Ristorante Piccolo

Italian restaurant · Georgetown

Ristorante Piccolo

Italian restaurant · Georgetown

2

1068 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Photos

Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null
Ristorante Piccolo by null

Highlights

Elegant Italian trattoria with balcony seating & lunch specials  

Featured in Eater
Placeholder

1068 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007 Get directions

piccolodc.com
@piccolodc

$30–50 · Menu

Information

Static Map

1068 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007 Get directions

+1 202 342 7414
piccolodc.com
@piccolodc
𝕏
@PiccoloDC

$30–50 · Menu

Features

wifi
Tap to pay
reservations

Last updated

Aug 13, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@eater

Owners of Georgetown’s Ristorante Piccolo Sentenced for Stealing COVID-19 Funds [Updated] - Eater DC

"Ristorante Piccolo is a romantic trattoria with a second-floor balcony overlooking the historic C&O Canal. It has received several accolades over its 37-year run, including a 2019 Rammys finalist nomination for Service Program of the Year and an Honorary Milestone Rammy Award in 2021. The restaurant recently made headlines after a two-alarm fire destroyed part of the restaurant on June 29, with reopening expected around October 1." - Tierney Plumb

https://dc.eater.com/2023/8/17/23834759/owner-georgetown-ristorante-piccolo-stealing-covid-19-relief-funds
View Postcard for Ristorante Piccolo
@eater

12 Pre-Theater Specials That Deliver Deals at High-End D.C. Restaurants | Eater DC

"This little Georgetown charmer serves a “Sunset Menu” from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Monday through Thursday). For a reasonable $25, guests select from a large menu of familiar Italian primi and main dishes like chicken Parm and spaghetti carbonara, followed by tiramisu for dessert." - Travis Mitchell

https://dc.eater.com/maps/best-pre-theater-menus-deals-specials-dc
View Postcard for Ristorante Piccolo

John Watkinson

Google
We were walking around #Georgetown tonight and stopped by and took a look at the menu. The manager greeted us and asked us if we have eaten here before. We replied with a big ole Midwestern 'nope'. Then mentioned we did not have reservations. He said for you. You do not have to worry. He sat us immediately. The staff and food were amazing. We will definitely be back!! We had our grandson and he was in awe!!

Ryan Dalusung

Google
I went with a girlfriend of mine for a leisurely splurge day about Georgetown. Decided on Ristorante Piccolo for dinner on a Friday, walk-in was available as it was just before the dinner rush, and had our pick of the free table in the nook by the window, underneath the stairs. Very cute and intimate restaurant, and the rest of it--downstairs or upstairs--was no less attractive. Fireplace on both floors, with a cute balcony to eat on when it gets warmer. I ended up getting a full course meal, with complimentary bread and olive oil, which was delicious... along with a side dish of Linguine which was surprisingly large and plentiful, but SO good! Who'd have thought something so simple on the menu would be so tasty? For the main dish I got a Margherita Pizza which was absolutely satisfying as well, and we split a bottle of white wine, per the recommendation of our kind and attentive waiter. For dessert, I got vanilla ice cream with bits of chocolate drizzled on top and it was rich, yes, but satisfied my sweet tooth without sacrificing the flavor and experience of the dessert as a dish in and of itself. Everything was so wonderful, from the food to the service to the atmosphere... and I came to love love love this restaurant. It's a great little splurge of Italian cusine with an intimate setting, and I'd recommend everything based off my first experience here. After we paid and left, too, we stopped outside so my friend could smoke her cigarette, and we ran into the owner, Ahmed, who stopped to briefly chat with us. He was very kind, and welcomed us back and, overall, left me with a genuine feeling of wanting to return. I hope to do so again soon! Thanks for a fantastic dining experience! *PS: there was a violinist playing lovely music near the front entrance, which added to the overall atmosphere. Also, the Gnocchi is made in-house, confirmed to me by Ahmed the owner, which I definitely will have to try next time I return! Full recommendation from me at 5/5 stars!

Daniel Levison

Google
I'll start with the bottom line - most of the food we had wasn't that good unfortunately :/ The ravioli was great. The calamari was made from frozen calamari based on the texture of it, the pizza is just average, the desserts were just below average. From a place that has been around for so long and with above average pricing you just expect more. Just trying to give my honest and humble opinion.

Alicia

Google
Saw a review that talked about the food not having any flavor, not sure if the chef at the time had a bad day or what, but I can't agree with any of the statements‼️ Some of the best Italian food I've ever had in the United States 👌 Everything is made from scratch, the pasta, sauces, salad dressings... and all ingredients were super fresh! - Burratta Al Altopiano (appetizer)🔥 With fresh basil pesto and sun dried tomatoes. - Insalata Toscano Tristate: 🥗 Very light, but incredibly flavorful. - Tortellini Carbonara: The pasta was perfectly aldente 🤌 The sauce was thick, creamy, with fresh herbs and so flavorful. - Fettuccine Oceano: the biggest chunks of lobster, scallops and 🦐, definitely worth the money 👌 - Tiramisu: 🔥🔥 Also made in house, and absolutely delightful! (Have an espresso with it to compliment) Jorge & Frankie: incredible service, from being greeted outside at the door, to allowing us to sit upstairs, away from everyone so my bf could answer work calls without disturbing anyone. Everyone was personable, fast and the atmosphere transported me right into Italy. Paid street parking available. Outdoor seating available.

