The Best Risotto in Orlando
Slow-stirred Arborio rice, fresh seafood, and a recipe that has been a guest favorite for over 35 years.
What Makes the Risotto Pescatore Special
The risotto pescatore at Ciao Italia is loaded with fresh seafood: shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari, all folded into creamy Arborio rice that has been cooked with white wine and a rich seafood broth. Every portion is made to order, which means it takes a little longer to arrive at your table, but the wait is part of what makes it worth it.
This is not the kind of risotto that comes from a pre-made batch. The kitchen starts from scratch every time, which is why the texture is always right: creamy without being gummy, rich without being heavy. The seafood is fresh, not frozen, and the flavors are clean and balanced.
More Than Just Risotto
While the risotto pescatore gets most of the attention, the rest of the menu at Ciao Italia is just as strong. The pappardelle with wild boar ragu is a standout for pasta lovers. The veal piccata has its own loyal following. And the tiramisu is the kind of dessert that makes you reconsider skipping the last course.
Ciao Italia is a family-owned restaurant that has been on Westwood Blvd for more than 35 years, 3 minutes from SeaWorld and the Convention Center. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, the service is attentive, and the portions are generous. It is the kind of place where you walk in as a tourist and leave feeling like a regular.
A Risotto Worth Seeking Out
Orlando has no shortage of Italian restaurants, but very few of them make risotto the way it is supposed to be made. Ciao Italia does, and they have been doing it long enough that the recipe is essentially perfected. With free self-parking, a location that is easy to find, and a menu that has something for everyone, it is one of the most reliable dinner spots in the Orlando area.
If you have never tried a properly made Italian risotto, or if you have been disappointed by versions at other restaurants, Ciao Italia is the place to go. The risotto pescatore alone is worth the visit, but you will find plenty of reasons to come back.
Practical Details
Cuisine
Zagat-rated Italian. Handmade pastas, fresh seafood, veal, lamb, and classic preparations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is risotto pescatore?
Risotto pescatore is a traditional Italian seafood risotto made with a mix of fresh shellfish and fish — typically shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari — simmered into creamy Arborio rice. At Ciao Italia, it is one of the most popular dishes on the menu and has been a guest favorite for over 35 years.
How long does it take to make risotto at Ciao Italia?
Authentic risotto takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare because it is made to order. The rice is slowly stirred and cooked with broth added gradually, which creates the creamy texture that makes real Italian risotto different from rice dishes at other restaurants.
Does Ciao Italia offer risotto options besides seafood?
Yes. While the risotto pescatore is the signature dish, Ciao Italia also offers seasonal risotto preparations. Ask your server about the current risotto options when you visit.
Is Ciao Italia a good restaurant near SeaWorld Orlando?
Ciao Italia is 3 minutes from SeaWorld on Westwood Blvd and has been a local favorite for over 35 years. With more than 3,000 reviews, free self-parking, and a warm family atmosphere, it is widely considered one of the best Italian restaurants near SeaWorld and the Convention Center.
Is Ciao Italia expensive?
Ciao Italia is moderately priced ($$). Pasta dishes are $19-$27, entrees $24-$44. The $13 kids menu includes gelato. Most guests find it excellent value for homemade Italian.
More From Ciao Italia
Taste the Best Risotto in Orlando
Reserve your table at Ciao Italia Ristorante. Walk-ins welcome, reservations recommended.
Published by Ciao Italia Ristorante, family-owned by the Navarra family on Westwood Boulevard since 1991. Over 35 years of authentic Italian hospitality in Orlando, Florida.