Dolce Vita Ristorante

We have been to this restaurant a few times. It is a special occasion restaurant for us since prices are a bit high (entrees $25 to 40). The owner is almost always there. He regularly goes out to greet people browsing the menu outside and convinces them to come in. Once you are at your table, he will ask you what you feel like having and make suggestions. Beware his suggestions often appear on the bill as a "custom" dish and so price may reflect that. He embraces an old world charm of acclimating the customers, making his rounds to check in on you, suggest wine and dessert. We have found the food consistently great. The experience has been great as well. The service has always been attentive. Make sure to go early. We go between 3pm to 4pm. Most recently we went on a Thursday at 4. By the time we were done at about 6:30 it was bustling with activity. The bar was full, tables mostly filled. The wine list is more than enough to get you started (our bottle was $150). The dessert menu is pretty great with the essentials. I had the cream puffs and loved them. The pasta, seafood, meat, sauce are always delicious. We ordered the grilled octopus for an appetizer. It was so delicious and tender. Would definitely order again. There is a single bathroom near the bar and it is meh. Not terrible but definitely not awesome. Consider both the busyness of the restaurant (aka having to wait) and your comfort with cleanliness. It is hard to believe this is a gem on Hanover because it is so early on the block you may feel like there is a lot more to consider --and there is!-- But, it is worth a try and then you can walk off some of the dinner by walking around the neighborhood to see the other restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, bars, souvenir shops. It is an amazing neighborhood. (Word to the wise- many places only take cash, yes I know...) This restaurant does accept credit cards so no worries there. Our bill was over $400, which I don't expect is all that unusual. Pictures attached.

First time visiting but will not be our last. Stopped in here super last minute because the restaurant we had reservations for had a lack luster menu and we were craving authentic Italian cuisine. We were seated promptly despite how busy it was. It was a bit warm in the restaurant but honestly as soon as we were served (which was QUICK) we did not mind. There was also a violinist performing for each table which added to the charm. Extensive wine list and menu did NOT disappoint. I ordered the eggplant lasagna and WOW! The sauce was a perfect balance of salty and sweet, cheese was unbelievable, fresh basil. Our server was incredible. The owner was bussing and setting tables. If you want a legit Sicilian Italian experience try this place! Amazing!

Stopped here for a early afternoon drink they owner greets you and his very friendly and welcoming. Although we did not end up eating here as we had already eaten I would recommend you make a reservation and dine in as this has a great atmosphere with a large open front to the restaurant. Staff are welcoming and friendly.

In from Galveston TX. Owner very nice but servers seemed unhappy. Food was very good. Overall good but improvements are needed.

Ended up just dropping in, was the best find for us. They offered to make anything we would like and made wonderful suggestions to help us. The eggplant lasagna was a delight, we also enjoyed a pasta Primavera and several other dishes continued to amaze us in the quality of the food and service. We go back in a heart beat. Thank you also to the owner, who checked to make sure we had a wonderful visit.