Nestled in the heart of Ashland, Virginia, Il Forno Bar + Grill stands as a culinary gem, offering an authentic Italian dining experience that tantalizes the senses. With a commitment to preserving traditional flavors and techniques, this restaurant has become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts seeking a taste of Italy’s rich culinary heritage.
Stepping through the doors of Il Forno Bar + Grill, diners are immediately transported to a warm and inviting atmosphere, where the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces fills the air. The decor seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern elegance, creating a cozy ambiance that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure.
At the core of Il Forno Bar + Grill’s philosophy lies a deep reverence for authentic Italian cuisine. The chefs meticulously source the finest ingredients, ensuring that every dish is a true representation of the flavors and traditions that have been passed down through generations. From the delicate folds of freshly made pasta to the perfectly charred crust of their Neapolitan-style pizzas, every bite is a celebration of Italy’s culinary artistry.
Appetizers
Embark on a tantalizing culinary journey at Il Forno Bar + Grill with our exquisite selection of appetizers, meticulously crafted to awaken your senses and ignite your taste buds. Prepare to be captivated by the harmonious blend of traditional Italian flavors and innovative twists that grace each dish.
Our signature Bruschetta al Pomodoro is a crowd favorite, featuring crispy garlic-rubbed crostini adorned with a vibrant medley of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. This classic Italian starter bursts with the essence of summer, transporting you to the sun-drenched piazzas of Italy with every bite.
For those seeking a heartier indulgence, the Arancini di Riso, or crispy risotto balls, are a must-try. Filled with a decadent blend of melted mozzarella and savory Bolognese sauce, these golden orbs are fried to perfection, creating a delightfully crispy exterior that gives way to a molten, flavor-packed interior.
Embrace the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with our Calamari Fritti, featuring tender rings of calamari lightly dusted in a seasoned flour and fried until golden and crispy. Served with a tangy lemon-caper aioli, this appetizer is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite cocktail or glass of wine.
For those seeking a vegetarian delight, our Funghi Ripieni, or stuffed mushrooms, are a true revelation. Plump mushroom caps are filled with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and a touch of Parmesan, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Pizzas
At Il Forno Bar + Grill, the pizza menu is a true celebration of authentic Italian flavors. From classic Margherita to innovative specialty creations, each pizza is a masterpiece crafted with the freshest ingredients and a commitment to traditional techniques.
The restaurant’s pizza dough is made daily, allowing the natural fermentation process to develop a delightfully chewy and flavorful crust. The dough is then hand-stretched and topped with a vibrant tomato sauce made from ripe Italian plum tomatoes, ensuring a bright and robust flavor profile.
For those seeking a taste of tradition, the Margherita pizza is a must-try. This classic pie features a simple yet harmonious combination of fresh mozzarella, basil, and the signature tomato sauce, allowing the pure flavors to shine through. Alternatively, the Quattro Formaggi pizza is a cheese lover’s dream, showcasing a blend of four carefully selected Italian cheeses that create a rich and creamy indulgence.
Venturing into the realm of specialty pizzas, Il Forno Bar + Grill offers a tantalizing array of options. The Carbonara pizza is a unique twist on the classic pasta dish, featuring crispy pancetta, a creamy egg-based sauce, and a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. For those seeking a burst of Mediterranean flavors, the Greca pizza is a delightful choice, adorned with kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Accommodating various preferences, Il Forno Bar + Grill offers pizza sizes ranging from personal to family-style, ensuring there’s an option for every occasion. Whether you’re dining solo or sharing a meal with loved ones, the restaurant’s pizza menu promises a truly authentic and satisfying Italian experience.
Pasta
Il Forno Bar + Grill’s pasta menu showcases the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Italian flavors and traditions. From classic recipes passed down through generations to innovative house specialties, each dish is a celebration of the rich culinary heritage of Italy.
For those seeking traditional indulgence, the Spaghetti alla Carbonara is a must-try. This iconic Roman dish features al dente spaghetti tossed in a creamy sauce made with eggs, pancetta, and pecorino romano cheese, creating a harmonious blend of savory and decadent flavors.
The Lasagna alla Bolognese is another beloved classic, layered with tender sheets of fresh pasta, a rich meat ragù, and a velvety béchamel sauce, baked to perfection and served piping hot.
Adventurous palates will delight in Il Forno’s house specialties, such as the Pappardelle al Cinghiale. This hearty dish features wide ribbons of pasta enveloped in a robust wild boar ragù, infused with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and a hint of truffle oil.
For those seeking lighter fare or adhering to dietary restrictions, Il Forno offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The Penne all’Arrabbiata is a spicy yet satisfying choice, with penne pasta tossed in a zesty tomato sauce with garlic, chili peppers, and fresh basil. Gluten-free diners can indulge in the Gnocchi di Patate, pillowy potato dumplings served with a choice of sauce, ensuring no one misses out on the joy of Italian pasta.
Specialty Entrees
Il Forno Bar + Grill’s specialty entree menu showcases the restaurant’s commitment to using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. The seafood and meat options are expertly prepared to bring out the best flavors and textures.
