Pines of Florence — Restaurant in Virginia

Nestled amidst the urban hustle and bustle, there lies a culinary oasis that defies all outward appearances. With its ordinary small exterior and unassuming interior, this Italian trattoria may not catch the eye of the casual passerby, but for those in search of true gastronomic excellence, it is a destination worth traversing oceans for.

Stepping through the doors, one is immediately enveloped in the warm embrace of tradition and authenticity. The ambiance is understated yet inviting, with dim lighting casting a soft glow over the mismatched tables and faded murals adorning the walls. It's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing diners to immerse themselves fully in the culinary journey that awaits.

While the restaurant's appearance may suggest a lack of refinement for the sophisticated, the same cannot be said for its cuisine. Each dish that emerges from the kitchen is a masterpiece of flavor and technique, showcasing the culinary prowess of the chef. And at the heart of it all are the chef's specials, carefully crafted creations that elevate the dining experience to new heights fit for a king!

For me, the standout dish is undoubtedly the seafood lasagna. From the moment the knife pierces the delicate layers of pasta, a symphony of flavors unfolds with each subsequent cut. The creamy ricotta filling spills forth in a tantalizing cascade, mingling with the rich signature pink sauce to create a harmonious balance of taste and texture. And despite its name, the seafood lasagna is anything but fishy; instead, it embodies the essence of the sea in the most sublime manner imaginable.

But it is the signature pink sauce that truly steals the show. A delicate fusion of cream and tomato, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, it is a testament to the artistry of Italian cuisine. Whether drizzled over pasta or served as a dipping sauce for crusty bread, its velvety richness is nothing short of divine, leaving a lingering impression that lingers long after the meal has ended.

Yes, the restaurant may look rundown inside and out, but for those who have had the privilege of experiencing its culinary wonders, it is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. It's the kind of place that leaves an indelible mark on the taste buds and beckons you to return time and time again, no matter the distance. For me, I would gladly travel clear across the country just to savor the unparalleled delight of their food, and of course, that unforgettable signature pink sauce. The dishes...

My family loves Pines!

I have been going to this place since it was based in Alexandria. In fact, it was one of my first dates with my now-husband. Way back when, we both bemoaned how we couldn’t find an Italian place in Virginia as authentic as the Italian restaurants back home (NY and NJ) — and then we found Pines! It became our go-to place for Italian for years.

Even after our wedding, when my doctor restricted my diet to get pregnant (dairy and gluten free), Pines continued to be delicious and accommodating! Asking for no cheese in a dish is basically unheard of in Italian restaurants, but Pines made this request happen for me, and their food still tastes incredible!

When Pines closed in Alexandria, we were crushed. But when I discovered it relocated to Arlington, I connected with Navi, one of the owners, and he took great care of my family during our visit! It was a fulfilling full circle, introducing our new baby to the Italian restaurant on our wedding anniversary!

During our visit, Navi was so helpful with our dairy free, gluten free and shellfish allergy requests. He knew the menu inside and out and his recommendations for us were completely on point! We ended up ordering the sautéed mushrooms for appetizer (amazing), and for entrees: the veal shank special (perfectly cooked), and the eggplant parm (I am a bit of a connosieur for this dish and Pines’s is the best I’ve had, even without the cheese!)

Navi is also the only restaurant owner I’ve met that welcomes new ideas from his clientele! He’s incredibly open and friendly, and he adds a cherry on top to an already wonderful restaurant experience.

I highly recommend checking out this high quality Italian restaurant, whether you have food restrictions or not! Either way, they are always delicious.

It probably goes without saying, but we will be back to this cozy, family-friendly spot, and we are...

Pines of Florence is the kind of Italian restaurant that instantly makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something special. From the moment you step inside, the warm, inviting atmosphere sets the tone for an authentic and memorable meal. The food is absolutely outstanding. Every dish feels thoughtfully prepared, with flavors that are rich, fresh, and deeply satisfying. The pasta is perfectly cooked, the sauces are layered with depth, and the classic dishes are done with just the right balance of tradition and finesse. Even the simplest items—like fresh bread with olive oil—are elevated to something crave-worthy.

The service is another highlight. The staff is welcoming, attentive without being intrusive, and genuinely eager to make sure you enjoy your experience. Their recommendations are spot on, and it’s clear they take pride in what they serve.

Whether you’re coming for a cozy dinner, a celebration, or just because you want some of the best Italian food around, Pines of Florence delivers every time. It’s one of those rare restaurants that combines consistency, quality, and heart—and it deserves every bit of praise it gets. Highly recommended. If you love Italian food, this...