Calla Bjorklund Jarvie

Google
Seriously the best Italian food I’ve had in ages. I got the rigatoni Gorgonzola, and it had the most incredible rich flavor. The blood orange Italian soda was great, too. One member of my party didn’t get his order, and our server was so apologetic. He gave us a fresh pasta dish to take home, two desserts, and comped the drinks. I would have given five stars for the food alone and five more stars for the customer service.

India Lindsay

Google
Don’t go here - probably the worst restaurant I have tried in DC. It looks so cute, has a bunch of awards posted on windows and menu, and has other good reviews. The Italian food was bland and did not taste fresh. The sauces tasted store bought. Pasta and pizza quality were nothing special. The service was slow and prices were high. I spent $40 on a pasta dish I could have made better at home.

Rachel Murphy

Google
Really enjoyed brunch before a matinee at the Kennedy center. 2 course and a drink for $32 plus an option for bottomless. The service was attentive and the food delicious- especially the lamb stufato.

Lisa Cho

Google
I don’t know how we found this little gem, tucked away off 31st in Georgetown, but I am glad we did! Our server Ylli was amazing. Good service is usually enough to bring us back… but in this case, the service AND the food was simply outstanding. Cyrus, the manager was so welcoming, and we felt like we had been patrons for years. This restaurant is now our go to… if you’re looking for a great Italian restaurant, with a homey vibe. This is it. We ordered 6 different entrees, and each one were stellar. My personal favorite is the seafood risotto. Absolutely phenomenal!
google avatar

Ornella S.

Yelp
I had an incredible dining experience at Ristorante Piccolo in DC, and I must say, the manager truly made it exceptional! From the moment we walked in, we were warmly welcomed and made to feel right at home. The manager's attention to detail and genuine care for the guests was evident throughout the evening. The ambiance of the restaurant was charming and cozy, setting the perfect mood for a delightful meal. The menu offered a delectable selection of Italian dishes, and each plate we tried was a culinary masterpiece. The flavors were authentic, and the presentation was impeccable. But what truly set this experience apart was the manager's personal touch. Not only did they recommend some outstanding dishes, but they also took the time to engage with us, ensuring that we were enjoying our meal and having a wonderful time. Their passion for their restaurant and dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience was evident in every interaction. The manager's presence elevated the entire evening, and it was clear that they cared deeply about the satisfaction of their guests. We left Ristorante Piccolo with full hearts and satisfied taste buds, and we cannot wait to return for another memorable dining experience. If you're looking for an authentic Italian meal in DC, with a manager who goes above and beyond to make your visit extraordinary, Ristorante Piccolo is the place to go!
google avatar

Trendy D.

Yelp
It's not bad, but definitely not the best Italian spot in this area. I personally will not be going back. The service was interesting. The person that seated us was a bit rude. However, the other two folks were kind. The ambiance is a nice casual spot. There's a balcony, outdoor seating, and inside seating. The balcony only fits like 3 tables. We ordered the Parpadelle D'Angelo and fettuccine oceano. I wouldn't recommend the Oceano. It's a lemon Alfredo like cream sauce. However, it was very bland and unflavored. The Parpadelle meat sauce is reallyyyyy gooood! Get that! They say the Oceano is the popular dish, but it's not a safe one. I think it's a hit or miss. They give complimentary bread and that was alright. The Chardonnay I got was $15 for the glass. It was alright. I've had better Chardonnay. Honestly, just go across the street to Il Canali, better food and service.
google avatar

Shaquille J.

Yelp
Probably the beat Marsala in D.C. I've had so far. Their food is very good. This is the second time I've come here and I'm so happy I did. My only regret is not ordering the scallops again this time around because last time I came those were sooooo good. The service is good but this time around we it took us longer to get seated even though we had a reservation. The manager was outside on the phone so we waited for him. That's the one thing I didn't like this time around. Other than that the vibe is that of a traditional Italian restaurant. It's perfect for a date night. The lady and I really liked it and we plan on coming back.
google avatar

Katie W.

Yelp
Ristorante Piccolo is always a solid lunch / dinner spot in Georgetown! The service is very friendly. We started with the Burrata al Altopiano delle Murge (not pictured) - it melted in our mouths and was insanely good. The complimentary bread is delicious as well! The short rib ravioli was amazing - I would definitely order it again. We shared cheesecake for dessert (not pictured) which was out of this world. As for cocktails, Tito's dirty martini was good - but will take off a point for it being served with 2 non stuffed olives. Espresso martinis were fabulous.
google avatar

Kathy M.

