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Welcome to Illiano's Restaurant-Pizzeria of Meriden

Illiano's Restaurant-Pizzeria of Meriden is a culinary gem nestled in Meriden, Connecticut, where tradition meets creativity. Known for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, this establishment reignites local pizza heritage with their signature dish, the Verdolini pizza, inspired by a beloved restaurant from the past. Beyond pizza, Illiano's excites with gourmet offerings like the Stuffed Meat Pizza and unique creations such as Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Pizza. Diners rave about the authentic flavors, from hearty calzones to delicious garlic knots. Illiano's is truly a haven for food lovers seeking high-quality, imaginative dishes crafted with passion.

Illiano's Restaurant-Pizzeria of Meriden: Reviews & Ratings

Kitchen Boy
Kitchen Boy

We were driving to Maine to stay with friends, stopped in Meriden just for the night. Scanned reviews and Illianos have many positive ones. We ate in on a Saturday night, had the place to ourselves, guess locals eat early or aren't comfortable dining in yet. We ordered the Verdolini Pie - "according to the menu description "toppings" go down first. Then sliced Mozzarella. Topped with a special Marinara sauce, EVOO, seasoning, basil and Parmigiano cheese... The Verdolini is an inspired pizza from an old famous restaurant in Meriden CT. Sadly the restaurant closed in 1992 due to a flood. The Verdolini pizza is a recreation based on dozens of customers descriptions and feedback." Seemed a unique sort of pie so we ordered it (pictured below). Amazing pizza! Loved it. The wonderful staff offered us each a complimentary slice of the "Big Mac" pizza, which was also delicious. Lots of takeout happened while we were there, and the buffalo chicken pizza seemed a popular choice. Decent beer and wine selections as well. The dining area has a fun decor. Staff are friendly and engaging. Especially Marie, she was amazing. If we are ever in this area again, I know where we'll be eating.

Tiffany Poudin
Tiffany Poudin

Everyone is so friendly and love their creativity with pizza! Pulled pork mac and cheese pizza is such a creative idea and it’s delicious! Love the bbq sauce on it! Their baked potato pizza is also very good. Highly recommend this place if you are looking for a good, high quality pizza place!

Cadence Parker
Cadence Parker

Got the Margherita for Take-Out. The waitresses and cooks were both kind and receptive. The pizza itself slaps. Most places make a cheap Margherita, but this place makes it right. Ten 's out of ten.

Dustin Macura
Dustin Macura

We ordered pizza for a school fundraiser and it was absolutely delicious. The owners agreed to give a percentage of sales that evening to our sons school. The service was fantastic. My daughter and I were given a stuffed bread gratis to snack on while we waited for our pizzas. Very pleasant staff and nice atmosphere. We will definitely go again. You guys have gained a new customer. If you haven't tried them, what are you waiting for? Go enjoy!

Amanda Sparks
Amanda Sparks

First time eating here. I was really craving some pasta. I ordered the penne with broccoli and added chicken for pickup. It was really good. The roll was nice and fresh, but I wish it would have been a garlic roll. The staff were really nice! I’ll be ordering from here again!

Bruce Provencher
Bruce Provencher

This is a takeout review. All food is eaten promptly in the vehicle. I tried two pizzas. A traditional pepperoni and a Grandma's pepperoni. The traditional had a nice crust and great sauce. The crust had a little bit of crisp but was nicely cooked. Great flavor from the sauce. The Grandma's was also nicely done. A bit more crisp on the crust, which was also light and airy. For some reason the sauce didn't stand out as much on the Grandma's. But overall a very good food experience. On a scale from 0-10, I would rate this 9.5.

Joshlyn Beatrice
Joshlyn Beatrice

I usually get the same thing Alfredo with added broccoli & grilled chicken, but let me just say regardless everything I get is super fresh, delicious and absolutely outstanding! I treat myself to Illiano's at least once a week BONUS, they are consistently doing things for our town of Meriden! This past week it was donating 10% of orders placed dine in or take out for Benjamin Franklin Elementary school! so super generous place/owner & great staff! Super friendly & always smiling when I do go inside!

Fred Smith
Fred Smith

This was a great experience. If you love pizza, you need to visit this restaurant. They have a big-mac pizza. I swear it tastes just like a big Mac. Our waitress was Maria she was great.

Location

Welcome to Illiano's Restaurant-Pizzeria of Meriden, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Meriden, Connecticut. Located at 510 W Main St A, this establishment has quickly become a local favorite, captivating diners with its diverse menu and warm atmosphere. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or a lover of Italian cuisine, Illiano’s promises a memorable dining experience.

Illiano's is celebrated for its rich array of seafood dishes and mouthwatering pizzas, which reflect both traditional recipes and innovative twists. The standout Ling White Clam Sauce and Shrimp Fra Diavolo showcase the restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients and authentic flavors, keeping patrons coming back for more. One bite of their Lobster Ravioli, paired with a delectable brandy cream sauce, is enough to transport you straight to a coastal Italian village.

The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by a friendly and attentive staff, making every visit feel like a special occasion. Customers rave about the creativity found in the pizzas, with unique offerings such as the Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Pizza and the nostalgic Verdolini Pie. The latter, inspired by a beloved local legend restaurant, has been exquisitely reimagined, allowing guests to experience a slice of history with each serving. As one diner described, it’s “a unique sort of pie” that truly captures the spirit of the region.

  • Noteworthy Appetizers: Don’t miss the Fried Calamari or Garlic Knots as they set the stage for the meal to come.
  • Hot Grinders Galore: The Chicken Parm Grinder and Meatball Parm Grinder are not to be overlooked and pack a flavorful punch!
  • Creative Specials: Guests have highlighted other inventive options like the Baked Potato Pizza, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Yes, Illiano's is more than just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in community spirit. Their willingness to support local causes, as seen in their collaboration with school fundraisers, speaks volumes about their commitment to the people of Meriden. It's places like these that remind us of the power of food to bring people together.

In summary, Illiano's Restaurant-Pizzeria of Meriden is a must-visit destination for anyone in the area looking for high-quality, delicious food served with a side of genuine hospitality. With a fantastic selection of pasta dishes, seafood specialties, and a rotating menu of inventive pizzas, this restaurant truly shines. If you haven’t stopped in yet, what are you waiting for? Go experience the magic for yourself!