Andrew K.
Yelp
Touted as downtown Fresno's premier Italian food, their top dish, the Lasagna Rossa, is made by hand daily and usually sells out before the close of business. This quaint restaurant in the Galleria meticulously prepares authentic, no-frills Italian dishes using just a few fresh, top-quality ingredients. Each dish tastes like it is home-cooked because it is. The owner and manager, Rafael (Rafa), and his daughter Gracie do everything at the restaurant, including all the cooking. So the food is traditionally prepared with family pride and their reputation rides on each dish.
The Lasagna Rossa, $13, is a masterpiece of rich and zesty meat sauce, perfectly cooked and layered pasta, and generously topped with cream parmesan and mozzarella cheese. It is a comforting and flavorful dish, the meat, pasta, and sauces mix well.
The guests who accompanied me all thoroughly enjoyed their dishes and look forward to returning. The dishes are top restaurant quality and home-made, prepared by the original hands that created the recipes, which are engrained in their culture, and culinary experiences, and time-tested through generations that meet the family stamp of approval.
Rafa will bring all the dishes to your table and check to make sure each guest is enjoying their meal. Gracie is full of energy and will also engage the guests in conversation while preparing the dishes and her delectable baked goods. You have their undivided attention and we could not have felt more welcomed.
The prices are extremely reasonable and the portions are generous. You are encouraged to call ahead with your orders, especially since dishes like the lasagna take time to prepare. You will not feel rushed here so do not be. Those on limited or tight lunch schedules should call ahead and order to-go.
My 800th review had to be for a [new] favorite spot. Valentino's is a great choice for lunch in downtown Fresno, especially for group lunches and celebrations. They also do catering.
Open Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Closed on the weekend. There is free 2-hour parking in the Galleria parking lot adjacent to the restaurant on the north side.