Yelp
Food: Olive oil that came with our warm bread was perfectly seasoned. Lobster ravioli was great- the flavor was deep and not bland, topped with their lobster bisque. Hand rolled ravioli dough was cooked Al dente. Spaghetti and meatballs- meatballs had a bit of a kick and not as tender but still flavorful. Mariana sauce was rich and tangy. Cheese pizza for my boy was eaten and half was taken home- this is a good thing, he is five years old. Spaghetti with peppers and Italian sausage was served with their rich Marinara sauce. Ambience - we were seated in the front room of the resto with 2 fireplaces and there was a violinist playing, dimly lit room for a cozy feel. Service- our server was very friendly, although we did wait for about 15 minutes before our server took our drink order, and another 10 mins afterwards for our bread to arrive. Good thing we were not very hungry when we showed up. It took another 20 mins of waiting for our food to get to our table. Our server mentioned that the kitchen got busy. Tables surrounding ours got their food first when they arrived after us. This is where the deducted 1 star is coming from.
google avatar

Hailey L.

Yelp
My sister recommended this place because she had a great birthday dinner, but I found this place just decent. First of all, there was no AC when I visited Saturday lunch, so it was stuffy inside. And, in terms of sanitation, there were some food left on utensils and dust on napkins & watercups. Seatings were a huge upside. There are seatings in balcony&outdoor that are just perfect for nice weather. I had Margherita pizza & seafood Fettuccine. Pizza was decent, but seafood fettuccine had lobsters with their shells in small pieces, so you had to be careful when chewing to not break your teeth. Pasta noodles were kinda sticked together. I think chef was aiming for Al Dante, but little more undercooked and dry. Seafood was a bit soggy and some even lacking seasoning.
google avatar

Mara W.

Yelp
Service was fabulous!! Super nice and attentive staff. Ambiance was old world Italian style. It was super cute. Food was amazing!! The drinks were strong, the house manager made my son a drink because they didn't have lemonade. He loved it! The mozzarella fritte was so so good. Best mozzarella sticks I have ever had. The seafood dish was divine! Rich and full of flavor. We loved the pizza and meatball appetizer. Just a well rounded delicious meal!!
google avatar

Audra H.

Yelp
Hands down STILL one of my favorite Italian restaurants in DC almost a year later. We have been here quite a few times now and have yet to be disappointed! The ambiance is great and the customer service is always exceptional. The wait staff are extremely knowledgeable about the menu and always ready to answer any questions! Our go to dish from Ristorante Piccolo is the Fettuccine Oceano! There is no stinginess with the amount of fresh seafood and the cream sauce is extremely flavorful and not super heavy like a lot of typical sauces! Other great dishes include Spaghetti Al Fruti Di Mare, Lasagna and Bolognese! For apps their Calamari Fritti is perfection as well! If you frequent Georgetown or happen to be in the area please give this restaurant a try! You don't be disappointed!
google avatar

Ailun H.

Yelp
My friends and I came here for dinner this past Saturday because we were craving Italian food. Definitely make a reservation a couple days in advance so that way you are guaranteed a table upon arrival. They definitely get pretty busy. The complimentary bread/baguette along with the olive oil/black vinegar were great while we waited for our food. CALAMARI FRITTI - 16 We shared this appetizer between the three of us, which was more than enough since we had a few leftover that we didn't end up finishing. The calamari was perfectly crispy with a good amount of batter. However, I found that the marinara sauce was a bit plain/not very memorable. Next time, I'd probably try other appetizers before getting the calamari again. SCALOPPINE DI POLLO AL MARSALA - 28 I was craving chicken for some reason, so this was a great option for me. There was a good amount of chicken and the Marsala wine sauce was delicious! It was a bit too oily, but other than that, very flavorful and enhanced the chicken breast (which wasn't dry!). I thought the mushrooms and spinach were a bit too salty for my taste, but still seasoned well. I loved the al dente texture pasta aglio olio - the simplicity of garlic and olive oil can elevate the dish so much. All the flavors went well together, I'd recommend. IL TIRAMISU ALLA PICCOLO - 10 One of my friends love tiramisu, we splurged on one to try. There was a thicc amount of mascarpone mousse which was so light and fluffy. I wish there was more sponge cake, though since the espresso and rum notes really shined through and I really wanted more of it! A small piece, but definitely worth the try and a great way to end a meal. This is one of the "Taste of Georgetown Winner" options! Next time, I have to give the AGNOLOTTI AI PORCINI a try, since that's their award winning dish here. I also love mushrooms and truffle!
google avatar

Rachel M.

