One Bite In, And You’ll See Why This Italian Spot Is North Carolina’s Favorite

I first wandered into Nonna’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza at 4995 Weddington Rd, Concord, NC 28027, United States on a random Tuesday evening, hungry and curious.

From the moment I stepped through the door, it felt like walking into a friend’s kitchen…warm, lively, and full of irresistible aromas.

What I didn’t know then was that this meal would turn into a full-blown love affair with authentic Italian food, the kind that keeps you coming back again and again. Every slice, every bite, every bite of tiramisu or perfectly baked pizza feels like a little celebration of Italy right in the heart of Concord.

Chef Francesco’s Journey from Bari To Concord

Chef Francesco started his culinary adventure in Bari, Italy, at just 10 years old. He worked in a local bakery, learning the secrets of dough and flavor.

At 16, he moved to Paris, France, to train under renowned chefs.

His journey took him across continents and through more than 10 successful restaurants in Florida. Now, he brings all that experience to North Carolina at Nonnas Italian Restaurant & Pizza, located at 4995 Weddington Rd, Concord.

You can taste decades of passion in every dish.

When I met him, his eyes lit up talking about his grandmother’s recipes. He told me stories about Sunday dinners in Italy, where the family gathered for hours. That warmth and tradition shine through in every plate he serves.

Francesco doesn’t just cook food; he shares memories. His hands move with confidence, seasoned by years of practice. Every meal feels like a gift from his heritage to your table.

You can see his pride in the dining room as he checks on guests. He remembers faces, asks about your day, and makes you feel like family.

That personal touch is what sets this place apart from every other Italian restaurant I’ve tried.

The Scratch Kitchen Philosophy That Changes Everything

Forget about shortcuts or pre-made sauces sitting in giant cans. Nonnas makes everything from scratch, every single day. Their marinara sauce comes from an old family recipe that has been passed down through generations.

Walking past the kitchen, I could smell fresh basil and simmering tomatoes. The aroma alone made my stomach rumble with anticipation. You won’t find any frozen meatballs or store-bought pasta here.

They prepare each dish to order, which means a little extra wait time. But trust me, it’s worth every single minute. The difference between fresh and frozen is like night and day.

I watched them roll out pasta dough by hand one afternoon. The care they put into each step blew my mind. This isn’t a factory assembly line; it’s culinary artistry.

Their commitment to freshness means the flavors burst in your mouth. Each bite tastes vibrant and alive, not dull or reheated.

When you eat here, you’re tasting food the way it was meant to be enjoyed, with love and attention in every ingredient.

Garlic Knots That Deserve Their Own Fan Club

Let me tell you about the garlic knots at Nonnas. They arrive at your table warm, glistening with butter and garlic. The smell hits you first, and your mouth starts watering before you even take a bite.

I’ve tried garlic knots at dozens of Italian restaurants across multiple states. None of them come close to what Nonnas serves. The dough is soft and pillowy, with just the right amount of chew.

They don’t skimp on the garlic butter, which coats every twist and turn. Each knot is perfectly seasoned with herbs that complement the garlic without overpowering it. I could honestly make a meal out of these alone.

My friend ordered them on our first visit, and I stole three from her basket. She wasn’t happy about it, but she understood once she tasted them herself. We ended up ordering a second basket to avoid any more conflict.

These garlic knots have 65 mentions in customer reviews, which tells you everything. People can’t stop talking about them, and for good reason. They’re the perfect start to any meal here.

Lasagna Made With Homemade Pasta Sheets

The lasagna at Nonnas is not your average layered pasta dish. They make the pasta sheets from scratch, which creates a texture you won’t find anywhere else. Each layer is tender, delicate, and perfectly cooked.

I ordered it on a chilly evening, craving comfort food. When it arrived, the cheese was bubbling and golden on top. The meat sauce peeked through the layers, rich and hearty.

My fork slid through the lasagna like butter. The ricotta was creamy and smooth, blending beautifully with the mozzarella. The meat sauce had a depth of flavor that only comes from slow cooking and quality ingredients.

I ate slowly, savoring every bite, even though I wanted to devour it. The portion was generous, enough to take home for lunch the next day. Reheated lasagna is usually sad, but this one tasted just as good the second time.

People rave about this lasagna in their reviews, and they’re not exaggerating. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and sigh with happiness.

If you love lasagna, you owe it to yourself to try this one.

The Warm, Inviting Atmosphere That Feels Like Home

Stepping into Nonnas feels different from most restaurants. The space is cozy and inviting, with warm lighting that makes everyone look good.

You immediately feel welcome, like you’ve been invited to a family gathering.

The walls are decorated with simple Italian touches that don’t feel overdone. There’s no pretentious vibe here, just genuine warmth. Tables are spaced comfortably, so you don’t feel like you’re eating in someone else’s lap.

