Mama Ricotta’s opened up just over a quarter of a century ago in Midtown Charlotte. The food landscape was a bit different back then, in a city that was much quieter, and Mama’s quickly became a Charlotte staple. They built their reputation using the freshest of ingredients, prepared by the finest culinary minds in the South.
From the home-cooked meals restaurateur and owner Frank Scibelli’s mother used to make for him to the Penne Alla Vodka they serve at Mama Ricotta’s today, the tradition of good family meals has stayed strong. Scibelli’s grandfather came to the United States from Quindice, Italy back in 1908. At Mama Ricotta’s they serve the regional Italian fare that the Scibellis enjoyed with family and friends. Another of the classic Mama Ricotta’s dishes is the Pollo Bianco. One of the dishes Scibelli learned from his mother, it’s a plate made with scallopini-style chicken, layered with prosciutto and the housemade mozzarella.
There were five-year-old children whose parents took them who are now 31—that’s how much of an impact Mama Ricotta’s has had over the last 26 years—and now those same kids are bringing their own children to enjoy as well. During the two decades Mama Ricotta’s has been open, it has consistently been voted the “Best Italian Restaurant” in Charlotte, as well as been a participant in Charlotte Restaurant Week. It is truly a testament to multiple generations of good taste: From the mozzarella made fresh every single day to the classic pasta dishes, Mama Ricotta’s is a beloved neighborhood institution for good reason.
