ILDA

This was an unexpected delight. We were coming in to Sylva to spend thanksgiving with family and after a 6 hour drive we were just looking for someplace to grab a bite. As we drove by this small corner restaurant the flames from the heaters in the outdoor seating and the signage caught our eye and we circled back to check it out. It looked a little out of place for Sylva and maybe a little higher end then we we were looking for, but we went in anyway. A smallish dining rom dominated by a bar with a good assortment on the back bar made me think of signature cocktail bars I have been in. We were seated immediately and the menu did highlight a good assortment of cocktails, and watching the bartender at work confirmed their focus on cocktails. We did not imbibe but I know my cocktail connoisseur friends would have been at home. We ordered an appetizer of Crawfish Sausage and got our first hint of what we were in store for as we watched the open kitchen and the expediter plating the dishes as they came out. The appetizer arrived quickly and perfectly plated, it was unique and delicious. We ordered the Pork Osso Buco, and the Fettuccini based solely on what we saw coming out of the kitchen and it arrived perfectly presented and as good as it looked it tasted even better, the Osso Buco was fall of the bone tender and perfect. The Crab Fettuccini was a cut above. We finished off with a Tiramisu to share and it also was perfectly presented and every bit as good as it looked. In the end yes it was higher end but it is on a par with any 5 star restaurants we have been to in New York, Chicago or elsewhere. Although when we say higher end everything is relative and I would have expected to pay 3 times what I paid for this excellent meal in any of those 5 star restaurants. They have definitely made the most of the space that was a former gas station, although no trace of this former life is evident except the picture on the wall.

We all enjoyed everything we ate. Literally every drink, appetizer and salad was interesting and satisfying. Staff was warm and kind. Inside especially was really beautiful.

Visiting from DC and ILDA is as good or better than any Italian fine dining spot in DC. The grey eagle cocktail is sublime. We had the pachieri and bolognese and were blown away by the pasta texture and flavorful, but not heavy sauces. Our server was warm and went above and beyond for us. If you’re visiting the area, you have to go to ILDA.

ILDA was highly recommended to us and we were not disappointed one bit. The atmosphere, craft cocktails, food, and service were exceptional. Our server, Josie, was fantastic. Those meatballs!! We will definitely be back and highly recommend to anyone looking for a wonderful dining experience.

Really good dinner. We weren’t sure what to expect for Italian food in the area but the menu has a lot of really innovative and delicious dishes. They are unique so go in with an open mind. The food here really is good and not your typical Italian American restaurant. The cocktails were both really good as well. I’d recommend stopping in just for a drink if you have other plans for dinner but definitely recommend eating here if you have the chance. They also split the dishes for us which was really nice as we wanted to share.

What took me so long to discover this place? We had a fantastic meal from start to finish. The food was amazing, creative, flavorful and well presented. We ordered a squash carpaccio with peach vinaigrette, a grilled Caesar salad, squid ink pasta, grilled branzino, and a tiramisu. All 5 star dishes, with reasonable portion sizes. The timing of the wait staff was perfect, we didn't feel rushed but didn't feel neglected either. We ordered a nice bottle of Chianti - seems like most other patrons were ordering cocktails and the bar tender seemed quite on top his game, for those who are into mixed drinks... We'll be back soon!

Great food, great service and a warm atmosphere. This is not a spaghetti and meatballs restaurant. A limited menu with unusual entrees that are delicious. I highly recommend the eggplant parmigiana. Then tiramisu is a must for dessert. Extensive bar selection. Very busy, so make a reservation if possible.

Amazing. Adjoining wine bar is such a classy touch for if you have to wait for a table (we waited less than 5 minutes for our reservation). The space is so cozy and the atmosphere is perfect. Our drinks were sublime and the food was well thought out and perfectly executed. 10/10

Loved this restaurant! Such a cute vibe inside. Made a last minute reservation (10 mins before) and were seated in 5 minutes. Staff was very friendly. Our server was so sweet! Street parking and parking lots available. The best Caesar salad I've ever had! Loved it so much. My friends and I all split dishes and the kitchen split them for us. Very thoughtful! All of the food was delicious. No complaints at all! Would order everything again. Drinks were good and homemade limoncello was really yummy. My friend is a tiramisu connoisseur and she rates this one a 9/10 (very high for her)! No gluten free pasta available tonight, they were out.

