Marcellino - Phoenix

Finally, a restaurant that does not compromise on authenticity and fantastic flavor. There is something to be said for homemade pasta, fresh ingredients, and a chef that actually cares enough to step out of the kitchen to mingle with his guests. I encourage those who visit Marcellino's to set aside the subconscious status quo expectations of Italian cuisine that we have all grown to expect from chain restaurants (this place is no Olive Garden! , and be prepared for something new. You can expect your food to take a bit longer to prepare, though I assure you that you will not mind~ the atmosphere and overall experience is fantastic! The award for your patience? One hot, authentic, and amazing culinary delight. Word of advice............Always make reservations, and try to attend on a night that Jason is scheduled to sing. He has a tenor voice that would make any parent proud, and he gives those of us who love opera, goose bumps. This is definitely the perfect restaurant for special occasions, as well as those days when all has gone wrong and you need a fantastic meal and personal service.

My girlfriend and I went here for the first time last night, and had by far the worst dining experience of our lives. We have been to a variety of high end restaurants in the area, and have never experienced service as poor as this. Through the meal we were visited perhaps 3-4 times by our server, who was neither helpful, nor professional. The meal I was served was mediocre, and the one my girlfriend was served was downright offensive. After the first bite she requested it be returned, at which point we decided it would be best to leave ASAP. I hastily finished my meal, and to our suprise we were still charged for her meal. When questioned about this no attempts were made by any of the staff to make the situation better, and we were told that the meal was in fact delicious; it was downright appalling. For the prices they were charging we have come to expect a far higher level of service, and it can be found at almost any other pricey restaurant in the area. A meal that was meant to be a nice, relaxing, special night instead was turned into the worst dining experience of either of our lives, ending with my girlfriend in tears. We will certainly be spreading the word about our poor experience and I would recommend the highest degree of caution. Eat Here At Your Own Risk!

The food, service, and ambiance were fabulous. The Chef knows his stuff. I ordered one of the pasta specials; a prosciutto specialty with a marinara sauce. Absolutely delicious. You must try Marcellino's!

Marcellino Ristorante has to be my favorite restaurant in Phoenix. The food is superbly prepared by Marcellino and his staff, the service is top notch, and Sima (Marcellino's wife) knows how to recommend the perfect bottle of wine. This is the restaurant I choose when I want to celebrate any special occasion.