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Lombardino's Reviews List

Lombardino's

Lombardino"s Restaurant, a staple in Madison, WI since 1952, features a chef driven menu that changes with the seasons. With the 1950's Italian American kitschy decor, one will find excellent, simply made Italian food of the utmost quality in a comfortable neighborhood restaurant setting.
See more Lombardino's details
273 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5
(273 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 273 reviews
5 stars
(165)
4 stars
(80)
3 stars
(16)
2 stars
(9)
1 star
(3)
Food 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Service 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
2.1 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • neighborhood gem(196)
  • fit for foodies(164)
  • special occasion(158)
  • romantic(123)
  • notable wine list(79)
  • good for groups(55)
Lombardino's Reviews List
Review 1 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

food was amazing!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2013
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The asparagus soup to die for! Oven brick pizzas full of flavor! Overall was a great experience!"
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 2 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of the best Madison restaurants

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Lombardino's NEVER disappoints! The food is consistently amazing, the staff are warm, friendly and knowledgable. The ambiance is great either for a romantic dinner for two or a family group. We have nothing negative to say about this amazing restaurant. Always SO SO good!"
Dined on 6/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, kid-friendly, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 3 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Good bad or indifferent.

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We did not have a very good experience. Our waitress was quite inattentive, to the point where we had to wave our arms to get her attention. The food was moderate. Two if the three had to send their meals back as they were simply ineddible. I would try the restaurant again, but not any time soon."
Dined on 6/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 4 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Not a great value!!

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I found the food to be pretty good but very high priced. Pasta dishes that cost $20+ in this town should be fantastic - not pretty good. Therefore, the value of the food (a function of price and taste) was not great...but pretty good.
The team in the kitchen is always coming up with something new. The roasted olives were unique and the calamari was very light and melted in your mouth. I had the lamb ragu and although it was pretty good, it cost $20 for a rather scant plate of pasta and sauce (no soup or salad either)."
Dined on 6/11/2013
 2012
Special Features: notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 5 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lombardino's

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The food was a bit overpriced and presentation for the entrée was not great. That being said, the steak was fantastic and the Cesar salad was exceptional"
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 6 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good quality with a little adventur

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/06/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Tasty selection of seasonal dishes along with Italian classics. Busy on a Thursday but nevertheless god service."
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Decent food, not so decent decor

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/05/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was good, not great. The service was decent but seemed inexperienced. The room looked very tired, the chairs were uncomfortable, and our table for four was too small to comfortably serve the food ordered. Given the relatively high price points Lombardino's offers, these issues combined make me likely to not hurry back. The food was good but most all other aspects were just decent."
Dined on 6/05/2013
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Review 8 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good food ambience not so much

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The service was OK while the food was very good. Spacing was a little cramped and the lighting was horrible. Not romantic just plain bad. I have excellent eyesight and reading the menu was difficult and I can imagine customers with vision issues would be in trouble. Could not see the plate of food at all. Note: celiacs should eat here. I give them high marks for the availability of GF foods or their willingness to prepare GF. Overall it was a good experience."
Dined on 6/04/2013
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Review 9 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent food; good service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Lombardino's has been a Madison favorite for fine Italian food. My wife and I both had different fish dishes that were excellent. The menu regular -- halibut with potatoes -- was grilled perfectly. The special cod in parchment with veggies was good as well. Mild, flavorful fish!
Asparagus starter comes with a fried egg on top, so be warned. We loved it but you may not be a fried egg on top of steamed asparagus person.
Tiramisu was pretty good but nothing special. Decaf coffee was very good as well.
Service was good but not excellent. The server seemed a little inexperienced and lacked confidence. She gave us plenty of olive oil for our bread -- and then gave us more without more bread! A small mistake granted."
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 10 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Something changed here.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/02/2013
Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Our food was VERY bland, needed salt, pepper and didn't have much flavor. For a restaraunt that used to hold a fantastic reputation this was very disappointing. I'm not sure if they went through a chef change, but the food was horrible."
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Enjoyable birthday dinner

