Inside Italian Restaurant Photo: Maralyn D. Hill

Tonight we met our friend Doug MacKenzie for dinner at Italian Restaurant. This is the newest addition from James Beard Award Winner, Chris

Bianco, who has Pizzeria Bianco downtown Phoenix. We heard about Chris’ Pizzeria one evening in New Jersey and then again my many others from all different locations. Naturally, we tried and enjoyed. If tonight was an example, this new restaurant will maintain the same high standards he for which he is famous.

When Chris came in he came over to say, “hello.” The wheat they use for doughs and pastas are from Arizona wheat. Fresh ingredients are a must and you can taste them. Bianco has great backup in the kitchen and his mother, Francesca, comes in about three days of week.

Gnocchi Photo: Maralyn D. Hill

This is not a fancy restaurant. It features clean lines in a comfortable setting. The prices are reasonable from wines to dessert and located in the Town and Country Shopping Center.

The three of us enjoyed our meals and we would recommend it without question. Opening time is 5 p.m. and we were there by 5:30. When leaving at 6:45, it was getting crowded.

Lasagna Photo: Maralyn D. Hill

Hours ::
Lunch: Monday to Saturday 11AM to 3PM
Dinner: Monday to Thursday 5PM to 9PM
Friday and Saturday 5PM to 10PM

Italian Restaurant
4743 N. 20th St.
Phx 85016
602.368.3273

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Norm Hill, Chris Bianco, Maralyn D. Hill Photo: Doug MacKenzie

Maralyn
Author: Maralyn

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.