I noticed families with young children, couples on date nights, and groups of friends laughing together. The atmosphere works for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating something special or just grabbing a casual dinner. Everyone seems relaxed and happy.

The staff moves through the dining room with ease, checking on tables without hovering. You never feel rushed or ignored. They strike that perfect balance between attentive and giving you space.

On one visit, I saw the owner bring small toys to kids at a nearby table. The parents smiled, grateful for the thoughtful gesture. It’s those little touches that make you feel valued as a guest, not just another customer.

Zuppa de Pesce That Transports You To The Coast

Zuppa de Pesce is one of those dishes that sounds fancy but tastes like pure comfort. It features mussels, clams, calamari, and shrimp swimming in your choice of sauce.

I went with the spicy Fra Diavolo, and it was a revelation.

The seafood was fresh and perfectly cooked, not rubbery or overdone. Each piece had absorbed the flavors of the sauce, which had a nice kick without being overwhelming. The linguine underneath soaked up all that deliciousness.

I’m not usually a seafood person, but this dish converted me. The combination of textures and flavors kept every bite interesting. The broth was so good, I used extra bread to soak up every last drop.

My server recommended this dish when I asked for something special. She described it with such enthusiasm that I had to try it. I’m so glad I trusted her judgment.

This is the kind of dish you order when you want to impress someone or treat yourself. It feels luxurious without being stuffy. If you love seafood, this Zuppa de Pesce will become your new obsession.

Chicken Parmesan That Sets The Standard

Chicken Parmesan is one of those dishes everyone thinks they know. But Nonnas takes it to a whole new level. The chicken is breaded perfectly, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

They don’t drown it in sauce, which is a mistake many places make. Instead, they use just enough marinara to complement the chicken without making it soggy. The melted mozzarella on top is gooey and stretchy, exactly how it should be.

I cut into my chicken and watched steam rise from the tender meat. The first bite was everything I hoped for and more. The breading had a satisfying crunch, and the flavors were balanced and delicious.

One reviewer said it was the best chicken parm they’d had in years. After trying it myself, I completely understand. It’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder why you ever settled for mediocre versions elsewhere.

The portion is generous, served with a side of pasta that’s cooked perfectly. I ate until I was full and still had leftovers to take home. Even reheated, it maintained its quality and flavor, which is rare for breaded chicken.

Honey Pepperoni Pizza That Surprises Your Taste Buds

Honey on pizza might sound strange if you’ve never tried it. But the honey pepperoni pizza at Nonnas will change your mind forever. The sweetness of the honey balances the salty, spicy pepperoni in a way that’s pure magic.

The crust is perfectly crispy on the bottom with a slight chew. They don’t overload it with toppings, which lets you appreciate each element.

The cheese melts into every crevice, creating that perfect cheese pull everyone loves.

I was skeptical at first, but one bite erased all my doubts. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that enhances rather than overwhelms. It’s a flavor combination that feels both familiar and exciting at the same time.

My dining companion and I finished the entire pizza between us. We kept reaching for just one more slice, unable to stop ourselves.

The flavors were addictive in the best possible way. If you’re a pizza purist, this might push you out of your comfort zone. But trust me, it’s worth the risk. This pizza shows that tradition and innovation can work together beautifully when done right.

Mozzarella Sticks Done Right

Mozzarella sticks are everywhere, but most of them are disappointing. Nonnas makes theirs fresh, and you can taste the difference immediately.

The cheese inside is real mozzarella, not some processed substitute.

When you bite into one, the cheese stretches in that satisfying way. The breading is crispy and seasoned, not bland or soggy. They serve them with their homemade marinara sauce, which elevates the entire experience.

I ordered these as an appetizer to share, but I ended up eating most of them myself. My friends forgave me once they tasted how good they were. We ordered a second round without hesitation.

The temperature was perfect, hot enough to enjoy but not so hot it burned your mouth. Each stick was uniform in size and cooking, showing attention to detail. Nothing is worse than a mozzarella stick that’s cold in the middle.

These aren’t just an afterthought on the menu. They’re made with the same care as every other dish. If you’re looking for a great appetizer to share, or not share, these mozzarella sticks are a fantastic choice.

Chicken Marsala With Rich, Velvety Sauce

Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian dish that requires finesse to get right. The chicken at Nonnas is tender and perfectly cooked, never dry or overcooked.

The Marsala wine sauce is rich, velvety, and full of depth.

Mushrooms are sautéed until they’re golden and flavorful, adding an earthy element. The sauce clings to the chicken and the pasta underneath, ensuring every bite is coated.

I found myself scraping my plate to get every last drop.

The flavors are sophisticated without being heavy or overwhelming. You can taste the quality of the wine they use in the sauce. It’s not some cheap cooking wine; it’s the real deal.

One reviewer mentioned that the dish reminded them of classic Italian restaurants from their childhood. I felt the same nostalgia, even though I’d never had it before. Good food has a way of creating memories instantly.

