Located in the heart of Dalton, D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market stands as a vibrant culinary destination that beautifully marries traditional Italian flavors with modern dining experiences. This establishment is more than just a restaurant; it is a celebration of Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage, offering fresh, handcrafted dishes made from the finest ingredients.
From the bustling kitchen to the inviting market, every element is designed to provide an authentic taste of Italy right in the local community.
The menu at D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market is thoughtfully curated to cater to a variety of palates, whether you’re seeking a hearty pasta dish, delicate seafood, or a classic Italian antipasto. Each item is prepared with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the passion and expertise of the culinary team.
The market section complements the dining experience by offering artisanal products, allowing guests to bring a piece of Italy home.
Patrons appreciate the warm ambiance and the blend of rustic charm with contemporary elegance, making it an ideal spot for both casual meals and special occasions. With a diverse menu that highlights the best of Italian cuisine, D.Donatelli ensures every visit is a journey into Italy’s vibrant food culture.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer selection at D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market provides a perfect introduction to the meal, featuring a variety of traditional and innovative starters that awaken the palate. These dishes are crafted to showcase fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and authentic Italian techniques.
From classic bruschetta to rich and savory calamari, the starters offer something for every taste. The kitchen prioritizes seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each appetizer bursts with freshness and flavor.
Whether you prefer light, crisp bites or indulgent, hearty starters, there is an option that sets the perfect tone for your dining experience.
Many appetizers are designed to be shared, fostering a communal dining atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection around the table.
Popular Appetizer Options
- Bruschetta al Pomodoro: Grilled bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil, embodying the essence of Italian simplicity.
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly breaded squid rings fried to golden perfection, served with a tangy marinara dipping sauce.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables, perfect for sharing.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Button mushrooms filled with a savory blend of herbs, cheeses, and breadcrumbs.
“A perfect appetizer is like the opening notes of a symphony — it sets the stage for a memorable meal.”
Pasta Dishes
D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market’s pasta offerings are the heart and soul of the menu, celebrating Italy’s rich tradition of handcrafted noodles paired with diverse sauces and ingredients. Each dish is prepared fresh daily, emphasizing authentic techniques and balanced flavors.
The menu includes a variety of pasta shapes and styles, from classic spaghetti and fettuccine to more regional specialties such as pappardelle and gnocchi. Sauces range from light, herb-infused olive oil blends to rich and hearty ragùs, accommodating all preferences and dietary needs.
Vegetarian options are thoughtfully incorporated, demonstrating the kitchen’s commitment to inclusivity and flavor innovation.
Signature Pasta Selections
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Description |
| Fettuccine Alfredo | Fettuccine, cream, Parmesan, butter | Creamy and smooth, a classic comfort food with a rich, cheesy sauce. |
| Spaghetti Bolognese | Spaghetti, ground beef, tomato sauce, herbs | Hearty meat sauce slow-cooked for depth and richness. |
| Gnocchi Sorrentina | Potato gnocchi, tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil | Soft potato dumplings baked with fresh mozzarella and vibrant tomato sauce. |
| Pappardelle al Funghi | Pappardelle, wild mushrooms, garlic, cream | Earthy mushrooms combined with delicate pasta in a creamy herb sauce. |
“Handcrafted pasta is not just food; it is an art form that connects generations.”
Seafood Specialties
For lovers of the sea, D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market offers a curated selection of seafood dishes that highlight freshness and Italian coastal traditions. Each seafood entrée is crafted to enhance the natural flavors of the ocean’s bounty.
Using sustainable sourcing practices, the kitchen ensures that every fish, shrimp, and shellfish item is responsibly caught and prepared with care. These dishes balance delicate textures with robust seasonings, often incorporating Mediterranean herbs, lemon, and olive oil to keep the flavors bright and clean.
The seafood section is ideal for diners looking for lighter fare or a taste of Italy’s famed seaside cuisine.
Seafood Highlights
- Cioppino: A rich seafood stew featuring clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish simmered in a tomato and white wine broth.
- Grilled Branzino: Whole Mediterranean sea bass grilled with herbs and lemon, served with seasonal vegetables.
- Shrimp Scampi: Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and white wine, tossed with linguine.
- Lobster Ravioli: Handmade ravioli stuffed with lobster meat and ricotta, served in a light cream sauce.
“Fresh seafood paired with simple, quality ingredients creates a dish that transports you to the Italian coast.”
Pizza Offerings
Pizza at D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market is a celebration of Italy’s most beloved comfort food, crafted with a focus on authentic dough preparation and high-quality toppings. The pizzas are wood-fired to achieve the perfect balance of crispy crust and tender interior.
