I'm so sad that the quality of meals has dropped so badly with the change in management. It started with losing the fresh focaccia, but now the entrees are even more disappointing. We ordered take out and the Parmesan Alfredo tasted almost spoiled. It smelled like rotten milk and the cheese looked curdled. The pizza was below average in taste, but we couldn't pinpoint if it was the cheese or crust. I'm so disappointed as this was my absolute favorite Wakefield restaurant and now have no reason to visit. I hope they reconsider the changes they made over the last year and bring back higher quality ingredients! read more

Service was exceptional but the food in my opinion was blah. Over priced lasagna. Garlic knots that came out before the food not sure they were really garlic knots other than dough tied into a knot. The calzone was huge. Ravioli looked OK. Think a lot of these places just heat up food that they got frozen and try to claim homemade. You're better off to go to Fazoli's. read more

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My son and I came in for an early lunch and I was craving a calzone so I was disappointed I didn't see it on the menu BUT I asked anyway and the waitress made it happen. My calzone with pepperoni and sausage was large and delish, my son had a chicken Alfredo that was okay. Two sodas, chicken Alfredo and 2 meat calzone was nearly $60 which I feel is overpriced for a lunch the sodas were $4 a piece, Alfredo was $22 and calzone I think was $25. Service was outstanding. read more

Extremely disappointed with Dante's management. They have a small private area of the resturant that's not even closed off that can be reserved. I reserved this 2 months ago for 25 people coming after my brothers funeral, but the snow made us cancel & reschedule, & now new management & chefs, are there and no longer can accommodate us unless we pay $1500 up front just to hold the reservation (not including the food) How fricken unprofessional I hope people know the food probably won't be as good anyway as it was, & certainly the management not like it use to be! my family and I will no longer ever even order a pizza from you, I'm very upset! read more

My husband and I had dinner at Dante's Italiano last night, and I truly hate to write this review, but the experience was extremely disappointing -- especially given the prices. My friend ordered the Frutti Di Mare ($34.95). When the dish arrived, she immediately noticed a strong fishy smell. The mussels had gone bad. She informed the waiter, who apologized and had the chef prepare another batch, but as she explained, when one mussel is spoiled, it's very likely the rest are as well. The second plate had the same issue, and she didn't feel safe eating any of the seafood. I ordered the "special" lobster ravioli with red pepper sauce and shrimp (also $34.95). After one bite, I could tell the pasta was not house-made and had a strong fishy taste. I've never had lobster with that kind of flavor -- it was unpleasant, and I couldn't eat it. At this price point, I expected a fresh, homemade dish, not frozen ravioli. We also asked for bread and were served garlic knots that were hard. There was no bottled sparkling water available (e.g., Pellegrino) and no espresso -- both staples in most Italian restaurants. To make matters worse, when we got home, my husband -- who ordered the meat lasagna -- became violently ill. We can't say with certainty it was the dish, but the timing was concerning. Overall, this was a poor dining experience, and based on the quality and food safety concerns, I would not recommend eating here. read more

Took 2 days to determine if their menu was "peanut-free". Was told I had to speak to the manager who wouldn't be available until 3pm-2 days from now. 3 pm comes and manager won't be available until 4pm. Getting nervous since my dinner for 15 is scheduled for 5:30. Finally got the food only to find that chicken parm was tough...NEVER AGAIN!!! Never had this kind of experience with past management/ownership! read more

Tucked away in a strip mall, this delightful little Italian restaurant had a much more relaxed and intimate environment than I was expecting. The menu offers a wonderful selection of traditional Italian dishes, they also have a full bar that produces a very good Old Fashioned. With such a consistently serene environment throughout the dining room, there is no bad seat in the house. Sit back and enjoy a good drink to go with the warm focaccia bread while you peruse the many entrees on the menu. I especially found the four cheese stuffed shell with meat sauce absolutely delightful. The rich house made meat sauce combined with the fresh cheese blend is a match made in heaven. I look forward to returning in the future in order to try their pizza. Cheers! read more

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This one hurts. We love Dante's and it has always been absolutely great. Always between 4 and 5 stars. We recently got our go to pizza, the "Parma Verde". The zucchini was way too thickly sliced and didn't cook all the way through, and the pancetta was more like regular ham. Just disappointing for the amazing pie it had always been in the past. Also, they changed their appetizer bread from a focaccia to more like a garlic knot or roll. Not an improvement. Truly hope this was a one off experience, maybe a new cook, but a little hesitant to go back. Love this place. Gave a 3 based on a solid history. Coulda gone lower for this time alone. read more

