphere.
I had the lamb chops, and my date had the chicken with a gorgonzola sauce. Both were excellent, and the
meat just melts in your mouth. For dessert I had the Tiramisu, and my date had the Bomba Choclato. The
Tiramisu is apparently hand made fresh, and it was absolutely amazing. If I had to guess it is an old family
recepie. Portion size is small, but more than appropriate for what you're paying for, and if you arrived hungry
they structure the menu with appetizers, a first plate and a second plate plus dessert, so there's plenty of
options.
We live just down the street from here and we will be back, many, many times. I can't say it well enough, this
place is amazing! Issaquah's hidden gem!\

o
David B.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
8 reviews
4/9/2012
You have to love the service here at Montalcino. Not to mention its authentic italian menu brought to you by
an italian family. Its a very personable environment and right away you feel like you are in Italy at the
kitchen table. Have eaten here many times and continue to do so.

o
Kim A.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
4/1/2012
My husband and I finally had a chance to have dinner at Montalcino's tonight and really enjoyed it. The
Owner was so nice and we truly enjoyed meeting him... The food was really good and we both like what we
had ordered. The starters we had were great!
My husband had the Gnocchi's with meat sauce nice size portion and very taste. I ordered the Frutti di mare
and it was very tasty but a little on the pricey side considering It was suppose to come with fresh fish,
shrimp, large scallops, mussels and calms. It was missing the fish and the scallops??? The sauce was great
and I still enjoyed it... I should of let the owner know, but he was so nice I hated to complain.
One thing that I found interesting that at the table they drizzled olive oil on everything we had ordered with
out asking. Not a big deal, but something to be aware of...
All in all it was a great meal with outstanding servicel!

o
kelly l.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
2/26/2012
One of the best Italian dining experiences I've had outside of Italy itself! Food is a step far above any Italian
restaurant I've been to on the Eastside. Decor, intimacy, wonderful service and singer made it a full evening
out experience! Singer was great! Not loud at all, as some reviewers had said. He totally made the night
and we could easily talk over the music. Our whole party loved it and can't wait to go back! One of the best
desserts we've ever had - the lemon gelato in a flute - like nothing I've ever tasted! Almost hate to share
such a favorable review, might make it harder to get reservations here!

o
Jeff B.
o
Seattle, WA
o
1 friend
o
30 reviews
2/5/2012
May be the second best Italian restaurant experience I've had. Second only to Bar Vetro in New York City.
Which leads to why you should listen to this review.
As a native New Yorker as well as one who's lived in San Francisco, I've been to no shortage of Italian
places, from ones you've never heard of to ones run by celebrity chefs.
The family running Montalcino nails it.
Other comments cover the space and service well. The food:
Cesar salad: How can they do it so well?
Pasta di Giovanni: Special pasta in a San Marzano tomato and rabbit/lamb meat sauce (Not gamy,
unbelievably flavorful.)
Spaghetti Lobster Saffron: Pasta w/fresh lobster in a special saffron tomato cream sauce (Lobster essence
perfectly infused in the sauce.)
Mamma's Spaghetti and Meatballs: Family recipe for this classic Italian-American dish (One of the lightest,
cleanest pomarola sauces ever. Meatballs uniquely flavored with fresh herbs.)
All amazing. How they can bring such flavor and clean, light feel to everything is really something.
Tiramisu. My wife loved it. She hasn't found one she's liked since we left SFO in 2003.
I can see some people thinking there is some overpricing. Two meatballs with Spaghetti for $18? I'd like
more, sure. But, here's how I view it. Celeb chef Scott Conan charges $24 for his at Scarpetta.
With zero meatballs.
Montalcino's is (way) better.

o
Eric T.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
13 friends
o
5 reviews
1/16/2012
Friday night was the third time my wife and I went to Montalcino. It was the first time we actually got to eat
there. Make a reservation! It is absolutely worth it. The owners, Fernando and Cindy, practice hospitality as
an art form and welcome everyone personally. The food is the best Italian I've had in Seattle, and the
setting and presentation are certainly reminiscent of the namesake hill town in Tuscany.

