Flavors Of Italy Bistro

We have been to OC many times but this was the first time stopping here for dinner. We wanted some good Italian food and this place was within walking distance from our condo so we thought we’d check it out.

We entered at the boardwalk entrance and were seated immediately. The host was very nice and he made sure that our table was clean before we sat down. Our waiter showed up a few minutes later and took our drink orders. It took longer than expected for him to return with our drinks. My daughter got an alcoholic drink, she was not impressed and I tasted it and it was definitely a mix. It was a waste of $12. Also my wife and two youngest kids ordered water. The waiter asked if we wanted tap or bottled water and without thinking we said bottled. And when we got our check they charged us $3 per bottle of water. I found that to be quite ridiculous.

Our food took longer than anticipated for that to arrive as well. There were a few other tables around us and you could tell that the other patrons were frustrated as well with how long it was taking to get their drinks and food.The food was OK, a bit disappointing. I got the lasagna and the piece was not very big. My son tried the fettuccine alfredo and he said it was good. My wife got the spaghetti and meatballs and again said it was OK. My daughter got the ziti and was not a big fan of the sauce. Obviously it could just be our tastes but we were not impressed by any of the meals. Also, no bread was brought with our meals or offered to us at any time. I’ve been to who knows how many Italian restaurants and bread with your meal is pretty much a standard.

It also took quite a while for our waiter to come back to check on us and bring us our bill. He did acknowledge and apologize for the long wait so I did appreciate that. That’s why I gave the service at least a four star rating. Considering a place wasn’t busy they must’ve been short-staffed. Regardless, we stay at the same condo every single year and we are quite close to this restaurant but we’ve all decided that we most likely will not be returning here for dinner anytime soon, if ever.

This is the cutest little place tucked into the boardwalk and is easy to walk right past.

It was a rainy night and we didn't feel like waiting almost an hour to get a table at Shenanigans so we walked the boardwalk until I saw Flavors Of Italy and boy am I glad!

It was amazing!! Service was great. Our waiter was the nicest kid from Bulgaria who took great care of our table. He was super friendly.

The food was incredible. Hands down the best shrimp alla vodka ever. The mozzarella cakes in spicy marinara was incredible and I loved their garlic Parm wings.

The atmosphere was phenomenal. Windows open to get the ocean breeze. This huge life size statue of Elvis Presley. These incredible photos lined the top of the wall.

Best day 1 dinner at the beach!

Flavors Of Italy Bistro surprised me. Ocean view. The chicken wings are great — crispy, well-seasoned, and not an afterthought. The kabob salad is just as good: fresh greens, tender grilled meat, and enough to be a full meal.

Casual spot, friendly service, and portions that don’t leave you hungry. Not just pasta and pizza here. If you want something lighter but still flavorful, or wings done right, this place delivers.