Nonno’s Cellar in Lima, Ohio, is a culinary gem that brings authentic Italian flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere to the heart of the city. Known for its dedication to quality ingredients and traditional recipes, Nonno’s Cellar offers diners an unforgettable experience that combines classic dishes with contemporary twists.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the menu at Nonno’s Cellar is thoughtfully curated to satisfy a variety of palates, featuring everything from hearty pasta dishes to fresh seafood and mouthwatering desserts.
The restaurant’s commitment to excellence is evident in each dish, crafted with passion and served with genuine hospitality.
The menu is a celebration of Italy’s rich culinary heritage, showcasing regional specialties alongside beloved staples. With an extensive wine list and a selection of hand-crafted cocktails, Nonno’s Cellar ensures that every meal is perfectly complemented.
The ambiance, paired with attentive service, makes it a perfect venue for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or casual nights out. Exploring Nonno’s menu reveals a blend of tradition and innovation, where each bite tells a story rooted in time-honored Italian cooking practices yet tailored for modern tastes.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Start
The appetizer section at Nonno’s Cellar sets the tone for the meal with a variety of enticing options. These starters are designed to awaken the palate and prepare guests for the courses ahead.
They range from light and fresh to rich and indulgent, offering something for every preference.
One of the standout appetizers is the Calamari Fritti, lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection. It’s served with a tangy marinara sauce that complements the crispy texture.
Another favorite is the Bruschetta Classica, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic on toasted Italian bread.
The menu also includes vegetarian-friendly options like the Stuffed Mushrooms, filled with a blend of cheeses and herbs. For those seeking something heartier, the Antipasto Misto platter offers a sampling of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables.
- Calamari Fritti with marinara sauce
- Bruschetta Classica with fresh tomatoes and basil
- Stuffed Mushrooms with cheese and herbs
- Antipasto Misto platter of meats and cheeses
“Our appetizers are crafted to capture the essence of Italian tradition while inviting guests to explore bold new tastes.”
Salads and Soups: Fresh and Comforting Choices
Nonno’s Cellar offers a refined selection of salads and soups, designed to balance freshness with comfort. Each dish uses seasonal ingredients to ensure vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.
These lighter options are perfect for starting a meal or enjoying as a standalone lighter fare.
The Insalata Caprese is a classic Italian salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. It’s a refreshing choice that highlights the simplicity of quality ingredients.
For those craving something heartier, the Minestrone Soup is a warm, vegetable-rich broth that comforts on cooler days.
Another popular option is the Caesar Salad, featuring crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing, topped with croutons and Parmesan cheese. Nonno’s also offers a seasonal soup that changes regularly, showcasing fresh, local produce.
- Insalata Caprese with balsamic reduction
- Minestrone Soup packed with vegetables
- Classic Caesar Salad with homemade dressing
- Seasonal soup options based on fresh ingredients
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Recommended Pairing |
| Insalata Caprese | Tomatoes, Mozzarella, Basil | Pinot Grigio |
| Minestrone Soup | Vegetables, Beans, Broth | Chardonnay |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine, Dressing, Croutons | Sauvignon Blanc |
Pasta Specialties: Heart of Italian Cuisine
The pasta offerings at Nonno’s Cellar are a celebration of Italian culinary artistry. Handmade or carefully selected, the pasta dishes feature rich sauces and fresh ingredients that bring each plate to life.
From timeless classics to creative interpretations, the pasta menu is a highlight for many guests.
Signature dishes include the Fettuccine Alfredo, crafted with a creamy parmesan sauce that coats each strand perfectly. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, the Penne Arrabbiata offers a bold tomato sauce infused with chili flakes and garlic.
The Lasagna Bolognese is another crowd-pleaser, layered with savory meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese.
Vegetarian options such as the Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli provide a delicate balance of flavors, served in a light butter sauce with fresh sage. The versatility of the pasta menu ensures that all diners can find a satisfying and authentic Italian dish.
- Fettuccine Alfredo with creamy parmesan sauce
- Penne Arrabbiata with spicy tomato sauce
- Lasagna Bolognese with rich meat sauce
- Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli with butter and sage
“Our pasta dishes are crafted with precision, honoring the tradition of Italian cooking while embracing modern tastes.”
Seafood Selections: Fresh from the Ocean
Nonno’s Cellar prides itself on offering fresh seafood dishes that capture the essence of coastal Italian cuisine. The seafood menu features a variety of options that are both flavorful and expertly prepared.
These dishes are perfect for those seeking lighter but satisfying meals.
The Shrimp Scampi is a standout, featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and white wine, served over linguine. Another popular dish is the Grilled Salmon, seasoned with herbs and accompanied by seasonal vegetables.
