Nestled in the heart of culinary tradition, Annabella Italian Restaurant stands as a beacon for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine. The menu is a celebration of classic flavors, regional specialties, and contemporary twists—each dish crafted with passion and reverence for Italy’s rich food heritage.
From the moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces transports you straight to the sun-dappled hills of Tuscany and the bustling trattorias of Rome. The inviting ambiance, warm hospitality, and attention to detail make every meal at Annabella an experience to savor.
Annabella’s chefs are driven by a commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients, whether it’s handpicked basil for the pesto or imported Parmigiano-Reggiano for the risotto. The menu is thoughtfully curated to offer something for every palate, from hearty meat lovers to devoted vegetarians and seafood enthusiasts.
Seasonal changes ensure that the freshest local produce shines in every dish, while a carefully selected wine list complements the flavors on your plate. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening, a family gathering, or a memorable celebration, Annabella’s menu promises to delight and inspire with every bite.
Appetizers: The Art of the Italian Antipasto
The appetizer selection at Annabella is a symphony of flavors designed to awaken the palate and set the stage for the meal ahead. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Italian antipasto, these starters combine vibrant vegetables, cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and inventive house specialties.
One of the menu’s highlights is the classic Bruschetta al Pomodoro. Crisp grilled bread is topped with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
The freshness of the ingredients shines in every bite, offering a taste of summer in any season. Another signature item is the Carpaccio di Manzo—a delicate arrangement of thinly sliced raw beef, arugula, shaved Parmigiano, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Vegetarians will find plenty to love, such as the Melanzane alla Griglia: tender grilled eggplant layered with roasted peppers, capers, and a touch of garlic. These starters are not just about taste—they’re about atmosphere, encouraging conversation and anticipation for the courses to come.
- Bruschetta al Pomodoro: Fresh tomato, basil, garlic, olive oil
- Carpaccio di Manzo: Beef carpaccio, arugula, Parmigiano, lemon vinaigrette
- Melanzane alla Griglia: Grilled eggplant, roasted peppers, capers
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly fried calamari, house aioli
“The antipasto is the overture to the meal, a promise of delights yet to come.” — Chef Lucia Romano, Annabella’s Head Chef
For those seeking a more indulgent start, the Calamari Fritti offers a golden, crispy alternative, paired with a house-made aioli that’s equal parts creamy and tangy. Each appetizer, whether humble or luxurious, reflects Annabella’s dedication to the craft of Italian cooking.
Soups and Salads: Freshness in Every Spoonful
Soups and salads at Annabella go far beyond mere afterthoughts. These dishes reflect a philosophy of balance, seasonality, and freshness, acting as both palate cleansers and satisfying beginnings to the meal.
The Zuppa del Giorno, or “soup of the day,” is a rotating showcase of seasonal ingredients. One day you may find a comforting Minestrone packed with garden vegetables, while the next, a velvety Cream of Porcini Mushrooms.
Each recipe is crafted from scratch daily, often inspired by what’s freshest at the market.
Among the salads, the Insalata Caprese is a perennial favorite. Thick slices of buffalo mozzarella are layered with vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of aged balsamic.
For those craving something heartier, the Insalata di Pollo Grigliato features grilled chicken atop crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shaved Pecorino.
- Zuppa del Giorno: Daily soup crafted with fresh ingredients
- Minestrone: Traditional vegetable soup with beans and pasta
- Insalata Caprese: Mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze
- Insalata di Pollo Grigliato: Grilled chicken, mixed greens, Pecorino
Comparing Soup and Salad Pairings
| Pairing | Flavor Profile | Best Occasion |
| Minestrone & Insalata Caprese | Light, refreshing, vegetable-forward | Lunch, summer evenings |
| Cream of Porcini & Insalata di Pollo | Earthy, hearty, protein-rich | Cool weather, dinner |
Each soup and salad combination is designed to complement the rest of your meal, offering both nourishment and a burst of vibrant flavor. Annabella’s philosophy is simple: start every meal with freshness and care.
Pasta: The Heartbeat of Italian Cuisine
No Italian dining experience is complete without pasta, and Annabella’s menu pays homage to this beloved staple. From the rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna to the sun-kissed shores of Sicily, every region’s pasta tradition finds a home here.
The house-made Tagliatelle al Ragù is a standout, featuring ribbons of fresh pasta tossed in a slow-simmered beef and pork sauce. The secret lies in the hours spent coaxing flavor from the meat, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables.
Guests rave about the balance of richness and freshness in every forkful.
Seafood lovers are drawn to the Linguine ai Frutti di Mare, a medley of shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari in a light tomato and white wine sauce. This dish captures the essence of the Mediterranean coast, where the sea’s bounty inspires endless creativity.
