Ever wondered where to find shrimp so good, it makes you question your life choices?
Buckle up, food lovers – we’re diving fork-first into St. Augustine’s hidden gem!
Located in the heart of historic St. Augustine, Florida, there’s a little slice of Italy that’s been causing quite a stir among locals and tourists alike.
Nonna’s Trattoria, a cozy family-owned restaurant, has been serving up some of the most mouthwatering Italian cuisine this side of the Atlantic for years.
But it’s their shrimp scampi that’s really got people talking.
This isn’t just any shrimp scampi – this is the kind of dish that makes you want to hug the chef, kiss the waiter, and propose marriage to your fork.
As you approach Nonna’s Trattoria, you might be tempted to walk right past it.
The exterior is unassuming, with a simple sign and a few potted plants adorning the entrance.
It’s the kind of place that doesn’t need to shout about its greatness – it lets the food do the talking.
And boy, does it have a lot to say.
Step inside, and you’re immediately enveloped in the warm embrace of a traditional Italian trattoria.
The aroma of garlic and herbs wafts through the air, mingling with the sound of clinking glasses and animated conversation.
The walls are adorned with vintage Italian posters and family photos, giving you the feeling that you’ve just stumbled into someone’s (very delicious) living room.
The dining room is intimate, with only a handful of tables draped in red and white checkered tablecloths.
But let’s get to the star of the show – the shrimp scampi.
Now, I’ve had my fair share of shrimp scampi in my day.
But nothing, and I mean nothing, prepared me for the shrimp scampi at Nonna’s Trattoria.
First of all, let’s talk about the shrimp themselves.
These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, freezer-burned crustaceans that have seen better days.
No, sir.
These are plump, juicy Florida shrimp that practically leap off the plate and into your mouth.
They’re so fresh, you half expect them to be wearing little sunglasses and sipping on tiny cocktails.
The shrimp are nestled in a bed of perfectly al dente linguine, each strand coated in a sauce that can only be described as liquid gold.
It’s a harmonious blend of butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon that’s been simmered to perfection.
The sauce is light enough to let the shrimp shine, but flavorful enough to make you want to lick the plate clean.
(Pro tip: order extra bread for sauce-sopping purposes. Your dignity can take a backseat when faced with sauce this good.)
But what really sets Nonna’s shrimp scampi apart is the attention to detail.
The garlic is minced so finely, it practically melts into the sauce.
There’s a subtle hint of red pepper flakes that adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the delicate flavors.
And the finishing touch?
A sprinkle of fresh parsley that adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to each bite.
Now, let’s dive into the rest of the menu.
Starting a meal at Nonna’s Trattoria is like getting a warm Italian welcome.
The appetizer selection offers a blend of comfort and flavor, preparing diners for the rich dishes to follow.
A popular choice is the Fried Ravioli, a deliciously indulgent dish where ricotta-stuffed ravioli are lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection.
The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, creamy filling that pairs beautifully with a side of marinara sauce, adding a tangy depth to each bite.
Another crowd-pleaser is the Parmesan Herb Fries, which elevate the simple French fry with a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
These fries are not only crispy and savory but also perfectly enhanced by the addition of marinara sauce, giving them an Italian twist that is hard to resist.
For seafood lovers, the Calamari Fritti is a delightful choice that reflects the restaurant’s dedication to quality and freshness.
The calamari rings are tender and lightly breaded, fried to just the right level of crispiness without losing their delicate texture.
Served with a side of marinara sauce, this appetizer is simple yet flavorful, embodying the kind of classic Italian approach that Nonna’s Trattoria does so well.
These starters are only the beginning, setting the tone for a dining experience that is both comforting and indulgent.
The pasta dishes at Nonna’s Trattoria are where the magic truly happens.
The kitchen’s dedication to traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite.
One of the standout pasta dishes is the Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca, a bold and flavorful creation that balances savory, salty, and slightly spicy elements.
This dish features a blend of Kalamata olives, capers, anchovies, garlic, and tomatoes, creating a robust sauce that clings to the spaghetti and delivers a taste that is unmistakably Italian.
It’s a dish that captures the essence of Italy in each mouthful, with flavors that are complex yet beautifully harmonious.
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Another must-try is the Chicken Carbonara, a rich and creamy pasta dish that pairs tender chicken with fettuccine in a white wine cream sauce.
