Great sauce, love the atmosphere. I've never had a dish that has disappointed me. Same goes for my whole family. Probably the best Italian I've had since moving up to the KC area. You'll see from all the reviews that this is a love it/hate it kind of place - I'm firmly in the "love it" category. The only thing I can say is that you need to try it and judge for yourself if it's the type of Italian food you crave.
(4)
Logan Locke B.
This place is awesome! I little gem in a strip mall. I try to always go somewhere twice before writing such a rave review (for consistency reasons)... and I have got to say, this place has been top-notch both times. Italian Delight will be added to my go-to restaurants. I love their calzones. Perfectly cooked with a great shell. The crust is light, chewy and not too doughy. The insides of the calzone, plus the sauce that is served on the side is a perfect compliment. They have great salad options (cucumber/tomato, artichoke, olive, and many more) The prices are incredibly reasonable and I have had friendly service each time I have been there. (I got take out twice--- once call ahead and once walk-in and order)
(5)
Laurel S.
This place is awesome. We used to get take out from here when we lived in Mission but we moved 14 years ago and haven't been back. We went back Saturday night with my sister's family. My family of 3 had no issues - our food was great, everything came quickly as ordered. The Stromboli is ridiculously good and the marinara sauce is amazing. My sister's family of 4 had more issues. All 4 of their orders came out at different times. Her son's pizza came out first, 5 minutes later her husbands calzone, almost 20 minutes later her and her other son's pasta dishes. She asked for bread but never got it. So the service was a bit lacking but the food was great. I promise I'll be back if only for the stromboli!
(4)
Edwin V.
Walked in, got a greeting from one of the cooks behind the counter and that was the end of the good service. My greeting from the young lady at the cashier was for here or take out. It may just be a personal thing but I believe in giving the customer some sort of greeting. I ordered a Calzone which I was informed that it could only accommodate 3 toppings. I requested more toppings which I was willing to pay for but I was advised that the more toppings I chose the less cheese they would be able to use. I uploaded a picture of my calzone which look a lot more like a Spanish empanada. There was a huge gap as an interior and the sauce was nothing to brag about. I ate a few bites in the hopes that the taste would help me overlook the sight to no avail. Thankfully no one asked me how my meal was avoiding an embarrassing position to be put in. Will avoid this place next time I am in Kansas.
(1)
Fred L.
Have been going here for years. I hadn't been in the area for couple months. I saw a groupon for new york pizza and I though no thanks, I will just go to Italian Delight where I know its real New York Pizza. Have always loved their pizza, veal hero, sausage roll and garlic bread and many others. Had the Sausage Roll, Awesome as always, had the Veal Hero, awesome as always Best was special pie made by the owner, a very special pie, sliced italian sausage, pepperoni and mushrooms, extra crispy, just like I like it. Man it was awesome best pizza ever, think this one was even better than I remember Pizza land in New jersey. Love that the owners are making the pizza, how many places do you see the owner making your pizza live throwing the dough? Not many, maybe in Brooklyn, and In New York but Not in Kansas city. Originally came here from Recommendation years ago from a friend of mine from New York, who worked as GM at one of my favorite restaurants. I told my Friend Saul about loving New York Pizza, and having traveled to new jersey, and eaten at Pizza Land, the famous Pizza Place featured on the opening Credits of the Sopranos. Italian Delight is the real deal, they are the only pizza I have ever had that is real New York pizza, Similar to Pizza Land. You don't want the imitation New York Pizza. Its a marketing gimmick If you want REAL NEW YORK PIZZZA, FROM OWNERS THAT ARE FROM BROOKLYN, NEW YORK THEN COME TO AVEULLUTO"S ITALIAN DELIGHT AND GET A REAL NEW YORK PIE!! FUGGADITBOUTIT
(5)
Erin T.
I LOVE this place. My husband and I moved into an apartment nearby about a year ago and we go there about 2-3 times a month now. Their pizza is amazing and the man who normally makes the pizzas is really nice and pretty hilarious to talk to. My husband likes to get the chicken parm (both the sandwich and the pasta dish and he loves it) and I enjoy eating the sausage and pepper sandwich (when I'm not eating pizza, of course) It gets really busy during the lunch rush, but they get the food to you quickly and it's always yummy. The prices are incredibly reasonable. I've read some reviews on here about the customer service being bad, but I've never had a bad exerpience with the employees (maybe it's because we're regulars and they know us) I've never been disappointed when I go there!
(5)
Ken W.
We love Italian Delight and have been eating there for as long as they've been open. It's not fancy, it's just plain good. It's kind of like a cafeteria line. You walk through, look at the food and order, then they bring it out. The pizzas are tasty, NY style (they throw their own crust). The strombolis are great, as are the health salad (cucumber & tomato). Actually, we have yet to eat anything there we didn't like. It's family owned and we like that, too.
(4)
Jess J.
As good as it gets for what it is, which is a mom n' pop style Italian lunch counter in a not-so-heavily Italian place. If I want a satisfying plate of pasta without heating up my kitchen, quick and easy, it's the place for me. Not fancy, just filling, tomato-ey, and good. I got chicken parm atop spaghetti last time I was there, and it was golden fried goodness. I'd skip the garlic cheese bread, as it was a small amount and nothing special, and just go with the bread basket bread. Cafeteria-style service, but quick, efficient, and satisfying. I've not had their pizza, but the pastas and Stromboli are nice and comfort-foody.
(5)
Michelle F.
I've been eating here since high school. I stopped in for a calzone the other day and somehow they are just as good today as they were back then. FIlled with gooey cheese and served with a side of marinara for dipping, it's good stuff. And priced right, I was out of there for under $7.
(3)
Pat C.
One word, Legit. Only place in Kansas City with Sfogliatelle (aka Schweeadell) and a Hero!!!
(4)
Jeremy W.
I really enjoyed the Sausage roll and Meatball sandwich. I haven't tried the pizza yet but will soon.
(4)
Julie S.
Italian D's is a great place to get quick, delicious Italian food. One thing I rate a Italian place on is the quality of their red sauce. I have to say that this sauce is delicious and makes anything they use it on just as good. They also have nightly specials which is an easy plate to go for because it is always a steal and very tasty. They have everything from your traditional hand tossed pizza, to spaghetti with amazingly large meat balls, to champagne chicken. A must if you're looking for a quick, cheap italian meal without losing out on the flavor.
(4)
Amanda M.
This was not the best pizza at all. We ordered the thick style and it was just a large piece of bread with way too much cheese and little flavor. Maybe the thin style is much better. I would recommend the other food since we have been multiple times. The lasagna is amazing. I would have to agree that the food can sometimes be a bit bland, especially the thick pizza.
(2)
Celeste L.
I lived in Mission for more than a decade before I finally got around to trying this place. Now it's a regular stop. I generally alternate between the meatball sandwich (available in two sizes, which is nice when you're not quite as hungry) and various pasta dishes. My husband is a big fan of their stromboli. It's always been pretty no-frills and we like the place because it's inexpensive and filling. We had dinner there last night and it looks like they've upped their game, perhaps in anticipation of D'Bronx opening up soon on the next block. I had lasagna and it not only tasted even better than I remembered, but the portion size was huge and the presentation was quite attractive with basil leaf sprinkled around the edge of the dish. The cost was still very reasonable and it was nice to see the shift toward a slightly less casual dining experience. I resisted getting the spumoni cheesecake last night because I know I'm a day away from being inundated by holiday sweets, but I highly recommend it. It's very pretty and tasty, too. Actually, their desserts are all quite nice and they have a good selection of cheesecakes, Tiramisu and Italian cookies.
(4)
Kyle M.
Try the lasagna, it is great. Do not get their thick crust pizza, it is not great.
(4)
Andrew S.
This is a good neighborhood Italian restaurant that serves classical red sauce. It has a local clientele, moderate cost, decent service. And then there is the food: hey wide selection of Boston and other Italian delight such as sausage rolls and calzones! Plus you can order any type of pizza thin crust as well as several different salads and sandwiches as well! I eat here at least once a month:)!
(4)
Kate S.
I usually get good food here but i went today and spent 10.50 to try something new and i order the chicken mushrooms with spaghetti. That was the worst thing i have ever tasted. It took them twenty minutes to get my food out after my whole table had gotten theirs.
(3)
Mai H.
I've only been to one italian restaurant in KC so my opinion may be biased. Its a mom and pop joint located in a shopping center. I was hesitant at first by my colleagues convinced me otherwise. It was very crowded once inside so you know it must be good. I ordered their stromboli and it was delicious! The meats/cheses all melted nicely together with a touch of sauce. Definitely coming back next time I am in town.
(5)
Jimmy S.
Overall some of the best Italian food I've had in the Kansas City area. You order at the front counter and food is delivered to your table fast and hot. Everything I've tried has been delicious. Pizza is unbelievable. The real gem for me has been the chicken parm sandwich. Usually come here for a lunch break and have always enjoyed a 5 star quality meal within a fast food time frame. Awesome! A must eat!
(5)
Liz C.
The food and service at this family owned eatery has never dissapointed. Their lasagne is delicious and my kids raved about the pizza. If you're looking for a place that serves delicious italian food, I recommend swinging by.
(5)
Michael D.
This has been my favorite pizza place (well technically their other location but is now closed) since I was 12 years old. Just amazing.
(5)
Thomas M.
I was excited to try this place out. I didnt know what was good so I asked for suggestions. I was told the chicken parm sandwich was really good. I found it to be very forgettable, bland, and lackluster. The portion was a good size and the tomato salad that I ordered was nice. I was there on Cinco De Mayo and with a Mexican joint just a couple of steps away, They weren't busy. I will have to say that they had an ever so slight "I dont want to be bothered with you" type attitude. I would like to give this place another try and get one of their calzones.
(2)
Craig M.
Bad service, mediocre food. They deceive you into thinking this a family restaurant- but, it is really just a way for them to buy more Ducatti motorcycles. The gal at the cashier station was particularly unfriendly. They actually told us they were out of fettuccini noodles. I know this happens- but they weren't even the least bit apologetic, and to add salt to the wound they said it was against policy to add mushrooms to the dish. Look for fast food Italian...it would be an upgrade. Hard to imagine going back- especially with D'Bronx right around the corner
(2)
Crystal M.
Today was my Gluten Cheat day, I only get 1 per week even though I know I'll pay the price tomorrow. Anyways I decided to try this little joint out. I was really impressed with their prices $2.19 for a slice of Cheese Pizza, $5.09 for a Full order of Spaghetti with sauce $2.30 for a house salad, etc. You get the idea... The thin crust cheese pizza reminded me of D'bronx it was just ok to me, the Spaghetti was nothing special, better than Buca, but not as good as Mario's in Westport, the garlic bread was just ok as well, the salad dressing was just ok I think it would be better if they added more vinegar, the real star of the meal was their Thick Crust Delight Pizza I got mine with green peppers, onions, pepperoni, and black olives. It's a good 1.5" thick, maybe I was digging it so much because I miss bread, either was it was Good!
(3)
Jennifer H.
I grew up near this restaurant, and everyone was always going, and talking about how good the food is. For some reason I never stopped in until recently. The food is fine; it's pretty good, but at the inexpensive price point, it's a great deal. I found the pizza to be very good. I found the marinara sauce to be pretty bland, and the calzone under it was average. There was a TON of ricotta, and less mozzarella. My problem with the place was the customer service. The were slammed (noon on a weekday) when we arrived, which of course was expected. But the line...it just didn't move. It took 30 minutes to get to the front of about 20 people. It was actually extraordinarily slow moving, and I can only hope for the restaurant's sake that this is an anomaly. Once I got up front, a middle-aged blonde woman asked me if I was eating in or taking it to go. I was in the midst of answering her when she took a phone call. She then just ignored me. It's like I'd disappeared from sight. I ended up kind of wandering over to the neighboring register to get someone to take my order. It was honestly an infuriating experience after having been kept waiting in line for so long. The icing on the cake was that the girl who took my order left off one slice of pizza. When it was delivered, I was told "Oh, well, we didn't ring it up, so if you want to go get in line and pay for it we can get it for you." Are. You. Serious?! Clearly they are more concerned with volume than customer service, and I will never be back.
(2)
Zach G.
Pretty decent little place! We rolled in on a Saturday afternoon for a slightly late lunch and all ordered the same thing - calzone. One with ham, and two with sausage, as well as a side of garlic bread. The meal didn't take too long to come out. The garlic bread was very small and not of much flavor, so I definitely don't need to order that again. The calzones were not the best, but were tasty, filling and enjoyable. The marinara on top was basic but added some nice flavor. The service isn't friendly, but is not mean either. It's very utilitarian - gets the job done. The inside of the restaurant is old and a bit run down, but clean and comfortable enough. If in the area, I would definitely return here again to try something else on the menu.
(3)
Eric N.
The marinara sauce is divine. Lasagna, calzone, health salad, tomato salad, and the tiramisu are all excellent!! Sides of sauteed spinach and brocolli are really good too, especially with a side of the red sauce. I forgot the pizza! Incredible as well. I can't believe this place only gets 3 1/2. I would give it 6 stars :)
(5)
Stephanie P.
Man, did this place disappoint me or what. I am a sad sad girl. I walked in with such high expectations, but honestly I can't say they were met. The menu is large and everything is set up nicely and steaming wonderfully in their respective trays behind the glass counter. The girl that took our order was rude and inattentive. She seemed like she had a bit of a superiority complex about herself. Hmmmm, maybe not a great place to be in the service industry if you think you're better than everyone. So I ordered the chicken parmigiana with spaghetti. My boyfriend ordered a meatball sandwich and a side of garlic bread. The meatballs were great. They tasted like his mother's homemade meatballs, and those are hard to beat. My chicken parm was what was so disappointing. First of all, the amount of sauce on the dish was just ridiculous. I couldn't tell where the chicken was and where the sauce ended. I will give the sauce credit. Sauce, you were tasty, but you were overpowering. I've had way better garlic bread. Suffice it to say that it was white bread rubbed with olive oil and some oregano. Meh. The atmosphere was a bit strange to me. It seemed like a mix of my grandma's kitchen and a cafeteria. The murals were a real treat though, they were well painted. The tables were rickety and had some dirty table clothes on them. My boyfriend proceeded to look all around and under the table clothes while trying to wipe them off. No luck, too many years of grime I guess. We opted to sit facing out so we could see outside. The doors were filthy, because the girl behind the counter was obviously too good to clean them. Ewww. By the way, the doors that were dirty were locked and no one even used them, this is weird. Let me have some windex and a cloth and I will do it for free. Overall, I think it was enjoyable. The food was okay and the service sucked, very frankly. I think I might give this place another try and see what else they have to offer. I saw they have spinach lasagna...
(3)
Mary C.
As always, Avelluto's Italian Delight offers the BEST Italian cuisine in the greater Kansas City area. We just had a pizza (Italian sausage, Canadian Bacon, and Pepperoni) and it was, in a word, fantastic! Actually, perfect! Since the early 1990's and since our first taste of Avelluto's pizza and pasta, we've not gone anywhere else for Italian. The ingredients are fresh, the sauce is wonderful (and one I have tried to re-create with no success) and the staff is friendly and courteous. They get to know and take care of their customers and it shows. When we started dining at Avelluto's, our children were in grade school. Now we are taking our grandchildren there and that's the restaurant they pick for their birthdays and other celebrations. We look forward to many more years at Avelluto's! Mary and Lowell Crissman
(5)
Michael R.
Avelluto's is a neighborhood Italian cafeteria and sandwich/pizza joint. It's not a place to go if you love nice sit-down Italian restaurants such as Johnny Cascone's, it's a place to go if you want to grab a quick bite. I love it, but I do tend to stick to a few things--calzone, stromboli, antipesto, and their meatball sub. I haven't had their pizza in several years, so I can't say anything about it. Their service is pretty minimal, yes, but I've always gotten my food relatively quickly and haven't had any mix-ups or other errors, so I have no complaints. Basically, if you go in expecting an Italian restaurant, you'll be disappointed, but if you go in expecting an Italian lunch counter, you'll like it.
(4)
Paul R.
I have such fond memories of this place, back when they had the more "upscale" side and the cafeteria side. Now, it is simply the cafeteria. I am disappointed, but not totally turned off, by the noodles that are limp as grand daddy's **** and the sauce that is a bit watery, but it is still a GREAT value. The pizza is yummy, the calzone's are delightful and the African American guy that has been there forever is awesome. He always is so friendly and funny. The staff lacks a little in etiquette, but overall does a good job. I would recommend this place as a quick bite, but not as a great meal. If you are in the neighborhood, it's definitely worth the stop, but not worth driving across town for. I do not dislike Italian Delight, I just think that it isn't what it used to be. I'm sorry to say the staff's attitude has suffered in the past years, some of the people working there are not destined to be public officials, they have no skill at dealing with the public. However, like I said, it is okay. I've been coming here for years and years and decades and decades (literally) and it is stil "o-kay". Nothing to send to the Pope, but not unfit for a Bishop.....
(3)
Rodeo G.
Tried this place multiple times since wife loves the "little cookies" there. Pizza is ehh, and pasta is uggg. Staff is blahh.. not sure the rationale?
(2)
Matt C.
Decided to try this place tonight after driving by numerous times and seeing that it is usually pretty busy. It is a unique experience where you stand in a cafeteria style line to order your food off a wall menu similar to a fast food restaurant. Very, very casual environment would be good for a cheap family night out. PROS: Casual environment, cheap food. That's really about all I can think of. CONS: The food. My girlfriend and I ordered diner salads, garlic bread, lasagna, and eggplant parm. The dressing on the salad is bland, the garlic bread is half a hoagie bun. Both entrees were smothered in sauce and cheese. The eggplant tasted like a pile of mozerella cheese with sauce on it, if I hadnt known what I ordered, I wouldn't have guessed there was eggplant in it. I understand the concept of you get what you paid for with this food being pretty cheap, but I would rather eat at home next time. Besides the price, I cant understand why this place stays busy.
(1)
Jocelyn M.
I love this place. I have always loved this place. Family owned (found both working and dining at different times) and friendly. No frills, just good food. I always think I am going to get the antipasto platter (delish and a LOT of food) but somehow I end up with Rigatoni alla Vodka...no self control. I tell ya - we once went THREE TIMES in a weekend. Then checked into Pasta Rehab. I do find some of the prices...confusing? Some things seem cheap, others way steep. Aw, I am hungry now...
(4)
Ankit N.
Rude staff, a feeling that a foreign young man is unwelcome in this restaurant. So it is immaterial if the food is good or not. Cmon guys, wake up. The world is mixing, or you want to go under in a few?
(1)
Jason Y.