Yelp
Would not recommend. Had two friends in town, and we wanted a relaxing, delicious dinner. Our server was so squirrelly we actually wondered if he was drunk... After bringing some complimentary bread to the table (which wasn't warmed or toasted; just plain ass white bread that impressed nobody), he took our orders. I asked if he would give me a few extra minutes to decide on wine. Didn't see him again until our food was served...so I skipped the wine altogether. The cacio e pepe was NOT cacio e pepe. It's just way too much pepper dumped onto pasta, then sprinkled with pre-grated Parmesan... I repeat: pre-grated Parmesan... The Italians I know would've walked out! And with no sauce / oil whatsoever, the pasta was just a dry, over-peppered mess. Cacio e pepe should be creamy and smooth. It is arguably the most basic Italian pasta dish, and this restaurant totally botched it. I can't tell you if my veal Parmesan was any good because it was doused in batter and sauce and cheese; barely tasted the meat. When it came time to pay, I asked if we could have three checks. The waiter asked if he could split one check three ways. Now, this was fine because we had all ordered one entree...but why counter my request to make your job easier? What if my entree had been substantially more than my friends' entrees, or if I'd been able to order that glass of wine I wanted before the food came? Customer service has been notably sh*tty since restaurants reopened, and this is just one more example of a server ignoring what I, the customer, request because the job he's paid to do is inconvenient. Interior was nice. Fellow diners were LOUD. The violinist tried to help create ambience by drowning out the obnoxious diners behind and in front of our table, which was so appreciated. But jeez...what a disappointing experience.
google avatar

Emily G.

Yelp
Really cute Italian restaurant with great quality food! My party came here for a Mother's Day brunch! We ordered quite a lot of food, and from the brunch menu, so we were allowed an appetizer and entree. I want to note that the famous ravioli dish that is award winning was definitely good. Delicious, but pricey as you only get four ravioli and paying an entree-like price for it. I will say all the dishes are amazing and my whole table truly licked the plates clean. So if you want to experience the award-winning dish and all its glorious flavors, do so! The tables are rather close together inside. Even with reservations we were back to backs with other guests. (When we arrived at the restaurant we were one of the first guests with only two other parties, so I thought the seating set up was interesting). I'll speak on the dishes I ordered here from the brunch menu, which comes with a Primi and Secondi. Cozze alla Napoli: These were mussels in a light marinara sauce with other ingredients. Super good! Pollo alla Bosco con Fettuccine: such delicious pasta leaving me super filled up after brunch! Great quality food, good service and very authentic Italian restaurant. I do recommend for a special event!
google avatar

Madison S.

Yelp
We got in here last minute on a Saturday night and the staff couldn't have been more pleased to seat us! The house wines were delicious and we started with a few apps, disappointed by the clams (only 4/10 of them were empty shells), but all the entrees were great- can't go wrong with any of the fresh rolled pasta choices. Overall a fun meal!
google avatar

Kaitlyn A.

Yelp
~ gluten free review ~ I was with some friends walking around Georgetown in the evening and we wanted to grab some dinner. We walked past Ristorante Piccolo and it smelled so incredible that we decided to stop in and see if they could find a table for us. We were seated within 15 minutes and our service was overall very timely. I will note that there isn't air conditioning so it can get quite hot upstairs. I ordered the Bolognese pasta with the gluten free substitute and it was incredible. The sauce has great flavor and the pasta was cooked perfectly Al dente which can be challenging with gluten free. This spot is great for dates or just grabbing a nicer meal with family and friends!
google avatar

Jason P.

Yelp
We recently completed a 2 week east coast trip from Montreal, QC to FL and we ate out almost every night and this restaurant is, hands down, was the best one! The Italian restaurant is perfectly appointed and very reminiscent of something you would find in Italy. The staff was very friendly and made us feel like guests at their house. The maître d's, Ylli and Frankie, and our server, Chatik, were the best in the business! Their food and wine recommendations were nothing short of amazing! They introduced us to a bottle of Tuscan wine from Duca di Saragnano, labeled Sir Passo that was delicious and I'm going to try and find it for my cellar! Definitely try a bottle if you like Tuscan wines. Every single thing on their menu was delicious and prepared like a dish imported straight from Italy. If I lived near this restaurant I would be a regular and they are the type of place that would remember and welcome me each time. Bottom line, the food, the atmosphere, the staff, and the wine are EXCELLENT! You will not be disappointed! As for parking...its Georgetown. They have a small parking garage attached but your vehicle must be smaller than an SUV. I would Uber if possible.
google avatar

Min Z.

Yelp
Nestled in a "little Italy" block of a Georgetown side street. elegant and sophisticated decor with refined taste. Service was good and efficient, prices were per normal, and food was prepared with care and absolutely delicious! I felt that you could order almost any dish and I was very happy to find this gem. Fresh bread and olive oil were served; we ordered: 5*Cooze Alla Parigina---PEI mussels with garlic, butter, white wine, fresh basil, and garlic crostini. The mussels were cooked tender and the sauce was very tasty. 5*Agnolotti Al Porcini: taste of Georgetown award winner and a must try dish. Fresh ravioli filled with porcini mushrooms, fresh sage, butter sauce and drizzled with black truffle oil. It was as good as you can imagine. 4*Pollo Parmigiano Hoagie--- chicken cutlet with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella and parmesan: fresh, tender and tasty.
google avatar

Carla F.