The portion size is generous, and the presentation is beautiful. This is a dish you order when you want something comforting yet elegant.

It’s perfect for a special occasion or just a Tuesday night when you need something wonderful.

Cannolis That Taste Like Italy

Cannolis are the ultimate test of an Italian restaurant’s dessert game. Nonnas nails it with shells that are crispy and fresh, filled with sweet ricotta cream.

The filling is light and not overly sugary, letting the quality ingredients shine.

They dust the tops with powdered sugar and add chocolate chips to the ends. Each bite offers a perfect balance of creamy filling and crunchy shell. I’ve had cannolis that were soggy or filled hours in advance, but not here.

The ricotta filling has a slight hint of vanilla and citrus. It’s smooth and creamy, piped generously into each shell. You won’t find any skimpy filling or stale shells at this place.

I ordered one to try and ended up getting a second to take home. My roommate thanked me profusely when I walked in with the box. These cannolis are the kind of dessert that makes you happy you saved room.

If you’re a cannoli purist, you’ll appreciate the traditional approach here. They don’t try to reinvent the wheel; they just make it exceptionally well. It’s a sweet ending to any meal at Nonnas.

The Service That Makes You Feel Like Family

Service can make or break a dining experience, and Nonnas gets it right. The servers are friendly without being overbearing, knowledgeable without being snobby. They genuinely seem happy to be there, which is refreshing.

My server remembered my name and asked thoughtful questions about my preferences. She made excellent recommendations without pushing the most expensive items. Her warm smile made the entire evening feel special.

I watched the staff interact with other tables, and the care was consistent. They checked on guests at just the right moments, refilled drinks without being asked, and cleared plates promptly. The teamwork among the staff was impressive and seamless.

One reviewer mentioned celebrating a birthday there, and the staff made it memorable. They brought out a special dessert and took photos with the guest. Those personal touches turn a good meal into an unforgettable experience.

Even on busy nights, the service doesn’t falter. The staff stays calm and efficient, making sure every guest feels attended to.

You never feel like just another table to turn over quickly, which is sadly common at many restaurants.

Why This Place Earned Best Of Cabarrus

Nonnas didn’t become a local favorite by accident. They earned the Best of Cabarrus award and were featured as the best Italian restaurant in North Carolina.

Those accolades reflect the quality and consistency they deliver every single day.

I’ve been to plenty of award-winning restaurants that rest on their laurels. Nonnas is different; they continue to work hard and improve. You can feel the passion and dedication in every aspect of the experience.

The recognition comes from both critics and everyday diners who vote with their wallets. People return again and again, bringing friends and family. That’s the real test of a great restaurant.

When I asked locals for Italian food recommendations, every single person mentioned Nonnas. Some had been going for years, others discovered it recently. Everyone had glowing things to say about their experiences.

Awards are nice, but the real proof is in the packed dining room every night. Reservations fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

If you want to experience why this place is so beloved, plan ahead and prepare for something truly special that lives up to every bit of hype.

Wood Fired Margherita Pizza With Basil That Pops

That first slice immediately drops your guard. The crust, charred just enough and airy with perfect bubbles, crackles under your teeth before giving way to a soft, tender center that somehow tastes both smoky and bright.

The tomato sauce sings with a lively balance of sweet and acidic notes, while the milky mozzarella stretches in satisfying strings with every bite.

Fresh basil lands like a green exclamation point, peppery, fragrant, and impossibly fresh. A gentle drizzle of olive oil ties the whole thing together, subtle but transformative.

You fold, bite, and let the steam rise, carrying tiny whispers of oregano as you already start planning the next slice.

Each bite is proof that the secret isn’t in toppings, it’s in respect for the ingredients, the dough, and the fire that kissed it to perfection. No extras are needed here. Simplicity wins, craftsmanship shines, and you? You win with it.

Velvety Espresso-Soaked Tiramisu

This tiramisu arrives like a promise fulfilled, a delicate masterpiece in a glass or on a plate. Layers of mascarpone are so airy and light they practically float across your tongue, each bite melting effortlessly.

Espresso-soaked ladyfingers peek through with just the right touch of gentle bitterness, keeping the dessert balanced and never overpowering. A soft dusting of cocoa adds a whisper of chocolate that lingers long enough to make you pause and savor.

The chill greets your lips first, followed by a slow melt that releases the deep, rich flavors of coffee and cream, unfolding gradually like a story told bite by bite. There’s elegance in its simplicity, yet every forkful feels deliberate, luxurious, and comforting at the same time.

You might feel compelled to share, but the final corner? Guard it fiercely, it’s the perfect bite, the memory-maker, the one that lingers in taste and imagination.

By the last spoonful, you understand why this tiramisu isn’t just a dessert, it’s a sweet, unforgettable experience, a fitting finale to a meal at this Italian restaurant.