Assaggi Osteria

Started out great with awesome food but after about 2-3 months the chef changed and soo did the rest of the staff. The food quality went down and it just was not really worth the time and energy to go there. I think they started using lower quality ingredients too because everything just didn't. taste the same.

I was invited last night to a hidden gem in the heart of McLean, Assaggi Osteria. My one girlfriend exclaimed "it's a REAL ITALIAN RESTAURANT." Although there is a formal dining room, we sat at the bar and had the pleasure of Bartenders Dusan and Maurizo taking great care of us. There was even live music. Assagi has been open for 10 years and just 3 weeks ago converted their private dining room into a pizzeria. It has a brick pizza oven and they import the tomatoes from Italy (san marzano sul sarno). We had the Caprese salad with red and yellow tomatoes, along with the scallops and lentils. It was late so unfortunately we didn't have any pasta. I look forward to going back for dinner and to sit out on the front patio. Review provided by Jennifer V-E Johnson

Absolutely amazing pizza and food, which parents and kids alike enjoy. We've been there several times and rare that we find a place that everyone in the family enjoys eating at. I think one of the benefits is the Pizzeria shares the kitchen with the 5 Star Restaurant under the same roof. Personally I'd say don't miss the brussel sprouts! You'll have a great meal!

Italian and more Italian plus pizza. Friendly and courteous service. A bit pricey, but great quality.

Lovely place, the food was really good. I didn't realize it was a collared shirt/nice shorts kind of place so I felt a little awkward but they didn't see. To be bothered by it. It's a bit pricy for the volume of food they give you. Complimentary bread when you sit, decent kids menu, delicious entrees--I had the prime rib, probably 6 oz. For almost $50, I expected a little more. That said, it was astoundingly good. Decent wine list, some signature cocktails, Coke products for the non-drinkers. I say go but leave the kids at home.

Please go to Assaggi! We had dinner last evening at Assaggi and once again were filled with superlatives for the food, the service, the atmosphere - all transported us to Italy - and it is so close! The elegant table settings are welcoming in transporting us to an Italian experience, without the hassle of commuting far. The decor is like a jewelbox - intimate and welcoming with a sparkle that delights. The menu is expansive, making choices a real treat. The service is most attentive but not hovering. The four of us each selected different choices - pasta, fish, vegetables - and each of us thought our choice was the best. There are only enticing dishes offered. Each time we go, we feel totally transported from our daily routines and are always treated to the best of a culinary experience. Please go and experience the best of Italian cuisine in nearby McLean. Anne M.

Sadly each visit is more disappointing than the last. The menu is static, with limited seasonal specials, the quality of what was typically a “go-to” staple, the Bolognese pasta is noticeably changed to its detriment and the portion size has also decreased. There’s frankly very little to be excited about here any longer unless you’re just in for a quick glass of wine. The prices are far too aggressive for the quality of food. My $38 sirloin was tough and of poor quality. After many years of enjoying this neighborhood restaurant I won’t go back unless there are significant changes in the kitchen and some rethinking by management. They do have a very decent pizza but even the atmosphere there is low energy as if the doors are nearly closed.

We stopped in for happy hour. $1 Oysters were great. My girlfriend loved the peach Bellini. Calamari was good for rings but not so good as I would order them again. Bathroom was clean but old and could use some updating. I will definitely be coming back to try some other dishes.