This is about the worst Italian place in the Triangle. One of the things that irks me is having frozen food and not cooking anything home made especially Italian food which is so easy. Charging over thirty-dollars for frozen 'lobster' ravioli is not cool. The chicken parm was bad and gloppy. The Fruitti di Mare was frutti di Meirda. The lasagna was just OK and the bread after 12 minutes turned into a weapon. IDK if the people who claim the place is good never have eaten at quality places but this place was just bad. read more

We have been going to Dante's for 12 years. We have always enjoyed this cozy, neighborhood restaurant, and we liked the friendly owners. We used to go quite frequently, probably about 5 or 6 times a year, but we hadn't been since the new owners purchased. When I booked a reservation on-line, which they didn't have before, the website was new. So I wondered what had changed. Anyway, we tried it this last week, and while most all our visits in the past have been a 4 - 5, this time, we were very disappointed. First, we noticed that the shades on the windows were up. Considering there is no view other than the parking lot, at dinner, the shades should be down to give it that cozy, warm feeling. As they are blinds, they could open them up a bit, but to have them up hurts the quaintness. Second, the for sale pictures on the wall is tacky for a nice restaurant. We sat at our favorite booth (#23), and had the same server we've had several times in the past. She is friendly and a good server. A bit chatty, but it's better than being cold. We ordered drinks, and I had to ask for bread. Before, they would bring it to you automatically. She mentioned something about it coming with dinner. I found that odd and it's certainly not the norm. They've changed the bread. It was flat and boring, even though there were some herbs on the bread. It did not taste homemade. The dipping oil no longer had the yummy herbs and garlic. Just a dash of balsamic. The bread before was excellent, tasted homemade, with lots of flavor. We ordered the mozzarella sticks. They were not good. Very out of the box frozen tasting and the cheese was hard, not even melted. Before, the mozzarella was a triangle of breaded mozzarella, that although was surely not homemade, the flavor and breading was much better. Dinner was the big let down. My husband ordered lasagna, which was fine. Again, it did not have the flavor or homemade taste as before, but I'd give it a 3.5. I had the Pollo Scarpariello which I've had many times in the past. It was terrible. Amazingly, not much flavor, the chicken was tough, and the sausage was soggy, like it had been boiling in the sauce for way too long. The sausage before was always firm and fresh, like it had been cooked and added to the dish at the very end. This sausage did not seem fresh. And there was hardly any balsamic sauce, and also not much flavor. Overall, it was not a good experience. We may try it one more time to see if it improves, but that would be our last attempt. The server told us it's been about a year since the new owners purchased it. So maybe it's that, maybe it just wasn't a good night.....but our meal was a C- at best. read more

We used to be regulars under the previous owners. However, the overall experience has continued to decline. Went this past week and had the Chicken Scarpello (sp?) - used to thoroughly enjoy it. Flavors were not there the sausage was off, and the pasta over cooked. Disappointed read more

I want to first say how much it pains me to write this review, since Dante's has been a family favorite. Unfortunately, our last visit changed all this. The bread was delicious and the calamari appetizer was not bad either. My wife and I both ordered veal marsala since it has always been our favorite and what we got was soup. Where was the gravy? We tried to enjoy it honestly but just couldn't and had to send it back. Having them fix the order was not an option since we waited over 30 minutes for our entree. We just asked for the check. I sure hope they get things turned back around. read more

Pizza Review Time Grandmas style pizza & pepperoni pizza Grandmas style pizza breakdown Crust- very good flavor almost as good as Di Fara'S in Cary However, severely undercooked crust, undercarriage was pale and the center of the pizza was just barely cooked enough. 3 stars for crust because it was undercooked, Sauce- 5 star flavor man this pie had flavor! Cheese - excellent job also 5 stars no greasy freaking really good. I will try again and ask for extra crispy maybe even slight char . This pizza is in my top 10 places for pizza it could have made it to my top 3 if the crust was cooked properly. read more

