Atlanta’s culinary scene has evolved dramatically over the decades. While once, dining out for young Atlantans was a rare occasion, limited to traditional establishments, the city now boasts a vibrant and diverse food landscape. Amidst this transformation, one restaurant has stood the test of time, consistently serving up what many consider to be some of the Best Italian Food In Atlanta: Nino’s. For generations seeking authentic Italian flavors, Nino’s, located on Cheshire Bridge Road, has been a beloved institution, even when compared to its former neighbor Alfredo’s. Initially, as a Parisian transplant accustomed to European culinary standards, the traditional, heavy Italian-American fare at places like Nino’s didn’t immediately resonate. However, perspectives change, and understanding the context of Atlanta’s evolving food scene reveals the enduring appeal of this family-run gem.
Founded in 1968 by Genoa native Nino Laporete, Nino’s initially presented a classic Italian-American dining experience. While the original iteration, with its bustling waiters and hearty, familiar dishes, didn’t initially capture the essence of Italian cuisine as understood in Italy, it filled a niche in Atlanta’s developing restaurant scene. However, a significant shift occurred in the early 1980s when Antonio Noviello from the Amalfi Coast took ownership. This transition marked a turning point, adding a layer of authenticity and a touch of Southern Italian charm to Nino’s. Even with a menu that leaned towards the conservative, in a city increasingly dominated by flashy, corporate-driven restaurants, Nino’s commitment to a personal, family-run atmosphere became increasingly valued. This intimate approach, focusing on genuine hospitality and classic Italian recipes, resonated deeply with diners seeking a more soulful and authentic experience, solidifying its place as a provider of some of the best Italian food in Atlanta.
Today, Nino’s continues to thrive under the guidance of the next generation, Alessandra Noviello Hayes and her husband Micah Hayes. This family affair ensures that the restaurant retains its core values while subtly evolving to meet modern tastes. Long-term patrons still frequent the unassuming Cheshire Bridge Road location, now surrounded by revitalized streets featuring other Atlanta dining landmarks like Nakato and Taqueria del Sol, and newer establishments contributing to a more refined neighborhood ambiance. During a recent visit, classic dishes like clams oreganata and lasagna, alongside a flavorful veal saltimbocca and a memorable porcini fettuccine (a delightful off-menu secret), highlighted the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition. While the service style has seen a generational shift, with younger staff bringing a faster pace, the warmth and dedication remain palpable. Conversations about the restaurant’s history and evolving prices underscore the nostalgic connection many feel to Nino’s, a place that serves as a delicious link to Atlanta’s past while still offering some of the best Italian food in Atlanta today.
Significant updates, including refreshed interiors and the recent expansion into the adjacent space named Dopo Lavoro, demonstrate Nino’s ability to adapt without losing its identity. With Antonio Noviello’s retirement and Alessandra and Micah at the helm, Nino’s embraces both tradition and innovation. Dopo Lavoro, designed in collaboration with Alessandra’s sister Gabriela Eisenhart, offers a bright, contemporary contrast to the original restaurant’s cozy, dimly lit rooms. This new space, featuring a larger bar, lighter ambiance, and décor inspired by modern Italian aesthetics – think butter-yellow banquettes and family photos in gold frames – provides a versatile extension for lunch, brunch, and expanded dining. This expansion allows Nino’s to cater to a broader clientele while maintaining the intimate dining experience that has defined its reputation for decades as a purveyor of best Italian food in Atlanta.
Micah Hayes brings a fresh perspective, emphasizing the importance of every detail in maintaining a high-quality establishment. His influence is evident in the updated pasta dishes, now featuring real béchamel in the lasagna, and in the dessert offerings. Regular trips to Italy by Micah and Alessandra further fuel their commitment to authenticity and culinary excellence. A recent lunch in Dopo Lavoro showcased these innovations. New salads like the grilled romaine Caesar, inventive sandwiches like the Alici with anchovies and arugula, and perfectly executed pasta dishes such as linguine with lemon cream and calamarata with rapini and sausage, demonstrate a menu that is both classic and contemporary. The flourless torta Caprese provides a delightful, not-too-sweet finish. The enhanced wine list, featuring Italian wines by the glass and refreshing spritzes, further elevates the dining experience.
Nino’s expanded service, now including lunch and Sunday brunch in addition to nightly dinner, makes its exceptional Italian cuisine more accessible than ever. In a city where restaurant institutions are increasingly rare, Nino’s stands out not only for its longevity but for its ability to evolve gracefully. By honoring its history while embracing thoughtful updates, Nino’s continues to solidify its reputation as a destination for some of the best Italian food in Atlanta, offering an experience that is both timeless and relevant.