This is by far my favorite place in Sylva and WNC for cocktails and food. Just the atmosphere, vibes, and bartender make it worth it! I absolutely love the Forgiato but literally any cocktail will be amazing. Everyone is very friendly and accommodating. The menu changes seasonally but is always good and I do recommend reservations!

We really enjoyed our dining experience at Ilda, we sat inside and while cozy, the decor is eclectic and the music was great, both my daughters commented how "hip" it was. Our server was professional, knowledgeable and very attentive, we were very pleased with the service. We had the ham and pastry appetizer (forgot the actual name) it comes with espresso butter and that was a real "Ratatouille moment" for me, perhaps the perfect bite! I had the Osso Bucco, a new item on the menu and it was tender and juicy. My wife had the trout with mussels and shrimp and she loved it. My daughters had pasta dishes and they were excellent. The wine list (all Italian) is small but perfectly paired for the cuisine, we had a Verdiccio that was amazing. We couldn't have hoped for a better night to catch up with our WCU student. This place is so good, I look forward to visiting the next 4 years!

Adding to the trend of fantastic food and drinks - we had fettuccine and hubby rigatoni with old-fashioned drinks; their classic meatballs and finish with a delicious limoncello- totally awesome- thank you

Fantastic food even better service. Food was simple but excellent, fresh, seasonally appropriate, and a steal for the quality. We were incredibly well taken care of. Our server was thoughtful and attentive without being intrusive and enhanced our dining experience tremendously. Cody made this a regular spot for us.

We really enjoyed our dining experience. Came on a Thurs night around 6PM and sat outside on the patio. We started out with the Timballo ($12) and it was tasty. My bride ordered the Squid Ink Fettucine ($26) and they were out of the pasta and substituted spaghettoni and she really like the flavor. I went with the Malfadine ($24) and it was outstanding! Service from Meredith was hospitable and prompt! We really appreciated this unique menu, fresh flavors, great pastas and service and highly recommend this spot!

My husband and I celebrated my birthday here two weeks ago when visiting. What I liked: 1. Atmosphere and staff are extremely nice. Our waitress was super sweet and was very attentive even though she was the only one working the patio that night. 6 2 top tables and one large party table. She kept her cool for sure!! 2. Vibe was vibing!! Lots of locals seem to frequent there as each time I looked up, I heard one ask how their kids were. 3. I can't believe I'm saying this but the bathroom was SUPER cute!! And the candle they had in there was to die for. So there was only one thing that I didn't love and it was my dish. I got the dish with lamb in it and it was not that good to me. My husband loved his meal. The meatballs are excellent though. So overall I give it three stars because of the food and there was not an extensive menu with more options.

Too good!!! You hear great things about this restaurant and it more than lives up to its name. They don't just combine ingredients without purpose. Everything compliments the dishes. I would highly suggest trying Ilda!! The service and food are transformative!!

Delightfully surprising upscale dining in the mountains with a great story behind it. They have a professional mixologist and wow did the artisanal cocktails taste and creativity reflect that! Genius! The server was good but new and through no fault of his own, he wasn't very knowledgeable of the menu. Our experience has been that when you dine at an establishment like this, the chef has the servers taste much of the menu and familiarize them with lesser known items such as an obscure pasta, had to keep going back to ask questions. My husband got the lamb bolognese which he enjoyed but couldn't taste the lamb, as well as an outstanding Cesar salad if you like anchovies and I ordered the "local pesto " on a special shaped pasta (all pasta made in house) with lions mane mushrooms and it was divine! Having eaten lions mane just sautés in a pan, it really didn't need to be covered up with a pesto. but it was delicious nonetheless the less. The missing star is for the extremely uncomfortable chairs. I know they don't want people to camp out all night but Jesus , Mary and Joseph give us a cushion! Felt worse than pews at church. Although it was not inexpensive, I would definitely go back as the elevated flavors were very much worth it and linen napkins !

Great food. Unique. Barrata with strawberries and asparagus drizzled with balsamic glaze and served with pork rinds. So odd but so Gooood! Highly recommend

The food is delicious and unique. The drinks are amazing and very creative. The atmosphere is very nice and cozy. The service is good.

