Address: 20 Main St, Toledo, OH 43605

Phone: +1 419 697 7138

Price Range: $$$$

Website: http://www.ziasrestaurant.com/

Zia's

Zia's in Toledo is a staple for anyone craving Italian cuisine with a view. Nestled right on the river, this spot boasts both indoor and outdoor seating with picturesque views of the Maumee River, making it a wonderful place for a relaxing meal 🍝. The atmosphere here is cozy and quintessentially Italian, providing a welcoming ambiance that makes you feel like family the moment you step in.

The culinary offerings at Zia's cover a wide range of traditional Italian delights. If you're a pasta lover, the restaurant's oversized pasta dishes will not disappoint. One standout is the Pollo Pesto Fusilli, which pairs tender chicken with perfectly cooked fusilli and a flavorful pesto sauce that hits all the right notes. Another must-try pasta dish is the Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken—a creamy, rich dish that manages to stay comforting without being overly heavy.

Seafood aficionados will find joy in the Seafood Pasta. This dish is loaded with fresh catches, making each bite a burst of oceanic freshness. If you're more into hearty fish dishes, the Coregone Picatta—a fresh Lake Superior Whitefish sautéed with lemon, capers, and butter—is a delightful choice. It’s served with Parmesan-roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables, adding a well-rounded touch to the meal.

For those who prefer something a bit more classic, the Pollo Parmigiana and Chicken Marsala are crowd-pleasers. The Pollo Parmigiana features breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, while the Chicken Marsala—sautéed chicken breast with porcini mushrooms, pancetta, onions, and Marsala wine—is a savory delight that's both rich and aromatic. Pair either dish with their fresh-baked complimentary bread for a perfect meal.

When it comes to pizzas, Zia's has received mixed reviews. Some patrons have adored their modern pizzas, while others have mentioned issues with the crust being off or burnt. That said, their attention to detail shines with other dishes, so it's worth trying at least once to form your own opinion.

If you're visiting Zia's, the Tiramisu Cake is an excellent way to conclude your meal. It's consistently praised for its balanced flavor and fluffy texture. Other dessert offerings may also catch your eye, but Tiramisu remains a standout sweet treat here.

Service at Zia’s is frequently highlighted as a strong point. Servers like Melissa and Derek have been singled out for their kindness and attentiveness. Whether it's your first visit or you're a regular, the staff makes an effort to enhance your dining experience, adding that personal touch that keeps patrons coming back. Also noteworthy is their `birthday meal deal`, offering a discount proportionate to the number of guests in your party—a fun way to celebrate special occasions 🎂.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and warmer weather when the outdoor seating is particularly popular. Also, parking can be limited, so it's a good idea to drop off elderly or handicapped guests at the front door if needed.

While Zia's may not reinvent Italian cuisine, it certainly does it right with generous portions, quality ingredients, and an atmosphere that makes dining here a pleasure. Despite a few criticisms regarding its pizzas, the overwhelming majority of diners leave satisfied with both the food and the service. Whether you're planning a romantic date night or a family gathering, Zia's offers a delicious dining experience worth savoring.