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    The Italian Oven

    4.2 (86 reviews)
    Closed 11:00 am - 9:30 pm
    Updated 3 weeks ago

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    Sean L.

    Soft-Shell Crab Francese with linguine is a comforting Italian-American classic packed with bold, satisfying flavors. The lightly pan-seared crab is finished in a buttery lemon and white wine sauce that is rich, vibrant, and indulgent. The sauce delivers plenty of citrusy brightness and savory depth, making it a perfect match for the linguine, which soaks up every drop. While the dish is delicious and well executed, both the sauce and seasoning lean slightly on the salty side, occasionally overshadowing the crab's naturally sweet, delicate flavor. Having sampled soft-shell crab prepared in Japanese, American, and Italian styles throughout this season, this Francese rendition ranks among the more flavorful interpretations. Still, Japanese-style preparations remain the benchmark, allowing the crab's freshness and subtle sweetness to take center stage with greater elegance and restraint.

    Bread
    Susan H.

    I first heard of The Italian Oven around the time that the owner of Esposito's restaurant in Fairfax was being forced to close her restaurant. This was due to the landlord telling her she had two weeks to close her place, as he intended to put a car wash in its spot. I kept an eye on this story. That's how I discovered that Maria Esposito ended up working at her cousin's restaurant, The Italian Oven. Thus, the place had been on my radar, and finally, we got there. We were here on a Saturday for an early dinner. The place was almost empty at the time, so we were told to pick whichever table we wanted. We chose a booth that was by a window. The place does have an Italian restaurant ambiance, complete with checkered green and white tablecloths. Our server was prompt in getting to us. We gave him our drink orders. I had water while my husband had a Heineken Zero. At that time, we placed our appetizer order, which was fried zucchini. Their menu is overwhelming. It was tough trying to figure out what to try. Finally, I decided to try their spaghetti aglio e olio, and my husband had spaghetti with Italian sausage. We both chose to have side salads. The salads had a nice creamy, garlicky dressing. However, they also had an overabundance of button mushrooms, as well as pickled beets. I'm no fan of either of these items, so my husband gladly took them from my salad. As for the zucchini, we got spoiled after all those years of having it at Esposito's. The Italian Oven's version was a close second to Esposito's. My spaghetti aglio e olio was well seasoned. It contained plenty of sautéed garlic, just enough olive oil, and a sprinkle of black pepper. The spaghetti was cooked al dente. My husband liked his dish.

    Alex B.

    Italian oven by Salvatore Esposito the native born in famous Napoli Italy the restaurant is open since 1985 he's open today right now it's 11:28 p.m. on the 28th of January 2026 also his cousin Maria is there and they all five cooks are there and they have a pure wood burning oven which is extremely healthy and tonight so wonderful place for the Rich and famous of McLean Virginia location is 6852 Old Dominion Drive McLean Virginia phone number 703-891-8690 is one of the few places which is open during the early winter storm in our town I do live in McLean very long time and I had a wonderful dinner yesterday with the friends and family at the affordable price not paying like $129 at the Ritz Carlton hotel

    Chicken caciattore
    Shawn H.

    I recently had spine surgery so I haven't been able to visit physically yet but I was able to order online via Yelp. It came piping hot (I live half a mile away). The vongole and carbonara had great flavor and freshness. I enjoyed my chicken cacciatore. It was a bit too greasy for my taste but I liked the seasoning! It's got a very subtle kick and has artichokes, bell peppers and mushrooms. I'll be sure to go visit once I'm able and also plan to try out their pizza!

    Best pizza I have ever had. And I grew up in NYC. The crust is amazing. I got eggplant and garlic. Omg! My bf got ham green pepper and onions. So good. My salad was also delicious-- Mediterranean salad. I am really astonished. Dessert was also amazing. The limoncello cake was exquisite and the house made gelato and pizelle were lovely. Service was also friendly and attentive.

    Maria Gracias H.

    Love this place to bits! Good food, good ambiance, good price. Truly one of the best trattoria in the DMV area.

    The History of The Italian Oven The Esposito Family!
    John L.

    My wife and I had drove to McClain from N.C, and we were staying across the street at a hotel. It was a combination of a business and our Anniversary getaway. It was 5:30 and we were ready for dinner. The front desk suggested this little Italian Restaurant. So grateful they did. It was the perfect evening from the moment we walked in and the genuine greeting we received. As we sat we felt like we had back taken back in time to a small Trattoria in a little village. Our server, Salim greeted us and set the tone for our dinner walking us through the menu. We ordered oysters on the mussels, so fresh and the broth was incredible. I had the gumbo and she had the Cesar Salad. Both were fresh and such incredible favors with fresh baked bread. We our entrée I had the Pasta Beef Bolognese and to be honest, I do not remember what she had. What a difference in-house made pasta with fresh ingredients makes! Now, when we sat down, we had looked at the dessert menu and my wife tried to order the Banana Foster's Flambé but I had seen it was available on Sundays. Salim was so kind to go back and see, since it was our anniversary, if they could make an exception. At the end of the meal, the owner, Salvatore Esposito, rolled out the cart and made our dessert t the table, it was the crowning touch to our Anniversary dinner! We will never forget this special dinner and the hospitality and love we felt at The Italian Oven from all the staff and the owner. We will make this a must dinner whenever we are traveling in the area. Much love to all there and much continued success, a rare jewel these days and you will taste the love put into every course they serve

    calamari and zucchini appetizer
    Mary T.

