Nina's Italian Ristorante

We checked out this restaurant on Valentine’s Day and were impressed with the wide variety of selections and professional service. There were several menu items that didn’t contain the heavy sauces that often come with Italian food. Also, the tiramisu was the best we’ve ever had. We look forward to going back.

Called right when they opened for a 6:30 reservation and they had a spot for us. The food was amazing! 👏 they started us with complimentary bread/brushetta then our appetizer was stuffed mushrooms (fungi ripieni). I could have just eaten that all day. It was soo good. I ordered a penne con pollo and my dinner companion ordered chicken marsala. Then we finished with tiramisu cake and a chocolate cake. The chicken marsala is off menu and they also have chicken parm off menu too. I have no complaints and know we will be going again. A couple of things to note: The restaurant using dim lighting so you may need your phone light to see the menu It doesn't say on the menu or anywhere else. If you don't have cash, there is a 4% surcharge. They circle it on the bill. I did have majority cash for the bill based on a review I saw about it but it wasn't enough and they still charged me 4%. They really should just hide the surcharge into the food cost and I would not complain.

So, we went to Nina's Ristorante for dinner tonight. Even though I have lived in Raleigh for over 30 years, I have never been to Nina's and wanted something different. Dinner was delicious and pricey, as I expected. BUT, when the check came, I saw one total if I paid CASH and another total if I paid with a CREDIT CARD. They added a 4% SURCHARGE onto the tab for paying with a credit card! Had I known in advance I would have brought cash but obviously I wasn't prepared to pay in cash since I don't carry that much around. I have never seen this in a restaurant. Gas stations do it but they post it on their signs. They even called to confirm my reservation 2 days in advance - and should have mentioned this surcharge at that time. Sorry to say, I'll take my business elsewhere.

I usually go to a restaurant a few times before putting forth a review. This was my third time at Nina’s and all three times the food has been exquisite and the service outstanding. Our server/waiter has been Anthony and he is as I previously stated outstanding. The great thing here they work as a team everyone on the staff is always checking things and making sure the patrons needs are being met. They have a very good wine list. So if you haven’t been to Nina’s I would advise you to go for some great food and top notch service.