Located right on the StoneWater Golf Course in Highland Heights, Zappitelli’s is a popular Italian-American restaurant with good food, outstanding service and a good atmosphere.

Zappitelli’s has been open to the public for a little more than a year. It took over StoneWater Grill which recently closed down. The decor inside remained the same, but that is where the similarities end, as Zappitelli’s has a brand new menu, a new staff and new ownership.

Upon arriving to the restaurant, you will immediately be greeted by the friendly staff and managers. Customers are taken care of as if they are at someone’s house. You may choose to sit inside or outside on the patio and have a gorgeous golf course view.

I have been to this restaurant multiple times, both with friends and with family. The menu includes favorite Italian dishes like chicken parmesan and pasta as well as other American favorites like burgers,wraps,salads, and ribs. There are also a number of different appetizers and deserts one can choose from, so there is something for everyone.

During my most recent time dining here, I went with my parents. I decided to order the Chicken Parmesan Sub ($11), which comes with a choice of chips or fries. The sub includes breaded chicken, cheese and sauce, served on a hoagie roll.

The chicken itself was juicy and well done, and it was perfectly coated in a crispy coating of breadcrumbs and seasonings. The sauce was tangy with a hint of sweetness and the cheese was melted right on top and was gooey. Moreover, the fries were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside and were seasoned with a blend of seasonings.

In addition, I sampled some of my parents’ meals. One of the meals included the burger ($10), which also came with fries. It was cooked exactly the way it was ordered and was juicy with just the right amount of cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion.

Another dish I sampled was the Pulled Pork sandwich ($11).The pulled pork tasted like it was cooked for hours, because it just melted in your in your mouth. In addition, it was marinated in root beer, which can be tasted in the sauce.

All of the food arrived to the table hot and fresh and you can definitely tell that it is prepared from scratch. The wait times are not too long, but may still take a little while. However, because the food is so good, the wait time can be overlooked.

Zappitelli’s is popular within the community. The restaurant hosts several neighborhood gatherings from time to time. At these events, neighbors can enjoy good food and talk with each other.

High School senior Tommy Montagno lives around the area and has also been to this restaurant several times with friends and family. He said, ”I really like this place.  It has good food and friendly staff.”

Zappitelli’s also accepts phone orders for carryout. Jason Baker is a resident that lives around the restaurant. He said, “We go here often and we are never disappointed. Whenever we need to order food to go, we go to Zappitelli’s.”

Although Zappitelli’s offers good food, I do have a couple minor complaints. One is that the restaurant itself is not very visible because it is tucked away on the golf course. So, I think they should find some other ways to advertise it better.

In addition, I believe some of the prices can get a little much, especially if one is on a budget. But, with that being said, the portions are very good.

Next time you want to go out to dinner with your family, or simply a quick meal with friends, Zappitelli’s has you covered. You will be taken care of and leave happy. Senior Justin Perkins said, “The first time I went here, I liked it so much that I knew I would be back again.”

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