Been a customer of Italian Delight for over 20 years dating back to the Indian Springs Shopping Mall KCK location. I have visited the Mission Kansas location numerous times as well. There have always been issues with customer service (unfriendly and straight up RUDE) on different occasions that I have experienced or witnessed first hand. But you know what.....I always overlook that stuff and frequent these types of places for the food. If the staff doesn't want to talk or present themselves in a professional manner, I will simply place the order and go about my business. I guess when you present yourself as a New York type neighborhood eatery, you also bring the New York attitude along for the experience. Besides this, let me tell you about the food on a recent visit. My usual staple at Italian Delight is a slice of pizza and a bowl of pasta salad. Sometimes I'll switch up and go with a calzone or stromboli. Have had their pasta and meatballs in the past and was thoroughly unimpressed with the watery sauce and overcooked pasta. Desserts aren't bad and worth a try. Here's the recent kicker: I spent $35 on a tiny slice of regular lasagne, tiny slice of spinach lasagne, slice of pizza, and a decent amount of fettuccini. Two waters and one soda. Always forget that you have to actually request some bread or you may not get any. Along with a few thinly sliced pieces of bread you will get those old cafeteria slices of butter that are attached to the cardboard backing. I can deal with spending a little extra cash and smaller portions if you serve a quality product and actually take the time to heat up the damn food! The traditional lasagne was nice and hot. The spinach lasagne was point blank cold in the middle. I guess they didn't microwave it enough ( which I have issues with microwaving my lasagne in the first place). All too well of aware of the attitude permeating Italian Delight, I sucked it up and ate what I could. This is the part where I lost it and about came unglued.........The third party in our group had ordered the fettuccine alfredo. He sat there as we finished our lasagne and slice of pizza with no Fettuccini in sight. We asked the gentlemen that runs the food out about this twice and couldn't get a straight answer. Therefore, we walked up to the to-go pizza counter and asked who appeared to be in charge. He too had no clue as to why the bowl of fettuccini never arrived until we were done with our food. I kid you not, after literally 20 minutes the fettucini arrived and was absolutely terrible. It was consistent with fettuccini soup (does that even exist?). Had to eat it with a spoon as the noodles were gummy and flat out nasty. I tell you what folks, never again will I return to Italian Delight. Especially with D' Bronx sitting across the street and offering up much better service and food. I'm done!%#@@#$@@ And no, we never received an apology besides an explanation that "the oven was having issues". Really Italian Delight? Do you think we are that stupid to buy into the classic restaurant excuse when you screw up an order?
(2)
Michelle B.
I absolutely love this place...it isn't an upscale place or anything like that but the food is always amazing and the service is fantastic. Definitely would recommend it to anyone.
(4)
Lisa L.
I cant keep my husband out of this place. He walks in and they automatically fix him a double order of Bow Tie Pasta with a Stromboli (No Mushrooms) I grew up going to Italian Delight at the Indian Springs Shopping Mall and have been going to this one for years. (Back before the expansion) If you dont get there early you should plan on standing in the line sometimes wrapping around the tables..... NOM NOM
(5)
Angela K.
I've worked near this place for years and can't figure out why I'd never been here. Now I know. Blah. I ordered a mostaccioli with tomato sauce and garlic cheese bread to go. For $1.59, I thought it would be a couple of pieces of garlic bread, but no. I opened up the package to a sad, single, soggy piece of "garlic bread" covered in cheese. That was probably the most expensive piece of bread I've had in my life. The drive back to my office takes, literally, 2 minutes. But in that time, the pasta had turned into a sticky, cold lump covered in lukewarm tomato-sauce-out-of-the-can. I find it hard to believe this was even hot when they gave it to me. I can get better italian at Fazoli's. And that's not really something to be proud of.
(2)
W T.
Left before they took my order. Staff was rude to each other and the customers. Very unprofessional. Slooooooow and unorganized.
(1)
Priscilla Z. D.
LOVE this place. Best stromboli I've had, hands down. Plus it's locally owned, which I always try to support. Their marinara sauce is amazing. Real authentic stuff. I'd highly suggest to anyone and we eat here at least once a week.
(5)
Jenny B.
I love this place their pizza is great and the calzones, and the salads, meatballs, strombolis ok so seriously everything is so yummy! The sauce is good and Im a good Italian girl and even my nana would love the sauce. Favs- Health salad- Tomato and cucumber salad so good best in the summer Pizza- Extra sauce extra cheese This is a great neighborhood joint with a good family atmosphere and great selection of italian treats.
(4)
Dan D.
Overall I had my suspicions about this place but I have been about half a dozen times and can honestly say that yes I am a fan. Italian Delight (ID) is really great if you're looking for a quick meal will no frills and a good taste. My standard combo is a slice of pepperoni and a stromboli with red gravy. The cheese is NY all the way with good flavor and a nice crust to accompany. The stromboli is a good sized portion of light dough filled with cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. The quality of the ingredients are ok but not the highest end in the world, for the price of the meal I have no problem with this. The red sauce sometimes lacks a little depth of flavor but again this is a good cheap place to eat. The dining room is big and is designed for families, self service drinks and no waiter service. Again for the price I have no complaints. This place is built for efficiency and can accommodate both small and large groups easily. Overall I give this place a strong recommendation for those that want to go out to eat in Mission and want a consistently good meal for a great price.
(4)
Elizabeth N.
Lasagna great, meatballs great. Garlic bread great. The casual Italian family restaurant is very unique for these parts so this place is essential.
(4)
Dev V.
I decided to give Avelluto's a shot after reading a few Yelp reviews along with being tired of the same lunch options around this part of the city. Here are a few of the highlights. I waited in line for around five minutes before I got to the register to order, the entire time you pass by all the prep cooks making other people's orders. I went with the meatball hero based on other's reviews. Twenty five minutes later, I received my sandwich. It took them a whole two minutes to make, but I waited for 25 minutes. The negatives here are that they could prioritize orders based on size and simplicity. There is no reason I should spend 30 minutes in a restaurant for a carry out sandwich. The other negative is that the sandwich really isn't worth it in comparison to the price and wait. The meatball and sauce were average, the best part was the roll it's served on. The miracle was that I was able to keep my cool while I saw people get served their meals, finish eating, and leave while I was still waiting for my sandwich. Sorry Avelluto's, I love locally owned spots, but I won't be back.
(2)
Kandace M.
How this place gets 3.5 stars is a mystery to me. My hubs who is from Philly stopped in for chicken parm and some garlic bread. For $13 he got a lump of cold pasta upon which sat a piece of grilled chicken with American cheese and the worst looking sauce ever. And one soggy piece of bread. We had just moved to the neighborhood and were looking to see what was around. I was embarrassed for KC this was his first Italian food experience. We go next door to Salsa Grill often and he always comments that he can't believe Avellutos is still open.
(1)
Rob D.
the pizza is amazing, the employees are great, and in the summer you know you'll have a great pizza when you see the ducati motorcycles parked out front. This place has my favorite pizza in the KC area, I tried so many different places and hated the cracker crust at some places and doughy garbage at other places, this place does it right!!!
(5)
Kev L.
I couldn't disagree more with a bunch of the reviews on here. But these are my thoughts in a nutshell: 1) GREAT sauce. 2) Horrible pasta. 3) Good New York Pizza, but nowhere as good as Original Pizza. Calzone's and Stromboli's are also weak and pail in comparison to Original Pizza's. 4) Impressive seating chairs and tablecloths. Very old school. I will also say that their Spinach Lasagna was incredibly amazing. Easily our favorite item on the menu. The Proschuto Balls were also pretty delicious as well. My wife had a side of tomato basil salad that was also impressive. also, as you may have already read, the owners are indeed from Brooklyn and also had their stints in Flushing and other parts of NYC. Great folks.
(4)
Tony P.
Meatball sandwich was good. Service wasn't. Wasn't the cleanest place, but I came after lunch...maybe they were busy. Willing to give it another shot just because of the meatball sandwhich
(3)
Troy O.
This place came highly recommended but started off very poor. The young lady on the register was very unfriendly and even though I said chicken parmesan sandwich, she charged me for the dinner. Then the tables were full and apparently only the older lady can clean the tables and not the young white kid who was doing nothing but talking to the other kid on the line. Finally seated, our food didn't come out at the same time which is restaurant 101. All in all I doubt I will go back.
(1)
Pamela C.
Avelluto's is our families favorite. From my first experience there to our last I have been delighted with their food! I dearly love the Caprese salad, which is made with mozzarella made fresh every day! It's good all year round, but with fresh off the vine tomatoes in the summer, it is to die for! Other favorites include the eggplant parmigiana, and the pizza. This weekend they catered the dinner for my daughters wedding, eggplant, lasagne, Caprese, Italian salad and bread. Everyone raved about how delicious the food was! They were a pleasure to work with, and delivered hot food hot, and cold food cold on time! All for a very reasonable cost! Its not an fancy restaurant, but a wonderful gem of a place hidden in Mission. Go try it out, you won't be disappointed!
(5)
Tom K.
What is SOO wrong with no-nonsense, almost mediocre deli counter obsessed with cheese, red sauce, spaghetti, sausage, bread dough and meatballs? Absolutely nothing. Avellutos is the OG Sbarro. Long counter includes previews of pizza, calzone, salads, stromboli and more. The highly economical menu is extensive and covers everything from cold sandwiches to pasta dishes to pizza. Everything is a la carte, simple and straight-forward. Avellutos is a no frills alternative to the slew of generic, sit-down Italian operations dotting the area. Pay half the price for Italian that isn't fancy, but still quality. Don't go into Avellutos expecting to find food that redefines your opinion of Italian cooking or even for food that is wildly impressive or surprising. It is basic, fresh and good food from a local deli/pizzeria-- and that's enough.
(3)
J M.
Went here for lunch to try the pizza. Talked to the owner, who was very nice. Pizza was very good. I really enjoyed it. We hit a few pizza places the same week and this was one of my favorites.
(4)
Joe S.
This place has great calzones. Pizza is just so-so, but overall service and food is great!
(4)
Dayne B.
If your looking for some fast food Italian, which in my opinion is hard to find, this is the place to go. While the food is average it can definitely cure that Italian craving in a pinch. Plus if you dine in you get to experience their take on Italian decor.
(3)
Joe T.
Avelutto's has Fantastic Stromboli, Rigatoni, and Pizza (& many other great dishes). This is NOT a commercial pizza hut or chain place. The sauce and dough are made in house, HOME MADE in their shop! I grew up eating Italian Food on the Hill in St. Louis like others have mentioned. This is the best Italian Food that I have found since moving to KC. The prices are very reasonable for taking the whole family out to eat or a date night for the adults when they dim the lights late in the evening. I highly recommend you try it!
(5)
Stephanie S.
eh. We had heard so many good things about this place, we had high hopes. But the second we walked in we thought we were in for an experience. The cashier was kind of rude which really surprised us. The prices were good, but the flavor wasn't anything to write home about. And... there was meat on my vegetarian entree. I don't remember what I got... it was not memorable. The bread was good, but I could have picked up a loaf at price chopper.
(2)
Emily S.
I love this place! The pizza is AWESOME, and the ambiance is fun! My husband and I eat here all the time, and are huge fans! Priced reasonably too!
(4)
Stacy N.
My husband introduced me to Italian Delights years ago, and even though we live no where near it, I find myself searching it out periodically. I am primarily into their pizza. As far as I know, the family that runs it is from Brooklyn, and I think their pizza is about as close to a NY style slice as one can get in the KC area. I like them plain or with toppings (sliced meatball is tasty.) Another favorite is the calzone! This is not like a calzone you are going to find at any other pizza place in town. It is a dough that is thinner than pizza dough, and the whole deal is lightly fried. Inside is ricotta and ham...they may have a just cheese one too...and it is served with a side of marinara. We often each get a slice and split one of these. I also throw in a salad of some sort to feel virtuous, plus they are good. I haven't really tried many of the pastas. Nothing here is fancy, but it is decent if not great, well-priced, and folks are friendly. It is even better if they have some little boxes of mixed Italian cookies. They don't always have those, though. Now all they need is some garlic knots...
(4)
Zachary S.
I love Avellutos. In my opinion they have a really good sauce and great people serving. I have their Calzone every time. I have taken my friends and family all there and they all love it too. The prices aren't bad at all either. Check them out.
(4)
C Jude S.
There are plenty of good reviews for this restaurant. I'm going to chime in and say that the Stromboli is a treat. The health salad is a MUST (I love it). I also want to tell you that their sauce is NOT chef boyardee (as one of the reviews mentioned). Anyone that knows anything about what it takes to make a great marinara... I challenge you to try this sauce and give it anything but high marks. It's bold, slightly sweet and savory. It's what gives many of their dishes a special touch. Yes, if you order it on spaghetti, it's a simple-looking dish. But it's also simply-divine. All of their salads are wonderful. Be adventurous - try the prosciutto balls! Mmm... :)
(4)
Katie B.
I feel as though I need to defend this place due to its previous negative reviews. I will say, that their pasta is absolutely horrid. A step above Chef Boyardee on a good day. Skip over these menu items immediately and instead focused on the premade items available on the line. Their pizza is excellent. I think this is the only place in KC where one can get your average NYC pizza experience. Super thin pizza, lots of cheese, and toppings at your discretion. All for 2 dollars a slice? What's not to like? And it doesn't stop at the pizza. Their sausage rolls, calzones, and (especially) the stomboli are all heaven on a plate. Delicious. And don't forget, this is the place to get ridiculously cheap fresh mozzarella. Just ask and you shall receive. Sure beats paying 3.00 a ball at Price Chopper/HyVee/Hen House/etc. Italian Delight is all about the expectations game. It certainly isn't the best place to get a slice in Kansas City, but it just may be the cheapest.
(3)
Brian V.
The pizza... very good! I can't remember the name of the "everything" pizza but it had tons of toppings, all very fresh. It seemed like you could taste each one individually! We also had a meatball sandwich. Nothing special, but still good. The ambiance left a bit more to be desired but the helpful staff and good food made me very satisfied.
(4)
Rhett H.
There are italian places in Kansas City, like Johnny Cascones, or Garozzo's, and then there are italian places, like Italian Delight. Here we have a understated deli-pizzeria-restaurant, which, in the auspices of Kansas City suburbs, looks a little like an upgraded Subway. Don't be fooled. Here, right here in Kansas City, we have an as-authentic-as-you-can-get italian ristorante. Why? Well, read on, ami... At first, I was a little suspicious. The menu is not exactly overwhelming. A salad here, a pasta dish here, a pizza there. It wasn't much to look at. But my friend, who has a good track record, recommened it. Plus he was with me and he was buying. I didn't have much to loose. I got a 'health' salad (whatever that is), and the (meat) lasagna. The salad was chock-full-o-antipasta goodies, like olives, artichoke hearts, peppers, onions, etc. and it was great. And fresh tasting. I was happy at the salad. I could go home, but I had a lasagna coming. The lasagna was very humble looking. Some pasta sheets, some sauce, specks of sausage. Like their menu, not much to get excited about. So I had a few bites, and, unlike my theory of diminishing tastes with normal, mortal food, this dish actually got better as the meal went on. Something about the spices, the building momentum of ratio of fats to carbs to protiens towards a golden ratio of taste, whatever it was it had it. I was hooked. This place is the real deal. Now my only caveat is that I've only been there once. But it's worth a try, and you can judge for yourself. Also, I saw the pizza guy (who has his own area to make the pizzas), and he was making fresh pizza all night long. It looks like a good place to go from the lasagna. In addition to the great food, there is an altar to all things Ducati. That's a nice little diversion while your food digests.
(5)
David A.
Incredible, full Italian menu. White table cloth value in a deli style environment and price. A family favorite.
(4)
Julie W.
I love this place. Kansas City is not a place for true delis or true Italian food. It might come as a shock to some Kansas Citians, but Chicken Spiedini is really from Kansas City...not from Italy. And the Suco sauce that eveyone loves to serve here is not close to anything they eat in Italy, NYC, Boston's Little Italy, ANYWHERE. The pizza here is awesome. It's the closest thing to New York pizza that I've had outside of New York. And it's better than a lot of pizza in NY. If you don't like thin crust cheese, then skip it though, and go for a calzone. Um...yummmmm. Stuffed with ricotta, mozzarella, and ham. Or how about a stromboli. I really love this place. If you don't like it, stay away...that's okay because this place isn't hurting for business as I can see from the lines out the door at lunch and dinner! I've never been disappointed here. It's fresh, cheap, friendly, and the closest thing to an italian deli that KC has. If you like Garozzo's, you probably won't like this place. If you hate Garozzo's, here's the cure!
(4)
Charles R.
Nice red-sauced Italian menu. Calzone and stromboli great. Antipasto salad delicious. Pizza fine. Nice people. Relaxed atmosphere in a low-overhead strip mall. Your chance to get a good meal and support a local family restaurant.
(3)
Veronica M.
This Italian joint is VERY popular. Always nearly full and overly busy during lunch hour. Their calzones are delicious and the health salad is just as tasty. The pizza itself is okay. Not something to brag about They claim its award winning but I'm not so sure. But you might like it :). What I really enjoy is the rest of their menu. They have meaty choices as well as veggie choices. Adequately priced. And the staff is super friendly. It does close rather early but that's probably because in the shopping area it is located in, the shops close at nine. So there you go. That's why. So i recommend checking it out early in the day.
(4)
Kurt K.
My wife, who had eaten at Italian Delight numerous times as a kid, took me to Italian Delight for the first time over the weekend and I was impressed. I come from a family where almost all of the extended family is from back east and my dad grew up in New Jersey. I have been to more delis and diners than I can even remember and I feel like I have a pretty good take on what is authentic enough, at least for an American-Italian deli. You could put Italian Delight in Jersey or New York and feel very comfortable. It has that minimalist feel, where the food is the obvious main star. You order by going down the line and looking over the items and placing your order at the end. I got a calzone and a slice of cheese pizza, while my wife got the stromboli and my daughter had the cheese ravioli. I can say we all enjoyed the meal. The calzone is filled with mozzorella and sliced ham and cut open for you and covered in sauce. It's not the monster ones you see at the pizza chains, this is a good size, but not overwhelming. The kiddo devoured her ravioli, always a good sign and the wife thought the sausage in the stromboli was perfectly spicy.
(4)
Erik R.
I like this little corner shop, buffet style Italian. I give the food four stars, but the price is a little high so I knocked it back to three. The service is pretty good, everything is pre-made or almost made and you get your own drinks so if you are in a hurry, this place works well. The decor is very simple, but everything is clean and nice. The food is all solid. I've had lasagna, pizza, and some of their specials and they are all good. Their calzones look great too, but they have always had something in them I'm not a fan of, so I have never tried them. My only knock is that they have no designated smoking area. Almost nobody smokes any more, but if you get unlucky, you could end up choking from something besides the food.
(3)
Kristen S.
I am not a big fan of this place. It is more or less a buffet of pre-prepared food and the pizza is average at best.
(1)
richard s.
i come from long island ny. this place is as close as you can get to ny. always a good meal, good price and always like to speak with owners. this place is a great hidden gem
(4)
Doug M.
Well, I love Italian food. But I'm not sure what part of Italy these guys are from? Must be the part where they don't have access to spices and flavor. Marinera sauce was bland. The veal parm had the texture of a soggy, rubbery, flipflop. Spaghetti was good. Wife ordered fettucini alfrado. It was actually really good. But some garlic, salt and pepper would make it even better. The four ounce pour of chianti was laughable. Service? Don't expect it. I should'nt expect much since this is Mission. The Food Desert of Johnson County.
(2)
Steve D.
I found it a little unusual, but you walk by the counter and place your order at the register. I ordered a delight pizza slice, a salad, and a drink for a total of about $8.50. My salad was delivered to my table in about three minutes, and my pizza slice arrived about five minutes later. My dinner salad had a reasonable variety of veggies, and a tasty dressing. My thin crust delight pizza slice was generously-sized, and had an abundance of toppings on a delicious crust. The dining area was nicely decorated, and clean, while the service was just good. Overall, it was a very good experience.
(4)
Paul R.