- Tagliatelle al Ragù: Fresh pasta, beef & pork ragù
- Linguine ai Frutti di Mare: Seafood medley, tomato, white wine
- Lasagna Classica: Layered pasta, Bolognese, béchamel
- Gnocchi al Pesto: Potato gnocchi, basil pesto, pine nuts
“To eat pasta is to taste the soul of Italy. At Annabella, we honor that soul with every dish.” — Chef Lucia Romano
Vegetarians can indulge in the pillowy Gnocchi al Pesto, where each bite is a burst of basil, garlic, and toasted pine nuts. Meanwhile, the Lasagna Classica layers tender sheets of pasta with savory Bolognese and creamy béchamel, creating a comfort dish that’s both nostalgic and sophisticated.
At Annabella, pasta is more than a dish—it’s an experience, a memory, and a celebration of Italian heritage.
Pizzas: A Slice of Authenticity
Annabella’s pizza menu is a tribute to the time-honored craft of Neapolitan pizza making. Each pie is hand-stretched, topped with the freshest ingredients, and baked in a wood-fired oven to achieve that perfect balance of crispness and chew.
The Margherita, with its simple combination of San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, and basil, is a testament to the beauty of restraint. Every ingredient shines, and the charred, airy crust is an experience all its own.
For those seeking bolder flavors, the Diavola adds spicy Calabrian salami and a kick of chili oil.
- Margherita: San Marzano tomato, mozzarella di bufala, basil
- Diavola: Spicy salami, chili oil, mozzarella, tomato
- Quattro Formaggi: Mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, Parmigiano
- Vegetariana: Roasted vegetables, tomato, mozzarella
For cheese lovers, the Quattro Formaggi is an irresistible blend of mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, and Parmigiano. Each cheese melts into the next, creating a harmony of flavors that’s both indulgent and balanced.
Vegetarians will appreciate the Vegetariana, piled high with roasted peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
Pizza Styles Comparison
| Pizza | Crust | Flavor Notes |
| Margherita | Thin, airy, wood-fired | Bright, fresh, herby |
| Diavola | Thin, crisp, slightly spicy | Bold, spicy, savory |
Every pizza is made to order, ensuring that you receive it at its peak—bubbling hot, perfectly blistered, and bursting with flavor. Annabella’s pizzas are a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Italy.
Main Courses: From Land and Sea
Annabella’s main courses, or secondi, showcase the breadth of Italy’s culinary landscape. These dishes are inspired by rustic countryside cooking and the seafood traditions of the Italian coast, offering both comfort and elegance on one plate.
One of the signature offerings is the Osso Buco alla Milanese—a slow-braised veal shank served atop creamy saffron risotto. The meat is fork-tender, enriched by the marrow, while the risotto provides a luxurious counterpoint.
Another standout is the Branzino al Forno, a whole Mediterranean sea bass roasted with lemon, herbs, and olive oil.
- Osso Buco alla Milanese: Braised veal shank, saffron risotto
- Branzino al Forno: Roasted sea bass, lemon, herbs
- Pollo alla Parmigiana: Breaded chicken, tomato sauce, mozzarella
- Saltimbocca alla Romana: Veal, prosciutto, sage, white wine
“Our main courses tell the story of Italy’s land and sea—each plate a journey through tradition and flavor.” — Chef Lucia Romano
For poultry lovers, the Pollo alla Parmigiana layers breaded chicken breast with tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella, then bakes it to golden perfection. The Saltimbocca alla Romana is a delicate yet flavorful dish, featuring thin veal cutlets wrapped in prosciutto and sage, finished with a white wine reduction.
Comparison of Signature Secondi
| Dish | Main Protein | Accompaniment | Region |
| Osso Buco alla Milanese | Veal shank | Saffron risotto | Lombardy |
| Branzino al Forno | Mediterranean sea bass | Herbs, lemon | Coastal Italy |
Annabella’s main courses are a testament to the kitchen’s skill and creativity. Each dish is thoughtfully composed to offer a complete sensory experience, from aroma to presentation and, above all, taste.
Vegetarian and Vegan Offerings: Italian Flavor, Plant-Based
Annabella embraces the rich tradition of plant-based Italian cooking, offering a robust selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Far from being an afterthought, these menu items are celebrated for their creativity and depth of flavor.
The Risotto ai Funghi Porcini is a creamy, deeply savory dish that highlights the earthiness of wild mushrooms. Cooked with arborio rice, white wine, and vegetable stock, it’s finished with a swirl of extra virgin olive oil for richness.
The Melanzane alla Parmigiana layers baked eggplant with tangy tomato sauce and vegan mozzarella, creating a comforting yet light entrée.
- Risotto ai Funghi Porcini: Arborio rice, porcini mushrooms, white wine
- Melanzane alla Parmigiana: Baked eggplant, tomato sauce, vegan cheese
- Penne all’Arrabbiata: Spicy tomato sauce, garlic, parsley
- Insalata di Farro: Farro, cherry tomatoes, arugula, olives, lemon
For those seeking a little heat, the Penne all’Arrabbiata offers a spicy kick with its fiery tomato-garlic sauce. The Insalata di Farro is a refreshing grain salad, brimming with cherry tomatoes, arugula, and olives—perfect as a main course or a substantial side.