    I stayed 3 days in McLean and the hotel manager reccomened this restaurant. It's a small family run business with intimate tables and the most incredible wait staff. Homemade crusty bread is complimentary. We tried the zucchini and calamari appetizer and ground it tasty but not as crisp as I would hope. The entrees were amazing. I highly suggest the manicotti, fettuccine Alfredo with grilled chicken, and pizza. All were FANTASTIC! My kids literally clamored for this pizza all 3 nights of our stay. The salad doesn't come with a meal which is customary in the South where I'm from, but the homemade creamy Italian made it worth the extra cost. Finally, the homemade desserts were out of this world delicious. I heartily endorse this restaurant if you are seeking good Italian. Makes for an excellent date.

    Eggplant Parmigiana Sub
    Aarti B.

    Delicious crispy fried eggplant parm sub with fresh house-made bread. The bread is a bit thick and very filling. It's nice that a complimentary large 6 inch loaf is included with the order. The crispy battered fries are quite tasty! The sausage lasagna was very greasy and swimming in oil. After a couple of bites, my hubby through in the towel and sadly tossed it all out. Don't recommend it! Will be back for the eggplant parm hero and battered fries!

    Cannoli was good!

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    6 months ago

    Always delicious whether take out or dine in! Service is consistently good and the atmosphere is friendly

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    19 days ago

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    9 months ago

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    6 months ago

    sweet server. good hot italian food. family spot. convenient from tyson's corner mall.

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    5 months ago

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    11 months ago

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    8 months ago

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    7 months ago

    They have the best pasta, best service and amazing deserts! They make you feel at home!

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    4 years ago

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Authentic italian dishes, perfect pizza, warm friendly family owned restaurant with moderate prices.

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    3 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Chicken parmigiana is great. Got it to go and the lady at the register was very nice and helpful. Will be back

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    2 years ago

    I liked this place .we were just driving by and tried it. We both got pasta dishes and both liked them .love the bread and butter !

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    2 years ago

    Food, Service and Ambiance all above average. Great restaurant with family atmosphere.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - The Italian Oven

    Are you handicapped accessible?

    Hi Dolores, Thanks so much for reaching out- yes, we have handicapped parking slots as well as… 

    Does the Italian Oven serve mixed drinks or only beer & wine?

    We are serving only wine and may different kind of Beer!!!! Thanks for asking Salvatore Esposito… 

    View All 5 Questions

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    I wanted to try this since learning about it- I'm Italian and a huge pasta fan. The Pappardelle was…read moredelicious- not exactly Al dente but still good. The cream tomato sauce hit the mark without being too overbearing of either. The spaghetti dish was fantastic. The olive oil, garlic, and red pepper combo hit the spot. Seems basic, but executed perfectly. I was hoping for more homemade noodles, but it was basic boxed spaghetti- or so it tasted. Both portions were extremely generous. The only thing that would elevate the dishes would be some meat like pancetta or pork as a meat and to add some texture. The meatballs offered were in marinara and wouldn't go. I did get a chicken tender but that was definitely not homemade.

    The Pasta Stop is a newer takeaway pasta shop that just opened up on Glebe -…read more This place offers a seamless online ordering for pickup; they also have catering services, too. They have a variety of different pasta dishes, such as Fettuccine Basil Marinara, Four Cheese Ravioli, and Pappardelle with Homemade Tomato Cream Sauce. We ordered: +Chicken Tenders with Marinara & Mozzarella - topped with marinara and melted mozzarella cheese +the Rigatoni Tomato Cream - prepared with tomato cream sauce and Parm +the Fettuccine alla Panna - prepared with cream and cheese; a lighter and thinner version of alfredo Everything was packaged well, and the portions were generous - staff were friendly and efficient! I'd like to try their Fried Ravioli and the Pappardelle with Rich Meat Sauce on the next visit! Look for the black-painted brick with the yellow sign; parking available. +takeaway pasta shop +seamless online ordering process +friendly service

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    North Italia

    North Italia

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    I've visited this North Italia before and had another great experience. I've also been to their…read moreReston location as well. I will say, I think I like this location a little more. This time, my fiancé and I decided to try multiple appetizers and everything was excellent. We ordered the White Truffle Garlic Bread which is what we get every time. The bread is crispy on the outside while still staying soft and not too hard throughout. The flavor is always amazing and we love the ricotta that comes on top. We also tried the Italian Meatballs. They were very good, flavorful, and comforting. Lastly, we had the Little Gem Caesar with added chicken. It was fresh, well balanced, and a great addition to the meal.

