08/06/08

Sadly Disappointed

by thecharlottereviewer

Being Italian and from New York (Long Island) I have difficulty recommending this restaurant. Upon entering you notice an almost uncomfortable decor with tiled floors, unattractive walls and furniture. The prices on the menu certainly would demand a quality meal, but I was not impressed with their plain basic gravies, bland bread and pre-prepared appetizers. In my opinion the owners of this restaurant are focused on providing large quantities of easily forgettable food at high prices and high profit. It is puzzling to me how others can claim this restaurant is so good and most of all authentically Italian, maybe they have not been exposed to good Italian restaurants (olive garden and macaroni grill are not good Italian restaurants). This restaurant clearly serves basic Italian-American comfort food, in gigantic American portions, if this is what you are looking for you will find it here, if not save your money and dine elsewhere.

09/20/07

Authentic Italian cuisine, excellent service, good value!!!

by exotica_inc

After traveling around Charlotte a good 2 - 3 hours we found Ciro's by mistake when we had decided to go back to the hotel were the convention was being held. Upon entry the place was packed and I thought that we would be there for at least an hour before being seated. To our surprise the Owner (originally from Italy) came over and introduced himself and ask if we had been waiting long (This was after about 5 minutes). During our chat, the attendant called our name and seated us (approx. 10 minutes). The atmosphere was excellent, the owner even played several Italian selections on his accordion. Very romantic. My wife and I had an excellent dinner and the service was great. I would highly recommend this restaurant to any visitor at University Place in Charlotte. And for any racing fan there is a unique story between the owner and famed racing personality/former driver Benny Parsons. So drop by and read the article on the right hand wall as soon as you enter.

• Pros: excellent food and generous portions, excellent service, customer oriented
• Cons: If I had to say anything....small bathrooms

05/14/07

Best Italian in town

by maccafan

Great food, moderate prices and ny family has been going there for over 10 years. All entries are good but I personally love the Veal Marsala and Shrimp Fra Diablo. Specials are excellent but are more costly, usually around $20. Pablo (owner) plays the accordian nightly and helps give the place a family friendly atmosphere. You don't need a reservation but it is helpful if you have a large party. Pizza is NY style and I recommend it highly. This is one of my favorite places to eat in Charlotte.

Update 5/2009

While the quality is still pretty good, sadly the prices keep going up and you don't even get a salad anymore with the price of a meal. Personally, I like butter with my bread and I find it disappointing that it is no longer a option. The waiters and waitresses are all pretty new and are ok at best. Years ago, the staff was friendlier and could describe the "specials" with the appearance that they actually may have tried and enjoyed the food. I would now rate Ciro's a star less than my original review.

• Pros: Food, atmosphere
• Cons: None