Best Italian Appetizers in Orlando

Start Your Meal the Italian Way

In Italy, the meal begins long before the pasta arrives. The appetizer course is not a formality. It is where the kitchen introduces itself and sets the tone for everything that follows. At Ciao Italia Ristorante, the Navarra family has built an appetizer menu that does exactly that. Every starter is made from scratch using ingredients that meet the same standard as the entrees.

Whether you are sharing a few plates with the table or choosing one perfect opener for yourself, you will find something on our appetizer menu that makes the rest of your evening even better.

Bruschetta

Our bruschetta is built on thick-cut ciabatta bread, toasted until golden and topped with vine-ripe tomatoes, fresh garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and shaved parmigiano reggiano. The bread holds up, the tomatoes are ripe, and the EVOO is the real thing. It is one of the most ordered appetizers on the menu and the simplest proof that Ciao Italia does not take shortcuts.

Burrata with Prosciutto di Parma

The burrata at Ciao Italia is served with imported prosciutto di parma, fresh arugula, and a house-made sundried tomato vinaigrette. When you cut into the burrata, the creamy stracciatella center spills onto the plate and mixes with the salty prosciutto and peppery greens. It is one of those dishes that makes you pause and appreciate what you are eating.

Beef Carpaccio

Thinly sliced raw beef, dressed simply and elegantly. Our carpaccio is for guests who appreciate classic Italian technique. The beef is sliced paper-thin, drizzled with olive oil, and served with capers and arugula. It is clean, refined, and a favorite among our regular guests who know Italian food beyond the usual suspects.

Zuppa di Pesce

Our zuppa di pesce is a seafood lover's dream. A rich broth loaded with fresh shellfish and fish, seasoned with tomatoes, garlic, and white wine. It is hearty enough to be a meal on its own but works beautifully as a starter before our pasta or seafood entrees. The broth is the star. You will want bread to soak up every last drop.

Antipasto Italiano

The antipasto italiano is the ultimate sharing plate. A curated selection of Italian cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and olives that gives you a taste of everything. It is the perfect way to start a meal for a group, paired with a bottle of wine and good conversation. The Navarra family puts the same care into this platter as they do into every dish on the menu.

Aragosta Bisque

Our Aragosta Bisque is a rich, velvety lobster soup made from scratch daily for just $13. It is one of the best values on the menu and one of the most popular starters at Ciao Italia.

Open Every Evening

Ciao Italia is open 7 days a week from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Located at 6149 Westwood Blvd, Orlando with free parking. Call (407) 354-0770 for reservations.