Plant-Based Options Table
| Dish | Vegan | Vegetarian | Key Ingredients |
| Risotto ai Funghi Porcini | ✔ | Porcini, arborio rice, olive oil | |
| Melanzane alla Parmigiana | ✔ | ✔ | Eggplant, tomato, vegan cheese |
| Penne all’Arrabbiata | ✔ | ✔ | Penne, spicy tomato sauce |
Annabella’s dedication to inclusivity means that plant-based diners never have to sacrifice flavor or satisfaction. Each vegetarian and vegan dish is a celebration of Italy’s love affair with vegetables and grains.
Desserts: Sweet Conclusions
No meal at Annabella is complete without a taste of something sweet. The dessert menu is a blend of classic Italian confections and contemporary favorites, each crafted to provide a memorable finish.
The Tiramisu is legendary—a creamy, coffee-soaked delight layered with mascarpone and dusted with cocoa. Every spoonful strikes the perfect balance between richness and lightness.
Another favorite is the Panna Cotta, a silky custard topped with seasonal fruit compote.
- Tiramisu: Espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone, cocoa
- Panna Cotta: Creamy custard, fruit compote
- Cannoli Siciliani: Crisp pastry, sweet ricotta filling, chocolate chips
- Sorbetto al Limone: Lemon sorbet, mint
For a taste of Sicily, the Cannoli Siciliani delivers a crisp pastry shell filled with sweet ricotta and studded with chocolate chips. Those seeking something lighter will appreciate the Sorbetto al Limone—a refreshing palate cleanser bursting with zesty citrus.
“A true Italian meal must end on a sweet note. Our desserts are crafted to linger in your memory long after the last bite.” — Chef Lucia Romano
Dessert Highlights
| Dessert | Texture | Flavor |
| Tiramisu | Creamy, soft | Coffee, cocoa, mascarpone |
| Cannoli Siciliani | Crisp shell, creamy filling | Ricotta, chocolate chips |
Each dessert at Annabella is not just a treat but a celebration—a sweet punctuation mark to an unforgettable meal.
Wine and Beverage Pairings: Enhancing the Experience
A thoughtfully curated wine list is the perfect complement to Annabella’s cuisine. The restaurant’s sommeliers have traveled extensively throughout Italy, selecting bottles that balance tradition, terroir, and innovation.
The wine offerings are grouped by region and style, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for any dish. A crisp Pinot Grigio from Friuli goes beautifully with seafood pasta, while a robust Chianti Classico is the ideal companion for hearty ragù or grilled meats.
Sparkling options, such as Prosecco, add a festive note to any occasion.
- Pinot Grigio: Ideal with seafood and salads
- Chianti Classico: Pairs with red sauces and meats
- Barolo: Perfect for rich main courses
- Prosecco: Great with appetizers and celebrations
Wine Pairing Recommendations Table
| Dish | Recommended Wine | Flavor Match |
| Linguine ai Frutti di Mare | Pinot Grigio | Crisp, citrus, light |
| Tagliatelle al Ragù | Chianti Classico | Robust, earthy, tannic |
| Osso Buco | Barolo | Bold, complex, structured |
Non-alcoholic choices abound as well, from house-made lemonades and Italian sodas to expertly crafted mocktails. Each beverage is selected or created to enhance the flavor journey, ensuring that every guest finds the perfect sip to accompany their meal.
“The right wine elevates a meal from delicious to unforgettable. At Annabella, every pairing is an invitation to explore.” — Head Sommelier Giorgio Vitale
Annabella’s beverage offerings are more than an afterthought—they’re an integral part of the dining experience, designed to bring out the best in every bite.
Conclusion: The Annabella Experience
Dining at Annabella Italian Restaurant is much more than a meal—it’s a journey through the heart and soul of Italy. Each dish on the menu is a tribute to tradition, crafted with passion, precision, and a commitment to quality.
Whether savoring a rustic pasta, a perfectly blistered pizza, or a luxurious secondi, guests are treated to the flavors and hospitality that define the Italian table.
Annabella’s menu is thoughtfully curated to provide something for everyone, from devoted carnivores to plant-based food lovers and those with a sweet tooth. Every course, from appetizers to desserts, tells a story—of regions, of seasons, and of the people who prepare them with care.
The wine and beverage pairings only heighten the experience, offering a harmonious complement to each dish.
What truly sets Annabella apart is the warmth and authenticity that infuse every aspect of the restaurant. The staff’s dedication to service, the kitchen’s reverence for quality ingredients, and the inviting atmosphere all combine to create memories that linger long after the final bite.
For anyone seeking an authentic Italian dining experience, Annabella is not just a destination—it’s a celebration. Buon appetito!
