Rizzo's of Windber

My second time in Rizzo’s. We had such a great 1st time a couple of months back, we made it a point to come back each time we are in Johnstown. My chicken parm was good but my husband lasagne was different from usual lasagne. There is no layers of meat in this lasagne but a ricotta cheese pie with a couple of meat balls. Lasagne tastes good but just different. Service has been awesome for both times. We will be back for our next meal to try other dishes.

I’d rate this restaurant the best we’ve ever eaten, hands down - the type of restaurant you see in “movies” where it’s family owned Italian since the 20s. The food is obviously the main reason we go, ALL is homemade and fresh, absolutely delicious. From the delicious bread they first serve you up to the dessert which is always A+, and my family has tasted all of it. I will say however despite the immaculate food, the second main reason we go is the atmosphere. There has to be over 40/50+ staff/waiters/waitresses/chef at any given time. Every one of them ALWAYS shows kindness to my family - the classic “letting the kids come back to the kitchen to pick their dessert”, always sweethearts who aren’t cold when we order or need something, almost like always talking to a friend. I’ve visited Rizzos since I was a child, however it’d been over 10 years since I’d went (life happens) and only recently started going again. The same cozy atmosphere that it was since I was a child looking up over the tables and now sitting at the head of it. It goes to show that not everything needs changing and some places should stay the perfect way they are. We absolutely recommend Rizzos. Our only complaints are some days it’s difficult to get a table, despite the stocked staff - it’s an incredibly popular restaurant, and that’s not their fault, but this is only sometimes proving difficult. Otherwise, you’d be crazy not to come here! We love it.

Everyone is great at this hometown Italian restaurant, the servers, cooks, etc. It's so busy there. Always, always make arrangements beforehand. It is crowded but I think that's due to the quality. I'm 61 and can't remember this restaurant being there. That says a lot, too. Other places have folded and closed down. This one remains strong.

We reserved a room for my parents anniversary dinner. Everyone was a pleasure to work with. Mary Ann made planning it a breeze and had all the answers for my many, many questions. The service was great and fast and there was so much food and it was great! Mr. Rizzo even stopped in the room a few times. I won't hesitate to book a party here again if the chance comes up.

My wife and I are new to this area and had heard about "the great Rizzo's". Now, having lived in Italy for three years, we are a bit biased, but this was just not worth it. Overpriced, mediocre food, their red sauce is not fresh nor is it tasty. It actually tasted a bit scorched. They charge for drink refills! WTH? The salad was... salad. Nothing to celebrate. The ambiance was gloomy and felt like a funeral home. The service was not bad, not great by any stretch of the imagination but they got the job done, after a fashion. Won't be back. Rizzo's was a failure for us.