Yelp
Wow. I was at a work event and they brought us here for dinner (approx 50 people) and I was amazed at the service with such a large group! The waiters were so attentive and brought out the courses in a timely manner. We had a prix fixe menu but the food itself was so delicious and everything tasted freshly made. Although the room we were put in was a little crowded, I was impressed with everything. The attention to detail was impeccable.
google avatar

Angelie B.

Yelp
AMAZING! Best Italian food I've had in DC. They were out of the short rib and lobster raviolis, so I went for the Fettuccine Oceano. No regrets! Beautiful view from the balcony too :)
google avatar

Paige S.

Yelp
I have seen this restaurant a lot and I always meant to go, and so my boyfriend and I finally splurged for our anniversary and it was worth every penny! It's a little pricy, but I think the food speaks for itself that this is worth the splurge. Honestly, we ended up going here because we missed brunch at another restaurant, so we decided to just have an early dinner, and it was the best last minute decision. Firstly, the space itself is so cozy and warm. We were seated upstairs in a smaller room by the fireplace, and it was so lovely. It kept me nice and toasty during my meal. We got drinks, an old fashioned and a peach Bellini. My boyfriend loved his old fashioned and said it's one of the best ones he's had ! Mine was good too. The show stopper though, is the pasta. They have a special section with hand rolled pasta and goodness it's so worth the price. I was intrigued by my dish as it had a mention on the menu that it won an award, and it was a mushroom pasta with a sage cream sauce. WOW! It was some of the best pasta I've had in DC so far. My boyfriend also loved his manicotti stuffed with meat. We loved it! We are definitely looking forward to coming back after our fantastic meal and experience.
google avatar

Cassy B.

Yelp
My boyfriend and I spontaneously came here after a movie and are super happy we did. When we arrived they gave us bread with olive oil and balsamic (my fave) and even reloaded it for us as we were very hungry. It was delicious, but even better was their carbonara and the gnocchi. I now crave it! I believe they make their pasta in house, and you can definitely tell with how fresh it is. The servers come to you quickly after the food is delivered with Parmesan and will load your plate down with however much you want. The restaurant really gives you the Italian experience, and I would know because I lived in Italy for 3 months We have ordered them from Uber Eats two times after our wonderful dine in experience and the food also arrived promptly. This is a new staple!
google avatar

Hannah H.

Yelp
Love the food!!! Definitely recommend checking this cute restaurant out, the ambiance is cute if you get to sit on the balcony and the service was great our waiter was super attentive and kind!
google avatar

Anya R.

Yelp
The hardest question I've been asked is what's your favorite food. I'm such a foodie so I never have a straight answer but Italian is always top 3. Ristaurante Piccolo in Georgetown is one of my favorites. The patio gives you a vibe of Italy even though you're right here in DC. They offer a $16 lunch express consisting of an appetizer and entree and a sunset menu from 4:30-6:30 Mon-Thursday for $25 which includes a dessert. fettuccine oceano mushroom ravioli - I love ANYTHING mushroom tiramisu 1068 31st St NW Washington DC 20007 Instagram.com/six10_1984
google avatar

Anushka M.

Yelp
When we mentioned our reservation to our host he left which I assumed was to check to see if a table was ready. By the time he came back down it seemed like he was doing other tasks and even stopped and chatted with a customer for a while. Finally after a little more running around he came back to us and walked us to our table upstairs. For food we ordered the Gamberoni Fra' Diavolo for an appetizer, and the tortellini carbonara and fettuccine oceano for entrees. The appetizer only came with 3 pieces of shrimp which didn't seem worth the price. Our pasta dishes were good, especially the fettuccine Oceano. The shrimp, lobster and scallops that came with it were delicious, and the pasta had the perfect amount of sauce. Service was good once we were seated. I also noticed they wipe down your seat and table when guests leave and replace the tablecloths, so cleaning is done between each guest.
google avatar

Ali M.

Yelp
Simply fantastic lunch! Their homemade ravioli with butter truffle sauce is out of this world- not surprisingly an award-winning dish. Well deserved. The salad was fresh and the Gorgonzola dressing was simple, but the perfect compliment for the dish. I would use fewer onions and sliver them, but now I'm just being too picky. :) Service was pleasant, professional and very informative. I wouldn't have known that the ravioli is made fresh every morning and is a must-have without the waiter taking the time to tell me. Great patio seating on a bustling street... really enjoyed the music... great touch. Enjoy this family owned restaurant (since 1986!)... I will be back!
google avatar

Claire D.

Yelp
Amazing ambience inside, a little packed but not too loud to have a normal volume conversation. The servers were prompt and polite. LIVE VIOLIN MUSIC!? It was amazing!! The dish I got (gluten free) was absolutely delicious, and the salad was fresh and yummy, plus beautiful presentation. Just go here! It's a great hidden gem
google avatar

Susie W.

