Taste of Italy — Restaurant in The Municipal District of Arklow

I took my family of four here for a late lunch last month following a few strong recommendations and glowing reviews online, so to be left greatly disappointed by the experience was definitely not expected.

Despite a free table inside the restaurant we were told that they were fully booked and could sit outside instead, which we were happy enough with. The first red flag was the lack of a high chair for our baby and the second was being ignored at our table for nearly ten minutes. When I finally went inside to ask for a menu I was instead taken by the owner to a small chalkboard at the entrance where he rudely stood with a pen and notebook as if I was ready to order for everyone. The menu was somewhat illegible and didn't include any descriptions of the food. I was told that they "make everything fresh daily," which I didn't dispute, but with a baby and my mother who was suffering from mobilty issues, this unwelcoming attitude and lack of table service was unacceptable, so we left without ordering.

If I can, in the nicest way possible, offer some advice to the management then it's this: you are operating in a commercially struggling town where a large percentage of people would rather eat out in nearby Gorey, so you must at least TRY to cater for everyone, even if you are fully booked or have a free table awaiting an arriving reservation. You were not overly busy at the time we were there, so the least you could have done was approach our table and told us what was on the menu. And you need to better cater for families with young children or customers with mobility issues who can't just simply get up themselves and order from a menu on the wall. This kind of poor reception won't cut it in...

This little beautiful restaurant really lives up to its name with an authentic Italian experience with top quality food. While the menu is small, due to the small kitchen they have, they produce Italian food rich in flavour whereby each bite transports you to Italy. Having been to Italy a few times, I can vouch for the authentic flavours from the starters, mains to deserts. The homemade focaccia bread is mouthwatering.

They change their menu on a daily basis, so that each visit will be different.

We were made very welcome by the lovely couple who own and run the restaurant. They told us they have 30 years experience of creating amazing Italian dishes from their home in Parma and are about 18 months in Arklow, County Wicklow.

The location of the restaurant is perfect, facing the stunning Avoca River. There is ample car parking nearby (even outside the door if you're lucky).

They have a nice selection of wines, which went down so well with the food. The three of us loved our Italian experience and all have agreed that we will return many more times. We live in Arklow, so having this little gem on our...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Authentic Italian Food in Arklow?! Absolutely Incredible!

We initially stopped by this charming café just for a coffee, as we often pass by and were curious. But one whiff of the incredible aromas coming from the kitchen, and we knew we had to stay for lunch—and boy, are we glad we did!

The food here is nothing short of spectacular. Every bite was a revelation, bursting with authentic Italian flavours that transported us straight to the heart of Italy. From the perfectly al dente pasta to the rich, savoury sauces, every dish was crafted with care and passion. I can confidently say that the food here is on par with the best Italian restaurants back home in Dublin, if not better!

The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the owners were incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It’s clear that this place is a labor of love, and it shows in every detail.

If you’re in Arklow, do yourself a favour and stop by. Whether it’s for a coffee, a meal, or both, you won’t be disappointed. We’ll definitely be...