I have such fond memories of this place, back when they had the more "upscale" side and the cafeteria side. Now, it is simply the cafeteria. I am disappointed, but not totally turned off, by the noodles that are limp as grand daddy's **** and the sauce that is a bit watery, but it is still a GREAT value. The pizza is yummy, the calzone's are delightful and the African American guy that has been there forever is awesome. He always is so friendly and funny. The staff lacks a little in etiquette, but overall does a good job. I would recommend this place as a quick bite, but not as a great meal. If you are in the neighborhood, it's definitely worth the stop, but not worth driving across town for. I do not dislike Italian Delight, I just think that it isn't what it used to be. I'm sorry to say the staff's attitude has suffered in the past years, some of the people working there are not destined to be public officials, they have no skill at dealing with the public. However, like I said, it is okay. I've been coming here for years and years and decades and decades (literally) and it is stil "o-kay". Nothing to send to the Pope, but not unfit for a Bishop.....
(3)
Rodeo G.
Tried this place multiple times since wife loves the "little cookies" there. Pizza is ehh, and pasta is uggg. Staff is blahh.. not sure the rationale?
(2)
Priscilla Z. D.
LOVE this place. Best stromboli I've had, hands down. Plus it's locally owned, which I always try to support. Their marinara sauce is amazing. Real authentic stuff. I'd highly suggest to anyone and we eat here at least once a week.
(5)
Kev L.
I couldn't disagree more with a bunch of the reviews on here. But these are my thoughts in a nutshell: 1) GREAT sauce. 2) Horrible pasta. 3) Good New York Pizza, but nowhere as good as Original Pizza. Calzone's and Stromboli's are also weak and pail in comparison to Original Pizza's. 4) Impressive seating chairs and tablecloths. Very old school. I will also say that their Spinach Lasagna was incredibly amazing. Easily our favorite item on the menu. The Proschuto Balls were also pretty delicious as well. My wife had a side of tomato basil salad that was also impressive. also, as you may have already read, the owners are indeed from Brooklyn and also had their stints in Flushing and other parts of NYC. Great folks.
(4)
Stephanie P.
Man, did this place disappoint me or what. I am a sad sad girl. I walked in with such high expectations, but honestly I can't say they were met. The menu is large and everything is set up nicely and steaming wonderfully in their respective trays behind the glass counter. The girl that took our order was rude and inattentive. She seemed like she had a bit of a superiority complex about herself. Hmmmm, maybe not a great place to be in the service industry if you think you're better than everyone. So I ordered the chicken parmigiana with spaghetti. My boyfriend ordered a meatball sandwich and a side of garlic bread. The meatballs were great. They tasted like his mother's homemade meatballs, and those are hard to beat. My chicken parm was what was so disappointing. First of all, the amount of sauce on the dish was just ridiculous. I couldn't tell where the chicken was and where the sauce ended. I will give the sauce credit. Sauce, you were tasty, but you were overpowering. I've had way better garlic bread. Suffice it to say that it was white bread rubbed with olive oil and some oregano. Meh. The atmosphere was a bit strange to me. It seemed like a mix of my grandma's kitchen and a cafeteria. The murals were a real treat though, they were well painted. The tables were rickety and had some dirty table clothes on them. My boyfriend proceeded to look all around and under the table clothes while trying to wipe them off. No luck, too many years of grime I guess. We opted to sit facing out so we could see outside. The doors were filthy, because the girl behind the counter was obviously too good to clean them. Ewww. By the way, the doors that were dirty were locked and no one even used them, this is weird. Let me have some windex and a cloth and I will do it for free. Overall, I think it was enjoyable. The food was okay and the service sucked, very frankly. I think I might give this place another try and see what else they have to offer. I saw they have spinach lasagna...
(3)
Mai H.
I've only been to one italian restaurant in KC so my opinion may be biased. Its a mom and pop joint located in a shopping center. I was hesitant at first by my colleagues convinced me otherwise. It was very crowded once inside so you know it must be good. I ordered their stromboli and it was delicious! The meats/cheses all melted nicely together with a touch of sauce. Definitely coming back next time I am in town.
(5)
Tony P.
Meatball sandwich was good. Service wasn't. Wasn't the cleanest place, but I came after lunch...maybe they were busy. Willing to give it another shot just because of the meatball sandwhich
(3)
Jenny B.
I love this place their pizza is great and the calzones, and the salads, meatballs, strombolis ok so seriously everything is so yummy! The sauce is good and Im a good Italian girl and even my nana would love the sauce. Favs- Health salad- Tomato and cucumber salad so good best in the summer Pizza- Extra sauce extra cheese This is a great neighborhood joint with a good family atmosphere and great selection of italian treats.
(4)
Amanda M.
This was not the best pizza at all. We ordered the thick style and it was just a large piece of bread with way too much cheese and little flavor. Maybe the thin style is much better. I would recommend the other food since we have been multiple times. The lasagna is amazing. I would have to agree that the food can sometimes be a bit bland, especially the thick pizza.
(2)
Celeste L.
I lived in Mission for more than a decade before I finally got around to trying this place. Now it's a regular stop. I generally alternate between the meatball sandwich (available in two sizes, which is nice when you're not quite as hungry) and various pasta dishes. My husband is a big fan of their stromboli. It's always been pretty no-frills and we like the place because it's inexpensive and filling. We had dinner there last night and it looks like they've upped their game, perhaps in anticipation of D'Bronx opening up soon on the next block. I had lasagna and it not only tasted even better than I remembered, but the portion size was huge and the presentation was quite attractive with basil leaf sprinkled around the edge of the dish. The cost was still very reasonable and it was nice to see the shift toward a slightly less casual dining experience. I resisted getting the spumoni cheesecake last night because I know I'm a day away from being inundated by holiday sweets, but I highly recommend it. It's very pretty and tasty, too. Actually, their desserts are all quite nice and they have a good selection of cheesecakes, Tiramisu and Italian cookies.
(4)
Kyle M.
Try the lasagna, it is great. Do not get their thick crust pizza, it is not great.
(4)
Roger S.
Great sauce, love the atmosphere. I've never had a dish that has disappointed me. Same goes for my whole family. Probably the best Italian I've had since moving up to the KC area. You'll see from all the reviews that this is a love it/hate it kind of place - I'm firmly in the "love it" category. The only thing I can say is that you need to try it and judge for yourself if it's the type of Italian food you crave.
(4)
Troy O.
This place came highly recommended but started off very poor. The young lady on the register was very unfriendly and even though I said chicken parmesan sandwich, she charged me for the dinner. Then the tables were full and apparently only the older lady can clean the tables and not the young white kid who was doing nothing but talking to the other kid on the line. Finally seated, our food didn't come out at the same time which is restaurant 101. All in all I doubt I will go back.
(1)
Stephanie S.
eh. We had heard so many good things about this place, we had high hopes. But the second we walked in we thought we were in for an experience. The cashier was kind of rude which really surprised us. The prices were good, but the flavor wasn't anything to write home about. And... there was meat on my vegetarian entree. I don't remember what I got... it was not memorable. The bread was good, but I could have picked up a loaf at price chopper.
(2)
Emily S.
I love this place! The pizza is AWESOME, and the ambiance is fun! My husband and I eat here all the time, and are huge fans! Priced reasonably too!
(4)
Stacy N.
My husband introduced me to Italian Delights years ago, and even though we live no where near it, I find myself searching it out periodically. I am primarily into their pizza. As far as I know, the family that runs it is from Brooklyn, and I think their pizza is about as close to a NY style slice as one can get in the KC area. I like them plain or with toppings (sliced meatball is tasty.) Another favorite is the calzone! This is not like a calzone you are going to find at any other pizza place in town. It is a dough that is thinner than pizza dough, and the whole deal is lightly fried. Inside is ricotta and ham...they may have a just cheese one too...and it is served with a side of marinara. We often each get a slice and split one of these. I also throw in a salad of some sort to feel virtuous, plus they are good. I haven't really tried many of the pastas. Nothing here is fancy, but it is decent if not great, well-priced, and folks are friendly. It is even better if they have some little boxes of mixed Italian cookies. They don't always have those, though. Now all they need is some garlic knots...
(4)
Zachary S.
I love Avellutos. In my opinion they have a really good sauce and great people serving. I have their Calzone every time. I have taken my friends and family all there and they all love it too. The prices aren't bad at all either. Check them out.
(4)
C Jude S.
There are plenty of good reviews for this restaurant. I'm going to chime in and say that the Stromboli is a treat. The health salad is a MUST (I love it). I also want to tell you that their sauce is NOT chef boyardee (as one of the reviews mentioned). Anyone that knows anything about what it takes to make a great marinara... I challenge you to try this sauce and give it anything but high marks. It's bold, slightly sweet and savory. It's what gives many of their dishes a special touch. Yes, if you order it on spaghetti, it's a simple-looking dish. But it's also simply-divine. All of their salads are wonderful. Be adventurous - try the prosciutto balls! Mmm... :)
(4)
Katie B.
I feel as though I need to defend this place due to its previous negative reviews. I will say, that their pasta is absolutely horrid. A step above Chef Boyardee on a good day. Skip over these menu items immediately and instead focused on the premade items available on the line. Their pizza is excellent. I think this is the only place in KC where one can get your average NYC pizza experience. Super thin pizza, lots of cheese, and toppings at your discretion. All for 2 dollars a slice? What's not to like? And it doesn't stop at the pizza. Their sausage rolls, calzones, and (especially) the stomboli are all heaven on a plate. Delicious. And don't forget, this is the place to get ridiculously cheap fresh mozzarella. Just ask and you shall receive. Sure beats paying 3.00 a ball at Price Chopper/HyVee/Hen House/etc. Italian Delight is all about the expectations game. It certainly isn't the best place to get a slice in Kansas City, but it just may be the cheapest.
(3)
Brian V.
The pizza... very good! I can't remember the name of the "everything" pizza but it had tons of toppings, all very fresh. It seemed like you could taste each one individually! We also had a meatball sandwich. Nothing special, but still good. The ambiance left a bit more to be desired but the helpful staff and good food made me very satisfied.
(4)
Rhett H.
There are italian places in Kansas City, like Johnny Cascones, or Garozzo's, and then there are italian places, like Italian Delight. Here we have a understated deli-pizzeria-restaurant, which, in the auspices of Kansas City suburbs, looks a little like an upgraded Subway. Don't be fooled. Here, right here in Kansas City, we have an as-authentic-as-you-can-get italian ristorante. Why? Well, read on, ami... At first, I was a little suspicious. The menu is not exactly overwhelming. A salad here, a pasta dish here, a pizza there. It wasn't much to look at. But my friend, who has a good track record, recommened it. Plus he was with me and he was buying. I didn't have much to loose. I got a 'health' salad (whatever that is), and the (meat) lasagna. The salad was chock-full-o-antipasta goodies, like olives, artichoke hearts, peppers, onions, etc. and it was great. And fresh tasting. I was happy at the salad. I could go home, but I had a lasagna coming. The lasagna was very humble looking. Some pasta sheets, some sauce, specks of sausage. Like their menu, not much to get excited about. So I had a few bites, and, unlike my theory of diminishing tastes with normal, mortal food, this dish actually got better as the meal went on. Something about the spices, the building momentum of ratio of fats to carbs to protiens towards a golden ratio of taste, whatever it was it had it. I was hooked. This place is the real deal. Now my only caveat is that I've only been there once. But it's worth a try, and you can judge for yourself. Also, I saw the pizza guy (who has his own area to make the pizzas), and he was making fresh pizza all night long. It looks like a good place to go from the lasagna. In addition to the great food, there is an altar to all things Ducati. That's a nice little diversion while your food digests.
(5)
David A.
Incredible, full Italian menu. White table cloth value in a deli style environment and price. A family favorite.
(4)
Kate S.
I usually get good food here but i went today and spent 10.50 to try something new and i order the chicken mushrooms with spaghetti. That was the worst thing i have ever tasted. It took them twenty minutes to get my food out after my whole table had gotten theirs.
(3)
Julie S.
Italian D's is a great place to get quick, delicious Italian food. One thing I rate a Italian place on is the quality of their red sauce. I have to say that this sauce is delicious and makes anything they use it on just as good. They also have nightly specials which is an easy plate to go for because it is always a steal and very tasty. They have everything from your traditional hand tossed pizza, to spaghetti with amazingly large meat balls, to champagne chicken. A must if you're looking for a quick, cheap italian meal without losing out on the flavor.
(4)
Jeremy W.
I really enjoyed the Sausage roll and Meatball sandwich. I haven't tried the pizza yet but will soon.
(4)
Tracy G.
I can't wait to try something different next time. This visit I had the Alfredo, which was delicious! I wish there had been an option to add chicken, but the pasta held it's own just fine. This was my first visit to their actual location, which had a very open layout, but we'd had their food catered at different family events throughout the years: weddings and get-togethers. From those events I can highly recommend the lasagna! It's some of the best I've ever had.
(4)
Tim S.
Good food. Terrible service. There's a 50:50 chance they will forget to serve you with a dine-in order. They seem indignant when you complain.
(2)
Fred L.
Have been going here for years. I hadn't been in the area for couple months. I saw a groupon for new york pizza and I though no thanks, I will just go to Italian Delight where I know its real New York Pizza. Have always loved their pizza, veal hero, sausage roll and garlic bread and many others. Had the Sausage Roll, Awesome as always, had the Veal Hero, awesome as always Best was special pie made by the owner, a very special pie, sliced italian sausage, pepperoni and mushrooms, extra crispy, just like I like it. Man it was awesome best pizza ever, think this one was even better than I remember Pizza land in New jersey. Love that the owners are making the pizza, how many places do you see the owner making your pizza live throwing the dough? Not many, maybe in Brooklyn, and In New York but Not in Kansas city. Originally came here from Recommendation years ago from a friend of mine from New York, who worked as GM at one of my favorite restaurants. I told my Friend Saul about loving New York Pizza, and having traveled to new jersey, and eaten at Pizza Land, the famous Pizza Place featured on the opening Credits of the Sopranos. Italian Delight is the real deal, they are the only pizza I have ever had that is real New York pizza, Similar to Pizza Land. You don't want the imitation New York Pizza. Its a marketing gimmick If you want REAL NEW YORK PIZZZA, FROM OWNERS THAT ARE FROM BROOKLYN, NEW YORK THEN COME TO AVEULLUTO"S ITALIAN DELIGHT AND GET A REAL NEW YORK PIE!! FUGGADITBOUTIT
(5)
Steve D.
I found it a little unusual, but you walk by the counter and place your order at the register. I ordered a delight pizza slice, a salad, and a drink for a total of about $8.50. My salad was delivered to my table in about three minutes, and my pizza slice arrived about five minutes later. My dinner salad had a reasonable variety of veggies, and a tasty dressing. My thin crust delight pizza slice was generously-sized, and had an abundance of toppings on a delicious crust. The dining area was nicely decorated, and clean, while the service was just good. Overall, it was a very good experience.
(4)
Andrew S.
This is a good neighborhood Italian restaurant that serves classical red sauce. It has a local clientele, moderate cost, decent service. And then there is the food: hey wide selection of Boston and other Italian delight such as sausage rolls and calzones! Plus you can order any type of pizza thin crust as well as several different salads and sandwiches as well! I eat here at least once a month:)!
(4)
Crystal M.
Today was my Gluten Cheat day, I only get 1 per week even though I know I'll pay the price tomorrow. Anyways I decided to try this little joint out. I was really impressed with their prices $2.19 for a slice of Cheese Pizza, $5.09 for a Full order of Spaghetti with sauce $2.30 for a house salad, etc. You get the idea... The thin crust cheese pizza reminded me of D'bronx it was just ok to me, the Spaghetti was nothing special, better than Buca, but not as good as Mario's in Westport, the garlic bread was just ok as well, the salad dressing was just ok I think it would be better if they added more vinegar, the real star of the meal was their Thick Crust Delight Pizza I got mine with green peppers, onions, pepperoni, and black olives. It's a good 1.5" thick, maybe I was digging it so much because I miss bread, either was it was Good!
(3)
Jess J.
As good as it gets for what it is, which is a mom n' pop style Italian lunch counter in a not-so-heavily Italian place. If I want a satisfying plate of pasta without heating up my kitchen, quick and easy, it's the place for me. Not fancy, just filling, tomato-ey, and good. I got chicken parm atop spaghetti last time I was there, and it was golden fried goodness. I'd skip the garlic cheese bread, as it was a small amount and nothing special, and just go with the bread basket bread. Cafeteria-style service, but quick, efficient, and satisfying. I've not had their pizza, but the pastas and Stromboli are nice and comfort-foody.
(5)
Logan Locke B.
This place is awesome! I little gem in a strip mall. I try to always go somewhere twice before writing such a rave review (for consistency reasons)... and I have got to say, this place has been top-notch both times. Italian Delight will be added to my go-to restaurants. I love their calzones. Perfectly cooked with a great shell. The crust is light, chewy and not too doughy. The insides of the calzone, plus the sauce that is served on the side is a perfect compliment. They have great salad options (cucumber/tomato, artichoke, olive, and many more) The prices are incredibly reasonable and I have had friendly service each time I have been there. (I got take out twice--- once call ahead and once walk-in and order)
(5)
Laurel S.
This place is awesome. We used to get take out from here when we lived in Mission but we moved 14 years ago and haven't been back. We went back Saturday night with my sister's family. My family of 3 had no issues - our food was great, everything came quickly as ordered. The Stromboli is ridiculously good and the marinara sauce is amazing. My sister's family of 4 had more issues. All 4 of their orders came out at different times. Her son's pizza came out first, 5 minutes later her husbands calzone, almost 20 minutes later her and her other son's pasta dishes. She asked for bread but never got it. So the service was a bit lacking but the food was great. I promise I'll be back if only for the stromboli!
(4)
Edwin V.
Walked in, got a greeting from one of the cooks behind the counter and that was the end of the good service. My greeting from the young lady at the cashier was for here or take out. It may just be a personal thing but I believe in giving the customer some sort of greeting. I ordered a Calzone which I was informed that it could only accommodate 3 toppings. I requested more toppings which I was willing to pay for but I was advised that the more toppings I chose the less cheese they would be able to use. I uploaded a picture of my calzone which look a lot more like a Spanish empanada. There was a huge gap as an interior and the sauce was nothing to brag about. I ate a few bites in the hopes that the taste would help me overlook the sight to no avail. Thankfully no one asked me how my meal was avoiding an embarrassing position to be put in. Will avoid this place next time I am in Kansas.
(1)
Jimmy S.
Overall some of the best Italian food I've had in the Kansas City area. You order at the front counter and food is delivered to your table fast and hot. Everything I've tried has been delicious. Pizza is unbelievable. The real gem for me has been the chicken parm sandwich. Usually come here for a lunch break and have always enjoyed a 5 star quality meal within a fast food time frame. Awesome! A must eat!
(5)
Liz C.
The food and service at this family owned eatery has never dissapointed. Their lasagne is delicious and my kids raved about the pizza. If you're looking for a place that serves delicious italian food, I recommend swinging by.
(5)
Michael D.
This has been my favorite pizza place (well technically their other location but is now closed) since I was 12 years old. Just amazing.
(5)
Thomas M.
I was excited to try this place out. I didnt know what was good so I asked for suggestions. I was told the chicken parm sandwich was really good. I found it to be very forgettable, bland, and lackluster. The portion was a good size and the tomato salad that I ordered was nice. I was there on Cinco De Mayo and with a Mexican joint just a couple of steps away, They weren't busy. I will have to say that they had an ever so slight "I dont want to be bothered with you" type attitude. I would like to give this place another try and get one of their calzones.
(2)
Craig M.
Bad service, mediocre food. They deceive you into thinking this a family restaurant- but, it is really just a way for them to buy more Ducatti motorcycles. The gal at the cashier station was particularly unfriendly. They actually told us they were out of fettuccini noodles. I know this happens- but they weren't even the least bit apologetic, and to add salt to the wound they said it was against policy to add mushrooms to the dish. Look for fast food Italian...it would be an upgrade. Hard to imagine going back- especially with D'Bronx right around the corner
(2)
Erin T.