So much potential here. Had reservations for Saturday night. Only had to wait a short while before getting seated. Love the ambience and the layout of the place. Definitely want to come back and try during the summer months to take advantage of the great patio. Drinks were tasty. Drink menu had a good cocktail variety. Ordered the Gray Eagle and the charcoal was a really cool twist. As for food, we got the Arancini, which was heavenly. We ordered strictly vegetarian, and that was the perfect starter for us. I ordered the rigatoni which was delicious. My problem with it was the portion size. I felt like for $24, it was not a hearty entree. The value wasn't there. Taste-wise it is a must order though - especially for vegetarians. My friend ordered the risotto and it was so salty that she couldn't even finish it. The saltiness and sourness of the lemon made it a terrible dish. I was also not a fan of the balsamic vinegar dip for the bread. Would have rather olive oil and spices instead or some sort of sauce. Definitely planning to give this place another try though. We didn't have dessert and next time I'd like to try a meat dish. Lots of potential here...just was overshadowed but some of the other places we tried.

We are coming back to North Carolina often and our favorite place for delicious food is ILDA! If You are FOODDE You will appreciate this Unique Restaurant with special charisma., very rich In taste and structure not usual colorful and aromatic flavors delicious dishes ! And 2 fun cool friendly Bartenders creating unique light atmosphere and Antoine - one of them Creating the most Amazing Lemonchela and delicious drinks- my husband doesn't drink... but in this bar he does)))) Very Nice Experience

The absolute best meal I have had in a very long time. Staff is wonderful. Taste buds exploded.

Excellent cocktails, delicious food and stellar service. The ambiance was really relaxing. I can't believe I didn't know about this place before!

Love everything about this place. The food is the BEST in town. Seasonal menu with very well sourced food. Don't leave without trying the meatballs. The salads are incredible and the pasta very, very good. The drinks and bartenders are insanely special.. have never had a drink I didn't like. If you like craft cocktails and excellent food, this is your spot.

We have been to Ilda twice now and each time has been pretty good. I do like that they make updates to the menu giving you new options to try.It's great to see an Italian restaurant making fresh pasta in a small town like Sylva. We have never sat inside but the outside dining has always been great plus if you sit outside you can bring your dogs. We started off with drinks and I of course had to go with the Ilda Old Fashioned which was very good. My wife has has now tried a couple of their signature drinks and she enjoyed both of them. We also have now tried a number of the appetizers like the Burratta, Karen's Meatballs, and Gnoccho Frito. The Gnoccho Frito was not exactly what I was expecting but it was very good and different. The Meatballs were also good but a little pricey $16 for the number you get. From the 2 times we have been I have tried 2 different entrees ( well I guess 3 but I'll get to that). The first time I had the Squid Ink Conchiglioni which comes with Octopus Sugo, Capers, and Calabrian Chili Crumbs. Now I'm not a huge fan of Octopus but I still enjoyed it. I'm also a sucker for Squid Ink Seafood Pasta. My second time there I got the Fettuccine which was also good. I liked that in came with ham as a protein as well and was cream based. My mom in law loved the Fettuccine so I ended up switching it with her Mushroom Risotto which is saying a lot because I normally would never order anything with out meat or seafood in it but was shocked by how good it is. We also tried a number of their deserts like the Olive Oil Cake, Panna Cotta which his Berries, Balsamic, and Sorghum, and the Tiramisu which was my favorite. Really my only critiques with be that for the price the serving sizes are on the smaller side but that's normally how it is with fresh made pasta. I also wise that had some option to maybe add a protein to some the the dishes. Like a chicken or seafood. All and all service has always been great and we will for sure be back.

Ilda of Sylva was a great setting to celebrate our daughter's birthday. The setting was just right from the live edge table, to the lighting and great music. Our wait staff were very attentive and did everything to make the night an experience to remember. We started out with expertly crafted cocktails that included the Pesca Nera, the Siena Sun and the Il Capitano. Each had unique and complex flavors that we each raves about. the Il Capitano was like having three different flavored cocktails in one as the frozen cube melted and transformed the flavor of the cocktail. This was unexpected, but showcases the artistry of the Ilda mixologist. We also ordered Karen's meatballs served over creamiest polenta. The appetizer was so good we wanted to lick the bowl, but we didn't. For our entrees we made a pact to order different dishes. We ordered the Mushroom Risotto, the Rigatoni with Nasturtium and the Spaghetti All Amatriciana. We passed each dish around and were pleasantly surprised to find each to be better than the previous. Our conclusions were incredibly fresh ingredients , prepared with care and full of great taste. Although we were full, we decided to indulge in the tiramisu and the banana brûlée. Each were very good, but the tiramisu with moonshine is not to be missed. An added bonus was a round of their homemade limoncello. Perfection! We enjoyed a memorable meal and great evening celebrating our daughter.

