Piccolo — Restaurant in Nixa

Piccolo in Nixa isn't just an Italian restaurant – it's an experience. From the moment you step into the quaint, charming atmosphere, you know you're in for something special. And boy, does it deliver!

We dove headfirst into the classic Chicken Parmesan, and it was pure comfort food poetry. Juicy, tender chicken perfectly crisped in a golden breading, smothered in a rich, flavorful marinara that had us dipping every last crust into the sauce. Paired with a Fettuccine alfredo pasta. The combination of the red and white sauce is mindblowing. But Piccolo isn't afraid to be modern, and their gluten-free pizza with vegan cheese blew our minds. The crust was light and crispy, holding up to the perfectly balanced toppings without a hint of sogginess. The vegan cheese melted like a dream, and the flavors sang in perfect harmony.

The amazing staff deserves a standing ovation. They were attentive, friendly, and genuinely passionate about the food they served. They made us feel like valued guests, not just customers. And did I mention the desserts? The vegan gluten-free options were nothing short of miraculous. The caramel cheesecake was a revelation – creamy, decadent, and completely guilt-free.

Piccolo isn't just about delicious food (though that's certainly a major draw). It's about warmth, atmosphere, and creating memories that linger long after the last bite. Whether you're a foodie craving authentic Italian flavors or seeking a unique dining experience, Piccolo is a must-try. It's a Nixa gem that shines brighter than the midday sun, and we can't wait to return for our next slice of culinary heaven.

Highlights:

Chicken Parmesan: A timeless classic done to perfection. With a great combination of red and white sauce. Gluten-free pizza with vegan cheese: Innovative and delicious, proving dietary restrictions don't have to compromise on taste. Vegan gluten-free desserts: Mind-blowing options that satisfy every sweet tooth, regardless of dietary needs. Amazing staff: Friendly, attentive, and passionate about the food they serve. Quaint, charming atmosphere: A perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

Final verdict: Piccolo is a Nixa treasure that deserves all the love and praise. Put it on your list, grab your friends or family, and get ready for a dining experience that will leave you smiling (and possibly drooling) long...

So, I heard this place was the BEST Italian restaurant in Missouri... I live about 90 minutes away but was in the neighborhood so I had to check it out.

Nice atmosphere & VERY nice staff! Seated immediately, of course it just opened, but the booth seat had a big rip in it and the table setting was placed so that was where I would have been sitting. Sat on the other side and moved everything around.

Kelsey (my waitress) was helpful, attentive, quick and professional (Awesome job Kelsey, Thank you!)

Water came in a glass with a carafe of more water!!! NICE TOUCH!!! Uh oh, problem. No Coke products, only Pepsi. Now if I was just having a soda, it's Pepsi hands down! (Actually, Dr. Pepper, but that's a different discussion) But how do you have a full bar without Coke? When have you ever or even heard anyone ever ask for a Rum & Pepsi, or a Jack & Pepsi?? C'mon! So went with a Margarita... turned out just kinda meh.

Had the Pepperoni Knots for an appetizer. These were good but seemed to be a little too cooked so I wasn't impressed. I've definitely had better elsewhere.

Then I went with Tomato Bisque in place of a salad. It was delicious. Definitely had it's own flavor versus other tomato bisques.

The breadsticks were soft and hot and melted in your mouth. I'm a big oil & vinegar guy so asked for some. Elsewhere, you normally get brought out a 2 bottle set to do your own. They brought me a small plate with it already on it. I like a little more vinegar than they put, but they added a seasoning to it that put it over the top!!!!

Time for the main course, Seafood Cannelloni. It was SSOOOOO GOOD!!!

An attractive woman I'm assuming was the manager, please introduce yourself next time, came by a few times to check on things & brought me some more breadsticks.

Altogether an EXTREMELY wonderful dining experience... although I wouldn't say BEST in MO. We here in Carthage have a place located at the Precious Moments Chapel called Taste of Italy that I would personally put as better than Piccolos. But if I'm in the area, I will definitely be enjoying...

OMG finally a new place with a little creativity and culture for your taste buds in Springfield/Nixa MO! In a few months, they will be doing brunch on Sundays too, folks! The glory of brunch is finally sweeping small town America! This will forever be our go to place when in town visiting friends and family. We've always been a huge fan of the D'Arpino's restaurant on Battlefield and National and Piccolo (owned by their son Steve and his wife) does not disappoint. The D'Arpino family knows their Italian and they know their cheese. I can't say enough great things about this place. After being in the restaurant industry for over 10 years, I can be a bit critical.

Food: We had the spinach dip and balboa balls for appetizers. I'm still dreaming of both dishes as the spinach dip had the perfect spinach to cheese ratio and seasoning. The meatballs had a little bit of GOAT CHEESE on the top along with mozzarella in the middle. I literally wanted to buy 20 and take them home. I had the veal cannelloni and it was superb. Another at the table had ravioli and it was a huge hit. Another at the table had the ribeye, which you don't think about ordering at an Italian restaurant, but apparently they know their meat too! We were too full for dessert, but I can't wait to try their cannoli next time.

Drinks: We had wine, but I can't wait to try some of their fun cocktails. Their wine list is fantastic and at such a great price.

Service: Excellent. Our server did a great job suggesting a local beer and wine pairing for what we were ordering. She was friendly, attentive, and on top of our dining needs. The owner was walking around making sure everyone was enjoying their meal which is always nice to see.

Ambiance: I appreciated the smaller size of the restaurant. Makes dining with a significant other or family more relaxed and you're able to truly enjoy your dining experience. Plus they have great, fun decor/art work to check out as well. Also can't wait to come back and enjoy patio seating when the weather is...