I LOVE this place. My husband and I moved into an apartment nearby about a year ago and we go there about 2-3 times a month now. Their pizza is amazing and the man who normally makes the pizzas is really nice and pretty hilarious to talk to. My husband likes to get the chicken parm (both the sandwich and the pasta dish and he loves it) and I enjoy eating the sausage and pepper sandwich (when I'm not eating pizza, of course) It gets really busy during the lunch rush, but they get the food to you quickly and it's always yummy. The prices are incredibly reasonable. I've read some reviews on here about the customer service being bad, but I've never had a bad exerpience with the employees (maybe it's because we're regulars and they know us) I've never been disappointed when I go there!
(5)
Julie W.
I love this place. Kansas City is not a place for true delis or true Italian food. It might come as a shock to some Kansas Citians, but Chicken Spiedini is really from Kansas City...not from Italy. And the Suco sauce that eveyone loves to serve here is not close to anything they eat in Italy, NYC, Boston's Little Italy, ANYWHERE. The pizza here is awesome. It's the closest thing to New York pizza that I've had outside of New York. And it's better than a lot of pizza in NY. If you don't like thin crust cheese, then skip it though, and go for a calzone. Um...yummmmm. Stuffed with ricotta, mozzarella, and ham. Or how about a stromboli. I really love this place. If you don't like it, stay away...that's okay because this place isn't hurting for business as I can see from the lines out the door at lunch and dinner! I've never been disappointed here. It's fresh, cheap, friendly, and the closest thing to an italian deli that KC has. If you like Garozzo's, you probably won't like this place. If you hate Garozzo's, here's the cure!
(4)
Charles R.
Nice red-sauced Italian menu. Calzone and stromboli great. Antipasto salad delicious. Pizza fine. Nice people. Relaxed atmosphere in a low-overhead strip mall. Your chance to get a good meal and support a local family restaurant.
(3)
Veronica M.
This Italian joint is VERY popular. Always nearly full and overly busy during lunch hour. Their calzones are delicious and the health salad is just as tasty. The pizza itself is okay. Not something to brag about They claim its award winning but I'm not so sure. But you might like it :). What I really enjoy is the rest of their menu. They have meaty choices as well as veggie choices. Adequately priced. And the staff is super friendly. It does close rather early but that's probably because in the shopping area it is located in, the shops close at nine. So there you go. That's why. So i recommend checking it out early in the day.
(4)
Kurt K.
My wife, who had eaten at Italian Delight numerous times as a kid, took me to Italian Delight for the first time over the weekend and I was impressed. I come from a family where almost all of the extended family is from back east and my dad grew up in New Jersey. I have been to more delis and diners than I can even remember and I feel like I have a pretty good take on what is authentic enough, at least for an American-Italian deli. You could put Italian Delight in Jersey or New York and feel very comfortable. It has that minimalist feel, where the food is the obvious main star. You order by going down the line and looking over the items and placing your order at the end. I got a calzone and a slice of cheese pizza, while my wife got the stromboli and my daughter had the cheese ravioli. I can say we all enjoyed the meal. The calzone is filled with mozzorella and sliced ham and cut open for you and covered in sauce. It's not the monster ones you see at the pizza chains, this is a good size, but not overwhelming. The kiddo devoured her ravioli, always a good sign and the wife thought the sausage in the stromboli was perfectly spicy.
(4)
Erik R.
I like this little corner shop, buffet style Italian. I give the food four stars, but the price is a little high so I knocked it back to three. The service is pretty good, everything is pre-made or almost made and you get your own drinks so if you are in a hurry, this place works well. The decor is very simple, but everything is clean and nice. The food is all solid. I've had lasagna, pizza, and some of their specials and they are all good. Their calzones look great too, but they have always had something in them I'm not a fan of, so I have never tried them. My only knock is that they have no designated smoking area. Almost nobody smokes any more, but if you get unlucky, you could end up choking from something besides the food.
(3)
Kristen S.
I am not a big fan of this place. It is more or less a buffet of pre-prepared food and the pizza is average at best.
(1)
richard s.
i come from long island ny. this place is as close as you can get to ny. always a good meal, good price and always like to speak with owners. this place is a great hidden gem
(4)
Jennifer H.
I grew up near this restaurant, and everyone was always going, and talking about how good the food is. For some reason I never stopped in until recently. The food is fine; it's pretty good, but at the inexpensive price point, it's a great deal. I found the pizza to be very good. I found the marinara sauce to be pretty bland, and the calzone under it was average. There was a TON of ricotta, and less mozzarella. My problem with the place was the customer service. The were slammed (noon on a weekday) when we arrived, which of course was expected. But the line...it just didn't move. It took 30 minutes to get to the front of about 20 people. It was actually extraordinarily slow moving, and I can only hope for the restaurant's sake that this is an anomaly. Once I got up front, a middle-aged blonde woman asked me if I was eating in or taking it to go. I was in the midst of answering her when she took a phone call. She then just ignored me. It's like I'd disappeared from sight. I ended up kind of wandering over to the neighboring register to get someone to take my order. It was honestly an infuriating experience after having been kept waiting in line for so long. The icing on the cake was that the girl who took my order left off one slice of pizza. When it was delivered, I was told "Oh, well, we didn't ring it up, so if you want to go get in line and pay for it we can get it for you." Are. You. Serious?! Clearly they are more concerned with volume than customer service, and I will never be back.
(2)
Kandace M.
How this place gets 3.5 stars is a mystery to me. My hubs who is from Philly stopped in for chicken parm and some garlic bread. For $13 he got a lump of cold pasta upon which sat a piece of grilled chicken with American cheese and the worst looking sauce ever. And one soggy piece of bread. We had just moved to the neighborhood and were looking to see what was around. I was embarrassed for KC this was his first Italian food experience. We go next door to Salsa Grill often and he always comments that he can't believe Avellutos is still open.
(1)
Rob D.
the pizza is amazing, the employees are great, and in the summer you know you'll have a great pizza when you see the ducati motorcycles parked out front. This place has my favorite pizza in the KC area, I tried so many different places and hated the cracker crust at some places and doughy garbage at other places, this place does it right!!!
(5)
Pamela C.
Avelluto's is our families favorite. From my first experience there to our last I have been delighted with their food! I dearly love the Caprese salad, which is made with mozzarella made fresh every day! It's good all year round, but with fresh off the vine tomatoes in the summer, it is to die for! Other favorites include the eggplant parmigiana, and the pizza. This weekend they catered the dinner for my daughters wedding, eggplant, lasagne, Caprese, Italian salad and bread. Everyone raved about how delicious the food was! They were a pleasure to work with, and delivered hot food hot, and cold food cold on time! All for a very reasonable cost! Its not an fancy restaurant, but a wonderful gem of a place hidden in Mission. Go try it out, you won't be disappointed!
(5)
Tom K.
What is SOO wrong with no-nonsense, almost mediocre deli counter obsessed with cheese, red sauce, spaghetti, sausage, bread dough and meatballs? Absolutely nothing. Avellutos is the OG Sbarro. Long counter includes previews of pizza, calzone, salads, stromboli and more. The highly economical menu is extensive and covers everything from cold sandwiches to pasta dishes to pizza. Everything is a la carte, simple and straight-forward. Avellutos is a no frills alternative to the slew of generic, sit-down Italian operations dotting the area. Pay half the price for Italian that isn't fancy, but still quality. Don't go into Avellutos expecting to find food that redefines your opinion of Italian cooking or even for food that is wildly impressive or surprising. It is basic, fresh and good food from a local deli/pizzeria-- and that's enough.
(3)
J M.
Went here for lunch to try the pizza. Talked to the owner, who was very nice. Pizza was very good. I really enjoyed it. We hit a few pizza places the same week and this was one of my favorites.
(4)
Joe S.
This place has great calzones. Pizza is just so-so, but overall service and food is great!
(4)
Dayne B.
If your looking for some fast food Italian, which in my opinion is hard to find, this is the place to go. While the food is average it can definitely cure that Italian craving in a pinch. Plus if you dine in you get to experience their take on Italian decor.
(3)
Joe T.
Avelutto's has Fantastic Stromboli, Rigatoni, and Pizza (& many other great dishes). This is NOT a commercial pizza hut or chain place. The sauce and dough are made in house, HOME MADE in their shop! I grew up eating Italian Food on the Hill in St. Louis like others have mentioned. This is the best Italian Food that I have found since moving to KC. The prices are very reasonable for taking the whole family out to eat or a date night for the adults when they dim the lights late in the evening. I highly recommend you try it!
(5)
Jason Y.
Been a customer of Italian Delight for over 20 years dating back to the Indian Springs Shopping Mall KCK location. I have visited the Mission Kansas location numerous times as well. There have always been issues with customer service (unfriendly and straight up RUDE) on different occasions that I have experienced or witnessed first hand. But you know what.....I always overlook that stuff and frequent these types of places for the food. If the staff doesn't want to talk or present themselves in a professional manner, I will simply place the order and go about my business. I guess when you present yourself as a New York type neighborhood eatery, you also bring the New York attitude along for the experience. Besides this, let me tell you about the food on a recent visit. My usual staple at Italian Delight is a slice of pizza and a bowl of pasta salad. Sometimes I'll switch up and go with a calzone or stromboli. Have had their pasta and meatballs in the past and was thoroughly unimpressed with the watery sauce and overcooked pasta. Desserts aren't bad and worth a try. Here's the recent kicker: I spent $35 on a tiny slice of regular lasagne, tiny slice of spinach lasagne, slice of pizza, and a decent amount of fettuccini. Two waters and one soda. Always forget that you have to actually request some bread or you may not get any. Along with a few thinly sliced pieces of bread you will get those old cafeteria slices of butter that are attached to the cardboard backing. I can deal with spending a little extra cash and smaller portions if you serve a quality product and actually take the time to heat up the damn food! The traditional lasagne was nice and hot. The spinach lasagne was point blank cold in the middle. I guess they didn't microwave it enough ( which I have issues with microwaving my lasagne in the first place). All too well of aware of the attitude permeating Italian Delight, I sucked it up and ate what I could. This is the part where I lost it and about came unglued.........The third party in our group had ordered the fettuccine alfredo. He sat there as we finished our lasagne and slice of pizza with no Fettuccini in sight. We asked the gentlemen that runs the food out about this twice and couldn't get a straight answer. Therefore, we walked up to the to-go pizza counter and asked who appeared to be in charge. He too had no clue as to why the bowl of fettuccini never arrived until we were done with our food. I kid you not, after literally 20 minutes the fettucini arrived and was absolutely terrible. It was consistent with fettuccini soup (does that even exist?). Had to eat it with a spoon as the noodles were gummy and flat out nasty. I tell you what folks, never again will I return to Italian Delight. Especially with D' Bronx sitting across the street and offering up much better service and food. I'm done!%#@@#$@@ And no, we never received an apology besides an explanation that "the oven was having issues". Really Italian Delight? Do you think we are that stupid to buy into the classic restaurant excuse when you screw up an order?
(2)
Michelle B.
I absolutely love this place...it isn't an upscale place or anything like that but the food is always amazing and the service is fantastic. Definitely would recommend it to anyone.
(4)
Zach G.
Pretty decent little place! We rolled in on a Saturday afternoon for a slightly late lunch and all ordered the same thing - calzone. One with ham, and two with sausage, as well as a side of garlic bread. The meal didn't take too long to come out. The garlic bread was very small and not of much flavor, so I definitely don't need to order that again. The calzones were not the best, but were tasty, filling and enjoyable. The marinara on top was basic but added some nice flavor. The service isn't friendly, but is not mean either. It's very utilitarian - gets the job done. The inside of the restaurant is old and a bit run down, but clean and comfortable enough. If in the area, I would definitely return here again to try something else on the menu.
(3)
Eric N.
The marinara sauce is divine. Lasagna, calzone, health salad, tomato salad, and the tiramisu are all excellent!! Sides of sauteed spinach and brocolli are really good too, especially with a side of the red sauce. I forgot the pizza! Incredible as well. I can't believe this place only gets 3 1/2. I would give it 6 stars :)
(5)
Mary C.
As always, Avelluto's Italian Delight offers the BEST Italian cuisine in the greater Kansas City area. We just had a pizza (Italian sausage, Canadian Bacon, and Pepperoni) and it was, in a word, fantastic! Actually, perfect! Since the early 1990's and since our first taste of Avelluto's pizza and pasta, we've not gone anywhere else for Italian. The ingredients are fresh, the sauce is wonderful (and one I have tried to re-create with no success) and the staff is friendly and courteous. They get to know and take care of their customers and it shows. When we started dining at Avelluto's, our children were in grade school. Now we are taking our grandchildren there and that's the restaurant they pick for their birthdays and other celebrations. We look forward to many more years at Avelluto's! Mary and Lowell Crissman
(5)
Michael R.
Avelluto's is a neighborhood Italian cafeteria and sandwich/pizza joint. It's not a place to go if you love nice sit-down Italian restaurants such as Johnny Cascone's, it's a place to go if you want to grab a quick bite. I love it, but I do tend to stick to a few things--calzone, stromboli, antipesto, and their meatball sub. I haven't had their pizza in several years, so I can't say anything about it. Their service is pretty minimal, yes, but I've always gotten my food relatively quickly and haven't had any mix-ups or other errors, so I have no complaints. Basically, if you go in expecting an Italian restaurant, you'll be disappointed, but if you go in expecting an Italian lunch counter, you'll like it.
(4)
Michelle F.
I've been eating here since high school. I stopped in for a calzone the other day and somehow they are just as good today as they were back then. FIlled with gooey cheese and served with a side of marinara for dipping, it's good stuff. And priced right, I was out of there for under $7.
(3)
Pat C.
One word, Legit. Only place in Kansas City with Sfogliatelle (aka Schweeadell) and a Hero!!!
(4)
Matt C.
Decided to try this place tonight after driving by numerous times and seeing that it is usually pretty busy. It is a unique experience where you stand in a cafeteria style line to order your food off a wall menu similar to a fast food restaurant. Very, very casual environment would be good for a cheap family night out. PROS: Casual environment, cheap food. That's really about all I can think of. CONS: The food. My girlfriend and I ordered diner salads, garlic bread, lasagna, and eggplant parm. The dressing on the salad is bland, the garlic bread is half a hoagie bun. Both entrees were smothered in sauce and cheese. The eggplant tasted like a pile of mozerella cheese with sauce on it, if I hadnt known what I ordered, I wouldn't have guessed there was eggplant in it. I understand the concept of you get what you paid for with this food being pretty cheap, but I would rather eat at home next time. Besides the price, I cant understand why this place stays busy.
(1)
Jocelyn M.
I love this place. I have always loved this place. Family owned (found both working and dining at different times) and friendly. No frills, just good food. I always think I am going to get the antipasto platter (delish and a LOT of food) but somehow I end up with Rigatoni alla Vodka...no self control. I tell ya - we once went THREE TIMES in a weekend. Then checked into Pasta Rehab. I do find some of the prices...confusing? Some things seem cheap, others way steep. Aw, I am hungry now...
(4)
Ankit N.
Rude staff, a feeling that a foreign young man is unwelcome in this restaurant. So it is immaterial if the food is good or not. Cmon guys, wake up. The world is mixing, or you want to go under in a few?
(1)
Lisa L.
I cant keep my husband out of this place. He walks in and they automatically fix him a double order of Bow Tie Pasta with a Stromboli (No Mushrooms) I grew up going to Italian Delight at the Indian Springs Shopping Mall and have been going to this one for years. (Back before the expansion) If you dont get there early you should plan on standing in the line sometimes wrapping around the tables..... NOM NOM
(5)
Ken W.
We love Italian Delight and have been eating there for as long as they've been open. It's not fancy, it's just plain good. It's kind of like a cafeteria line. You walk through, look at the food and order, then they bring it out. The pizzas are tasty, NY style (they throw their own crust). The strombolis are great, as are the health salad (cucumber & tomato). Actually, we have yet to eat anything there we didn't like. It's family owned and we like that, too.
(4)
Doug M.
Well, I love Italian food. But I'm not sure what part of Italy these guys are from? Must be the part where they don't have access to spices and flavor. Marinera sauce was bland. The veal parm had the texture of a soggy, rubbery, flipflop. Spaghetti was good. Wife ordered fettucini alfrado. It was actually really good. But some garlic, salt and pepper would make it even better. The four ounce pour of chianti was laughable. Service? Don't expect it. I should'nt expect much since this is Mission. The Food Desert of Johnson County.
(2)
Angela K.
I've worked near this place for years and can't figure out why I'd never been here. Now I know. Blah. I ordered a mostaccioli with tomato sauce and garlic cheese bread to go. For $1.59, I thought it would be a couple of pieces of garlic bread, but no. I opened up the package to a sad, single, soggy piece of "garlic bread" covered in cheese. That was probably the most expensive piece of bread I've had in my life. The drive back to my office takes, literally, 2 minutes. But in that time, the pasta had turned into a sticky, cold lump covered in lukewarm tomato-sauce-out-of-the-can. I find it hard to believe this was even hot when they gave it to me. I can get better italian at Fazoli's. And that's not really something to be proud of.
(2)
W T.
Left before they took my order. Staff was rude to each other and the customers. Very unprofessional. Slooooooow and unorganized.
(1)
Dan D.
Overall I had my suspicions about this place but I have been about half a dozen times and can honestly say that yes I am a fan. Italian Delight (ID) is really great if you're looking for a quick meal will no frills and a good taste. My standard combo is a slice of pepperoni and a stromboli with red gravy. The cheese is NY all the way with good flavor and a nice crust to accompany. The stromboli is a good sized portion of light dough filled with cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. The quality of the ingredients are ok but not the highest end in the world, for the price of the meal I have no problem with this. The red sauce sometimes lacks a little depth of flavor but again this is a good cheap place to eat. The dining room is big and is designed for families, self service drinks and no waiter service. Again for the price I have no complaints. This place is built for efficiency and can accommodate both small and large groups easily. Overall I give this place a strong recommendation for those that want to go out to eat in Mission and want a consistently good meal for a great price.
(4)
Elizabeth N.
Lasagna great, meatballs great. Garlic bread great. The casual Italian family restaurant is very unique for these parts so this place is essential.
(4)
Dev V.
I decided to give Avelluto's a shot after reading a few Yelp reviews along with being tired of the same lunch options around this part of the city. Here are a few of the highlights. I waited in line for around five minutes before I got to the register to order, the entire time you pass by all the prep cooks making other people's orders. I went with the meatball hero based on other's reviews. Twenty five minutes later, I received my sandwich. It took them a whole two minutes to make, but I waited for 25 minutes. The negatives here are that they could prioritize orders based on size and simplicity. There is no reason I should spend 30 minutes in a restaurant for a carry out sandwich. The other negative is that the sandwich really isn't worth it in comparison to the price and wait. The meatball and sauce were average, the best part was the roll it's served on. The miracle was that I was able to keep my cool while I saw people get served their meals, finish eating, and leave while I was still waiting for my sandwich. Sorry Avelluto's, I love locally owned spots, but I won't be back.
(2)
Tracy G.
I can't wait to try something different next time. This visit I had the Alfredo, which was delicious! I wish there had been an option to add chicken, but the pasta held it's own just fine. This was my first visit to their actual location, which had a very open layout, but we'd had their food catered at different family events throughout the years: weddings and get-togethers. From those events I can highly recommend the lasagna! It's some of the best I've ever had.
