Dolce Vita:
A Little Italy In Fairfax

By Kathy Vitkus
Staff Writer Broadside

Nestled by the iconic Breezewood Motel, Dolce Vita’s unobtrusive structure does not betray the delicacies hidden within such modesty. The “Sweet Life,” as the Fairfax restaurant name translates entices all the senses.

Dolce Vita began in May 1995 as a collaborative effort of local resident Giuseppe “Joe” Ricciardi and Riccardo Bellucci, who moved from Italy in 1992. When asked, Ricciardi said the humble location was just right for them. The granite tables, draped in white linens for evening dining, display a casual elegance. The whimsical Italian figures painted on the walls include the Mona Lisa, Leonardo DaVinci and Christopher Columbus, along with modern notables as Luciano Pavarotti. The co-owners “decided to bring a little bit of Italy to the City of Fairfax.”

One item worth the return is the thick and hearty pizza. Variations on preparation include “Allegra,” with grilled chicken, tomato sauce, mozzarella, roasted peppers and garlic, or “Giotto” containing fresh diced tomatoes, grilled, sliced portabella mushrooms and parma prosciutto. Pizzas are baked in an oven designed by the restaurant as a subtle representation of a Roman god, which is loosely based on the celebrated "mouth of truth" faces found throughout Italy.
Pasta comes in numerous varieties. The assortment of sauces blend fresh ingredients, as represented in the delightful, pink cream sauce used in their cheese ravioli. However, the menu extends beyond the usual pasta and pizza conventions. Appetizers, sandwiches and entrees of chicken, fish, veal and steak can also be found.

The dinner menu is comparable to local area restaurants, although the price range is moderate to high. However, an impressive lunch menu offes a choice of entree, salad, side of pasta, and soft drink for under $10.

This may be one of the many reasons Dolce Vita received several positive acknowledgements from The Washingtonian magazine as well as the restaurant guide Zagat Survey.

Situated a few yards from the main establishment is the restaurant’s recent addition, the Dolce Vita Cantina. It is available to rent for private parties of up to 30, or for those preferring a dining experience on Friday and Saturday evenings, away from the hustle and bustle of the main dining room. Conversation and libations abound in the cantina for those waiting to be seated.

To treat oneself to the sounds, visuals, smells and tastes of Dolce Vita is to experience a sample of true Italian hospitality and style. The memories of the dining experience make a return visit to Dolce Vita promising.