Yelp
A great spot to go on a date as their restaurant is classy and quaint, and some of the upstairs/patio seating is rather intimate. My sister and I made a reservation and were seated immediately on the street area with a space heater between out table and the neighboring table. While it was a bit busy being on a busy street, the enclosing and heat lamps were nice COVID modifications that made our dining experience enjoyable. We were served complimentary warm and fresh bread that came with spices on top and olive oil for dipping. I ordered the eggplant Parmesan (melanzane parmigiano) and my sister ordered the chicken Parmesan (pollo parmigiana). Our portions were huge and each came with an ample serving of pasta underneath. We were so happy with the great taste, cook and display of our entrees. We each ordered a glass of the house red and white wine which I would recommend if you're not picky and looking for an inexpensive drink option. Overall, excellent service and atmosphere, but most importantly the food was to die for. If you're in Georgetown, I would absolutely recommend this location for above par Italian food!
google avatar

John P.

Yelp
My daughter and her friend selected Ristorante Piccolo for a celebratory dinner with my wife and me. It's a nice dinning room though the tables are pretty close. We were seated quickly and our waiter was very affable. My daughter and her friend enjoyed the waiter who was playful with them. Daughter and friend ordered Italian Spritz drinks that were good. My wife ordered a glass of wine that she said was 4x retail cost. This was the theme for the night: fine service, but the quality of the food is low, making the experience feel overpriced. Waiter brought bread with oil and basaltic vinegar with Parmesan. Bread was very good but the oil was flavorless. The girls split an arugula salad which they enjoyed and wife and I split an order of bruschetta, which was small and very pedestrian. We make it much better at home, which reiterates the theme for the night: you can easily make much better food at home. So, you already know what I'm going to say about the rest of the meal.... Yes, that's right, quality was low and prices were high. I have no problem paying for good food but this was below average. Maybe my expectations are too high. I haven't gone out much during Covid and have had to up my home cooking skillz. I did roast some brussel sprouts at home as an appetizer before we went out and they were, in all modesty, very good. We enjoyed them outdoors with a nice bottle of wine before heading to the restaurant. Hmmm, ok, maybe I did elevate expectations. But seriously, I'm not a professional chef. But still, the carbonara, eggplant, and veal were all completely mediocre. We would have been disappointed regardless of what I had served at home. It looked like a special night out for the people at the tables beside us, as it was for us. We had a nice evening; just wish the meal had complemented the fine company we enjoyed with my daughter and her friend. Oh wait, just loaded my photos and neglected to say the tiramisu was very good! I recommend it.
google avatar

Anita G.

Yelp
This place is excellent- overall great food, a wonderful vibe, and friendly staff - what more could you want?? Highly recommend!
google avatar

Lauren M.

Yelp
Ask to sit on their four-table total balcony for an amazing people watching experience and a taste of Europe. Their bruschetta is excellent and you can't leave without a shot of limoncello
google avatar

April D.

Yelp
Atmosphere, AMAZING food, great service, couldn't have been better. Our family of 4 trip to DC wouldn't have been the same without this little italian dinner!
google avatar

Claudette P.

Yelp
Delicious food in a cute little are of Georgetown! Went for my boyfriend's birthday, and really wanted balcony seat, however they didn't have the balcony set up due to rain earlier during the day, a bit of a bummer. The food however was really good! Great portions. Taste of the food was pretty good, but definitely not for the price. I got tortellini carbonara, and it was really good, fairly heavy with the creaminess. Vitello parmigiano was a bit average. The meat was a bit soggy, however the pasta for both dishes were cooked very well.
google avatar

Lia J.

Yelp
I am not a huge fan of this restaurant, but it was okay. The service was good and quick. I ate the pasta e fagioli. It was very average...kind of bland and the noodles were a little overcooked. The gnocchi was also just okay. I thought the pesto sauce was too acidic and the gnocchi itself wasn't fluffy enough. I definitely would get different dishes if I had to go back.
google avatar

Mandi D.

Yelp
Fantastic restaurant! The food and service were impeccable and the planning leading up to our company event was fantastic. We are so sad to hear of the fire that occurred the very next day after our event. Good luck in the future getting back on open!
google avatar

Christina P.

Yelp
The fettucine oceano was fishy. All the seafood in it was not fresh nor properly cooked. Noodles weren't great texture. Garlic mussel was good. Also waiters give off an annoyed attitude. And it was really inconsiderate and disgusting how they swept the carpets at the front door and with the wind, all the dust went into the food, air, everywhere. Wouldn't be surprised if they treated the food like dirt. Do not recommend.
google avatar

Jose F.

Yelp
The atmosphere is very welcoming as soon as you enter. The lighting is on point, not too dark and not too dimmed. Not to mention, they serve you a good glass size of wine. The bread was really good! My main entree was the Fettucini Oceano, and tbh, it was decent but I'm sure there are better ones out there. Overall, I'd come here again and try something else.

Sam M.

Yelp
The best Italian I've had in DC. Lobster ravioli, tiramisu, & cheesecake was all amazing. Portions were a good size and the restaurant was so cute.
google avatar

Maria-Elena T.