(4)
Tim S.
Good food. Terrible service. There's a 50:50 chance they will forget to serve you with a dine-in order. They seem indignant when you complain.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
Pizza
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
Roger S.
Great sauce, love the atmosphere. I've never had a dish that has disappointed me. Same goes for my whole family. Probably the best Italian I've had since moving up to the KC area. You'll see from all the reviews that this is a love it/hate it kind of place - I'm firmly in the "love it" category. The only thing I can say is that you need to try it and judge for yourself if it's the type of Italian food you crave.
(4)Logan Locke B.
This place is awesome! I little gem in a strip mall. I try to always go somewhere twice before writing such a rave review (for consistency reasons)... and I have got to say, this place has been top-notch both times. Italian Delight will be added to my go-to restaurants. I love their calzones. Perfectly cooked with a great shell. The crust is light, chewy and not too doughy. The insides of the calzone, plus the sauce that is served on the side is a perfect compliment. They have great salad options (cucumber/tomato, artichoke, olive, and many more) The prices are incredibly reasonable and I have had friendly service each time I have been there. (I got take out twice--- once call ahead and once walk-in and order)
(5)Laurel S.
This place is awesome. We used to get take out from here when we lived in Mission but we moved 14 years ago and haven't been back. We went back Saturday night with my sister's family. My family of 3 had no issues - our food was great, everything came quickly as ordered. The Stromboli is ridiculously good and the marinara sauce is amazing. My sister's family of 4 had more issues. All 4 of their orders came out at different times. Her son's pizza came out first, 5 minutes later her husbands calzone, almost 20 minutes later her and her other son's pasta dishes. She asked for bread but never got it. So the service was a bit lacking but the food was great. I promise I'll be back if only for the stromboli!
(4)Edwin V.
Walked in, got a greeting from one of the cooks behind the counter and that was the end of the good service. My greeting from the young lady at the cashier was for here or take out. It may just be a personal thing but I believe in giving the customer some sort of greeting. I ordered a Calzone which I was informed that it could only accommodate 3 toppings. I requested more toppings which I was willing to pay for but I was advised that the more toppings I chose the less cheese they would be able to use. I uploaded a picture of my calzone which look a lot more like a Spanish empanada. There was a huge gap as an interior and the sauce was nothing to brag about. I ate a few bites in the hopes that the taste would help me overlook the sight to no avail. Thankfully no one asked me how my meal was avoiding an embarrassing position to be put in. Will avoid this place next time I am in Kansas.
(1)Fred L.
Have been going here for years. I hadn't been in the area for couple months. I saw a groupon for new york pizza and I though no thanks, I will just go to Italian Delight where I know its real New York Pizza. Have always loved their pizza, veal hero, sausage roll and garlic bread and many others. Had the Sausage Roll, Awesome as always, had the Veal Hero, awesome as always Best was special pie made by the owner, a very special pie, sliced italian sausage, pepperoni and mushrooms, extra crispy, just like I like it. Man it was awesome best pizza ever, think this one was even better than I remember Pizza land in New jersey. Love that the owners are making the pizza, how many places do you see the owner making your pizza live throwing the dough? Not many, maybe in Brooklyn, and In New York but Not in Kansas city. Originally came here from Recommendation years ago from a friend of mine from New York, who worked as GM at one of my favorite restaurants. I told my Friend Saul about loving New York Pizza, and having traveled to new jersey, and eaten at Pizza Land, the famous Pizza Place featured on the opening Credits of the Sopranos. Italian Delight is the real deal, they are the only pizza I have ever had that is real New York pizza, Similar to Pizza Land. You don't want the imitation New York Pizza. Its a marketing gimmick If you want REAL NEW YORK PIZZZA, FROM OWNERS THAT ARE FROM BROOKLYN, NEW YORK THEN COME TO AVEULLUTO"S ITALIAN DELIGHT AND GET A REAL NEW YORK PIE!! FUGGADITBOUTIT
(5)Erin T.
I LOVE this place. My husband and I moved into an apartment nearby about a year ago and we go there about 2-3 times a month now. Their pizza is amazing and the man who normally makes the pizzas is really nice and pretty hilarious to talk to. My husband likes to get the chicken parm (both the sandwich and the pasta dish and he loves it) and I enjoy eating the sausage and pepper sandwich (when I'm not eating pizza, of course) It gets really busy during the lunch rush, but they get the food to you quickly and it's always yummy. The prices are incredibly reasonable. I've read some reviews on here about the customer service being bad, but I've never had a bad exerpience with the employees (maybe it's because we're regulars and they know us) I've never been disappointed when I go there!
(5)Ken W.
We love Italian Delight and have been eating there for as long as they've been open. It's not fancy, it's just plain good. It's kind of like a cafeteria line. You walk through, look at the food and order, then they bring it out. The pizzas are tasty, NY style (they throw their own crust). The strombolis are great, as are the health salad (cucumber & tomato). Actually, we have yet to eat anything there we didn't like. It's family owned and we like that, too.
(4)Jess J.
As good as it gets for what it is, which is a mom n' pop style Italian lunch counter in a not-so-heavily Italian place. If I want a satisfying plate of pasta without heating up my kitchen, quick and easy, it's the place for me. Not fancy, just filling, tomato-ey, and good. I got chicken parm atop spaghetti last time I was there, and it was golden fried goodness. I'd skip the garlic cheese bread, as it was a small amount and nothing special, and just go with the bread basket bread. Cafeteria-style service, but quick, efficient, and satisfying. I've not had their pizza, but the pastas and Stromboli are nice and comfort-foody.
(5)Michelle F.
I've been eating here since high school. I stopped in for a calzone the other day and somehow they are just as good today as they were back then. FIlled with gooey cheese and served with a side of marinara for dipping, it's good stuff. And priced right, I was out of there for under $7.
(3)Pat C.
One word, Legit. Only place in Kansas City with Sfogliatelle (aka Schweeadell) and a Hero!!!
(4)Jeremy W.
I really enjoyed the Sausage roll and Meatball sandwich. I haven't tried the pizza yet but will soon.
(4)Julie S.
Italian D's is a great place to get quick, delicious Italian food. One thing I rate a Italian place on is the quality of their red sauce. I have to say that this sauce is delicious and makes anything they use it on just as good. They also have nightly specials which is an easy plate to go for because it is always a steal and very tasty. They have everything from your traditional hand tossed pizza, to spaghetti with amazingly large meat balls, to champagne chicken. A must if you're looking for a quick, cheap italian meal without losing out on the flavor.
(4)Amanda M.
This was not the best pizza at all. We ordered the thick style and it was just a large piece of bread with way too much cheese and little flavor. Maybe the thin style is much better. I would recommend the other food since we have been multiple times. The lasagna is amazing. I would have to agree that the food can sometimes be a bit bland, especially the thick pizza.
(2)Celeste L.
I lived in Mission for more than a decade before I finally got around to trying this place. Now it's a regular stop. I generally alternate between the meatball sandwich (available in two sizes, which is nice when you're not quite as hungry) and various pasta dishes. My husband is a big fan of their stromboli. It's always been pretty no-frills and we like the place because it's inexpensive and filling. We had dinner there last night and it looks like they've upped their game, perhaps in anticipation of D'Bronx opening up soon on the next block. I had lasagna and it not only tasted even better than I remembered, but the portion size was huge and the presentation was quite attractive with basil leaf sprinkled around the edge of the dish. The cost was still very reasonable and it was nice to see the shift toward a slightly less casual dining experience. I resisted getting the spumoni cheesecake last night because I know I'm a day away from being inundated by holiday sweets, but I highly recommend it. It's very pretty and tasty, too. Actually, their desserts are all quite nice and they have a good selection of cheesecakes, Tiramisu and Italian cookies.
(4)Kyle M.
Try the lasagna, it is great. Do not get their thick crust pizza, it is not great.
(4)Andrew S.
This is a good neighborhood Italian restaurant that serves classical red sauce. It has a local clientele, moderate cost, decent service. And then there is the food: hey wide selection of Boston and other Italian delight such as sausage rolls and calzones! Plus you can order any type of pizza thin crust as well as several different salads and sandwiches as well! I eat here at least once a month:)!
(4)Kate S.
I usually get good food here but i went today and spent 10.50 to try something new and i order the chicken mushrooms with spaghetti. That was the worst thing i have ever tasted. It took them twenty minutes to get my food out after my whole table had gotten theirs.
(3)Mai H.
I've only been to one italian restaurant in KC so my opinion may be biased. Its a mom and pop joint located in a shopping center. I was hesitant at first by my colleagues convinced me otherwise. It was very crowded once inside so you know it must be good. I ordered their stromboli and it was delicious! The meats/cheses all melted nicely together with a touch of sauce. Definitely coming back next time I am in town.
(5)Jimmy S.
Overall some of the best Italian food I've had in the Kansas City area. You order at the front counter and food is delivered to your table fast and hot. Everything I've tried has been delicious. Pizza is unbelievable. The real gem for me has been the chicken parm sandwich. Usually come here for a lunch break and have always enjoyed a 5 star quality meal within a fast food time frame. Awesome! A must eat!
(5)Liz C.
The food and service at this family owned eatery has never dissapointed. Their lasagne is delicious and my kids raved about the pizza. If you're looking for a place that serves delicious italian food, I recommend swinging by.
(5)Michael D.
This has been my favorite pizza place (well technically their other location but is now closed) since I was 12 years old. Just amazing.
(5)Thomas M.
I was excited to try this place out. I didnt know what was good so I asked for suggestions. I was told the chicken parm sandwich was really good. I found it to be very forgettable, bland, and lackluster. The portion was a good size and the tomato salad that I ordered was nice. I was there on Cinco De Mayo and with a Mexican joint just a couple of steps away, They weren't busy. I will have to say that they had an ever so slight "I dont want to be bothered with you" type attitude. I would like to give this place another try and get one of their calzones.
(2)Craig M.
Bad service, mediocre food. They deceive you into thinking this a family restaurant- but, it is really just a way for them to buy more Ducatti motorcycles. The gal at the cashier station was particularly unfriendly. They actually told us they were out of fettuccini noodles. I know this happens- but they weren't even the least bit apologetic, and to add salt to the wound they said it was against policy to add mushrooms to the dish. Look for fast food Italian...it would be an upgrade. Hard to imagine going back- especially with D'Bronx right around the corner
(2)Crystal M.
Today was my Gluten Cheat day, I only get 1 per week even though I know I'll pay the price tomorrow. Anyways I decided to try this little joint out. I was really impressed with their prices $2.19 for a slice of Cheese Pizza, $5.09 for a Full order of Spaghetti with sauce $2.30 for a house salad, etc. You get the idea... The thin crust cheese pizza reminded me of D'bronx it was just ok to me, the Spaghetti was nothing special, better than Buca, but not as good as Mario's in Westport, the garlic bread was just ok as well, the salad dressing was just ok I think it would be better if they added more vinegar, the real star of the meal was their Thick Crust Delight Pizza I got mine with green peppers, onions, pepperoni, and black olives. It's a good 1.5" thick, maybe I was digging it so much because I miss bread, either was it was Good!
(3)Jennifer H.
I grew up near this restaurant, and everyone was always going, and talking about how good the food is. For some reason I never stopped in until recently. The food is fine; it's pretty good, but at the inexpensive price point, it's a great deal. I found the pizza to be very good. I found the marinara sauce to be pretty bland, and the calzone under it was average. There was a TON of ricotta, and less mozzarella. My problem with the place was the customer service. The were slammed (noon on a weekday) when we arrived, which of course was expected. But the line...it just didn't move. It took 30 minutes to get to the front of about 20 people. It was actually extraordinarily slow moving, and I can only hope for the restaurant's sake that this is an anomaly. Once I got up front, a middle-aged blonde woman asked me if I was eating in or taking it to go. I was in the midst of answering her when she took a phone call. She then just ignored me. It's like I'd disappeared from sight. I ended up kind of wandering over to the neighboring register to get someone to take my order. It was honestly an infuriating experience after having been kept waiting in line for so long. The icing on the cake was that the girl who took my order left off one slice of pizza. When it was delivered, I was told "Oh, well, we didn't ring it up, so if you want to go get in line and pay for it we can get it for you." Are. You. Serious?! Clearly they are more concerned with volume than customer service, and I will never be back.
(2)Zach G.
Pretty decent little place! We rolled in on a Saturday afternoon for a slightly late lunch and all ordered the same thing - calzone. One with ham, and two with sausage, as well as a side of garlic bread. The meal didn't take too long to come out. The garlic bread was very small and not of much flavor, so I definitely don't need to order that again. The calzones were not the best, but were tasty, filling and enjoyable. The marinara on top was basic but added some nice flavor. The service isn't friendly, but is not mean either. It's very utilitarian - gets the job done. The inside of the restaurant is old and a bit run down, but clean and comfortable enough. If in the area, I would definitely return here again to try something else on the menu.
(3)Eric N.
The marinara sauce is divine. Lasagna, calzone, health salad, tomato salad, and the tiramisu are all excellent!! Sides of sauteed spinach and brocolli are really good too, especially with a side of the red sauce. I forgot the pizza! Incredible as well. I can't believe this place only gets 3 1/2. I would give it 6 stars :)
(5)Stephanie P.
Man, did this place disappoint me or what. I am a sad sad girl. I walked in with such high expectations, but honestly I can't say they were met. The menu is large and everything is set up nicely and steaming wonderfully in their respective trays behind the glass counter. The girl that took our order was rude and inattentive. She seemed like she had a bit of a superiority complex about herself. Hmmmm, maybe not a great place to be in the service industry if you think you're better than everyone. So I ordered the chicken parmigiana with spaghetti. My boyfriend ordered a meatball sandwich and a side of garlic bread. The meatballs were great. They tasted like his mother's homemade meatballs, and those are hard to beat. My chicken parm was what was so disappointing. First of all, the amount of sauce on the dish was just ridiculous. I couldn't tell where the chicken was and where the sauce ended. I will give the sauce credit. Sauce, you were tasty, but you were overpowering. I've had way better garlic bread. Suffice it to say that it was white bread rubbed with olive oil and some oregano. Meh. The atmosphere was a bit strange to me. It seemed like a mix of my grandma's kitchen and a cafeteria. The murals were a real treat though, they were well painted. The tables were rickety and had some dirty table clothes on them. My boyfriend proceeded to look all around and under the table clothes while trying to wipe them off. No luck, too many years of grime I guess. We opted to sit facing out so we could see outside. The doors were filthy, because the girl behind the counter was obviously too good to clean them. Ewww. By the way, the doors that were dirty were locked and no one even used them, this is weird. Let me have some windex and a cloth and I will do it for free. Overall, I think it was enjoyable. The food was okay and the service sucked, very frankly. I think I might give this place another try and see what else they have to offer. I saw they have spinach lasagna...
(3)Mary C.
As always, Avelluto's Italian Delight offers the BEST Italian cuisine in the greater Kansas City area. We just had a pizza (Italian sausage, Canadian Bacon, and Pepperoni) and it was, in a word, fantastic! Actually, perfect! Since the early 1990's and since our first taste of Avelluto's pizza and pasta, we've not gone anywhere else for Italian. The ingredients are fresh, the sauce is wonderful (and one I have tried to re-create with no success) and the staff is friendly and courteous. They get to know and take care of their customers and it shows. When we started dining at Avelluto's, our children were in grade school. Now we are taking our grandchildren there and that's the restaurant they pick for their birthdays and other celebrations. We look forward to many more years at Avelluto's! Mary and Lowell Crissman
(5)Michael R.
Avelluto's is a neighborhood Italian cafeteria and sandwich/pizza joint. It's not a place to go if you love nice sit-down Italian restaurants such as Johnny Cascone's, it's a place to go if you want to grab a quick bite. I love it, but I do tend to stick to a few things--calzone, stromboli, antipesto, and their meatball sub. I haven't had their pizza in several years, so I can't say anything about it. Their service is pretty minimal, yes, but I've always gotten my food relatively quickly and haven't had any mix-ups or other errors, so I have no complaints. Basically, if you go in expecting an Italian restaurant, you'll be disappointed, but if you go in expecting an Italian lunch counter, you'll like it.
(4)Paul R.
I have such fond memories of this place, back when they had the more "upscale" side and the cafeteria side. Now, it is simply the cafeteria. I am disappointed, but not totally turned off, by the noodles that are limp as grand daddy's **** and the sauce that is a bit watery, but it is still a GREAT value. The pizza is yummy, the calzone's are delightful and the African American guy that has been there forever is awesome. He always is so friendly and funny. The staff lacks a little in etiquette, but overall does a good job. I would recommend this place as a quick bite, but not as a great meal. If you are in the neighborhood, it's definitely worth the stop, but not worth driving across town for. I do not dislike Italian Delight, I just think that it isn't what it used to be. I'm sorry to say the staff's attitude has suffered in the past years, some of the people working there are not destined to be public officials, they have no skill at dealing with the public. However, like I said, it is okay. I've been coming here for years and years and decades and decades (literally) and it is stil "o-kay". Nothing to send to the Pope, but not unfit for a Bishop.....
(3)Rodeo G.
Tried this place multiple times since wife loves the "little cookies" there. Pizza is ehh, and pasta is uggg. Staff is blahh.. not sure the rationale?
(2)Matt C.
Decided to try this place tonight after driving by numerous times and seeing that it is usually pretty busy. It is a unique experience where you stand in a cafeteria style line to order your food off a wall menu similar to a fast food restaurant. Very, very casual environment would be good for a cheap family night out. PROS: Casual environment, cheap food. That's really about all I can think of. CONS: The food. My girlfriend and I ordered diner salads, garlic bread, lasagna, and eggplant parm. The dressing on the salad is bland, the garlic bread is half a hoagie bun. Both entrees were smothered in sauce and cheese. The eggplant tasted like a pile of mozerella cheese with sauce on it, if I hadnt known what I ordered, I wouldn't have guessed there was eggplant in it. I understand the concept of you get what you paid for with this food being pretty cheap, but I would rather eat at home next time. Besides the price, I cant understand why this place stays busy.
(1)Jocelyn M.
I love this place. I have always loved this place. Family owned (found both working and dining at different times) and friendly. No frills, just good food. I always think I am going to get the antipasto platter (delish and a LOT of food) but somehow I end up with Rigatoni alla Vodka...no self control. I tell ya - we once went THREE TIMES in a weekend. Then checked into Pasta Rehab. I do find some of the prices...confusing? Some things seem cheap, others way steep. Aw, I am hungry now...
(4)Ankit N.
Rude staff, a feeling that a foreign young man is unwelcome in this restaurant. So it is immaterial if the food is good or not. Cmon guys, wake up. The world is mixing, or you want to go under in a few?
(1)Jason Y.
