Est. 1991 · Family Owned · Orlando, FL
Our Story
From southern Italy to the heart of International Drive — the Navarra family has been serving scratch-made Italian cuisine in Orlando for over 35 years.
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From southern Italy to the heart of Orlando.
In 1970, Josie and Antonio Navarra made the journey from southern Italy to America, eventually finding each other in Boston, Massachusetts. After marrying, they set their sights on Orlando, Florida, where they opened Ciao Italia — one of the city's first authentic Italian restaurants.
With a deep passion for their heritage and a commitment to quality, they built a family business that has thrived for generations. Over the years, their children have embraced the tradition, growing Ciao Italia with love, dedication, and a genuine passion for serving delicious, homemade Italian cuisine.
Today, the restaurant remains a cherished cornerstone of the community, offering a warm, Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere where every meal is a celebration of family, tradition, and the finest Italian flavors.
Josie & Antonio Navarra — Founders
The Navarra Family — Owners, Chef, and Team
Behind every plate is a family that has dedicated their lives to this kitchen. From the founders to the next generation, Ciao Italia is run by people who genuinely love what they do.
From the very first table to today — over three decades of memories.
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Antonio & Josie Navarra — Celebrating the restaurant they built together
Every plate tells a story. Every ingredient has a purpose.
Every dish is prepared fresh from scratch using classic Italian recipes and the freshest ingredients available. Nothing is pre-made — everything is crafted with care, from scratch, the moment you order.
From our luxurious Risotto Pescatore to the rich, savory Pappardelle with Wild Boar and tender Australian Lamb Chops — every plate showcases the finest cuts and freshest seafood.
A curated selection of imported Italian wines alongside premium California labels. Hands-on owners ensure consistent excellence in every detail, from the kitchen to your table.
Over three decades of recognition from diners and critics alike.
Join the Navarra family tradition. Reserve your table and experience over 35 years of authentic Italian hospitality.
Ciao Italia Ristorante has been open since 1991 — over 35 years of continuous operation, making it one of the longest-running family-owned Italian restaurants in Orlando.
Ciao Italia is owned and operated by the Navarra family. It has been family-owned and family-run since its founding in 1991, with the same commitment to authentic Southern Italian recipes.
No. Ciao Italia is a single-location, independently owned Italian restaurant. No franchises, no corporate menus — just the Navarra family cooking the same recipes they've used since 1991.
Over 35 years of history, scratch-made recipes passed down through the Navarra family, and a genuine neighborhood feel — without the tourist-trap pricing. Over 4,000 guest reviews and 9 awards back it up.
Ciao Italia is open nightly from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, seven days a week. Walk-ins are welcome based on availability. Reservations recommended on weekends.
6149 Westwood Blvd on International Drive, Orlando, FL 32821. Under 1 mile from SeaWorld Orlando, 1 mile from the Orange County Convention Center. Free self-parking in front.
Yes. Ciao Italia has been a scratch kitchen since 1991. Every pasta, sauce, and dish is prepared fresh using the Navarra family's original Southern Italian recipes. That's the difference between 35 years of repeat guests and a chain restaurant.