o
Kim S.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
17 friends
o
4 reviews
1/14/2012
I live & work in Issaquah & am always excited to hear of new places to have a good meal. Also, I'm from
Chicago, where every neighborhood seems to have its own little "hole-in-the-wall" Italian place that the
locals can call their own. I can see Montalcino being that restaurant for the bf & I. After a long post-holiday
week, we decided we needed a fun night "on the town" in Issaquah. (No, I'm not kidding. Have you been to
Issy lately? Good food, cocktails, music, theatre...it's HAPPENING people!) We had 5:00 reservations, so
were seated immediately. As previous reviews have noted, this is a VERY intimate space, which, for me,
enhances its appeal, but this makes reservations a must unless you're very patient. We were greeted &
seated by the owner, Fernando, & attended to by Diego, with care & charm.
I love the ambiance...the exposed brick wall & the chandeliers...it certainly is a romantic spot. But there was
also a party of 8 at a long table in the middle of the room, & I plan on bringing friends & family, so its not just
for lovebirds. (Acoustics? It was, of course, full by the time we left, but we had no trouble hearing one
another at our table in the corner.) In keeping with the European vibe, you're asked if you'd like still or
sparkling water; I was also humorously chided for asking for salt, since real Italian restaurants don't
generally put it on the table. I promised I'd hide it behind the candle. Lol. (And, yes, I got my salt.)
Unlike a couple of other reviewers, I loved the bread - small slices drizzled with olive oil & sprinkled with
parsley. The bf started with the Caesar salad, I had a bite, and we both loved it. Whole leaf, fantastic
dressing, nice croutons. I had the bruschetta, and it was EXACTLY the way I like it - on lightly grilled bread,
fresh, sweet tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, just bursting with flavor. I think there were 6 pieces, of which I
reluctantly shared one. Entrees...the bf had the lasagna and commented that it was very flavorful; he ate
every last bite, which was fine because I was busy making googly eyes at my entree...the lobster ravioli. Oh.
Mio. Dio.
Homemade pasta, filled with fresh lobster, bathed in a pomodoro sauce, made with San Marzano tomatoes,
with a hint of cream, sprinkled with fresh Parmesan. So, so flavorful! I savored every bite - it was one of
those times when you feel like you're tasting something for the first time. Absolutely divine. I saved a portion
for lunch today, and it was every bit as good as it was last night. Four generous glasses of a smooth Italian
red complemented our meal.
To finish, we shared the Bomba Chocolato (not.one.bit.left.), bf had an americano and I had a shot of
Limoncello. By this point Tony was strolling the room, with his guitar, singing everything from opera to Italian
pop to Frank & Dean. He has a wonderful voice and is not intrusive...he just adds to the ambiance. We were
served a complimentary digestif, which we enjoyed while Tony stood tableside and sang "Santa Lucia."
Perfection.
Yes, it was a little pricey, but we went whole hog, as it were. We might go again and just have entrees and a
glass of wine, or apps and a glass of wine. Or dessert and a glass of...well, you get the idea. The point being
that it doesn't HAVE to be a $100 meal every time. But, boy, it was worth every penny - it was the best
overall dining experience I've had in a very long time. And lemme tell ya, I love to eat, and I love to eat out.
So that's saying something. Go there and mangia!

o
Carlie D.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
8 reviews
1/6/2012
A-maz-ing. Good customer service, and you don't get that very often now and days. The food is authentic
and words cannot describe the pasta Gorgonzola I just had last night, not to rich or heavy.
You wouldn't expect such an experience from such a little restaurant!

o
Andrea H.
o
Fall City, WA
o
0 friends
o
10 reviews
12/22/2011
Always good service and amazing food! The gnocchi is delicious and the Gorgonzola Chicken may just be
the best chicken dish I've ever eaten!

o
Sandy d.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
1 friend
o
19 reviews
12/16/2011
Great food, great service. Authentic Italian cooking in downtown Issaquah. My only complaint? The
restaurant is too small and very busy on weekends. I hope they get more space soon. Love all of their
homemade pastas, the gnocchi, lasagna - excellent. I could do without the singer though. I think the space
is too small to have someone singing so loud and I never know what to do while they're singing - stop
eating?

o
Bob K.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
12/13/2011
Everything little thing about this restaurant is fantastic. Food, atmosphere,service,servers, vibe,Italian family
owners, decor....I could go on and on. I will just say Well Done!

o
Neil M.
o
Seattle, WA
o
35 friends
o
3 reviews
12/11/2011
Excellent Italian food, great service, friendly atmosphere and live Italian guitarist. Molto Buono!

o
David B.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/21/2011
We've eaten here several times since it opened earlier this fall for both dinner and lunch. The food is
fantastic, served in a quaint setting of just 10 or so tables. The owners, Fernando and Cindy take great care
to make sure the service, food and experience is perfect. They will make you feel like you're part of the
family. Enjoy!

o
Mitzi V.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
23 reviews
11/19/2011
Great service from owners and staff. Mama singing to the room (!). Ambiance is awesome; intimate and
warm without being stuffy or pretentious. Wide ranging menu of well prepared food accompanied by a nice
variety of wines.
If you go on the weekend, leave time to find parking. Friday at 7 p.m. in downtown Issaquah is way more
happening than you might think. Restaurant is tucked away behind Vino Bello on Front and Alder. Pop into
Vino Bello before or after dinner for live music and fun crowd.