Been a customer of Italian Delight for over 20 years dating back to the Indian Springs Shopping Mall KCK location. I have visited the Mission Kansas location numerous times as well. There have always been issues with customer service (unfriendly and straight up RUDE) on different occasions that I have experienced or witnessed first hand. But you know what.....I always overlook that stuff and frequent these types of places for the food. If the staff doesn't want to talk or present themselves in a professional manner, I will simply place the order and go about my business. I guess when you present yourself as a New York type neighborhood eatery, you also bring the New York attitude along for the experience. Besides this, let me tell you about the food on a recent visit. My usual staple at Italian Delight is a slice of pizza and a bowl of pasta salad. Sometimes I'll switch up and go with a calzone or stromboli. Have had their pasta and meatballs in the past and was thoroughly unimpressed with the watery sauce and overcooked pasta. Desserts aren't bad and worth a try. Here's the recent kicker: I spent $35 on a tiny slice of regular lasagne, tiny slice of spinach lasagne, slice of pizza, and a decent amount of fettuccini. Two waters and one soda. Always forget that you have to actually request some bread or you may not get any. Along with a few thinly sliced pieces of bread you will get those old cafeteria slices of butter that are attached to the cardboard backing. I can deal with spending a little extra cash and smaller portions if you serve a quality product and actually take the time to heat up the damn food! The traditional lasagne was nice and hot. The spinach lasagne was point blank cold in the middle. I guess they didn't microwave it enough ( which I have issues with microwaving my lasagne in the first place). All too well of aware of the attitude permeating Italian Delight, I sucked it up and ate what I could. This is the part where I lost it and about came unglued.........The third party in our group had ordered the fettuccine alfredo. He sat there as we finished our lasagne and slice of pizza with no Fettuccini in sight. We asked the gentlemen that runs the food out about this twice and couldn't get a straight answer. Therefore, we walked up to the to-go pizza counter and asked who appeared to be in charge. He too had no clue as to why the bowl of fettuccini never arrived until we were done with our food. I kid you not, after literally 20 minutes the fettucini arrived and was absolutely terrible. It was consistent with fettuccini soup (does that even exist?). Had to eat it with a spoon as the noodles were gummy and flat out nasty. I tell you what folks, never again will I return to Italian Delight. Especially with D' Bronx sitting across the street and offering up much better service and food. I'm done!%#@@#$@@ And no, we never received an apology besides an explanation that "the oven was having issues". Really Italian Delight? Do you think we are that stupid to buy into the classic restaurant excuse when you screw up an order?
(2)Michelle B.
I absolutely love this place...it isn't an upscale place or anything like that but the food is always amazing and the service is fantastic. Definitely would recommend it to anyone.
(4)Lisa L.
I cant keep my husband out of this place. He walks in and they automatically fix him a double order of Bow Tie Pasta with a Stromboli (No Mushrooms) I grew up going to Italian Delight at the Indian Springs Shopping Mall and have been going to this one for years. (Back before the expansion) If you dont get there early you should plan on standing in the line sometimes wrapping around the tables..... NOM NOM
(5)Angela K.
I've worked near this place for years and can't figure out why I'd never been here. Now I know. Blah. I ordered a mostaccioli with tomato sauce and garlic cheese bread to go. For $1.59, I thought it would be a couple of pieces of garlic bread, but no. I opened up the package to a sad, single, soggy piece of "garlic bread" covered in cheese. That was probably the most expensive piece of bread I've had in my life. The drive back to my office takes, literally, 2 minutes. But in that time, the pasta had turned into a sticky, cold lump covered in lukewarm tomato-sauce-out-of-the-can. I find it hard to believe this was even hot when they gave it to me. I can get better italian at Fazoli's. And that's not really something to be proud of.
(2)W T.
Left before they took my order. Staff was rude to each other and the customers. Very unprofessional. Slooooooow and unorganized.
(1)Priscilla Z. D.
LOVE this place. Best stromboli I've had, hands down. Plus it's locally owned, which I always try to support. Their marinara sauce is amazing. Real authentic stuff. I'd highly suggest to anyone and we eat here at least once a week.
(5)Jenny B.
I love this place their pizza is great and the calzones, and the salads, meatballs, strombolis ok so seriously everything is so yummy! The sauce is good and Im a good Italian girl and even my nana would love the sauce. Favs- Health salad- Tomato and cucumber salad so good best in the summer Pizza- Extra sauce extra cheese This is a great neighborhood joint with a good family atmosphere and great selection of italian treats.
(4)Dan D.
Overall I had my suspicions about this place but I have been about half a dozen times and can honestly say that yes I am a fan. Italian Delight (ID) is really great if you're looking for a quick meal will no frills and a good taste. My standard combo is a slice of pepperoni and a stromboli with red gravy. The cheese is NY all the way with good flavor and a nice crust to accompany. The stromboli is a good sized portion of light dough filled with cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. The quality of the ingredients are ok but not the highest end in the world, for the price of the meal I have no problem with this. The red sauce sometimes lacks a little depth of flavor but again this is a good cheap place to eat. The dining room is big and is designed for families, self service drinks and no waiter service. Again for the price I have no complaints. This place is built for efficiency and can accommodate both small and large groups easily. Overall I give this place a strong recommendation for those that want to go out to eat in Mission and want a consistently good meal for a great price.
(4)Elizabeth N.
Lasagna great, meatballs great. Garlic bread great. The casual Italian family restaurant is very unique for these parts so this place is essential.
(4)Dev V.
I decided to give Avelluto's a shot after reading a few Yelp reviews along with being tired of the same lunch options around this part of the city. Here are a few of the highlights. I waited in line for around five minutes before I got to the register to order, the entire time you pass by all the prep cooks making other people's orders. I went with the meatball hero based on other's reviews. Twenty five minutes later, I received my sandwich. It took them a whole two minutes to make, but I waited for 25 minutes. The negatives here are that they could prioritize orders based on size and simplicity. There is no reason I should spend 30 minutes in a restaurant for a carry out sandwich. The other negative is that the sandwich really isn't worth it in comparison to the price and wait. The meatball and sauce were average, the best part was the roll it's served on. The miracle was that I was able to keep my cool while I saw people get served their meals, finish eating, and leave while I was still waiting for my sandwich. Sorry Avelluto's, I love locally owned spots, but I won't be back.
(2)Kandace M.
How this place gets 3.5 stars is a mystery to me. My hubs who is from Philly stopped in for chicken parm and some garlic bread. For $13 he got a lump of cold pasta upon which sat a piece of grilled chicken with American cheese and the worst looking sauce ever. And one soggy piece of bread. We had just moved to the neighborhood and were looking to see what was around. I was embarrassed for KC this was his first Italian food experience. We go next door to Salsa Grill often and he always comments that he can't believe Avellutos is still open.
(1)Rob D.
the pizza is amazing, the employees are great, and in the summer you know you'll have a great pizza when you see the ducati motorcycles parked out front. This place has my favorite pizza in the KC area, I tried so many different places and hated the cracker crust at some places and doughy garbage at other places, this place does it right!!!
(5)Kev L.
I couldn't disagree more with a bunch of the reviews on here. But these are my thoughts in a nutshell: 1) GREAT sauce. 2) Horrible pasta. 3) Good New York Pizza, but nowhere as good as Original Pizza. Calzone's and Stromboli's are also weak and pail in comparison to Original Pizza's. 4) Impressive seating chairs and tablecloths. Very old school. I will also say that their Spinach Lasagna was incredibly amazing. Easily our favorite item on the menu. The Proschuto Balls were also pretty delicious as well. My wife had a side of tomato basil salad that was also impressive. also, as you may have already read, the owners are indeed from Brooklyn and also had their stints in Flushing and other parts of NYC. Great folks.
(4)Tony P.
Meatball sandwich was good. Service wasn't. Wasn't the cleanest place, but I came after lunch...maybe they were busy. Willing to give it another shot just because of the meatball sandwhich
(3)Troy O.
This place came highly recommended but started off very poor. The young lady on the register was very unfriendly and even though I said chicken parmesan sandwich, she charged me for the dinner. Then the tables were full and apparently only the older lady can clean the tables and not the young white kid who was doing nothing but talking to the other kid on the line. Finally seated, our food didn't come out at the same time which is restaurant 101. All in all I doubt I will go back.
(1)Pamela C.
Avelluto's is our families favorite. From my first experience there to our last I have been delighted with their food! I dearly love the Caprese salad, which is made with mozzarella made fresh every day! It's good all year round, but with fresh off the vine tomatoes in the summer, it is to die for! Other favorites include the eggplant parmigiana, and the pizza. This weekend they catered the dinner for my daughters wedding, eggplant, lasagne, Caprese, Italian salad and bread. Everyone raved about how delicious the food was! They were a pleasure to work with, and delivered hot food hot, and cold food cold on time! All for a very reasonable cost! Its not an fancy restaurant, but a wonderful gem of a place hidden in Mission. Go try it out, you won't be disappointed!
(5)Tom K.
What is SOO wrong with no-nonsense, almost mediocre deli counter obsessed with cheese, red sauce, spaghetti, sausage, bread dough and meatballs? Absolutely nothing. Avellutos is the OG Sbarro. Long counter includes previews of pizza, calzone, salads, stromboli and more. The highly economical menu is extensive and covers everything from cold sandwiches to pasta dishes to pizza. Everything is a la carte, simple and straight-forward. Avellutos is a no frills alternative to the slew of generic, sit-down Italian operations dotting the area. Pay half the price for Italian that isn't fancy, but still quality. Don't go into Avellutos expecting to find food that redefines your opinion of Italian cooking or even for food that is wildly impressive or surprising. It is basic, fresh and good food from a local deli/pizzeria-- and that's enough.
(3)J M.
Went here for lunch to try the pizza. Talked to the owner, who was very nice. Pizza was very good. I really enjoyed it. We hit a few pizza places the same week and this was one of my favorites.
(4)Joe S.
This place has great calzones. Pizza is just so-so, but overall service and food is great!
(4)Dayne B.
If your looking for some fast food Italian, which in my opinion is hard to find, this is the place to go. While the food is average it can definitely cure that Italian craving in a pinch. Plus if you dine in you get to experience their take on Italian decor.
(3)Joe T.
Avelutto's has Fantastic Stromboli, Rigatoni, and Pizza (& many other great dishes). This is NOT a commercial pizza hut or chain place. The sauce and dough are made in house, HOME MADE in their shop! I grew up eating Italian Food on the Hill in St. Louis like others have mentioned. This is the best Italian Food that I have found since moving to KC. The prices are very reasonable for taking the whole family out to eat or a date night for the adults when they dim the lights late in the evening. I highly recommend you try it!
(5)Stephanie S.
eh. We had heard so many good things about this place, we had high hopes. But the second we walked in we thought we were in for an experience. The cashier was kind of rude which really surprised us. The prices were good, but the flavor wasn't anything to write home about. And... there was meat on my vegetarian entree. I don't remember what I got... it was not memorable. The bread was good, but I could have picked up a loaf at price chopper.
(2)Emily S.
I love this place! The pizza is AWESOME, and the ambiance is fun! My husband and I eat here all the time, and are huge fans! Priced reasonably too!
(4)Stacy N.
My husband introduced me to Italian Delights years ago, and even though we live no where near it, I find myself searching it out periodically. I am primarily into their pizza. As far as I know, the family that runs it is from Brooklyn, and I think their pizza is about as close to a NY style slice as one can get in the KC area. I like them plain or with toppings (sliced meatball is tasty.) Another favorite is the calzone! This is not like a calzone you are going to find at any other pizza place in town. It is a dough that is thinner than pizza dough, and the whole deal is lightly fried. Inside is ricotta and ham...they may have a just cheese one too...and it is served with a side of marinara. We often each get a slice and split one of these. I also throw in a salad of some sort to feel virtuous, plus they are good. I haven't really tried many of the pastas. Nothing here is fancy, but it is decent if not great, well-priced, and folks are friendly. It is even better if they have some little boxes of mixed Italian cookies. They don't always have those, though. Now all they need is some garlic knots...
(4)Zachary S.
I love Avellutos. In my opinion they have a really good sauce and great people serving. I have their Calzone every time. I have taken my friends and family all there and they all love it too. The prices aren't bad at all either. Check them out.
(4)C Jude S.
There are plenty of good reviews for this restaurant. I'm going to chime in and say that the Stromboli is a treat. The health salad is a MUST (I love it). I also want to tell you that their sauce is NOT chef boyardee (as one of the reviews mentioned). Anyone that knows anything about what it takes to make a great marinara... I challenge you to try this sauce and give it anything but high marks. It's bold, slightly sweet and savory. It's what gives many of their dishes a special touch. Yes, if you order it on spaghetti, it's a simple-looking dish. But it's also simply-divine. All of their salads are wonderful. Be adventurous - try the prosciutto balls! Mmm... :)
(4)Katie B.
I feel as though I need to defend this place due to its previous negative reviews. I will say, that their pasta is absolutely horrid. A step above Chef Boyardee on a good day. Skip over these menu items immediately and instead focused on the premade items available on the line. Their pizza is excellent. I think this is the only place in KC where one can get your average NYC pizza experience. Super thin pizza, lots of cheese, and toppings at your discretion. All for 2 dollars a slice? What's not to like? And it doesn't stop at the pizza. Their sausage rolls, calzones, and (especially) the stomboli are all heaven on a plate. Delicious. And don't forget, this is the place to get ridiculously cheap fresh mozzarella. Just ask and you shall receive. Sure beats paying 3.00 a ball at Price Chopper/HyVee/Hen House/etc. Italian Delight is all about the expectations game. It certainly isn't the best place to get a slice in Kansas City, but it just may be the cheapest.
(3)Brian V.
The pizza... very good! I can't remember the name of the "everything" pizza but it had tons of toppings, all very fresh. It seemed like you could taste each one individually! We also had a meatball sandwich. Nothing special, but still good. The ambiance left a bit more to be desired but the helpful staff and good food made me very satisfied.
(4)Rhett H.
There are italian places in Kansas City, like Johnny Cascones, or Garozzo's, and then there are italian places, like Italian Delight. Here we have a understated deli-pizzeria-restaurant, which, in the auspices of Kansas City suburbs, looks a little like an upgraded Subway. Don't be fooled. Here, right here in Kansas City, we have an as-authentic-as-you-can-get italian ristorante. Why? Well, read on, ami... At first, I was a little suspicious. The menu is not exactly overwhelming. A salad here, a pasta dish here, a pizza there. It wasn't much to look at. But my friend, who has a good track record, recommened it. Plus he was with me and he was buying. I didn't have much to loose. I got a 'health' salad (whatever that is), and the (meat) lasagna. The salad was chock-full-o-antipasta goodies, like olives, artichoke hearts, peppers, onions, etc. and it was great. And fresh tasting. I was happy at the salad. I could go home, but I had a lasagna coming. The lasagna was very humble looking. Some pasta sheets, some sauce, specks of sausage. Like their menu, not much to get excited about. So I had a few bites, and, unlike my theory of diminishing tastes with normal, mortal food, this dish actually got better as the meal went on. Something about the spices, the building momentum of ratio of fats to carbs to protiens towards a golden ratio of taste, whatever it was it had it. I was hooked. This place is the real deal. Now my only caveat is that I've only been there once. But it's worth a try, and you can judge for yourself. Also, I saw the pizza guy (who has his own area to make the pizzas), and he was making fresh pizza all night long. It looks like a good place to go from the lasagna. In addition to the great food, there is an altar to all things Ducati. That's a nice little diversion while your food digests.
(5)David A.
Incredible, full Italian menu. White table cloth value in a deli style environment and price. A family favorite.
(4)Julie W.
I love this place. Kansas City is not a place for true delis or true Italian food. It might come as a shock to some Kansas Citians, but Chicken Spiedini is really from Kansas City...not from Italy. And the Suco sauce that eveyone loves to serve here is not close to anything they eat in Italy, NYC, Boston's Little Italy, ANYWHERE. The pizza here is awesome. It's the closest thing to New York pizza that I've had outside of New York. And it's better than a lot of pizza in NY. If you don't like thin crust cheese, then skip it though, and go for a calzone. Um...yummmmm. Stuffed with ricotta, mozzarella, and ham. Or how about a stromboli. I really love this place. If you don't like it, stay away...that's okay because this place isn't hurting for business as I can see from the lines out the door at lunch and dinner! I've never been disappointed here. It's fresh, cheap, friendly, and the closest thing to an italian deli that KC has. If you like Garozzo's, you probably won't like this place. If you hate Garozzo's, here's the cure!
(4)Charles R.
Nice red-sauced Italian menu. Calzone and stromboli great. Antipasto salad delicious. Pizza fine. Nice people. Relaxed atmosphere in a low-overhead strip mall. Your chance to get a good meal and support a local family restaurant.
(3)Veronica M.
This Italian joint is VERY popular. Always nearly full and overly busy during lunch hour. Their calzones are delicious and the health salad is just as tasty. The pizza itself is okay. Not something to brag about They claim its award winning but I'm not so sure. But you might like it :). What I really enjoy is the rest of their menu. They have meaty choices as well as veggie choices. Adequately priced. And the staff is super friendly. It does close rather early but that's probably because in the shopping area it is located in, the shops close at nine. So there you go. That's why. So i recommend checking it out early in the day.
(4)Kurt K.
My wife, who had eaten at Italian Delight numerous times as a kid, took me to Italian Delight for the first time over the weekend and I was impressed. I come from a family where almost all of the extended family is from back east and my dad grew up in New Jersey. I have been to more delis and diners than I can even remember and I feel like I have a pretty good take on what is authentic enough, at least for an American-Italian deli. You could put Italian Delight in Jersey or New York and feel very comfortable. It has that minimalist feel, where the food is the obvious main star. You order by going down the line and looking over the items and placing your order at the end. I got a calzone and a slice of cheese pizza, while my wife got the stromboli and my daughter had the cheese ravioli. I can say we all enjoyed the meal. The calzone is filled with mozzorella and sliced ham and cut open for you and covered in sauce. It's not the monster ones you see at the pizza chains, this is a good size, but not overwhelming. The kiddo devoured her ravioli, always a good sign and the wife thought the sausage in the stromboli was perfectly spicy.
(4)Erik R.
I like this little corner shop, buffet style Italian. I give the food four stars, but the price is a little high so I knocked it back to three. The service is pretty good, everything is pre-made or almost made and you get your own drinks so if you are in a hurry, this place works well. The decor is very simple, but everything is clean and nice. The food is all solid. I've had lasagna, pizza, and some of their specials and they are all good. Their calzones look great too, but they have always had something in them I'm not a fan of, so I have never tried them. My only knock is that they have no designated smoking area. Almost nobody smokes any more, but if you get unlucky, you could end up choking from something besides the food.
(3)Kristen S.
I am not a big fan of this place. It is more or less a buffet of pre-prepared food and the pizza is average at best.
(1)richard s.
i come from long island ny. this place is as close as you can get to ny. always a good meal, good price and always like to speak with owners. this place is a great hidden gem
(4)Doug M.
Well, I love Italian food. But I'm not sure what part of Italy these guys are from? Must be the part where they don't have access to spices and flavor. Marinera sauce was bland. The veal parm had the texture of a soggy, rubbery, flipflop. Spaghetti was good. Wife ordered fettucini alfrado. It was actually really good. But some garlic, salt and pepper would make it even better. The four ounce pour of chianti was laughable. Service? Don't expect it. I should'nt expect much since this is Mission. The Food Desert of Johnson County.
(2)Steve D.
I found it a little unusual, but you walk by the counter and place your order at the register. I ordered a delight pizza slice, a salad, and a drink for a total of about $8.50. My salad was delivered to my table in about three minutes, and my pizza slice arrived about five minutes later. My dinner salad had a reasonable variety of veggies, and a tasty dressing. My thin crust delight pizza slice was generously-sized, and had an abundance of toppings on a delicious crust. The dining area was nicely decorated, and clean, while the service was just good. Overall, it was a very good experience.
(4)Paul R.