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My friend and I went this weekend not knowing it was their 13th anniversary. The place was packed and yet they found the two of us a table and could not have been more gracious. Our waiter, Gabby, was there in two minutes with bread and water. She was fun and helpful. The food was very good and the wine outstanding for the price. Did I mention it was their anniversary? That was why there was live music, free cake and some other little surprises that made us smile. The owner came by to thank us for coming. The food: we both had side caesar salads which included wonderful shaved parmesan and the requisite romaine and caesar dressing (minus anchovies). I had a very chicken parmesan though I have had better sauces and my friend had penne ala vodka with the addition of some chicken. Despite the fact they were packed, we were not rushed and the service could not have been better. Two thumbs up read more

We went to Dante's this past Sunday at 5pm to celebrate my cousin's birthday and had a great experience! We had a reservation and were seated right away. Dante's is a very cozy restaurant with two sides for seating. The side we sat on was near the takeout station, but lovely nonetheless. The bar side was really neat too. There was very chill live music on the bar side, a guitarist playing great songs. Our server was AMAZING! She was so helpful, funny, and kind. It was apparent that the servers also work together; if there are dirty dishes and someone's hands are full, they help each other out by clearing the table. The food at Dante's was great! I tried a few different items: the Vodka Penne, Sausage and Peppers, Chicken Francese, Calamari, and House Salad - all of which were delicious. The vodka pasta was different, in a good way! Something about it made it extra creamy and delicious! The sausage and peppers were also yummy, as my husband got the dish and of course I had to try it! My dish was the Chicken Francese and it was so good; the portions were huge. I enjoyed my leftovers for lunch the next day! I would also recommend the calamari to start - fresh and served with a flavorful marinara. We all agreed that we would be back soon and next time, we surely want to try a pizza as we have heard great things! read more

We have been back a few times. Lots of inconsistencies both with the menu, promotions and service. The last time, two weeks ago, we brought family on a Tuesday. The service was way off. Many items on the menu were not available. Had to inquire about pizza and wine promo. Pizza and the pasta dishes were good. The lasagna was not good at all. Doubt we will be back for a fourth try. read more

My family came here on Christmas Eve and it was poppin! Although they were very busy, they were able to tend to my very specific allergies with ease. Sean, the chef, came to our table to make sure everything came out okay and it meant the world to us! Our server, Maricela, was phenomenal. She was very personable and kind, our family loved her! Thank you for an amazing evening, we recommend Dante's to everyone! read more

Came here on a Saturday night. Walked in and they were pretty busy and Trey the bartender told us he had a spot for us at the bar. Super nice guy and provided great recommendations. Started with the bruschetta. It was amazing. Trey brought out some warm garlic Parmesan bread with olive oil. Fantastic. The main course was spaghetti and meatballs and chicken piccata. Huge portions and great flavor. Great atmosphere. Cozy little dive in a strip center. Highly recommend. read more

First I want to say the food is amazing and the atmosphere is as well. Mostly I want to say thank you Shannon for the caring spirit you have, the professionalism, and your great customer service you gave while we were at the restaurant. I would say she gets a 10 in my book. read more

We've been wanting to try Dante's for a very long time. So, for my birthday, we went last Monday. It's an old school Italian restaurant in Wakefield that has all the traditional Italian dishes you would find back up north. The location is in a strip mall and there is plenty of parking. I believe the owners are from Long Island, hence the old school NY feel the place has. Everything coming out of the kitchen looked delicious. Our waitress was really nice and gave us wine recommendations to go with the meals we ordered. I had the Chicken Scarpiello, my wife the Eggplant Rollatini and my son, the Penne Vodka with a meatball. Everything was delish! Topping it off was a piece of rainbow cake (a favorite). The prices here are very reasonable. We will definitely be returning soon. And, I think we found our new "go to" spot for Italian? read more

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Service was wonderful, friendly waiter, ambiance very nice and the dinners were excellent. I will be visiting again soon !!

Used to enjoy this place but service and food became inconsistent. Today was terrible.

such a cute cozy restaurant, had birthday dinner for my friend and whoever was working was so sweet and accommodating. 100% recommend soups was great salads was great and very good pricing. he gave cannolis and lit candle for us so we sing happy birthday :) thank you read more

Dantes Italiano - lunch specials - Italian Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Stopped by today! Wonderful food and ambiance. Great staff and service. They're small and trying to grow. Now open for lunch too! Check them out, it's worth it! read more

I really wanted to like this place. It was homey and cozy. Food was not good. My eggplant dish tasted like it had been defrosted. The tomato sauce was very acidic. And another main entree with sausage came out like a soup instead of what was described on the menu. This place got a lot of good reviews but we were very disappointed. Also we were seated next to the cash register with two tables put together that were not the same height. The height of the tables were different by over an inch. What does it say about the customer experience when you think so little of the how the customer will feel with tables at two different heights. The best part was the service. The waitress was attentive and always came to check on us. read more

