Hi Skylady,

Italian Food can be found just about everywhere in Ottawa these days, including Preston Street in Little Italy (where you went the last time). That said quality definitely differs from one spot to the next, as does the "scene" at each location.

For example, some spots cater to the Political Set, and are frequented by Ottawa's whos-who, while others are focusing on the tourist with their hip decor and featured martini lounges. Then there are a couple that go after the younger set with their in-house wood ovens and gourmet pizza as well as pasta. There are always the "old guard" which many of the spots along Preston are considered, with great wine cellars, ok food and service, some are bettr than others, but many just rest on their reputations having been opened for 30, 40 or 50 years. The hottest thing in the Italian scene these days IMO is happening out in the burbs. A lot of small Mom & Pop places with great food, service and Italian cantina atmospheres (but ya gotta have a car to get to them).

Let me know what specifically you are looking for and I'll be glad to point you in the right direction.

Cheers!

Wine-4-2

Giovanni's has great food. My supervisor, an Italian, reccomends them as well and suggests you ask the waiter what's fresh before you order fish. In Little Italy. Make Reservations.

A smaller more contemporary place is Il primo's. The specials are usually good and the service is casual-friendly, but we have had mix-ups there. In Little Italy.

Bella's Bistro is yummy and I have only good experiences there with both the food and service. On Wellington St West, near Island Park Drive. Make Reservations.

Wine 4-2, we would like something with home cooked mama style doesn't have to be fancy or anything like that just down home good italian cooking.

My fav place to eat in little Italy is Giovanni`s. It is small, romantic and truly authentic. The service is amazing and their pasta is to die for! You will love it!

not in little Italy at all, but Napo's is excellent - restaurantthing.com/ca/…