o
Lois B.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
0 friends
o
2 reviews
11/9/2011
Had a wonderful dinner here last weekend. Upon arriving (without a reservation) the owner informed us
apologetically that there were no tables available, so we left. Just as we were pulling out in our car, he
came running out to say that a table had opened up since there was a no show. Lucky us! The meal was
fabulous-Lobster Ravioli for my husband, Lobster Spaghetti for me and Pasta Gorgonzola for my 10 year old
son. We also had a caesar salad which was to die for and Bruschetta-also amazing. Finished off with
Tiramisu and complimentary after dinner drinks. The service was perfect and we also were able to enjoy the
Guitar player that came around to each table. My suggestion would be to reserve ahead since it seats only
28. Very warm,welcoming ambience-just made reservations to go back with friends next weekend!

o
JB C.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
11/8/2011
Simply AMAZING!
It is a quant treasure found just off of Front Street in Issaquah. We love the aspect that it is a family run
restaurant focusing on making its patrons feel as if we are experiencing a part of Italy in our back yard. We
have had the pleasure of trying a variety of dishes, and the items have been nothing short of fantastic!
We look forward to dining at Montalcino's for many, many years to come!
Cheers!

o
Sandra D.
o
Roswell, GA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
10/25/2011
Hands down the best place you will ever experience! The food is beyond excellent and the service is
exceptional! Amazing!!!

o
Dane B.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
12 friends
o
20 reviews
9/30/2011
Wow, what a great time and meal we had at Montalcino! The staff are great and very personable, makes
you feel like you are part of their family, and the food was VERY good and very well prepared. We'll be back
for sure!

o
Tory M.
o
King, WA
o
0 friends
o
14 reviews
9/13/2011
This is a great restaurant. It's not cheap but not too expensive either. Everything is stated to be imported
from Italy. The Lasagna is awesome! I rarely order Lasagna at a restaurant because I prefer my own. This
blew my Lasagna away. Mama makes it fresh daily. The Nocchi is also excellent. You won't be disappointed
if you go. The food is excellent!

o
Nancy K.
o
Bellevue, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
9/12/2012
Great food and a caring, attentive staff. Went there for the first time to celebrate my birthday. We had a
really good wine and delicious food. It tasted very authentic with a really nice presentation and the perfect
quantity. The tiramisu is homemade, and delicious. We will definitely be going back as often as possible!

o
Chip E.
o
Seattle, WA
o
0 friends
o
1 review
9/6/2012
My wife and I had dinner here when we stayed overnight at Treehouse Point between Preston and Fall City
(quite an experience in and of itself). We had a fabulous meal and really enjoyed the guitarist who sang
some classic Italian tunes. Having visited Rome, Florence and Siena two years ago we know authentic
Italian food when we see and taste it, and this was about the best we've had since returning from our trip.

o
Bob W.
o
Sammamish, WA
o
1 friend
o
2 reviews
6/14/2012
At Last! Here is an example of the good life that some of us grew up with and other's our parents lived,
Superbly prepared dishes, a realistic and authentic menu and that warm touch and camaraderie from
proprietors who appreciate their customers. You will not be displeased! - and the music was charming. You
will need reservations, but once you have them it's your table till you have been satiated. A diamond hidden
from view and a superb place to celebrate life! I'm coming back.

o
DD C.
o
Renton, WA
o
0 friends
o
40 reviews
5/24/2012
My favorite Italian restaurant in town!!! Extremely delicious pasta and very generous portion!!! Service is
always very good!!!!

o
Aflredo M.
o
Redmond, WA
o
0 friends
o
3 reviews
5/8/2012
As Advertised Real Italian - Finally
All the hype is true about this restaurant.
Moved here for Italy to work for M.S. This is my fourth year in the Seattle area and finally I found a
restaurant like in Italy or some on the east coast and San Fransisco.
The food is very special and authentic , I can taste the quality with good Italian products used in the Kitchen.
The pasta is cooked al-dente (a little touch hard) the way it should be;perfect. The sauces are fresh, light
and most important not to much sauce on the dishes. I usually don't care much for Lasagna , but I had a
taste of my sons and even this was perfect light with beef and veal not sausage like they use in these Italian
chain restaurant's. The veal marsala was very tender and tasty without being over powering. Prawn and
scallop appetizer was nicely grilled and our salads were drizzled with a very good extra virgin olive oil.
The wine list is very good with small vineyard and name wines, good special values also. Servers are all
beautiful and the younger owner knows his stuff.
Will be back soon.

o
Miki K.
o
Issaquah, WA
o
0 friends
o
4 reviews
5/1/2012
I've been waiting for the good Italian restaurant for a long time in Issaquah, and finally found it. Their food,
atmosphere, service, wine selection were amazing. The place is very cozy and romantic. We immediately
booked the next reservation before we left. We had Caesar salad (absolutely the best Caesar salad!),
shrimp & scallop appetizer, lamb spaghetti, lobster Saffron pasta ( so yummy...), and finished with the
tiramisu. We really felt like we were back in Italy. Warning - the place is so small and have only 7 tables
total. Book the place in well advance!