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/01/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I took my wife to Lombardino's for her birthday dinner and we really enjoyed the food and the ambiance. It was a little dark in the restaurant, but each table had its own candlelight or small lamp and it was very quiet and easy to talk to each other without shouting to be heard. The wait staff was very efficient and knowledgable about the menu and the specials. Having a reservation was helpful because this place can get very crowded on the weekends!"
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, notable wine list
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Review 12 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Anniversary Dinner

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food at Lombardino's is consistently good -- using expertly prepared, locally-sourced ingredients. This evening was no exception. Our waitress (Haley) answered our questions about the menu, timed the meal so that everything came out at a good pace, and made great wine suggestions. The selections of wines available by the glass is excellent. We were so pleased with our dinner -- highly recommend Lombardino's."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 13 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The carpaccio was excellent! And the Lombardino's pizza was perfect! Love the arugula on the top as it adds a freshness to each bite.
Each couple ended up ordering the same two items to share and there was plenty of food."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 14 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Always good

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Lombardino's is always good. Their seasonal offerings are creative and tasty, but I keep going back for the spaghetti alla bolognese."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 15 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Lack of Appreciation

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Took our kids for the first time and noted during the online registration it was for a birthday dinner and it was not even acknowledged or brought up."
Dined on 5/24/2013
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Review 16 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Closest to Italy that Madison gets

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/22/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Having traveled in Italy a fair amount, it's tough to find a good Italian restaurant in the Midwest that can live up without the wincing twinge of Olive Garden flair. Lombardinos is the farthest from that and the closest we've come in Madison to some of the best places we've eaten in Italy. Outstanding menu, outstanding dishes, and the service was delightful. We had our two children (ages 5 and 8) with us and they cleaned their plates completely (no kids menu, thank God!). We will be back."
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 17 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good food BUT...

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/21/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I would not recommend this restaurant for any kind of special occasion dining. We repeatedly told the server that it was our daughters 25th birthday and not only didn't she seem to care, at the end of the meal she brought out a single candle stuck on a plate. I wasn't expecting anything like a free dessert but something festive? It was just pathetic to sing happy birthday to a plate. We ended up spending over $150 with a tip (and more for drinks beforehand at the bar) so it wasn't like we were cheapskates. I think they should address this because it soured what was otherwise a very nice meal. I have other friends who enjoy this restaurant and it is consistent if not a little skimpy on some main dishes. Needs more hands on management?"
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 18 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

drop from the sky..?

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/20/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"So its been a while since we have been to Lombrdino's and when we got there we were suprised that there is no longer any parking! The experience simply is not good enough to overcome the fact that there is NO parking. Considering the WI climate there are about 19 days a year where its worth walking to!"
Dined on 5/20/2013
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Review 19 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Off Night

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"They've been having more of these lately. The anchovy and buffalo mozzarella pizza sounded insightful on paper but was way too over fishy in practice, and I love anchovies. Calamari was as spectacular as usual."
Dined on 5/19/2013
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Review 20 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Food and service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food and service was excellent. Second time dinning. We would go back again"
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 21 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious Meal

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"One of the best salads I have ever eaten! It was on special with roasted beets, gorgonzola, toasted pistachios, and a ginger vinaigrette. Incredible. The pasta dishes we had were also prepared to perfection!"
Dined on 5/18/2013
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Review 22 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Heavy handed with the pepper

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I have noticed a trend when we go to Lombardino's. The food is always seasoned with too much black pepper. I had to send my soup and pasta dish back because I couldn't eat it with all that pepper. The service was terrific, as always."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 23 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Cozy restaurant with traditional feel. Friendly, competant service. Food was good - we tried two pastas, a risotto and the featured fish. The preparations were interesting, but not too weird. The portions were large enough to satisfy my hungry sons. The salads were well prepared. There were good wine and beer choices. A great place for a family dinner when visitng Madison."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 24 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Pleased