The Parmesan cheese adds a layer of depth and umami to the dish, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy indulgent, comforting flavors.
For a classic taste of Italy, the Spaghetti and Meat Balls is a beloved option.
The meatballs are seasoned to perfection, tender and juicy, served in a traditional marinara sauce that is bursting with tomato flavor.
This dish feels like a warm hug from Nonna herself, a comforting reminder of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
Of course, no Italian restaurant would be complete without a proper Chicken Alfredo.
At Nonna’s, this dish is a creamy, velvety delight.
The Alfredo sauce is rich and smooth, coating the fettuccine and tender chicken pieces in a way that brings comfort to the soul.
It’s a dish that leaves a lasting impression, one that diners come back for time and again, seeking the simple pleasure of creamy pasta done right.
Other notable choices in their specials include the Chicken Marsala and Chicken Parmigiana, each offering a different take on Italian-inspired chicken dishes.
The Chicken Marsala is cooked in a Marsala wine sauce that has a rich, slightly sweet flavor, accented by earthy mushrooms.
It’s a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, perfect for those looking to try something a little different.
The Chicken Parmigiana, on the other hand, is a classic that never disappoints, featuring breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
It’s hearty and satisfying, embodying the timeless appeal of Italian comfort food.
Seafood enthusiasts are also drawn to the Florida Grouper Fillet, a fresh and flavorful option that showcases the bounty of local waters.
This grouper is pan-seared and served with a lemon butter sauce, offering a taste that is light, buttery, and slightly tangy.
The freshness of the fish shines through, making it a wonderful choice for those who appreciate the natural flavors of high-quality seafood.
To finish off a meal at Nonna’s Trattoria, the dessert options are simply irresistible.
The Limoncello Cake is a refreshing treat that provides a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Made with the Italian lemon liqueur Limoncello, this cake is light and airy, with a flavor that’s both zesty and sweet.
It’s an ideal way to cleanse the palate after a rich meal, leaving a hint of citrusy brightness.
For those who prefer a classic Italian dessert, the Tiramisu is a must-try.
This beloved dessert is layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder.
The Tiramisu at Nonna’s is light, fluffy, and perfectly balanced, offering just the right amount of sweetness and coffee flavor to round off the dining experience.
But what really sets Nonna’s Trattoria apart isn’t just the food – it’s the atmosphere.
The staff treats you like family from the moment you walk in the door.
They’ll remember your name, your favorite dish, and probably your life story by the time you leave.
It’s the kind of place where the owner might come out of the kitchen to chat with you about your meal, or to share a story about how his nonna taught him to make pasta by hand.
The walls are lined with photos of happy customers, local celebrities, and even a few famous faces who have stumbled upon this hidden gem.
It’s a testament to the universal appeal of good food and warm hospitality.
Whether you’re a local looking for a cozy dinner spot or a tourist seeking an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Florida, Nonna’s Trattoria welcomes you with open arms and a steaming plate of pasta.
Once you’ve eaten at Nonna’s, no other Italian restaurant will ever quite measure up.
You’ll find yourself dreaming about that shrimp scampi, craving that perfect pizza, and longing for just one more bite of that heavenly tiramisu.
But don’t just take my word for it.
The locals in St. Augustine have been keeping this place a secret for years, and now it’s time for the rest of the world to discover the magic of Nonna’s Trattoria.
Just be prepared for a bit of a wait – word has been spreading, and tables can be hard to come by on busy nights.
But trust me, it’s worth it.
Bring a book, bring a friend, bring your appetite – just make sure you bring yourself to Nonna’s Trattoria.
As you leave, stuffed to the gills and already planning your next visit, you’ll understand why this tiny restaurant has become such a beloved part of the St. Augustine community.
It’s more than just a place to eat – it’s a place to connect, to celebrate, to create memories.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come in small packages (or in this case, on small plates).
So, the next time you find yourself in St. Augustine, do yourself a favor and seek out Nonna’s Trattoria.
Order the shrimp scampi, savor every bite, and prepare to fall in love with Italian cuisine all over again.
Just don’t blame me when you find yourself booking a one-way ticket to Italy – or worse, trying to recreate that shrimp scampi in your own kitchen.
Ready for a taste of Italy in the Sunshine State?
Nonna’s awaits, armed with garlic, charm, and enough pasta to make you forget swimsuit season exists.
For direction, follow this map and go straight to their location.
Where: 2 Aviles St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Buon appetito!