    We dined in at North Italia for a friend's birthday. Although a really big party, our server was…read moresuper attentive, and the food came out pretty quickly. We started off with the calamari the white truffle garlic bread. The calamari was absolutely delicious. I'm so used to having a lot of breading on my calamari, but the breading on this was super airy which I really enjoyed. If you're gonna get an appetizer, I highly recommend the white truffle garlic bread. The strong truffle and garlic flavor perfectly together and the bread was super soft and warm. Onto the entrées, my husband and I decided to split the squid ink pasta, lasagna, and the hot honey smoked prosciutto pizza. The portion for the lasagna was a lot smaller than I thought but honestly, I was super full by the end of it. I really enjoyed the pizza because it wasn't super oily and the flavors all worked really well together. Overall, this was a really pleasant dining experience. I would say the food was pretty solid. It's a great place for celebrations and even a casual date night.

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    Alta Strada - Pasta is tops here

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    My girlfriends and I stopped in for our first visit on a Saturday afternoon for lunch, and we were…read morepleasantly surprised to be seated immediately. Service throughout the meal was excellent. Our waitress was attentive without hovering, kept drinks topped off, checked in at all the right times, and made the experience feel welcoming from start to finish. The dining room itself left me with mixed feelings. It was incredibly humid inside, to the point where it became distracting during the meal. The booth seating also wasn't my favorite. The pleather-style upholstery made it surprisingly difficult to slide in and out, especially if you're sitting toward the wall. It's a small detail, but one that stood out. We ordered family-style so everyone could sample a little of everything, which I always think is the best way to experience a menu. The Caesar salad was the undeniable star of the table. Absolute banger. The dressing tasted unmistakably house-made with the perfect balance of richness, garlic, lemon, and anchovy. It's one of those deceptively simple dishes that can be hard to execute well, and they absolutely nailed it. The carbonara was enjoyable overall with a silky sauce and great flavor, but the pancetta was cut into pieces that were much larger than necessary. Smaller pieces would have distributed the flavor more evenly and made each bite feel better balanced. The table bread with the red sauce was another pleasant surprise. Fresh, comforting, and exactly the kind of thing that keeps everyone reaching for "just one more piece." The chicken parm sandwich had plenty of potential, but it was noticeably dry. It really needed a more generous helping of marinara to bring everything together and add the moisture you'd expect from a chicken parm. One area that could definitely use some attention is the restrooms. They were functional, but they felt tired compared to the rest of the restaurant and would really benefit from a refresh or remodel. Overall, this was a solid first visit with far more positives than negatives. While I'd probably skip the carbonara and chicken parm sandwich next time in favor of trying other menu items, that Caesar salad is something I'd order again in a heartbeat. It's rare for a salad to completely steal the show, but this one absolutely did. I'll definitely be back to see what else the kitchen has to offer.

    Surprisingly of all the times I've been in the area and have frequented mosaic since it opened I…read morehave not tried Alta Strada. I must say I was happy with my experience. We were a group of 8 going for a surprise dinner for a bride to be. The decor was rustic and very cute. For the most part they were efficient and quite kind. The few times it was a bit slow I think it was because we were a bigger party chatting and waiting for the main guest, they didn't know when the best time to ask what we needed. So not really on them. I tried the seasonal mocktail (wish I remembered the one I got), calamari, and the penne all a vodka with chicken as my protein. Everything was presented well and tasted great. I am very interested to return to try some of their other items on the menu.

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    Pazzo Pomodoro - Pesce Spada Alla Ghiotta Mediterranean herb crusted swordfish steak sautéed

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    I love this place so much because I usually don't like Italian food, but this place has the best…read morecalamari and very good pasta. The place is always packed because of how good the food is.

    Service was great. We were easily accommodated when we requested to move to a different table…read moreaway from the door ( it was cold and damp and every time the door opened cold wind blasted inside, even with the double doors). It was much appreciated. As for the food it was hit and miss. Our husbands had the short rib raviolis and-although it was flavorful, there was not enough meat inside the raviolis nor were there enough raviolis to justify the price tag. Since the sauce was extremely flavorful I forced my husband to share some of the skimpy sauce to dip my pizza crust on it. Luckily the guys had enough of the wonderful fried mozzarella and bread to not be grumpy. One tip that our whole party agreed on was that the sauce was better suited if it was paired with chunks of lobsters instead of of the stuffed short rib raviolis. I was happy with size of my thin crust pizza and it was way more than I could eat. However, I am not sure if I was actually ok with how the ingredients were divided jn the quarter a fourth of the pizza contained olives ,another fourth was the mushrooms, ,another fourth was the prosciutto and for the life of me I could not remember the fourth ingredient. I'm still ponedering whether I am a fan of this. My friend had the Marguerite pizza and she was extremely satisfied with it. As to the place itself, it's nothing fancy, it's just your typical pizza place in a strip mall. It's just ok. One thing I noticed about it is the dim lighting, but to be fair it's a normal complaint for most eating establishments. We all had to break out our IPhone flashlights to read the menu. I wish most eateries would have a dimmer switch by your table so that when you are ordering, there is sufficient lighting as you read the menu and when done can be adjusted to mood lighting. I noticed most of the upper forties and up patrons did the same thing as us when ordering.

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    The Italian Oven - pizza - Updated September 2026

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