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was what I've come to expect from Lombardino's. The sausage in the orecchiette was too salty. Still a great dish, but found is more difficult to enjoy. The bar staff is great, with outstanding service. As for the dining waitstaff, a cocktail I had ordered mid-meal didn't arrive until dessert.
Overall, I was satisfied and will return."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 25 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

old Madison gem

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The food is outstanding, the feeling of the place being there forever is very comfortable. So popular though, you definitely have to think ahead and make reservations---not a last minute 'let's go there tonight' place, without reservations!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: romantic, late-night find, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 26 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Awesome

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was absolutely amazing. I got a pizza (it wasn't one of those sissy pizzas that fits on a tiny little plate, it was good sized and filling). My date got some shrimp pasta for and loved it and we got some awesome grilled asparagus for an appetizer. The portions are not wimpy at all so you get your money's worth. The total came to about 40 so not bad considering it's a fancier place. I was expecting to pay much more. Our waitress was the sweetest and happiest waitress I've ever had. It was my date's birthday and I dropped off flowers to be put at our table and the gentleman I gave them to found a vase and made them look awesome, my date was so impressed. Everything was awesome!!! Definitely will be going there more often now."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 27 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Lombardino's is a neighborhood treasure. The food is as close as it comes to Northern Italy in Wisconsin. My favorite place to eat in Madison."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 28 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Awesome Italian

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"First time going here, have heard a lot of great things about it and now I see why.
Food was wonderful, nice feel of a neighborhood Italian restaurant. Fresh ingredients, great
sauce and flavor.
Highly recommend.
"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem
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Review 29 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Staff was very knowledgable and friendly. Food was excellent even the next day for leftovers. Bar had good micro brews to sample and the bartenders were extremely busy, but was good enough to handle a crowded night even with only 2 bartenders on staff. Will definetly visit this place again."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: romantic, late-night find, special occasion
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Review 30 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was amazing. Cooked perfectly with awesome flavor."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 31 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Dinner meeting

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Had a perty of 14 - all dinners were very good - service excellant . Group looks forward to returning for dinner next opportunity ."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: good for groups, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
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Review 32 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Love the food (homemade pasta), wait staff (attentive without hovering) and nice wine list. Also really love the preserved decor of old Madison, back when this was part of the Italian section of town. I hope it stays like this. A real neighborhood gem."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 33 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First-rate Mainstream Italian

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This restaurant has been popular for years, for good reason. The food is excellent, flavorful and fresh. The service is just right, friendly and attentive but not rushed or pushy. The setting is pleasant, if not remarkable. Everyone in our party enjoyed their dinner (pasta dishes, pizza, and swordfish).
No doubt Lombardino's has carefully determined what its customers want for dinner. The menu doesn't offer much Italian ethnicity; it plays safe with pasta and pizza, and familiar entrees like steak, pork chops and fish. All of it is excellent (hence five stars), but you won't find anything exotic -- well, maybe the octopus.
"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 34 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Superb food and wonderful service!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 35 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Consistently great gourmet Italian

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My husband and I have been going to Lombardino's for years for special events or just when we want a great meal. It's a good place to bring out-of-town guests with various diets and preferences. The food preparations are consistently unusual and delicious. Also, Lombardino's is one of the few good restaurants open on Sunday night in Madison, which is often when we don't want to cook."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 36 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best in Madison

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our favorite restaurant and chef in Madison in a sea of other excellent local and area choices. Most frequent choice for comfort, a romantic dinner or special occasions. We anticipate the refreshing seasonal menu changes -- and the nightly specials! (Hoping for the reappearance of the light, crunchy spring salad featuring crisp greens, fresh pea shoots, toasted almonds and goat cheese!)
On Wednesday night, I invited friends (including one with a special needs diet) for an important celebration dinner. Patrick O'Halloran and his kitchen again exceeded expectations. Convivial, comfortable atmosphere, reliable nuances in flavors, lovely presentation and attentive, knowledgable service -- without a hint of anything pretentious.
"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 37 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Another excellent experience!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Quality, excellently-prepared food made from local ingredients. Professional and friendly service. What more could you ask for? Lombardino's is a truly special place."
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 38 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

