Lunch at North Italia: A Fresh Surprise in Summerlin

Sometimes, the best meals come from unexpected choices. For my daughter’s school graduation lunch, she surprised me by choosing North Italia.

Typically, she gravitates toward sushi for any special outing, but that day she decided to switch it up. But this time, we walked into North Italia. And by the time we left, I found myself wondering why I hadn’t done it sooner.

Summer Heat, Cool Atmosphere

We arrived just as Las Vegas officially kicked off summer—with a blazing 102-degree day.

While the restaurant has a stylish patio that looked perfect for cooler evenings, we opted for the comfortable, air-conditioned interior.

The space inside was chic and contemporary, with high ceilings, warm wood tones, and a modern, yet welcoming design.

Bar seating is also available, complete with a full bar menu that adds another layer of versatility to the dining experience.

Whether you’re stopping in for a cocktail and a small plate or planning a full-course celebration, the space easily adapts to your vibe.

A Thoughtfully Crafted Lunch Menu

North Italia’s lunch menu differs slightly from their dinner menu, making it feel a little more casual yet still refined.

The staff was warm and knowledgeable, explaining the menu with care and suggesting favorites without sounding overly rehearsed.

It was clear they knew the food well and took pride in what they were serving.

Our Starters: Small Plates, Big Flavor

We began with three small plates that immediately set the tone for the rest of the meal.

White Truffle Garlic Bread

The perfect opener—crispy, golden bread layered with melted mozzarella and grana padano, finished with house-made ricotta and a fragrant hit of fresh herbs.

The truffle aroma was rich without being overpowering, and the balance of textures made it an instant favorite.

Crispy Eggplant Parmesan

Unlike traditional versions that can sometimes feel heavy, this rendition was light and crisp.

The spicy vodka sauce added a beautiful depth, while the fresh mozzarella and torn basil kept each bite grounded in classic Italian comfort.

Little Gem Caesar

Simple but elevated—crisp greens, finely grated grana padano, herbed breadcrumbs for crunch, and just the right touch of cracked pepper.

A refreshing, flavorful contrast to the richness of the other dishes.

To accompany it all, my daughter ordered a house-made refresher called “Just Peachy,” a vibrant drink with white peach, raspberry, lemon, and ginger beer. It was light, fizzy, and perfectly suited to a hot summer afternoon.

Main Course Magic

By the time our entrees arrived, we were thoroughly impressed—and ready for more.

Each main dish brought something unique to the table, both in flavor and presentation.

Lasagna Bianca

This was a rich and luxurious twist on lasagna. Instead of the usual tomato-based version, the Lasagna Bianca featured slow-braised short rib nestled between sheets of tender pasta, layered with a creamy béchamel sauce, provolone, mozzarella, and a grana padano topping.

The herb breadcrumbs added a satisfying crunch. Every bite was indulgent, yet balanced—comfort food at its most refined.

Spicy Rigatoni Vodka

The Spicy Rigatoni Vodka was everything you’d want from a pasta dish—hearty, comforting, and deeply flavorful.

Italian sausage provided a savory base, while crispy pancetta and shaved garlic added bursts of richness and texture.

The sauce had just the right level of spice to awaken the palate without overwhelming it, and the torn basil brought a necessary freshness.

This dish was a standout for both of us, and one I’d return for without hesitation.

Chicken Pesto Garlic Knot Sliders

Playful yet satisfying, the Chicken Pesto Garlic Knot Sliders were a fun departure from the pasta-heavy lineup.

Served on soft, chewy garlic knots, each slider was filled with juicy chicken, melted provolone, vibrant basil pesto, and a swipe of spicy vodka sauce.

The result? A crave-worthy handheld with layers of flavor packed into every bite. It’s hard not to smile while eating these, and they’d be perfect for sharing—if you can bear to give one up.

A Chain That Feels Like a Neighborhood Gem

It’s true—North Italia is a chain, but that doesn’t take away from the craftsmanship or care in their food.

While I’ll always advocate for the little guy, sometimes a well-executed concept like this earns a place on the list.

The team at North Italia in Summerlin delivered an experience that felt anything but corporate.

Everything from the service to the seasoning reflected a genuine attention to detail.

The kitchen clearly prioritizes fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the execution across each plate proves that consistency and creativity can absolutely coexist.

I used to drive past North Italia without a second glance, convinced it wouldn’t match the charm of smaller spots. But after sharing that graduation lunch with my daughter—laughing, reminiscing, and trying each other’s entrees—I realized the true magic of dining out isn’t just about the food. It’s about the memories created around the table. This place delivered both.

Location, Accessibility & Bottom Line

North Italia is conveniently located in Boca Park, right next door to Snooze AM Eatery, making it easy to access whether you’re in the area shopping or looking for a casual yet elegant lunch. They have a second location in Henderson for those who prefer a shorter ride from the east side.

With its modern atmosphere, welcoming staff, and satisfying menu, it’s the kind of place that works just as well for a mid-week bite as it does for a special occasion.

While it may not have the charm of a family-owned trattoria tucked away in an alley, it brings its own kind of soul to the table. And for that, North Italia earns a well-deserved spot on our Las Vegas dining radar.

The food speaks for itself, the service is on point, and the memories made there might just surprise you.