For seafood lovers, the Linguine alle Vongole is a must-try. This classic Italian dish features linguine pasta tossed with fresh littleneck clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will transport you to the Italian coastline.
Another standout is the Branzino alla Griglia, a whole Mediterranean sea bass grilled to perfection and served with a medley of roasted vegetables and a lemon-caper sauce. The delicate flavors of the fish are complemented by the vibrant flavors of the accompaniments, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
For meat enthusiasts, the Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a true showstopper. This 32-ounce, bone-in ribeye steak is aged for maximum tenderness and flavor, grilled to your desired doneness, and served with roasted potatoes and a rich red wine reduction. The quality of the meat is evident in every bite, making this dish a carnivore’s delight.
The Pollo alla Parmigiana is a classic Italian favorite that Il Forno Bar + Grill has perfected. Tender chicken breasts are lightly breaded, pan-fried, and topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Served with a side of linguine, this dish is a comforting and flavorful option that will leave you craving more.
No matter your preference, each specialty entree at Il Forno Bar + Grill is prepared with care and attention to detail, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of authentic Italian flavors.
Vegetables & Sides
At Il Forno Bar + Grill, the vegetable and side dishes are crafted with the same attention to detail and quality as the main courses. These accompaniments are designed to complement the flavors of the pasta, pizza, and entrees, elevating the overall dining experience.
The menu features a rotating selection of seasonal vegetables, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful ingredients are used. From roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon and olive oil to sautéed spinach with garlic and red pepper flakes, each vegetable dish is a celebration of simple yet delicious flavors.
For those seeking heartier sides, Il Forno offers a variety of options. The roasted rosemary potatoes, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, are a perfect pairing with the restaurant’s signature dishes. The garlic bread, made with a house-made dough and topped with melted butter and fresh herbs, is a must-try for any carb lover.
Popular pairings at Il Forno include the sautéed broccoli rabe with the chicken parmesan, the roasted Brussels sprouts with the grilled salmon, and the garlic mashed potatoes with the braised short ribs. These combinations showcase the restaurant’s commitment to creating harmonious flavors and textures on every plate.
Whether you’re seeking a light and refreshing accompaniment or a hearty and satisfying side, Il Forno Bar + Grill’s vegetable and side offerings are sure to delight your taste buds and complement your main course selection perfectly.
Salads: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight
At Il Forno Bar + Grill, the salad offerings are a true celebration of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and unique dressings that tantalize the taste buds. Whether you’re seeking a light starter or a wholesome main course, the salad menu is sure to impress with its diverse and health-conscious options.
The signature Il Forno Salad is a crowd favorite, featuring crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and shredded carrots, all tossed in a zesty Italian vinaigrette. For a heartier option, the Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a classic choice, boasting grilled chicken breast, crispy romaine, shaved Parmesan, and homemade croutons, all tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing.
Those seeking a lighter fare will delight in the Caprese Salad, a refreshing combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves, drizzled with a balsamic reduction and extra virgin olive oil. The Mediterranean Salad is another standout, featuring mixed greens, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, red onions, and a tangy Greek dressing.
For a burst of seasonal flavors, the Seasonal Fruit Salad is a must-try, showcasing a vibrant array of fresh fruits tossed in a sweet honey-lime dressing. Vegetarians and health-conscious diners will appreciate the Quinoa Salad, a nutrient-dense blend of quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
No matter your preference, Il Forno Bar + Grill’s salad offerings are a testament to their commitment to using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, ensuring a delightful and satisfying dining experience with every bite.
Happy Hour
Il Forno Bar + Grill’s happy hour is a lively and vibrant experience that perfectly complements its authentic Italian cuisine. From Monday to Friday, between 4 PM and 6 PM, the bar area transforms into a social hub, offering a selection of discounted appetizers, wines, and craft cocktails. The happy hour menu features a variety of small bites, including bruschetta, calamari fritti, and arancini, allowing guests to indulge in Italian flavors at an affordable price.
The atmosphere during happy hour is electric, with a mix of locals and visitors mingling at the bar or gathering around the high-top tables. The knowledgeable bartenders are always ready to recommend the perfect pairing of drinks and appetizers or to craft a custom cocktail to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or catch up with friends, the lively ambiance and discounted offerings make Il Forno Bar + Grill’s happy hour a must-visit experience.
Embrace the social spirit of Italian culture and visit Il Forno Bar + Grill during happy hour. Indulge in delectable appetizers, sip on refreshing cocktails, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy that epitomizes the Italian way of life. It’s the perfect opportunity to kick off your evening with friends or colleagues in a warm and inviting setting.
Conclusion
Il Forno Bar + Grill offers a truly diverse and authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of Ashland, Virginia. From the tantalizing appetizers to the decadent desserts, the menu showcases a harmonious blend of traditional recipes and modern twists, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re craving a classic Margherita pizza, a hearty plate of pasta al dente, or a succulent specialty entrée, Il Forno Bar + Grill promises to deliver a memorable culinary journey. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and authenticity.
Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in this Italian gastronomy adventure. Make your reservation today and let the skilled chefs at Il Forno Bar + Grill transport you to the vibrant streets of Italy with their artfully crafted dishes. Buon appetito!