Yelp
Seated immediately (we had a reservation). Kinda bright for a restaurant. More family atmosphere than date feeling. No music. All hard surfaces so it's a little loud. There were a couple of big tables around us. I was surprised at the fullness on a Monday night. Love the table cloths and cloth napkins- elegant. Menu is impressive. It was restaurant week but not anything I wanted. However it was attractive financially: $55 for 4 courses was a good deal. We started by splitting the steamed clams. It took forever to get them and we had to say something. There were only 9 clams. We had to ask for bread. Bread was delicious as were the clams which had a lot of flavorful dipping juice. I couldn't decide between two pastas so I got two half orders. They were both delicious. The Gorgonzola rigatoni with pistachios was creamy heaven although it could have used more pistachios. The red sauce spinach ravioli melted in my mouth. They brought us dessert. Both were good. Loved the food here and will definitely come back.
google avatar

Ally T.

Yelp
My boyfriend and I were visiting Washington DC to celebrate our 6 year anniversary, so I know I wanted to eat Italian food. I made a reservation in advance for 12/23, and received multiple texts to confirm the reservation from the restaurant itself instead of only the reservation online platform. I loved that they verified the reservation this way. When we arrived, not too many other customers were dining perhaps due to it being so close to the holiday, or near closing hours. We didn't mind that at all. When we walked in, it automatically seemed cozy due to the festive decorations, dim (but not too dim) lighting, and greeted with a high level of hospitality. Every single employee from the owner, to the waiters, the drink servers or bus boys were all very nice. We had chosen a seat by the fireplace closest to the door for the romantic aesthetic, however, the door kept sometimes propping open. They were always concerned if we were comfortable and saw the door kept being a problem as the breeze would make us cold, so they graciously moved us to another fireplace which was out of the way from the breeze. The Caesar salads were delicious, the bread could have been slightly warmed, but let's talk about the main courses. I took a bite of my boyfriend's steak and it was so tender and juicy, and seasoned very well. The spinach and mashed potatoes complimented it nicely. My veal Parmesan was crispy, yet easy to cut, and paired well with the melted cheese on top as well as the pasta underneath. We had to take home leftovers as our conversation amidst bites and glasses of wine made us full. I had to make room for dessert of course! I wanted to try their award-winning tiramisu, and it truly did not disappoint. We definitely want to come back with our large group of friends on our next visit to DC, so they can experience the hospitality, ambiance, and food. Thank you Ristorante Piccolo for making our anniversary dinner amazing.
google avatar

Michelle K.

Yelp
Is that not the best looking eggplant you've ever seen?? We enjoyed our experience at Ristorante Piccolo and would return. It's a small restaurant with a nice ambiance and great service. Our waiter was very attentive and made helpful recommendations, but I felt a little rushed at times. The arancini were very good but slightly cold and not the best I've ever had. The eggplant was fabulous and the tiramisu was amazing. One of my favorite desserts ever. I would recommend to others!
google avatar

Siheme S.

Yelp
The food was delicious! For appetizers,, We had fried calamari and polenta with mushrooms to share. It was amazing! We also got pasta with gorgonzola and pistachios sauce + fettuccine with pesto sauce + chicken Parmigiano and everything was so good. Authentic as you can get! We will be back.
google avatar

Angie G.

Yelp
We're on a girls trip from Dallas, Atlanta, and San Diego visiting DC for the first time and a friend recommended Ristorante Piccolo. We were NOT disappointed!! Even for prom and graduation season, we got in very quickly, the place was busy but very clean and the food was amazing. We shared several plates and our glasses were never left half empty. Fessaha was our server and was soooo friendly and treated us like royalty! When my mom ordered what she thought was a salad, he was kind enough to inform her that it wasn't your typical salad, it had no greens just other veggies so she changed her order. He even brought the amazing violinist over to serenade us. So lovely! We stayed for dessert and then walked around afterward to explore. We highly recommend this restaurant but even more we recommend Fessaha! Ask for him when you get there
google avatar

Keith G.

Yelp
Seriously some of best Italian food I have ever have. The servers were great and I loved the feel of the old house converted into a great place to eat. Be sure to check out the balcony on the front of the restaurant.
google avatar

Tal N.

Yelp
Frankie and Tony to all of yelpers, This place has been here for almost 37 years. I was first introduced to this place in 2011 on my 24th birthday. I met Tony and Frankie for the first time and it truly was an incredible night to remember. All thanks to my friend Todd Kliman, chef, author, food editor of the Washingtonian at the time who recommended This place. Since that day I have always brought guests with me to introduce them to a place that has won many awards over the years for their culinary, the romance, and making others feel special by creating experiences to remember. All Their food is homemade from scratch especially their cannolis. The ambiance walking in is very romantic, comforting, modern and beautiful. It feels like your in a villa somewhere in Italy. Their very close to the water so when they have the windows open you can feel the Potomac breeze. As a person who gone here I always get the calamari for starters. Why, well it's done right and very few restaurants get it right in the metropolitan area. I've tried them all. This is one place that is known for their authentic bruschetta and calamari for the appetizers. Entrees, Ive tried them all I love their Tortellini Carbonara or Gnocchi Spampinato. The customer service is phenomenal you truly have to experience it yourself to believe it. It's very easy to get to this place from Metro (foggy bottom 15 min walk down ) drive alright too. I prefer metro. Get the full experience of Georgetown! This place is tucked away in the heart of Georgetown. Can't miss it. I highly recommend this place to anyone going on a date, special occasion, family and friends out of town. It's worth the drive and experience. My guests truly loved their experience on the 4th of July. Thank you Frankie and Tony for always creating memories for my guests and I. Charif, our server was outstanding. You all hire amazing waiters /waitresses/hosts. As a regular you all are family and truly one of kind! Most importantly I am blessed you all making it through the pandemic.
google avatar

Nick C.