We were able to walk-in and get a table immediately without a reservation at about 5pm on a Friday night. Servers were very attentive and helpful with making our dinner selections. The best grilled romaine Caesar salad I have ever had! Cocktails are out of this world - I had the masquerade, a charred pineapple mezcal concoction, and it was fabulous.

I heard great things about this place , finally made it in . Top notch food and drinks . Im very picky with Italian food, growing up in an Italian family with the best homemade Italian . The meatballs were excellent , made with pork , lamb and beef . Loved the polenta mixed in . The drinks were also very fresh and excellent , We will be back for sure . Excellent service and setting .

Horrible policies at this place, my partner came in at 4pm because the door was wide open. Asked for a piece of Tiramisu to go. The staff told her they don't open till 5pm even though the doors were wide open. So they said to come back later. She comes back at 5 and they told her they "DON'T do to-go orders, you must sit down and order at least a drink" my girl friend is forced to order a soda, sit there after waiting that whole hour. Anyone that has worked in food services Knows this is ridiculous, it's not like they made the tiramisu that hour, it was sitting in a fridge at 4pm. #boycottIlda

Our server was amazing. Very attentive. The food was just ok. Granted we only had appetizers. The meatballs were tough and flavor was lacking. Also had the mussels. They didn't seem very fresh as a few were very fishy.

This is a wonderful little restaurant/ bar in Sylva. I had one of the best northern Italian meals ever. Ambiance & service were excellent.

I have been numerous times and always greeted with great service and phenomenal food. It's definitely to best restaurant in Sylva and possibly in Western Carolina. Whether I sit at the bar of hosting a friend in town at a table service is friendly and attentive. Today was in a fettuccine with shrimp and clams. Roasted lettuce in cessation aioli. Dessert was the fritters!! So good.

I was visiting from California. Cute little place and the food is phenomenal! We shared plates of several courses and it was exquisite if I do say so properly to the definition. Too hungry and delicious to take photos of the main course as but here is dessert which was also 5/5 Please visit when in town!

Have dined here multiple times and enjoyed a great meal each time. Drinks are made by very knowledgeable bartenders. Food is delightful and different. Lighting is nice.

What a gem! We came from Brooklyn for a family wedding in Whittier, and were looking for something delicious the day after. Superb! And the wine list was a beautiful surprise. Lovely waitstaff, too! Such a delightful experience!

My husband and I tried Ilda out for the first time for our anniversary. The restaurant was beautiful and the food was even better. The staff were all so friendly. We would definitely come back again

I have no idea, how many people pass through Silva, NC on any given week but, if perchance, you find yourself heading in that direction do not hesitate to stop here. In a word: it's amazing. Please try the meatball appetizer; named after a woman who shared her recipe before departing this earth and left us and the restaurant with an amazing treat. The table had a round of pastas, each one remarkable unto itself, and if possible better than anything you're likely to find on this side of the Atlantic, Our lovely young host, Crystal, is well steeped in the wine selections (ask for the reserve list) and is happy to decant your choice. As a side note, right next store is her wine shop which looked very interesting and worth a stop as well.

Unpretentious upscale spot in Sylva! Great vibe, helpful and courteous staff, craft cocktails and great food! Very fresh, beautifully presented. Spring Peas salad is a wonderful mix of flavors and I believe vegan friendly without the Pecorino. The lamb Bolognese could have benefited from a bit more sauce and lamb. I will be back!

The good: Cute place, great ambiance, good parking for downtown.... The not-so-good: limited menu, small portions, pricey.... I left hungry...

We live in Waynesville part time and have eaten all over western North Carolina, so we were so happy to hear there was an alternative to the ubiquitous red sauce Italian restaurant. The menu changes to accommodate local produce, and the chef makes the best of all that Appalachia has to offer. We split an delicious heirloom tomato melon salad and followed with brisket rigatoni and lamb bolognese--both delicious. Dessert was a sweet corn panna cotta. Our server had only been working there a month, but you would have never known. Service was friendly and efficient. Atmosphere was friendly and intimate. My only suggestion would be that they turn the music down a bit to accommodate conversation. It was hard to chat over loud Alabama Shakes. Maybe some Damien Jurado or some other lo fi choice.

This is a quaint restaurant in downtown Sylva. It was a great choice for an occasion. The food was delicious and the drinks both tasted and looked wonderful.

