Malfi Enoteca — Restaurant in Tulsa

Atmosphere & Service

Malfi blends California’s coastal ease with Italy’s rustic charm, reimagining 1960s Italian Modernism through a modern industrial lens. Soft lighting, concrete floors, and warm wood accents create a nostalgic yet inviting atmosphere. Service at Malfi is excellent. Water glasses stay full, and attention to detail is clear. Some servers demonstrate deep menu knowledge, while others capably highlight standout dishes. There are no missteps or red flags—just dependable, well-executed hospitality.

Dining

White Bean Dip

The dip is a masterful blend of texture and flavor. Served with slightly sour, perfectly aerated Country Bird Bakery bread, it opens with the creamy richness of white beans, transitions to herbal hints of sage and salt, and finishes with the nuttiness of pistachio and the savory depth of pork jowl. Exquisitely balanced between salty and savory, the dish is elevated by the bread, which complements without overshadowing the dip’s complexity.

Arancini

Malfi’s arancini skip traditional arborio or carnaroli rice, leading to a texture that lacks the signature bite of risotto. While the crispy shell and creamy center show promise, the rice is overcooked. Truffle and fontina come through well, finishing clean with tomato sugo.

Pork and Beef Meatballs

The meatballs are plump, juicy, and expertly executed. Bold beef leads each bite, giving way to the richness of pork and a finish of aromatic herbs. A bright, tangy tomato sauce adds balance, while the creamy polenta is flawlessly prepared—an ideal, comforting pairing.

Burrata and prosciutto

The house-pulled burrata is elegant and creamy, its lush texture perfectly balanced by the salty richness of prosciutto. Layered atop tangy sourdough, the trio delivers a harmonious blend of creamy, salty, and sour—simple, sensual, and beautifully executed.

Malfi Tomato Toast

A minimalist spread of tomato graces a crisp, brittle slice of Country Bird Bakery sourdough. The tomato itself leans neutral, bordering on under seasoned—just a touch of salt could have elevated its flavor. The texture of the toast is brittle.

Carpaccio Di Manzo

Bright and briny with a creamy tonnato base. Acidity is well-calibrated, and the dish ends on a lingering note of tuna, citrus, and capers. A smart, slightly playful twist on tradition.

Bucatini basil cream pesto, pistachio, and whipped burrata.

Perfectly cooked pasta, subtle basil and lemon, and silky pesto. However, the promised pistachio is absent, and the flavor leans restrained. A good modern dish, though it plays it safe.

Rigatoni Alla Vodka

The vodka sauce is creamy, rich, and slightly tangy. Malfi’s blending of tomatoes, cream, vodka, and aromatics into a smooth, flavorful accompaniment for pasta was nigh perfect. At the finish of each bite, a subtle yet satisfying heat from red pepper lingers at the back of the throat.

Tagliatelle Bolognese.

The final pasta course elevates the meal to a true pièce de résistance. Each bite is a symphony of robust flavors, with tender beef, sweet carrot, and rich tomato melding seamlessly to create a dish that feels both comforting and extraordinary. The depth of flavor is remarkable, leaving you longing for another bite. This dish stands as a masterpiece—undoubtedly the best pasta I’ve experienced in Oklahoma, rivaling even the finest offerings from renowned restaurants in New York and Chicago.

Ricotta cake with diplomat cream and lemon curd

The cake is moist, and the diplomat cream provides a luxurious, velvety contrast in texture. The lemon curd, with its tart and vibrant flavor, brightens each bite, adding a refreshing balance to the richness.

Panna Cotta with fruit conserva

Silky, soft, and indulgent. Vanilla notes shine through, and the fruit conserva adds tart contrast. A well-executed dessert, though consistency varies—at times collapsing under...

A Culinary Gem in Tulsa – Malfi Enoteca

I had the absolute pleasure of dining at Malfi Enoteca recently, and I can confidently say it’s the best Italian restaurant I’ve ever experienced in Tulsa. From the moment I walked in, I was struck by the inviting atmosphere and impeccable attention to detail in both the decor and the ambiance. It’s clear that Malfi Enoteca is a labor of love, designed to provide an exceptional dining experience.

I ordered the bolognese pasta, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The rich, velvety sauce clung to perfectly cooked pasta, and the depth of flavor in each bite was remarkable. It was clear that every element of the dish was crafted with care, from the fresh, high-quality ingredients to the balance of seasoning. It was hearty, comforting, and elevated—exactly what you’d hope for in a classic Italian dish.

Beyond the food, the staff were outstanding. Attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, they made the experience seamless from start to finish. Every question I had about the menu was answered with enthusiasm, and their recommendations were spot on. It’s rare to find service that feels both professional and warm, but Malfi Enoteca nailed it.

The service was also impressively efficient without feeling rushed. I truly appreciated how the team orchestrated everything with ease, allowing me to fully enjoy my meal and the company I was with.

The atmosphere was another highlight. Elegant yet cozy, the restaurant strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Whether you’re out for a romantic dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply treating yourself to an incredible meal, the vibe at Malfi Enoteca suits any occasion.

I can’t recommend Malfi Enoteca enough. From the unparalleled food to the impeccable service and ambiance, it’s a dining experience that sets the bar high for Italian cuisine in Tulsa. If you’re looking for a place where every detail is thoughtfully executed, Malfi Enoteca should be at the very top of your list. I’ll absolutely be returning, and I’m already looking forward to exploring more of their menu. Bravo to the team at Malfi Enoteca for creating such a...

I didn't even know this location (formerly Freya) had reopened. The Hubs surprised me with a pre-Valentine's Day dinner here. This spot is definitely experiencing a "hot & new" reputation so I would highly recommend reservations. That being said, our reservation was for 8 pm and we were seated promptly but around 8:30 the place was emptying out. There were a few spots at the bar when we were seated. Maybe roll the dice...

I love the decor, beachy but minimal. Definitely not over the top. The signage for the bathrooms is so cute! Trunks for one and a bikini for the other. I would never have known Freya was here. The bean dip was good and the bread is amazing. I would have liked some more of that bread with our entrees. I really thought everything was priced well. Our entrees were around $15. I had the Bucatini (with basil cream, pesto and whipped burrata). Really delicious! We tried the panna cotta for dessert. It was good but I wish we had tried something else. The fruit "conserva" seemed like dried cherries. The cherries were a good compliment to the panna cotta. I want the ricotta cake on our next visit.

I also want to just sit and nosh on the appetizers--some more of that bean dip with Arancini and the Malfi Tomato Toasts and the Pork & Beef meatballs. It sounds wonderful to just sit at the bar, have some signature cocktails and go through the "Not Pasta" menu.

There are a few wines by the glass and a few beers.

Look for a five star review on the next visit. I just...