I have such fond memories of this place, back when they had the more "upscale" side and the cafeteria side. Now, it is simply the cafeteria. I am disappointed, but not totally turned off, by the noodles that are limp as grand daddy's **** and the sauce that is a bit watery, but it is still a GREAT value. The pizza is yummy, the calzone's are delightful and the African American guy that has been there forever is awesome. He always is so friendly and funny. The staff lacks a little in etiquette, but overall does a good job. I would recommend this place as a quick bite, but not as a great meal. If you are in the neighborhood, it's definitely worth the stop, but not worth driving across town for. I do not dislike Italian Delight, I just think that it isn't what it used to be. I'm sorry to say the staff's attitude has suffered in the past years, some of the people working there are not destined to be public officials, they have no skill at dealing with the public. However, like I said, it is okay. I've been coming here for years and years and decades and decades (literally) and it is stil "o-kay". Nothing to send to the Pope, but not unfit for a Bishop.....
(3)Rodeo G.
Tried this place multiple times since wife loves the "little cookies" there. Pizza is ehh, and pasta is uggg. Staff is blahh.. not sure the rationale?
(2)Priscilla Z. D.
LOVE this place. Best stromboli I've had, hands down. Plus it's locally owned, which I always try to support. Their marinara sauce is amazing. Real authentic stuff. I'd highly suggest to anyone and we eat here at least once a week.
(5)Kev L.
I couldn't disagree more with a bunch of the reviews on here. But these are my thoughts in a nutshell: 1) GREAT sauce. 2) Horrible pasta. 3) Good New York Pizza, but nowhere as good as Original Pizza. Calzone's and Stromboli's are also weak and pail in comparison to Original Pizza's. 4) Impressive seating chairs and tablecloths. Very old school. I will also say that their Spinach Lasagna was incredibly amazing. Easily our favorite item on the menu. The Proschuto Balls were also pretty delicious as well. My wife had a side of tomato basil salad that was also impressive. also, as you may have already read, the owners are indeed from Brooklyn and also had their stints in Flushing and other parts of NYC. Great folks.
(4)Stephanie P.
Man, did this place disappoint me or what. I am a sad sad girl. I walked in with such high expectations, but honestly I can't say they were met. The menu is large and everything is set up nicely and steaming wonderfully in their respective trays behind the glass counter. The girl that took our order was rude and inattentive. She seemed like she had a bit of a superiority complex about herself. Hmmmm, maybe not a great place to be in the service industry if you think you're better than everyone. So I ordered the chicken parmigiana with spaghetti. My boyfriend ordered a meatball sandwich and a side of garlic bread. The meatballs were great. They tasted like his mother's homemade meatballs, and those are hard to beat. My chicken parm was what was so disappointing. First of all, the amount of sauce on the dish was just ridiculous. I couldn't tell where the chicken was and where the sauce ended. I will give the sauce credit. Sauce, you were tasty, but you were overpowering. I've had way better garlic bread. Suffice it to say that it was white bread rubbed with olive oil and some oregano. Meh. The atmosphere was a bit strange to me. It seemed like a mix of my grandma's kitchen and a cafeteria. The murals were a real treat though, they were well painted. The tables were rickety and had some dirty table clothes on them. My boyfriend proceeded to look all around and under the table clothes while trying to wipe them off. No luck, too many years of grime I guess. We opted to sit facing out so we could see outside. The doors were filthy, because the girl behind the counter was obviously too good to clean them. Ewww. By the way, the doors that were dirty were locked and no one even used them, this is weird. Let me have some windex and a cloth and I will do it for free. Overall, I think it was enjoyable. The food was okay and the service sucked, very frankly. I think I might give this place another try and see what else they have to offer. I saw they have spinach lasagna...
(3)Mai H.
I've only been to one italian restaurant in KC so my opinion may be biased. Its a mom and pop joint located in a shopping center. I was hesitant at first by my colleagues convinced me otherwise. It was very crowded once inside so you know it must be good. I ordered their stromboli and it was delicious! The meats/cheses all melted nicely together with a touch of sauce. Definitely coming back next time I am in town.
(5)Tony P.
Meatball sandwich was good. Service wasn't. Wasn't the cleanest place, but I came after lunch...maybe they were busy. Willing to give it another shot just because of the meatball sandwhich
(3)Jenny B.
I love this place their pizza is great and the calzones, and the salads, meatballs, strombolis ok so seriously everything is so yummy! The sauce is good and Im a good Italian girl and even my nana would love the sauce. Favs- Health salad- Tomato and cucumber salad so good best in the summer Pizza- Extra sauce extra cheese This is a great neighborhood joint with a good family atmosphere and great selection of italian treats.
(4)Amanda M.
This was not the best pizza at all. We ordered the thick style and it was just a large piece of bread with way too much cheese and little flavor. Maybe the thin style is much better. I would recommend the other food since we have been multiple times. The lasagna is amazing. I would have to agree that the food can sometimes be a bit bland, especially the thick pizza.
(2)Celeste L.
I lived in Mission for more than a decade before I finally got around to trying this place. Now it's a regular stop. I generally alternate between the meatball sandwich (available in two sizes, which is nice when you're not quite as hungry) and various pasta dishes. My husband is a big fan of their stromboli. It's always been pretty no-frills and we like the place because it's inexpensive and filling. We had dinner there last night and it looks like they've upped their game, perhaps in anticipation of D'Bronx opening up soon on the next block. I had lasagna and it not only tasted even better than I remembered, but the portion size was huge and the presentation was quite attractive with basil leaf sprinkled around the edge of the dish. The cost was still very reasonable and it was nice to see the shift toward a slightly less casual dining experience. I resisted getting the spumoni cheesecake last night because I know I'm a day away from being inundated by holiday sweets, but I highly recommend it. It's very pretty and tasty, too. Actually, their desserts are all quite nice and they have a good selection of cheesecakes, Tiramisu and Italian cookies.
(4)Kyle M.
Try the lasagna, it is great. Do not get their thick crust pizza, it is not great.
(4)Roger S.
Great sauce, love the atmosphere. I've never had a dish that has disappointed me. Same goes for my whole family. Probably the best Italian I've had since moving up to the KC area. You'll see from all the reviews that this is a love it/hate it kind of place - I'm firmly in the "love it" category. The only thing I can say is that you need to try it and judge for yourself if it's the type of Italian food you crave.
(4)Troy O.
This place came highly recommended but started off very poor. The young lady on the register was very unfriendly and even though I said chicken parmesan sandwich, she charged me for the dinner. Then the tables were full and apparently only the older lady can clean the tables and not the young white kid who was doing nothing but talking to the other kid on the line. Finally seated, our food didn't come out at the same time which is restaurant 101. All in all I doubt I will go back.
(1)Stephanie S.
eh. We had heard so many good things about this place, we had high hopes. But the second we walked in we thought we were in for an experience. The cashier was kind of rude which really surprised us. The prices were good, but the flavor wasn't anything to write home about. And... there was meat on my vegetarian entree. I don't remember what I got... it was not memorable. The bread was good, but I could have picked up a loaf at price chopper.
(2)Emily S.
I love this place! The pizza is AWESOME, and the ambiance is fun! My husband and I eat here all the time, and are huge fans! Priced reasonably too!
(4)Stacy N.
My husband introduced me to Italian Delights years ago, and even though we live no where near it, I find myself searching it out periodically. I am primarily into their pizza. As far as I know, the family that runs it is from Brooklyn, and I think their pizza is about as close to a NY style slice as one can get in the KC area. I like them plain or with toppings (sliced meatball is tasty.) Another favorite is the calzone! This is not like a calzone you are going to find at any other pizza place in town. It is a dough that is thinner than pizza dough, and the whole deal is lightly fried. Inside is ricotta and ham...they may have a just cheese one too...and it is served with a side of marinara. We often each get a slice and split one of these. I also throw in a salad of some sort to feel virtuous, plus they are good. I haven't really tried many of the pastas. Nothing here is fancy, but it is decent if not great, well-priced, and folks are friendly. It is even better if they have some little boxes of mixed Italian cookies. They don't always have those, though. Now all they need is some garlic knots...
(4)Zachary S.
I love Avellutos. In my opinion they have a really good sauce and great people serving. I have their Calzone every time. I have taken my friends and family all there and they all love it too. The prices aren't bad at all either. Check them out.
(4)C Jude S.
There are plenty of good reviews for this restaurant. I'm going to chime in and say that the Stromboli is a treat. The health salad is a MUST (I love it). I also want to tell you that their sauce is NOT chef boyardee (as one of the reviews mentioned). Anyone that knows anything about what it takes to make a great marinara... I challenge you to try this sauce and give it anything but high marks. It's bold, slightly sweet and savory. It's what gives many of their dishes a special touch. Yes, if you order it on spaghetti, it's a simple-looking dish. But it's also simply-divine. All of their salads are wonderful. Be adventurous - try the prosciutto balls! Mmm... :)
(4)Katie B.
I feel as though I need to defend this place due to its previous negative reviews. I will say, that their pasta is absolutely horrid. A step above Chef Boyardee on a good day. Skip over these menu items immediately and instead focused on the premade items available on the line. Their pizza is excellent. I think this is the only place in KC where one can get your average NYC pizza experience. Super thin pizza, lots of cheese, and toppings at your discretion. All for 2 dollars a slice? What's not to like? And it doesn't stop at the pizza. Their sausage rolls, calzones, and (especially) the stomboli are all heaven on a plate. Delicious. And don't forget, this is the place to get ridiculously cheap fresh mozzarella. Just ask and you shall receive. Sure beats paying 3.00 a ball at Price Chopper/HyVee/Hen House/etc. Italian Delight is all about the expectations game. It certainly isn't the best place to get a slice in Kansas City, but it just may be the cheapest.
(3)Brian V.
The pizza... very good! I can't remember the name of the "everything" pizza but it had tons of toppings, all very fresh. It seemed like you could taste each one individually! We also had a meatball sandwich. Nothing special, but still good. The ambiance left a bit more to be desired but the helpful staff and good food made me very satisfied.
(4)Rhett H.
There are italian places in Kansas City, like Johnny Cascones, or Garozzo's, and then there are italian places, like Italian Delight. Here we have a understated deli-pizzeria-restaurant, which, in the auspices of Kansas City suburbs, looks a little like an upgraded Subway. Don't be fooled. Here, right here in Kansas City, we have an as-authentic-as-you-can-get italian ristorante. Why? Well, read on, ami... At first, I was a little suspicious. The menu is not exactly overwhelming. A salad here, a pasta dish here, a pizza there. It wasn't much to look at. But my friend, who has a good track record, recommened it. Plus he was with me and he was buying. I didn't have much to loose. I got a 'health' salad (whatever that is), and the (meat) lasagna. The salad was chock-full-o-antipasta goodies, like olives, artichoke hearts, peppers, onions, etc. and it was great. And fresh tasting. I was happy at the salad. I could go home, but I had a lasagna coming. The lasagna was very humble looking. Some pasta sheets, some sauce, specks of sausage. Like their menu, not much to get excited about. So I had a few bites, and, unlike my theory of diminishing tastes with normal, mortal food, this dish actually got better as the meal went on. Something about the spices, the building momentum of ratio of fats to carbs to protiens towards a golden ratio of taste, whatever it was it had it. I was hooked. This place is the real deal. Now my only caveat is that I've only been there once. But it's worth a try, and you can judge for yourself. Also, I saw the pizza guy (who has his own area to make the pizzas), and he was making fresh pizza all night long. It looks like a good place to go from the lasagna. In addition to the great food, there is an altar to all things Ducati. That's a nice little diversion while your food digests.
(5)David A.
Incredible, full Italian menu. White table cloth value in a deli style environment and price. A family favorite.
(4)Kate S.
I usually get good food here but i went today and spent 10.50 to try something new and i order the chicken mushrooms with spaghetti. That was the worst thing i have ever tasted. It took them twenty minutes to get my food out after my whole table had gotten theirs.
(3)Julie S.
Italian D's is a great place to get quick, delicious Italian food. One thing I rate a Italian place on is the quality of their red sauce. I have to say that this sauce is delicious and makes anything they use it on just as good. They also have nightly specials which is an easy plate to go for because it is always a steal and very tasty. They have everything from your traditional hand tossed pizza, to spaghetti with amazingly large meat balls, to champagne chicken. A must if you're looking for a quick, cheap italian meal without losing out on the flavor.
(4)Jeremy W.
I really enjoyed the Sausage roll and Meatball sandwich. I haven't tried the pizza yet but will soon.
(4)Tracy G.
I can't wait to try something different next time. This visit I had the Alfredo, which was delicious! I wish there had been an option to add chicken, but the pasta held it's own just fine. This was my first visit to their actual location, which had a very open layout, but we'd had their food catered at different family events throughout the years: weddings and get-togethers. From those events I can highly recommend the lasagna! It's some of the best I've ever had.
(4)Tim S.
Good food. Terrible service. There's a 50:50 chance they will forget to serve you with a dine-in order. They seem indignant when you complain.
(2)Fred L.
Have been going here for years. I hadn't been in the area for couple months. I saw a groupon for new york pizza and I though no thanks, I will just go to Italian Delight where I know its real New York Pizza. Have always loved their pizza, veal hero, sausage roll and garlic bread and many others. Had the Sausage Roll, Awesome as always, had the Veal Hero, awesome as always Best was special pie made by the owner, a very special pie, sliced italian sausage, pepperoni and mushrooms, extra crispy, just like I like it. Man it was awesome best pizza ever, think this one was even better than I remember Pizza land in New jersey. Love that the owners are making the pizza, how many places do you see the owner making your pizza live throwing the dough? Not many, maybe in Brooklyn, and In New York but Not in Kansas city. Originally came here from Recommendation years ago from a friend of mine from New York, who worked as GM at one of my favorite restaurants. I told my Friend Saul about loving New York Pizza, and having traveled to new jersey, and eaten at Pizza Land, the famous Pizza Place featured on the opening Credits of the Sopranos. Italian Delight is the real deal, they are the only pizza I have ever had that is real New York pizza, Similar to Pizza Land. You don't want the imitation New York Pizza. Its a marketing gimmick If you want REAL NEW YORK PIZZZA, FROM OWNERS THAT ARE FROM BROOKLYN, NEW YORK THEN COME TO AVEULLUTO"S ITALIAN DELIGHT AND GET A REAL NEW YORK PIE!! FUGGADITBOUTIT
(5)Steve D.
I found it a little unusual, but you walk by the counter and place your order at the register. I ordered a delight pizza slice, a salad, and a drink for a total of about $8.50. My salad was delivered to my table in about three minutes, and my pizza slice arrived about five minutes later. My dinner salad had a reasonable variety of veggies, and a tasty dressing. My thin crust delight pizza slice was generously-sized, and had an abundance of toppings on a delicious crust. The dining area was nicely decorated, and clean, while the service was just good. Overall, it was a very good experience.
(4)Andrew S.
This is a good neighborhood Italian restaurant that serves classical red sauce. It has a local clientele, moderate cost, decent service. And then there is the food: hey wide selection of Boston and other Italian delight such as sausage rolls and calzones! Plus you can order any type of pizza thin crust as well as several different salads and sandwiches as well! I eat here at least once a month:)!
(4)Crystal M.
Today was my Gluten Cheat day, I only get 1 per week even though I know I'll pay the price tomorrow. Anyways I decided to try this little joint out. I was really impressed with their prices $2.19 for a slice of Cheese Pizza, $5.09 for a Full order of Spaghetti with sauce $2.30 for a house salad, etc. You get the idea... The thin crust cheese pizza reminded me of D'bronx it was just ok to me, the Spaghetti was nothing special, better than Buca, but not as good as Mario's in Westport, the garlic bread was just ok as well, the salad dressing was just ok I think it would be better if they added more vinegar, the real star of the meal was their Thick Crust Delight Pizza I got mine with green peppers, onions, pepperoni, and black olives. It's a good 1.5" thick, maybe I was digging it so much because I miss bread, either was it was Good!
(3)Jess J.
As good as it gets for what it is, which is a mom n' pop style Italian lunch counter in a not-so-heavily Italian place. If I want a satisfying plate of pasta without heating up my kitchen, quick and easy, it's the place for me. Not fancy, just filling, tomato-ey, and good. I got chicken parm atop spaghetti last time I was there, and it was golden fried goodness. I'd skip the garlic cheese bread, as it was a small amount and nothing special, and just go with the bread basket bread. Cafeteria-style service, but quick, efficient, and satisfying. I've not had their pizza, but the pastas and Stromboli are nice and comfort-foody.
(5)Logan Locke B.
This place is awesome! I little gem in a strip mall. I try to always go somewhere twice before writing such a rave review (for consistency reasons)... and I have got to say, this place has been top-notch both times. Italian Delight will be added to my go-to restaurants. I love their calzones. Perfectly cooked with a great shell. The crust is light, chewy and not too doughy. The insides of the calzone, plus the sauce that is served on the side is a perfect compliment. They have great salad options (cucumber/tomato, artichoke, olive, and many more) The prices are incredibly reasonable and I have had friendly service each time I have been there. (I got take out twice--- once call ahead and once walk-in and order)
(5)Laurel S.
This place is awesome. We used to get take out from here when we lived in Mission but we moved 14 years ago and haven't been back. We went back Saturday night with my sister's family. My family of 3 had no issues - our food was great, everything came quickly as ordered. The Stromboli is ridiculously good and the marinara sauce is amazing. My sister's family of 4 had more issues. All 4 of their orders came out at different times. Her son's pizza came out first, 5 minutes later her husbands calzone, almost 20 minutes later her and her other son's pasta dishes. She asked for bread but never got it. So the service was a bit lacking but the food was great. I promise I'll be back if only for the stromboli!
(4)Edwin V.
Walked in, got a greeting from one of the cooks behind the counter and that was the end of the good service. My greeting from the young lady at the cashier was for here or take out. It may just be a personal thing but I believe in giving the customer some sort of greeting. I ordered a Calzone which I was informed that it could only accommodate 3 toppings. I requested more toppings which I was willing to pay for but I was advised that the more toppings I chose the less cheese they would be able to use. I uploaded a picture of my calzone which look a lot more like a Spanish empanada. There was a huge gap as an interior and the sauce was nothing to brag about. I ate a few bites in the hopes that the taste would help me overlook the sight to no avail. Thankfully no one asked me how my meal was avoiding an embarrassing position to be put in. Will avoid this place next time I am in Kansas.
(1)Jimmy S.
Overall some of the best Italian food I've had in the Kansas City area. You order at the front counter and food is delivered to your table fast and hot. Everything I've tried has been delicious. Pizza is unbelievable. The real gem for me has been the chicken parm sandwich. Usually come here for a lunch break and have always enjoyed a 5 star quality meal within a fast food time frame. Awesome! A must eat!
(5)Liz C.
The food and service at this family owned eatery has never dissapointed. Their lasagne is delicious and my kids raved about the pizza. If you're looking for a place that serves delicious italian food, I recommend swinging by.
(5)Michael D.
This has been my favorite pizza place (well technically their other location but is now closed) since I was 12 years old. Just amazing.
(5)Thomas M.
I was excited to try this place out. I didnt know what was good so I asked for suggestions. I was told the chicken parm sandwich was really good. I found it to be very forgettable, bland, and lackluster. The portion was a good size and the tomato salad that I ordered was nice. I was there on Cinco De Mayo and with a Mexican joint just a couple of steps away, They weren't busy. I will have to say that they had an ever so slight "I dont want to be bothered with you" type attitude. I would like to give this place another try and get one of their calzones.
(2)Craig M.
Bad service, mediocre food. They deceive you into thinking this a family restaurant- but, it is really just a way for them to buy more Ducatti motorcycles. The gal at the cashier station was particularly unfriendly. They actually told us they were out of fettuccini noodles. I know this happens- but they weren't even the least bit apologetic, and to add salt to the wound they said it was against policy to add mushrooms to the dish. Look for fast food Italian...it would be an upgrade. Hard to imagine going back- especially with D'Bronx right around the corner
(2)Erin T.
