There’s nothing quite like authentic Italian food, and that’s why we love Orofino, the authentic Italian restaurant here in Fredericksburg owned and operated by Danilo Orofino. Danilo is a native of Palermo, Sicily. He began studying how to cook very early on, opening his first restaurant and coffee bar by the time he was 18 years old. But that small shop wasn’t enough for Danilo. He vacationed in the United States and eventually began a new life in New York City. From modest beginnings at an Italian grocery/deli and then as a server in a trendy Italian restaurant, Danilo and his new bride, Alona, made their way to Fredericksburg to work at another local restaurant. Now, with his passion for great food and devotion to friends and family, Danilo and Alona offer a truly special dining experience at Orofino.
Truly Authentic
One of the great touches at Orofino is the map of Italy on the menu. It’s broken down into 20 regions, and a corresponding number to each menu item tells you where that dish originates. It’s a lovely bit of detail that just adds to the authenticity of the place. The Plato di Carni e Formaggi features a variety of meats and cheeses served with crostini and preserves, and it’s an excellent appetizer to share at the table. Once your appetite is whetted, it’s time to turn to what Orifino calls ‘Secondi’ or what most of us would refer to as the entrée. The Vitello Panato, a bone-in, breaded veal chop with arugula, prosciutto, shaved parmigiana, and cherry tomato dressed in a limoncello vinaigrette from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is one of the stars of the menu and comes highly recommended.
Pasta and Pizza too
Of course, when most people think of Italian, they think of pasta and pizza. Don’t worry: Orofino has you covered there, too. From the tasty Gnocchi al Pesto — potato pasta in a creamy pesto sauce — from the Liguria region to the Tre Pocellini pizza (with fresh mozzarella, ham, capicola, spicy soppressata, basil, and ricotta cheese), Danilo and Alona have got you covered.
You Might Like: Plan A Day At Fun Land
When you go
Orofino is open from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. until their last seating at 8:15 p.m., Monday through Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, they’re open from 11 a.m. until their last seating at 9:15 p.m. The restaurant is closed Sundays. Go visit them at 1006 Caroline St, Fredericksburg and enjoy a great meal in a warm, welcoming atmosphere!
Disclaimer: The stock image is being used for illustrative purposes only, and it is not a direct representation of the business, recipe, or activity listed. Any person depicted in the stock image is a model.