NOLITA Italian Food and Wine Restaurant

We chose this restaurant for a special occasion, and unfortunately, we were very disappointed. We had an early reservation at 5:30 PM, and the restaurant was empty initially. However, it quickly filled up, and as soon as there were more than a few tables seated, the acoustics became terrible. The noise level made it nearly impossible to have an intimate conversation without yelling. We couldn't hear each other or our server, making the dining experience feel more like being in a nightclub. Food and Wine The food tasted fine, though nothing spectacular. The wine list is solid, and the prices are reasonable. Beyond this, however, the experience was a disaster. Service Issues Our server, Yisrael, initially seemed promising. However, due to the poor acoustics, he unfortunately misheard some of our orders. The primary issue was with a significant error on one of the entrées. Our entire table clearly heard Yisrael offer to comp (remove from the bill) the incorrect entrée. Yet, when the bill arrived, the item was still listed. When we questioned this, he argued with us, claiming he had only offered a free dessert. While the incorrect entrée was ultimately removed from the bill, the need to argue about it left a very bad taste in our mouth and overshadowed the evening. I cannot recommend this restaurant. The combination of terrible acoustics and argumentative service made for a deeply disappointing experience, especially when celebrating a special occasion.

Nolita has a charming, rustic country vibe that immediately sets a cozy and welcoming tone. The décor and ambiance give it a lot of character, and it's clearly a popular spot—it was very busy during our visit, which created a lively atmosphere but also led to some drawbacks. The crowd seemed to stretch the staff a bit thin, and while the service was friendly enough, it was just okay in terms of attentiveness and efficiency. As for the food, it was serviceable but unremarkable. We tried a few classic Italian dishes, and while everything was edible, nothing really stood out. Some items felt a bit underseasoned or lacking in depth of flavor. It was the kind of meal you forget soon after finishing—not bad, just not memorable. Given how busy the restaurant was as it was Valentine’s Day, we were hoping for more, especially in terms of flavor and attention to detail. It’s possible we caught it on an off night, but based on this experience, it didn’t quite live up to the hype. Even though we had advance reservations, there were many walkins. The staff tried to fit way too many people than capacity by literally leaving less than a person’s gap between tables which defeated the vibe.

Eating at Italian places is my specialty lol. I love to always try a new place, but occasionally I will find a place that is so good，I have to come back frequently between new places - this is one of those places :) It was all good, so you can't go wrong. The highlight for me was the flavor and quantity of the balsamic on the burrata (but the burrata was also high quality). Really loved the flavor of the coffee (affogato). Pasta was cooked perfectly al dente. The bread is served warm. The seafood was on point in that it was cooked well and not dry. The flavors of the mains were balanced and complimentary and not overly salty which was great for us as low sodium folks. We scraped our plates because everything was so good. Good portions on the pasta and risotto. Server was fantastic, friendly, good time sequence of service, made great recommendations. We will be back again to try the prosciutto and melon, panna cotta and the gnocchi :)

We ordered the spinach salad (amazing), and the house salad (also incredible). The bread is delicious and served warm. The fettuccine Alfredo was fair (lacks flavor, but the noodles were good), and the New York steak special was good (not great). The tiramisu and chocolate cake were good (not great). I'd say overall it was a nice evening with a pleasant atmosphere. I'd go back for lunch to have salad and bread, and maybe try a different pasta dish. The lasagna looked good.

We accidentally chose this place to celebrate a friend’s birthday. The service staff were not friendly at all, and they couldn’t seem to get our orders right. They first took our appetizer orders, then came back 15 minutes later to take the hot starter orders, and later the main courses — but the appetizers still hadn’t even arrived. The food took a very long time to come out. While waiting, we asked for bread and olive oil, and they even charged us for that. We had brought a boxed cake with us for the celebration, and after the meal, they just placed the box on the table and left. When we asked if there was a knife, they said, “Don’t you have one?” I should’ve told them I’d bring one from home next time — but there definitely won’t be a next time. On top of that, they charged a $20 cake fee! I’ve never seen anything like that before. I do not recommend this place to anyone.

This restaurant has beautiful, minimalistic scenery, classic and romantic ambiance, perfectly tailored and clean uniforms, and attentive, kind staff. I will gladly take a plane again to visit. I’ve never had pasta so amazing and tasty. Highly recommend.

We loved this cute spot in Ballard. Place is not very big and very busy but we had a reservation and they sat us immediately. The restaurant is so quaint with nice linen table cloths, big windows and lovely atmosphere. The food and service were excellent! We had the mushroom risotto with Scallops and shared the Cacio e Pepe and spaghetti bolognese, along with some yummy bread! Everything was fresh, flavorful and so good! Our waiter made the experience fun as well. Wine list is very nice and affordable! Ciao!!!

A very positive Italian experience in Ballard. Great food selection, went with the lobster ravioli. We tried two high-end wines with the owner's recommendation. Speaking of which, they take great care of customers and look to be true to the community. Feels like a place that will keep getting better each year. I thought my ravioli portion was perfect.