When it comes to Italian fine dining, Ferraro’s Ristorante stands apart as Las Vegas’s premier destination for authentic Southern Italian cuisine. Away from the hustle of the Strip, this family-owned restaurant invites you to slow down, enjoy time-honored recipes, and indulge in award-winning wines, all in an elegant atmosphere rooted in decades of tradition.

Mastering this fine Italian menu enhances the experience when dining with a loved one and gathering with friends.

In this guide, we’ll explain the structure of an Italian meal, decode essential food vocabulary, and share practical tips so that you can order easily and confidently on your next visit to Ferraro’s.

Decoding the Italian Menu Structure

Italian dining is an experience that unfolds slowly, with intention. At Ferraro’s, the menu reflects this philosophy, offering a progression of curated courses designed to highlight handcrafted pastas, expertly prepared meats, and indulgent desserts. Here’s how to navigate it:

Antipasti – The Opening Act

Think of antipasti as the prologue to your meal. These elegant starters are perfect for sharing and meant to awaken your palate.

  • Carpaccio di Manzo – Thinly sliced raw beef tenderloin, dressed with lemon, olive oil, and Parmigiano.
  • Calamari Fritti – Lightly fried, golden calamari served with house-made marinara.
  • Burrata e Prosciutto – Creamy imported burrata paired with aged prosciutto di Parma.

Primi – Handcrafted Beginnings

Primi piatti are typically pasta, risotto, or gnocchi dishes—rich in flavor, but modest in portions to make room for what’s next.

  • Pappardelle al Cinghiale – House-made ribbon pasta with slow-braised wild boar ragù.
  • Risotto ai Porcini – Arborio rice simmered in broth with imported porcini mushrooms and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
  • Gnocchi alla Sorrentina – Pillowy potato gnocchi baked in house-made tomato sauce and melted mozzarella.

Ferraro’s handcrafted pastas are all made in-house, using traditional methods that honor the family’s Southern Italian roots. Each bite tells a story of generations, flour-dusted hands, and Sunday family meals in Calabria.

Secondi – The Heart of the Meal

Secondi dishes feature expertly prepared meats or fish—elevated, indulgent, and the highlight of your culinary journey.

  • Pollo Limone – Airline chicken breast, lemon, white wine, garlic, rosemary
  • Branzino al Limone – Mediterranean sea bass with lemon, capers, and extra virgin olive oil.
  • Pollo Parmigiana – Breaded organic chicken breast, baked with tomato sauce and Parmigiano.

Each secondo celebrates Italian simplicity, using premium ingredients and time-honored techniques.

Contorni – Elegant Complements

Sides are served separately, allowing you to build your ideal plate.

  • Broccoli Rabe – Sauteed rapini, garlic
  • Patate Arrosto – Rosemary roasted potatoes
  • Polpette – Beef and pork meatballs

Dolci – A Decadent Finale

No Italian meal is complete without dessert. At Ferraro’s, each dolce is crafted in-house.

  • Tiramisu – Espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream.
  • Cannoli – Two large fried pastry shells with sweetened ricotta filling and cinnamon, dusted with pistachios
  •  Cioccolatissimo – Hazelnut Chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, bacio ice cream, yogurt

Ferraro’s Menu Decoder: Key Italian Terms

  • Al Forno – Baked in the oven.
  • Fatto a Mano – Handmade (used for pasta and bread).
  • Alla Griglia – Grilled over open flame.
  • Pomodoro – Tomato-based sauce.
  • Aglio e Olio – Garlic and olive oil.

Knowing these phrases brings you closer to the culinary traditions Ferraro’s proudly upholds.

From Calabria to Campania: The Soul of Southern Italy in Las Vegas

Ferraro’s is deeply rooted in the traditions of Southern Italian cooking, with recipes inspired by Calabria, Campania, and Sicily. Expect vibrant flavors from sun-ripened tomatoes, fresh seafood, spicy Calabrian chilies, and imported cheeses aged to perfection. Each dish reflects Chef Mimmo Ferraro’s dedication to regional authenticity and culinary refinement.

Southern Italy is also known for its generosity of spirit, something you’ll feel in Ferraro’s warm hospitality and thoughtful service.

To bring even more of the Italian spirit to the table, Ferraro’s frequently hosts seasonal tasting events such as the acclaimed “Taste & Learn” wine dinners. These events showcase rare Italian wines alongside specially curated regional menus—a delicious way to deepen your understanding of Italy’s diverse culinary landscape.

What to Sip: Wine Pairings from Ferraro’s Award-Winning Cellar

With one of the most prestigious Italian wine collections in Las Vegas, Ferraro’s wine program is curated to complement each course perfectly.

Here’s a quick guide to enhance your meal:

  • Antipasti – Burrata – Burrata, blueberry compote, almonds, arugula, lemon zest, EVOO
  • Primi – Gnocchi Pistachio – Potato dumpling, pistachio pesto, Roasted tomato, crushed pistachio
  • Secondi – Pollo Limone Airline chicken breast, lemon, white wine, garlic, rosemary
  • Dolci – Tiramisu Ferraro’s favorite- classic Italian dessert, lady finger, Mascarpone cheese, & espresso

Your server or sommelier will be delighted to guide you to the perfect pour.

Dining at Ferraro’s: Like a Local, but Elevated

Ordering at Ferraro’s is about crafting an experience and is not meant to be rushed.

  • Start with antipasti and a light white wine.
  • Move to a handcrafted pasta primi—especially one made with house-made sauces.
  • Choose a signature secondi, such as – Osso Buco – “Our House Specialty” Veal shank braised in red wine reduction served with saffron risotto
  •  Always save room for dessert—and ask about house specials.

Let your server guide your wine journey—it’s what Ferraro’s is known for.

Italian Dining Culture in Las Vegas: A Welcome Escape

In a city where flashy clubs and trendy menus dominate, Ferraro’s offers something rare: authenticity, elegance, and timeless cuisine. Located just off the Strip, those who appreciate handcrafted dishes and a wine cellar that rivals the best in the world find their sanctuary.

When you are seeking the best Italian food in Las Vegas, Ferraro’s provides a dining experience rooted in tradition and elevated by excellence. Every detail, from the warm lighting to the curated playlists and impeccable plating, is designed to immerse guests in la dolce vita—the sweet life. Ferraro’s is where date nights become anniversaries, and where business dinners transform into lasting partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are Italian menus structured?
Italian menus follow a sequence: antipasti, primi (pastas), secondi (main meats or fish), contorni (sides), and dolci (desserts).

What if I don’t speak Italian?
That’s okay—our knowledgeable staff is here to help. Ferraro’s menus include English translations, and your server will happily explain dishes or make recommendations.

What are Ferraro’s signature dishes?
Osso Buco – House Specialty – Veal shank braised in red wine reduction served with saffron risotto

https://www.ferraroslasvegas.com/menu/ Have a look for your signature dish!

Can I get a wine recommendation?
Absolutely. Ferraro’s sommelier team will help you find the perfect pairing for every course.

What should I wear?
Ferraro’s has an upscale ambiance. Business casual or elegant evening attire is recommended.

Is Ferraro’s good for special occasions?
Yes. With private dining rooms and impeccable service, Ferraro’s is ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, business dinners, and romantic evenings.

Visit Ferraro’s Ristorante
1501 East Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89104
Make your reservation at ferraroslasvegas.com or call (702) 364-5300.

Savor authentic Italian cuisine. Indulge in handcrafted pastas. Discover one of Las Vegas’s most refined dining experiences—only at Ferraro’s.