Yelp
Willing to seat an older couple who had *already eaten* and who were just waiting for an Uber to pick them up, but not us. Homophobia, agegism, or poor service? Take your pick.
google avatar

Anamika S.

Yelp
Ambiance is nice with the fireplace and I'm sure the balcony is nice on a warm day. Wait staff were attentive. I'm giving it three stars because the food is ok. Nothing great or special, not bad or terrible, but just ok. My appetizer and entree were fine, but it wasn't anything special. I would be perfectly ok with the quality of the food, but when an appetizer is $11 and an entree is $25, I expect it to be a bit special. My desert - I did not finish because the crust was very dry. My friend's caesar salad was nothing special. His ravioli entree was ok but only had a few ravioli pieces so did not feel substantive. So, overall - meh. Why does DC have these mediocre restaurants that are advertised as special?
google avatar

Jasmine P.

Yelp
Very classy restaurant and cute for date night. We were accommodated quickly by the host upon arrival, and they do a great job with enforcing social distancing rules. The only problem I had was with the table I was seated at. It was squeezed in a tight corner, making it very hard to get comfortable. Food: the complimentary bread they serve was very warm with a nice crust and a super soft inside. The bread literally melted in my mouth. I got the chicken Parmesan and it did not disappoint. The chicken portion was huge and finely breaded. I loved the marinara sauce because it tasted very authentic. The Italian cheesecake dessert was also worth stuffing my already full self. The cheesecake was served very neatly with great presentation. I highly recommend this place for couples, or for anybody looking to have an intimate dinner night.
google avatar

Ido A.

Yelp
I have been eating at Ristorante Piccolo for more than 20 years, and it's really amazing there. The food is delicious, the staff are very nice, the view from ourside is very pleasant, and the menu has a variety of choices, all of them being great. It's totally worth eating there and I'd like to thank all of the staff and Manager Mr. Frankie for the wonderful service you bring. Thank you for everything!
google avatar

Taniya G.

Yelp
the most romantic italian restaurant in DC. The moment we walked in, my boyfriend and I were greeted by Frankie. He asked if we had a reservation, and once we confirmed that we did not he asked how many were in our party and then asked if we liked the table he had selected for us. We asked if we could sit on the balcony and assured us the table would be ready in a few moments. He gave us menu recommendation. Once we were seated we ordered everything he recommended the lobster stuffed ravioli, the crab meat mushrooms, and chicken parmigian. They were out of the bottle of Chianti that we ordered so instead we got a different of their house red wine. EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING. I truly believe our experience was what it was because of the greeting we received. You can get great food from anywhere in DC and my boyfriend and I eat out all of the time. What sets an establishment apart, is the hospitality. So thank you Frankie. Thank you for making us feel welcomed. We will 1000% be back, and I have told all of my friends about Piccolo

Scott E.

Yelp
Had a great dinner with friends. Frankie the Manager was awesome. One of the best in the Georgetown area. Scott from Franklin TN
google avatar

Anna H.

Yelp
Excellent food. Excellent service. Excellent atmosphere. Can you only give FIVE stars here? This place is a TEN hands down. Charming atmosphere. The flavors of Italy with an American flare. Old world meets new under one roof. Courteous staff. I can see why this restaurant has been in Georgetown for over 36 years. Here's to 36 more!! A MUST TRY for any visit to Georgetown or DC. Tell Frankie-the GM- that Anna from Charleston SC says hello!! And then have him guide you through an exquisite dining experience. Bravo!!! Ristorante Piccolo!!! A small restaurant with BIG heart!!
google avatar

Kristine S.

Yelp
I was traveling in DC and this place was recommended to me by a few people. I had to venture to Georgetown to check it out. It is in a charming converted house with both upstairs and downstairs dining areas. The menu is extensive and it was hard to choose. When I arrived, I was greeted by the very friendly hostess who showed me to my table. I had two different waiters, but neither really spent much time at my table. The olive oil was delivered promptly, but without any bread. I finally had to ask for some, which is fine. I decided on the mozzarella caprese to start, which was so fresh and delicious. I ate every last bite! I then had the bucatini bolognese, which was very hearty and filling. The noodles were cooked perfectly and the sauce was really good, with a lot of meat...lamb, beef and pork. I enjoyed a glass of red wine with dinner and had one of their cocktails to start. I had a great experience and would definitely go back in a second! My only criticism is that I felt like the waiters didn't want to spend much time with me since I was a party of one.