This is gem of a restaurant in Sylvia Has a great evening vibe indoors and outdoors Staff was super friendly from beginning to end Pasta with sage butter was excellent The Cannoli was the best I have ever had . It has a lavender element . Not overly sweet . I wanted to order another , but it sold out . Highly recommend

Excellent experience and very tasty offerings. Good bar with high level cocktails. Creative pasta dishes.

This was our second experience dining at Ilda and it confirmed our opinion that it's our favorite restaurant in the area. Both times we had great inventive cocktails and amazing salads (first time grilled Caesar salad and second time a lovely fennel apple salad). The real star of the meal is the fresh made pasta which was cooked to a perfect bite. We had the Gemelli Alla Fungi that was made with Mushroom Sausage, Marsala Cream, Pickled Grapes and Fried Prosciutto. We also had a seafood fettuccini with perfectly cooked shrimp a delicious cream sauce and garnished with fennel fronds. We finished the meal with the tiramisu which of course was prepared with some interesting twists like the candied walnuts and shards of moonshine chocolate. The service was professional without being pretentious and the atmosphere inside makes you feel like you're in a cozy European bistro. The menu is seasonal so we can't wait to return to see what new creations are in store.

My husband and I are from Atlanta and are a bit of food snobs, this place is amazing. The ambiance is on point and the food phenomenal. I am gluten free and they were able to accommodate me and not lose any of the flavor. I also had a martini that I would say was the best I have had. This place is a must!

I don't understand previous complaints about portions. The amount of food presented to us was perfect. The Caesar salad was the perfect amount to share for two & fabulous. Not overwhelmed with dressing like some places. The sausage pasta with nasturtiums (yes! Nasturtiums!) was to die for. So mellow; so wonderful. Hubby's lamb pasta was extraordinary. They will not need to wash his plate ! Nadia was the absolutely best service provider. Knew her stuff & gave an excellent wine selection. Five stars for this super restaurant. Yes it's expensive. Yes it's absolutely worth every penny. If you think Brio's has got it going on, that's like fast food compared to this little gem.

We had a wonderful meal at Ilda. The food was delicious and fresh! The staff was very friendly. The ambiance was great and beautiful. If you are looking for the "same old, same old" standard Italian dishes with no creativity - this is not your place. Ilda's menu is creative and deliciously different - thank goodness! There were plenty of options to choose from and the portion sizes were perfect. A new favorite!

Very nice experience! We sat outside and service was great. Dinner was fantastic and the craft cocktails were as well. I would visit again if in the area again!

We had a wonderful dinner experience tonight at Ilda. The orange appetizer was refreshing as well as the cocktails. The pasta dishes were both cooked and seasoned to perfection.

Everything was absolutely amazing. This was by far best meal we've ever had in North Carolina.

We celebrated our second anniversary here. It was the perfect spot; intimate and welcoming with a beautiful interior, and carefully crafted menu selections. Our server was personable, professional and an educated wine expert who helped us select the perfect pairing for each course. Highly recommend!

Tasty food!! Some people say the plates are too small for the price but I didn't mind because the quality of the food was so great. I got an eggplant spaghetti dish and the bruschetta appetizer. I'm still thinking about that eggplant it was amazing.

Wait and bar staff very friendly and accommodating. Unfortunately, the squid ink pasta did not agree with me. Others in my party enjoyed their wine and pasta. Menu is an interesting mix of Italian and Appalachian. Would have appreciated more variety for brunch and fat friendly chairs without arms.

Highly recommend this place for a quiet, low key, but eloquent dinner. Everything is great on the menu including the service. Get reservations.

Absolutely wonderful: food, service and more! Our new favorite go-to! Burratta, Lamb Bolognese, all the salads, and, of course, the Meatballs.

This restaurant is a gem! Each item, from pre-meal cocktails through appetizer, salad, dinner and dessert, were fresh, flavorful and truly delicious. Wait staff was impeccable. This was an exceptional and memorable meal for all the right reasons. So glad we found Ilda during our visit.

Last night was a Friday so I understand the wait. The wait staff and servers were great . But I must say something about the food . Ordered a Caesar salad and expected a little more than I got for the price. I went fishing for the anchovies and came up empty so with that said you can imagine....the presentation was nice but not the portion. Others ordered the mushroom risotto and same there. Small portions so if you are hungry forget it because you'll walk out still hungry with your wallet a lot lighter.