Great service Great food - cozy atmosphere and bar area - recommend Staff was welcoming - had a great evening

Cozy little Italian place. Nicely decorated. They could have bigger booths...or maybe they couldn't. The space is tight and our table was a bit small for the 2 pizzas and one salad. The portobello salad was good! It and all salads we saw were good sized portions. Calamari app was overcooked. Marinara was tasty but it was a plate of fried rubber bands. Cheese Neapolitan pizza was very nice! Definitely would recommend their pizzas. The other had pepperoni, onions, peppers and mushrooms. Also very tasty! Enjoyed some tiramisu for dessert. Victoria was our server and she was wonderful! Friendly, upbeat and provided an excellent service! Definitely will try again...just will steer clear of the squid next time. read more

Dante's has always been a favorite restaurant for our family and special occasions are spent there. The food and service was always great. Had a family birthday celebration last night and it was not good. Customers arriving after us received their meals and paid before ours was delivered. the food was cold and not as good as it had been in the past. Salmon special - the fish was dark brown as it was way overcooked. The fettuccine Alfredo and chicken picatta was substandard. The cheese in the calzone was cold and not melted. I was told the restaurant had been sold and the new kitchen staff was learning. it's a shame as it was much better. read more

This place was excellent the first time I came here. I ordered the veal parmigiana and it was delicious. The second time around it was not the same. Neither was the third time. Dante's service is always excellent, but the food, unfortunately, is not always the same. Grease atmosphere, excellent service, food is ok. read more

Horrible Food since the place sold August 2024. Lasagna was putrid, stuffed shells was overspilled to the point it was not edible, and the penne al a vodka was right out of a Ragu jar. Miss Danny's recipes. Will NOT return. read more

Way too loud. Like a sports bar. Large tvs. Not an Italian experience. Had the chicken Marsala and to be honest, the Wegman's sauce in a jar was superior. Really disappointing experience read more

Just like going home to grandmas! In addition to their entrées, their pizza is outstanding! read more

Do yourself a favor and go. Group of six of us enjoyed Dante's on a Friday evening recently and the owners both greeted us like old friends with recommendations and a backstory behind the wonderful desserts. The place filled up quickly and our group enjoyed a mix of specials as well as on the menu fare with lots to take home. Warm focaccia bread at the table served with oil and vinegar. Nice wine selection and would recommend this place to everyone. read more

Have lived Dante's since it was touch of Italy! The owners are great! Fun place to eat and hang out at the bar. Assorted specials almost daily! Don't miss it! read more

Great food and atmosphere. Danny and his wife are welcoming and make you feel like family!

I have been going to dantes for 10 years. they used to have the best pizza in the area until their pizza cook left. it has gone down hill ever since. the sausage on the pizza used to be so good but now they have down graded their ingredients and it's not the same. I got a to go order of chicken fettuccine Alfredo tonight and it cost me $30!!! the portion wasn't even a family portion and there was barely any chicken. $30 for chicken Alfredo!!! I could've made this meal myself for under $15 (butter, cream, parm, fettuccine and chicken). I will never be back again. read more

Excellent food and service! It doesn't look like much of a place from the outside but it's definitely worth a visit.

Dantes did not honor my confirmed reservation for 12/31/2024 at 6pm for three people. Reservation made on 12/27/2024 and confirmed by email. On 12/31/2024 Dantes sent a confirmation email at 2 pm. About 2:45 pm received a phone call saying my reservation was cancelled due to overbooking and could not acomodate another time. This was New Years Eve and other restaurants were booked. This three hour cancellation notice after two email confirmation was uncalled for and disrupted my dinner and evening plans with my guest. Offering a bar seat for dinner with only an "I'm sorry" is an indication of lousy customer service. Cannot comment on the food or ambiance. Previous experience was that the food was OK. I will not go there again. read more

Best Italian food in the area as far as we're concerned. The food is always fresh and flavorful. The servers are friendly and professional. But our favorite part of dining here is the warm and welcoming ambiance of the restaurant. Once we are seated we feel a sense of comfort and familiarity as we enjoy our meal. It's like being in New York and eating at our favorite restaurant in our hometown. read more

Amazing food and amazing service. This is a great Italian restaurant and I will be a regular here for sure.