The Seafood Risotto combines creamy Arborio rice with a medley of fresh seafood, offering a rich and indulgent taste experience.
For those who enjoy shellfish, the Mussels Marinara are steamed in a savory tomato broth, perfect for dipping crusty bread. Each seafood dish is thoughtfully paired with ingredients that enhance the ocean-fresh flavors.
- Shrimp Scampi over linguine
- Grilled Salmon with seasonal vegetables
- Seafood Risotto featuring Arborio rice
- Mussels Marinara in tomato broth
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Cooking Style |
| Shrimp Scampi | Shrimp, Garlic, Butter, White Wine | Sautéed |
| Grilled Salmon | Salmon, Herbs, Vegetables | Grilled |
| Seafood Risotto | Arborio Rice, Seafood Mix | Simmered |
| Mussels Marinara | Mussels, Tomato, Garlic | Steamed |
Entrées: Classic and Contemporary Italian Fare
The entrée section at Nonno’s Cellar showcases a blend of traditional Italian dishes and modern interpretations that cater to diverse tastes. These main courses are substantial and crafted to provide a fulfilling dining experience.
The Chicken Parmigiana features tender breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, served alongside pasta or vegetables. Another favorite is the Veal Marsala, simmered in a rich mushroom and Marsala wine sauce.
For those seeking something robust, the Osso Buco offers braised veal shanks cooked slowly to tender perfection.
Vegetarian entrées like the Eggplant Parmesan provide a hearty and flavorful alternative, layered with marinara and cheeses. Each dish is thoughtfully plated and prepared with the freshest ingredients to deliver authentic Italian flavors.
- Chicken Parmigiana with marinara and mozzarella
- Veal Marsala in mushroom and wine sauce
- Osso Buco braised veal shanks
- Eggplant Parmesan with layered cheese and sauce
“Our entrées are designed to satisfy both tradition lovers and those eager to explore new culinary horizons.”
Desserts: Sweet Endings to Remember
The dessert menu at Nonno’s Cellar offers a delightful conclusion to any meal. Each dessert is crafted with care, combining classic Italian sweets with innovative touches that delight the senses.
Favorites include the Tiramisu, a luscious blend of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream. The Panna Cotta is a silky, creamy dessert often topped with fresh berries or a fruit coulis.
For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Cannoli filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips is a must-try.
Seasonal dessert specials also feature prominently, using fresh, local ingredients to create unique sweet treats. These desserts provide a perfect balance of flavor and texture, rounding out the dining experience on a high note.
- Tiramisu with espresso and mascarpone
- Panna Cotta with fresh berries
- Chocolate Cannoli with ricotta filling
- Seasonal dessert specials
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Taste Profile |
| Tiramisu | Ladyfingers, Espresso, Mascarpone | Rich, Creamy, Coffee-flavored |
| Panna Cotta | Cream, Gelatin, Fruit Topping | Silky, Light, Fruity |
| Chocolate Cannoli | Ricotta, Chocolate Chips, Pastry Shell | Sweet, Crispy, Chocolatey |
Beverages: Complementing Every Dish
Nonno’s Cellar boasts an extensive beverage menu designed to enhance the flavors of each dish. From carefully selected wines to specialty cocktails, the drink options are as thoughtfully curated as the food.
The wine list features a range of Italian varietals like Sangiovese, Barbera, and Pinot Grigio, offering guests the opportunity to explore regional flavors from Italy. For those who prefer cocktails, the house specialties include classics like the Negroni and modern favorites with an Italian twist.
Non-alcoholic beverages such as Italian sodas and freshly brewed espresso complete the menu, providing something for everyone. The staff is knowledgeable and eager to assist with pairing recommendations to elevate your dining experience.
- Italian wines including Sangiovese and Barbera
- Classic and signature cocktails
- Italian sodas and espresso drinks
- Non-alcoholic options for all ages
“Our beverage offerings are designed to enhance and elevate every meal, reflecting the spirit of Italian hospitality.”
Conclusion
Nonno’s Cellar in Lima, Ohio, offers a menu that embodies the heart and soul of Italian cuisine. Each section of the menu is carefully designed to provide guests with authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and exceptional preparation.
From the tempting appetizers to the decadent desserts, every dish tells a story of tradition, passion, and culinary expertise.
What sets Nonno’s apart is not only the quality of the food but the thoughtful presentation and ambiance that invites diners to relax and savor every moment. The extensive beverage selection enhances the experience, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for any meal.
Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a special celebration, Nonno’s Cellar delivers an unforgettable dining adventure.
By blending classic Italian recipes with contemporary touches, Nonno’s Cellar continues to be a beloved destination for food lovers in Lima and beyond. Its menu is a testament to the enduring appeal of Italian cuisine, crafted with care to satisfy both traditional tastes and modern palates alike.
