Ippolito's Italian Restaurant

by: CHRIS BIEGER

As I opened my car door, the smell of freshly baked garlic rolls hit me. My nose hadn’t been this excited since Tanya King started wearing perfume in 7th grade. Anyone who has visited one of the six locations of Ippolito’s knows exactly what I mean. (The rolls. Not the part about 7th grade.) The aroma of bread and Parmesan cheese transports one to New York’s “Little Italy”, where you can’t walk ten feet without being drawn into an Italian family restaurant. Luckily for Gwinnett, the newest Ippolito’s location is just a few minutes travel to downtown Suwanee overlooking Town Center Park.

Ippolito’s family-style Italian restaurant was the idea of George and Toni Ippolito. Having moved to Atlanta from Connecticut, they saw a need for a neighborhood restaurant with great authentic Italian food. The first of the family run restaurants opened in 1988, using Grandma Ippolito’s and mom and dad’s old family recipes. Entering the front door, we were enveloped in the casual friendly atmosphere. Seated by the window overlooking the park, we commenced to salivating over the menu. Our server, Jennifer, reflected Ippolito’s commitment to great service with a personality-filled wait staff. Throughout our dining experience we received just the right amount of attention.

We ordered drinks from the full bar as we anticipated the fresh garlic rolls. They arrived hot and steamy, accompanied by fried calamari and spicy marinara sauce. After reminding me that I would need pants with a more stretchable waist next time, my wife ordered the Bourbon Salmon. It had just the right amount of sweetness. Veal Piccata was my selection, lightly breaded, tender and bathed in a lemon caper sauce that I would have licked off the plate, had I been allowed. Our son was pleased with the kid’s menu and selected the chicken fingers and chocolate mousse cake. His personal review of the dessert choice could not be written, for he “could not express his enjoyment with words.”

After dinner we went upstairs to “Frank’s Place,” Ippolito’s new 50-person banquet room, filled with music of the Rat Pack. Great for business gatherings, the room is wired for electronic presentations. At this point, I couldn’t imagine ever eating again, but we were reminded of Sunday brunch. From the Italian scramble, full of peppers, sausage and eggs to the pancakes, French toast or breakfast pizza, there’s something for everyone.

If you would rather dine at home, Ippolito’s has “Ip’s To-Go” in the rear of the building, with designated parking spaces. Order ahead or when you get there. Parking is ample behind the building. Reservations are not required.

Call ahead for parties of six or more. Dress is casual or formal for your occasion.

350 Town Center Avenue | Suwanee, GA 30024
(678) 985-4377