All the food was wonderful,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"All the food was wonderful, but the appetizers (gorgonzola stuffed dates & eggs al forno) and ice creams (sea salt carmel & sour cream) were outstanding. We enjoy Lombardino's food as much as anything we get when we visit restaurants in New York."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 39 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very tasty. Delicious Cesar

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very tasty. Delicious Cesar salad, bolongese, and pizzas."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 40 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lombardino's is always great.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Lombardino's is always great. It's a bit on the pricey side, but you can find some relatively inexpensive items on the menu. The food is always very good to excellent, and the staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. The only drawback to Lombardino's is the size of the restaurant. It is, unfortunately, small, and so getting a table without a reservation can be a real challenge. Even if you do make a reservation for the same day you may find yourself eating a bit earlier or later than you had originally envisioned."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 41 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Sevice, food, wine was wonderful.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
"Sevice, food, wine was wonderful. We have been to many great Italian restuarants on the East Coast. Lombardino's was equal and better than some of them. We will come again when we're in Madison.
Thanks so much,
Gloria Bonnicksen, Arbor Vitae WI 54568
"
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 42 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We were from out of town and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We were from out of town and stumbled upon this place. It was excellent and I highly recommend it."
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2013
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Review 43 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Heard great things about Lombardino

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Heard great things about Lombardino's but was disappointed. Calamari was excellent but the sauce wasn't the best fit. The server was pleasant but seemed preoccupied. The main course was very good, probably the best homemade pasta I've eaten. Overall, for the price we paid and the experience we got, I would hesitate to recommend Lombardino's."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 44 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great Italian food, especially

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great Italian food, especially pasta! The menu is not extensive, but we all had pasta in our group, and it was well-made. My husband and I had the lamb ragu on linguine special--excellent!
The photos on the website are beautiful but misleading--no scallops, no lamb chops."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 45 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I have been going to Lombardino's

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I have been going to Lombardino's since I was in high school at West (40+ years ago). We would have pizza at your restaurant after our Friday night football games or on Sat nights throughout the year.
Still a great place for food and conversation!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 46 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I've eaten here a few times

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I've eaten here a few times over the years, and I've never had a meal here that makes me excited to come back again. Many of my friends really enjoy this place, so I thought I'd give it one more try. The food still remains so-so to me. I even went for the eggplant dish that gets a lot of positive reviews. It's not terrible, but it really wasn't remarkable by any stretch."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 47 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Once again, Lombo's is good

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Once again, Lombo's is good enough to revisit frequently and have a different fantastic experience each time. So we did! Three times in one week. The lamb sweetbreads with pea shoots and feta were so good we had to go back. My wife and I both called to see if the sweetbreads would be on the specials menu again. Once we found they were, back we went. Can't say enough about the constant high quality of Madison's best place to eat."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 48 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Returning magnetism!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Dining experience, culinary expertise and attentive service combine to keep bringing us back.....from La Crosse!"
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 49 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My friend was so right!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Enchanting food, friendly waitress, and festive decor. My friend had recommended Lombardino's for a couple years now, but I was never able to get to it---I live out of town. Well, three friends and I just dined there Saturday night, and we all ate like maniacs, the food was so good. My steak was a special, and worth every penny. The portions were appropriate: just large enough. Try the beet salad, too. The zesty ice creams were delightful, too. I loved this place and will return the next time I am in Madison."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 50 for Lombardino's
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Well Hidden Madison Gem

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Walking into Lombardino's, I knew I wasnt going to be seeing a smaller bill, but man was the dinner worth every penny.
-The food: Amazing. Be adventurous. There are many words and foods you may be unfamiliar with, but Lombardinos has a way of blending the flavors together.
-The restaurant: make reservations. I thought I was a bit crazy to be making a reservation for dinner with my girlfriend at 6:15, but I was thankful I did. They already had a 3 hour wait for those who did not plan ahead at that time.
-The experience: We were seated promptly at our reservation time, and did not leave until almost 2 hours later. You would think this is rather extreme, but the food and service keeps you entertained every minute.
Overall great experienc"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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