I LOVE this place. My husband and I moved into an apartment nearby about a year ago and we go there about 2-3 times a month now. Their pizza is amazing and the man who normally makes the pizzas is really nice and pretty hilarious to talk to. My husband likes to get the chicken parm (both the sandwich and the pasta dish and he loves it) and I enjoy eating the sausage and pepper sandwich (when I'm not eating pizza, of course) It gets really busy during the lunch rush, but they get the food to you quickly and it's always yummy. The prices are incredibly reasonable. I've read some reviews on here about the customer service being bad, but I've never had a bad exerpience with the employees (maybe it's because we're regulars and they know us) I've never been disappointed when I go there!
(5)Julie W.
I love this place. Kansas City is not a place for true delis or true Italian food. It might come as a shock to some Kansas Citians, but Chicken Spiedini is really from Kansas City...not from Italy. And the Suco sauce that eveyone loves to serve here is not close to anything they eat in Italy, NYC, Boston's Little Italy, ANYWHERE. The pizza here is awesome. It's the closest thing to New York pizza that I've had outside of New York. And it's better than a lot of pizza in NY. If you don't like thin crust cheese, then skip it though, and go for a calzone. Um...yummmmm. Stuffed with ricotta, mozzarella, and ham. Or how about a stromboli. I really love this place. If you don't like it, stay away...that's okay because this place isn't hurting for business as I can see from the lines out the door at lunch and dinner! I've never been disappointed here. It's fresh, cheap, friendly, and the closest thing to an italian deli that KC has. If you like Garozzo's, you probably won't like this place. If you hate Garozzo's, here's the cure!
(4)Charles R.
Nice red-sauced Italian menu. Calzone and stromboli great. Antipasto salad delicious. Pizza fine. Nice people. Relaxed atmosphere in a low-overhead strip mall. Your chance to get a good meal and support a local family restaurant.
(3)Veronica M.
This Italian joint is VERY popular. Always nearly full and overly busy during lunch hour. Their calzones are delicious and the health salad is just as tasty. The pizza itself is okay. Not something to brag about They claim its award winning but I'm not so sure. But you might like it :). What I really enjoy is the rest of their menu. They have meaty choices as well as veggie choices. Adequately priced. And the staff is super friendly. It does close rather early but that's probably because in the shopping area it is located in, the shops close at nine. So there you go. That's why. So i recommend checking it out early in the day.
(4)Kurt K.
My wife, who had eaten at Italian Delight numerous times as a kid, took me to Italian Delight for the first time over the weekend and I was impressed. I come from a family where almost all of the extended family is from back east and my dad grew up in New Jersey. I have been to more delis and diners than I can even remember and I feel like I have a pretty good take on what is authentic enough, at least for an American-Italian deli. You could put Italian Delight in Jersey or New York and feel very comfortable. It has that minimalist feel, where the food is the obvious main star. You order by going down the line and looking over the items and placing your order at the end. I got a calzone and a slice of cheese pizza, while my wife got the stromboli and my daughter had the cheese ravioli. I can say we all enjoyed the meal. The calzone is filled with mozzorella and sliced ham and cut open for you and covered in sauce. It's not the monster ones you see at the pizza chains, this is a good size, but not overwhelming. The kiddo devoured her ravioli, always a good sign and the wife thought the sausage in the stromboli was perfectly spicy.
(4)Erik R.
I like this little corner shop, buffet style Italian. I give the food four stars, but the price is a little high so I knocked it back to three. The service is pretty good, everything is pre-made or almost made and you get your own drinks so if you are in a hurry, this place works well. The decor is very simple, but everything is clean and nice. The food is all solid. I've had lasagna, pizza, and some of their specials and they are all good. Their calzones look great too, but they have always had something in them I'm not a fan of, so I have never tried them. My only knock is that they have no designated smoking area. Almost nobody smokes any more, but if you get unlucky, you could end up choking from something besides the food.
(3)Kristen S.
I am not a big fan of this place. It is more or less a buffet of pre-prepared food and the pizza is average at best.
(1)richard s.
i come from long island ny. this place is as close as you can get to ny. always a good meal, good price and always like to speak with owners. this place is a great hidden gem
(4)Jennifer H.
I grew up near this restaurant, and everyone was always going, and talking about how good the food is. For some reason I never stopped in until recently. The food is fine; it's pretty good, but at the inexpensive price point, it's a great deal. I found the pizza to be very good. I found the marinara sauce to be pretty bland, and the calzone under it was average. There was a TON of ricotta, and less mozzarella. My problem with the place was the customer service. The were slammed (noon on a weekday) when we arrived, which of course was expected. But the line...it just didn't move. It took 30 minutes to get to the front of about 20 people. It was actually extraordinarily slow moving, and I can only hope for the restaurant's sake that this is an anomaly. Once I got up front, a middle-aged blonde woman asked me if I was eating in or taking it to go. I was in the midst of answering her when she took a phone call. She then just ignored me. It's like I'd disappeared from sight. I ended up kind of wandering over to the neighboring register to get someone to take my order. It was honestly an infuriating experience after having been kept waiting in line for so long. The icing on the cake was that the girl who took my order left off one slice of pizza. When it was delivered, I was told "Oh, well, we didn't ring it up, so if you want to go get in line and pay for it we can get it for you." Are. You. Serious?! Clearly they are more concerned with volume than customer service, and I will never be back.
(2)Kandace M.
How this place gets 3.5 stars is a mystery to me. My hubs who is from Philly stopped in for chicken parm and some garlic bread. For $13 he got a lump of cold pasta upon which sat a piece of grilled chicken with American cheese and the worst looking sauce ever. And one soggy piece of bread. We had just moved to the neighborhood and were looking to see what was around. I was embarrassed for KC this was his first Italian food experience. We go next door to Salsa Grill often and he always comments that he can't believe Avellutos is still open.
(1)Rob D.
the pizza is amazing, the employees are great, and in the summer you know you'll have a great pizza when you see the ducati motorcycles parked out front. This place has my favorite pizza in the KC area, I tried so many different places and hated the cracker crust at some places and doughy garbage at other places, this place does it right!!!
(5)Pamela C.
Avelluto's is our families favorite. From my first experience there to our last I have been delighted with their food! I dearly love the Caprese salad, which is made with mozzarella made fresh every day! It's good all year round, but with fresh off the vine tomatoes in the summer, it is to die for! Other favorites include the eggplant parmigiana, and the pizza. This weekend they catered the dinner for my daughters wedding, eggplant, lasagne, Caprese, Italian salad and bread. Everyone raved about how delicious the food was! They were a pleasure to work with, and delivered hot food hot, and cold food cold on time! All for a very reasonable cost! Its not an fancy restaurant, but a wonderful gem of a place hidden in Mission. Go try it out, you won't be disappointed!
(5)Tom K.
What is SOO wrong with no-nonsense, almost mediocre deli counter obsessed with cheese, red sauce, spaghetti, sausage, bread dough and meatballs? Absolutely nothing. Avellutos is the OG Sbarro. Long counter includes previews of pizza, calzone, salads, stromboli and more. The highly economical menu is extensive and covers everything from cold sandwiches to pasta dishes to pizza. Everything is a la carte, simple and straight-forward. Avellutos is a no frills alternative to the slew of generic, sit-down Italian operations dotting the area. Pay half the price for Italian that isn't fancy, but still quality. Don't go into Avellutos expecting to find food that redefines your opinion of Italian cooking or even for food that is wildly impressive or surprising. It is basic, fresh and good food from a local deli/pizzeria-- and that's enough.
(3)J M.
Went here for lunch to try the pizza. Talked to the owner, who was very nice. Pizza was very good. I really enjoyed it. We hit a few pizza places the same week and this was one of my favorites.
(4)Joe S.
This place has great calzones. Pizza is just so-so, but overall service and food is great!
(4)Dayne B.
If your looking for some fast food Italian, which in my opinion is hard to find, this is the place to go. While the food is average it can definitely cure that Italian craving in a pinch. Plus if you dine in you get to experience their take on Italian decor.
(3)Joe T.
Avelutto's has Fantastic Stromboli, Rigatoni, and Pizza (& many other great dishes). This is NOT a commercial pizza hut or chain place. The sauce and dough are made in house, HOME MADE in their shop! I grew up eating Italian Food on the Hill in St. Louis like others have mentioned. This is the best Italian Food that I have found since moving to KC. The prices are very reasonable for taking the whole family out to eat or a date night for the adults when they dim the lights late in the evening. I highly recommend you try it!
(5)Jason Y.
Been a customer of Italian Delight for over 20 years dating back to the Indian Springs Shopping Mall KCK location. I have visited the Mission Kansas location numerous times as well. There have always been issues with customer service (unfriendly and straight up RUDE) on different occasions that I have experienced or witnessed first hand. But you know what.....I always overlook that stuff and frequent these types of places for the food. If the staff doesn't want to talk or present themselves in a professional manner, I will simply place the order and go about my business. I guess when you present yourself as a New York type neighborhood eatery, you also bring the New York attitude along for the experience. Besides this, let me tell you about the food on a recent visit. My usual staple at Italian Delight is a slice of pizza and a bowl of pasta salad. Sometimes I'll switch up and go with a calzone or stromboli. Have had their pasta and meatballs in the past and was thoroughly unimpressed with the watery sauce and overcooked pasta. Desserts aren't bad and worth a try. Here's the recent kicker: I spent $35 on a tiny slice of regular lasagne, tiny slice of spinach lasagne, slice of pizza, and a decent amount of fettuccini. Two waters and one soda. Always forget that you have to actually request some bread or you may not get any. Along with a few thinly sliced pieces of bread you will get those old cafeteria slices of butter that are attached to the cardboard backing. I can deal with spending a little extra cash and smaller portions if you serve a quality product and actually take the time to heat up the damn food! The traditional lasagne was nice and hot. The spinach lasagne was point blank cold in the middle. I guess they didn't microwave it enough ( which I have issues with microwaving my lasagne in the first place). All too well of aware of the attitude permeating Italian Delight, I sucked it up and ate what I could. This is the part where I lost it and about came unglued.........The third party in our group had ordered the fettuccine alfredo. He sat there as we finished our lasagne and slice of pizza with no Fettuccini in sight. We asked the gentlemen that runs the food out about this twice and couldn't get a straight answer. Therefore, we walked up to the to-go pizza counter and asked who appeared to be in charge. He too had no clue as to why the bowl of fettuccini never arrived until we were done with our food. I kid you not, after literally 20 minutes the fettucini arrived and was absolutely terrible. It was consistent with fettuccini soup (does that even exist?). Had to eat it with a spoon as the noodles were gummy and flat out nasty. I tell you what folks, never again will I return to Italian Delight. Especially with D' Bronx sitting across the street and offering up much better service and food. I'm done!%#@@#$@@ And no, we never received an apology besides an explanation that "the oven was having issues". Really Italian Delight? Do you think we are that stupid to buy into the classic restaurant excuse when you screw up an order?
(2)Michelle B.
I absolutely love this place...it isn't an upscale place or anything like that but the food is always amazing and the service is fantastic. Definitely would recommend it to anyone.
(4)Zach G.
Pretty decent little place! We rolled in on a Saturday afternoon for a slightly late lunch and all ordered the same thing - calzone. One with ham, and two with sausage, as well as a side of garlic bread. The meal didn't take too long to come out. The garlic bread was very small and not of much flavor, so I definitely don't need to order that again. The calzones were not the best, but were tasty, filling and enjoyable. The marinara on top was basic but added some nice flavor. The service isn't friendly, but is not mean either. It's very utilitarian - gets the job done. The inside of the restaurant is old and a bit run down, but clean and comfortable enough. If in the area, I would definitely return here again to try something else on the menu.
(3)Eric N.
The marinara sauce is divine. Lasagna, calzone, health salad, tomato salad, and the tiramisu are all excellent!! Sides of sauteed spinach and brocolli are really good too, especially with a side of the red sauce. I forgot the pizza! Incredible as well. I can't believe this place only gets 3 1/2. I would give it 6 stars :)
(5)Mary C.
As always, Avelluto's Italian Delight offers the BEST Italian cuisine in the greater Kansas City area. We just had a pizza (Italian sausage, Canadian Bacon, and Pepperoni) and it was, in a word, fantastic! Actually, perfect! Since the early 1990's and since our first taste of Avelluto's pizza and pasta, we've not gone anywhere else for Italian. The ingredients are fresh, the sauce is wonderful (and one I have tried to re-create with no success) and the staff is friendly and courteous. They get to know and take care of their customers and it shows. When we started dining at Avelluto's, our children were in grade school. Now we are taking our grandchildren there and that's the restaurant they pick for their birthdays and other celebrations. We look forward to many more years at Avelluto's! Mary and Lowell Crissman
(5)Michael R.
Avelluto's is a neighborhood Italian cafeteria and sandwich/pizza joint. It's not a place to go if you love nice sit-down Italian restaurants such as Johnny Cascone's, it's a place to go if you want to grab a quick bite. I love it, but I do tend to stick to a few things--calzone, stromboli, antipesto, and their meatball sub. I haven't had their pizza in several years, so I can't say anything about it. Their service is pretty minimal, yes, but I've always gotten my food relatively quickly and haven't had any mix-ups or other errors, so I have no complaints. Basically, if you go in expecting an Italian restaurant, you'll be disappointed, but if you go in expecting an Italian lunch counter, you'll like it.
(4)Michelle F.
I've been eating here since high school. I stopped in for a calzone the other day and somehow they are just as good today as they were back then. FIlled with gooey cheese and served with a side of marinara for dipping, it's good stuff. And priced right, I was out of there for under $7.
(3)Pat C.
One word, Legit. Only place in Kansas City with Sfogliatelle (aka Schweeadell) and a Hero!!!
(4)Matt C.
Decided to try this place tonight after driving by numerous times and seeing that it is usually pretty busy. It is a unique experience where you stand in a cafeteria style line to order your food off a wall menu similar to a fast food restaurant. Very, very casual environment would be good for a cheap family night out. PROS: Casual environment, cheap food. That's really about all I can think of. CONS: The food. My girlfriend and I ordered diner salads, garlic bread, lasagna, and eggplant parm. The dressing on the salad is bland, the garlic bread is half a hoagie bun. Both entrees were smothered in sauce and cheese. The eggplant tasted like a pile of mozerella cheese with sauce on it, if I hadnt known what I ordered, I wouldn't have guessed there was eggplant in it. I understand the concept of you get what you paid for with this food being pretty cheap, but I would rather eat at home next time. Besides the price, I cant understand why this place stays busy.
(1)Jocelyn M.
I love this place. I have always loved this place. Family owned (found both working and dining at different times) and friendly. No frills, just good food. I always think I am going to get the antipasto platter (delish and a LOT of food) but somehow I end up with Rigatoni alla Vodka...no self control. I tell ya - we once went THREE TIMES in a weekend. Then checked into Pasta Rehab. I do find some of the prices...confusing? Some things seem cheap, others way steep. Aw, I am hungry now...
(4)Ankit N.
Rude staff, a feeling that a foreign young man is unwelcome in this restaurant. So it is immaterial if the food is good or not. Cmon guys, wake up. The world is mixing, or you want to go under in a few?
(1)Lisa L.
I cant keep my husband out of this place. He walks in and they automatically fix him a double order of Bow Tie Pasta with a Stromboli (No Mushrooms) I grew up going to Italian Delight at the Indian Springs Shopping Mall and have been going to this one for years. (Back before the expansion) If you dont get there early you should plan on standing in the line sometimes wrapping around the tables..... NOM NOM
(5)Ken W.
We love Italian Delight and have been eating there for as long as they've been open. It's not fancy, it's just plain good. It's kind of like a cafeteria line. You walk through, look at the food and order, then they bring it out. The pizzas are tasty, NY style (they throw their own crust). The strombolis are great, as are the health salad (cucumber & tomato). Actually, we have yet to eat anything there we didn't like. It's family owned and we like that, too.
(4)Doug M.
Well, I love Italian food. But I'm not sure what part of Italy these guys are from? Must be the part where they don't have access to spices and flavor. Marinera sauce was bland. The veal parm had the texture of a soggy, rubbery, flipflop. Spaghetti was good. Wife ordered fettucini alfrado. It was actually really good. But some garlic, salt and pepper would make it even better. The four ounce pour of chianti was laughable. Service? Don't expect it. I should'nt expect much since this is Mission. The Food Desert of Johnson County.
(2)Angela K.
I've worked near this place for years and can't figure out why I'd never been here. Now I know. Blah. I ordered a mostaccioli with tomato sauce and garlic cheese bread to go. For $1.59, I thought it would be a couple of pieces of garlic bread, but no. I opened up the package to a sad, single, soggy piece of "garlic bread" covered in cheese. That was probably the most expensive piece of bread I've had in my life. The drive back to my office takes, literally, 2 minutes. But in that time, the pasta had turned into a sticky, cold lump covered in lukewarm tomato-sauce-out-of-the-can. I find it hard to believe this was even hot when they gave it to me. I can get better italian at Fazoli's. And that's not really something to be proud of.
(2)W T.
Left before they took my order. Staff was rude to each other and the customers. Very unprofessional. Slooooooow and unorganized.
(1)Dan D.
Overall I had my suspicions about this place but I have been about half a dozen times and can honestly say that yes I am a fan. Italian Delight (ID) is really great if you're looking for a quick meal will no frills and a good taste. My standard combo is a slice of pepperoni and a stromboli with red gravy. The cheese is NY all the way with good flavor and a nice crust to accompany. The stromboli is a good sized portion of light dough filled with cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. The quality of the ingredients are ok but not the highest end in the world, for the price of the meal I have no problem with this. The red sauce sometimes lacks a little depth of flavor but again this is a good cheap place to eat. The dining room is big and is designed for families, self service drinks and no waiter service. Again for the price I have no complaints. This place is built for efficiency and can accommodate both small and large groups easily. Overall I give this place a strong recommendation for those that want to go out to eat in Mission and want a consistently good meal for a great price.
(4)Elizabeth N.
Lasagna great, meatballs great. Garlic bread great. The casual Italian family restaurant is very unique for these parts so this place is essential.
(4)Dev V.
I decided to give Avelluto's a shot after reading a few Yelp reviews along with being tired of the same lunch options around this part of the city. Here are a few of the highlights. I waited in line for around five minutes before I got to the register to order, the entire time you pass by all the prep cooks making other people's orders. I went with the meatball hero based on other's reviews. Twenty five minutes later, I received my sandwich. It took them a whole two minutes to make, but I waited for 25 minutes. The negatives here are that they could prioritize orders based on size and simplicity. There is no reason I should spend 30 minutes in a restaurant for a carry out sandwich. The other negative is that the sandwich really isn't worth it in comparison to the price and wait. The meatball and sauce were average, the best part was the roll it's served on. The miracle was that I was able to keep my cool while I saw people get served their meals, finish eating, and leave while I was still waiting for my sandwich. Sorry Avelluto's, I love locally owned spots, but I won't be back.
(2)Tracy G.
I can't wait to try something different next time. This visit I had the Alfredo, which was delicious! I wish there had been an option to add chicken, but the pasta held it's own just fine. This was my first visit to their actual location, which had a very open layout, but we'd had their food catered at different family events throughout the years: weddings and get-togethers. From those events I can highly recommend the lasagna! It's some of the best I've ever had.
(4)Tim S.
Good food. Terrible service. There's a 50:50 chance they will forget to serve you with a dine-in order. They seem indignant when you complain.
(2)