Handmade Italian Cuisine
Best Risotto Pescatore in Orlando
Fresh shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari in creamy Arborio rice. The dish guests call the best in Orlando.
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Handmade Italian Cuisine
Fresh shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari in creamy Arborio rice. The dish guests call the best in Orlando.
Our Story
When Josie and Antonio Navarra opened Ciao Italia in 1991, they brought their Southern Italian family recipes and a simple philosophy: make great food from scratch, treat guests like family, and never take shortcuts.
More than 35 years later, we are still here — locally owned, scratch-made, and proudly independent. No chains. No shortcuts. Just real Italian food on International Drive, 0.9 miles from the Orange County Convention Center.
Read Our Full Story
Every dish made from scratch • No shortcuts since 1991
Handmade Italian Cuisine
Ciao Italia Ristorante has been serving authentic Southern Italian cuisine on International Drive since 1991. The Navarra family makes everything from scratch — handmade pasta, slow-simmered sauces, fresh seafood, and classic Italian dishes.
Located at 6149 Westwood Blvd, directly across from the DoubleTree by Hilton. Wine and beer available. Kids menu. No dress code — upscale vibes, casual comfort. Free parking. Open 7 nights a week, 5 PM to 10 PM.
Over 4,000 guest reviews. 4.6-star average rating. This is not a chain — this is the real thing. Call (407) 354-0770 or reserve online.
Handmade pasta • Fresh seafood • Prime cuts • Every plate tells a story
Private Dining & Group Events
Celebrate at Ciao Italia Ristorante, family-owned since 1991 on International Drive in Orlando. From corporate dinners and family celebrations to special occasions, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, warm hospitality, and flexible spaces tailored to your event.
All food packages include dessert, coffee, and tea.
Your guests deserve more than an ordinary dinner. Let our family welcome yours with delicious Italian food, personalized service, and a memorable atmosphere.
What Guests Say
"Home cooked Italian dishes; generous portions; friendly and efficient service. This place is an absolute gem on International Drive."
— Verified Guest — Google"Home cooked Italian dishes; generous portions; friendly and efficient service. This place is an absolute gem."
— Maria S. — Google"Best Italian we've had in Florida. The lasagna was unreal and the staff made us feel like regulars on our first visit. Already planning our next trip back."
— Nicole & Chris W. — Google
PLACEHOLDER
Open 7 Days
5 PM – 10 PM
Free On-Site
Casual
Come As You Are
OpenTable or Call
(407) 354-0770
Our risotto pescatore is made with Arborio rice, fresh shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari, finished in a light seafood broth. It is one of our most popular dishes and frequently called the best in Orlando.
Yes. Risotto pescatore is a permanent menu item available seven days a week from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Authentic risotto is cooked to order, which takes a bit longer than other dishes. Plan for about 20 to 25 minutes, which is well worth the wait for the creamy, perfectly textured result.
Yes. Our menu includes calamari, shrimp scampi, linguine vongole with fresh clams, grouper puttanesca, and other fresh seafood preparations alongside the risotto pescatore.
Walk-ins are welcome every night. For groups of 6 or more, call ahead at (407) 354-0770. Online reservations are also available.
Absolutely. Casual and welcoming with a $13 kids menu that includes gelato for dessert. Highchairs available. No dress code — shorts and flip-flops welcome.
Walk-ins are welcome every night. For groups of 6+, call ahead at (407) 354-0770.
Yes. Ciao Italia offers an Italian wine list and beer selection curated to pair with the food. Wine and beer only — no cocktails.
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Authentic Italian food on International Drive. Family-owned since 1991.