The menu features traditional styles alongside creative combinations that showcase local and seasonal ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita or a more adventurous pie loaded with diverse flavors, there is something to satisfy every pizza enthusiast.
Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available, ensuring inclusivity without sacrificing taste or quality.
Featured Pizzas
| Pizza Name | Toppings | Description |
| Margherita | Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil | Classic and simple, highlighting fresh, high-quality ingredients. |
| Quattro Formaggi | Mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, parmesan | Rich and cheesy blend for the ultimate cheese lover’s pizza. |
| Prosciutto e Rucola | Prosciutto, arugula, mozzarella, shaved parmesan | A savory and peppery combination with fresh greens. |
| Vegetariana | Tomato sauce, mushrooms, peppers, olives, onions | A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables on a crisp crust. |
“The secret to great pizza lies in patience—the dough’s slow rise creates unmatched texture and flavor.”
Salads and Sides
Complementing the main dishes, the salad and sides menu offers fresh, vibrant options designed to balance and enhance the overall dining experience. These lighter choices bring a welcome contrast to richer entrees and are prepared using crisp, seasonal produce.
Salads range from simple greens with classic dressings to composed plates featuring unique Italian ingredients such as fresh mozzarella, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Side dishes include roasted vegetables, garlic bread, and creamy polenta, all prepared to the highest standards.
These selections provide excellent options for guests seeking lighter meals or additional accompaniments to their main courses.
Salad and Side Options
- Insalata Caprese: Sliced fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with house-made Caesar dressing, Parmesan, and croutons.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A medley of locally sourced vegetables roasted with herbs and olive oil.
- Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Warm, soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with Parmesan.
“A well-crafted side dish is not just an accompaniment but an essential part of the meal’s harmony.”
Dessert Selections
To conclude the meal on a sweet note, D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market offers an array of classic Italian desserts made in-house. These treats are designed to provide indulgence without overwhelming, perfectly balancing sweetness, texture, and flavor.
The dessert menu changes seasonally to incorporate fresh fruits and traditional recipes, ensuring variety and freshness year-round. From creamy tiramisu to crisp biscotti, each dessert honors Italian culinary traditions.
Desserts are ideal for sharing or as a personal indulgence, providing a satisfying end to the dining experience.
Popular Desserts
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Description |
| Tiramisu | Mascarpone, espresso, ladyfingers, cocoa | A classic layered dessert with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone. |
| Panna Cotta | Cream, sugar, vanilla, berry compote | Silky smooth cream dessert served with a fresh berry sauce. |
| Cannoli | Ricotta, chocolate chips, crispy pastry shell | Crisp pastry tubes filled with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips. |
| Gelato | Milk, sugar, natural flavorings | Rich and creamy Italian-style ice cream available in a variety of flavors. |
“Dessert should be the grand finale — a sweet memory that lingers long after the meal.”
Market and Specialty Products
Beyond the dining room, D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market boasts a market area that offers guests the chance to purchase authentic Italian products. This extension of the restaurant allows customers to bring the flavors of Italy into their own kitchens.
The market features a variety of artisanal goods including imported olive oils, vinegars, cured meats, pasta, sauces, and fresh baked breads. These items are carefully selected to maintain the highest quality and authenticity, making them perfect gifts or pantry essentials for Italian cuisine lovers.
Staff members are knowledgeable and happy to provide recommendations or pairing suggestions, enhancing the shopping experience and encouraging culinary exploration at home.
Featured Market Products
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Cold-pressed, imported from renowned Italian regions.
- Handmade Pasta: Fresh and dried varieties, crafted with traditional methods.
- Cured Italian Meats: Prosciutto, salami, and other delicacies sourced directly from Italy.
- Artisanal Sauces: Classic tomato sauces, pestos, and cream-based sauces made in-house.
“The market is where tradition meets everyday life, connecting families through the joy of cooking.”
Conclusion
D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market in Dalton offers an immersive culinary experience that honors Italy’s rich food heritage while embracing fresh, local ingredients and modern sensibilities. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to provide a comprehensive journey through Italian cuisine, from delectable appetizers to indulgent desserts and everything in between.
Whether dining in or shopping at the market, guests are treated to authenticity, quality, and warmth that make each visit memorable. The dedication to handcrafted dishes, sustainable sourcing, and seasonal menus ensures that every plate is not only delicious but also meaningful.
For those seeking a genuine taste of Italy with a contemporary twist, D.Donatelli Italian Kitchen + Market stands out as a must-visit destination in Dalton. It is a place where food lovers can celebrate tradition, savor innovation, and create lasting memories around the table and beyond.
