Pinocchio’s Bar & Grill
5995 S Virginia St, Reno, NV, 89502
Pinocchio’s Bar & Grill Menu
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.
Visit below restaurant in Reno for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant blood pressure menu details.
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
5995 S Virginia St
Reno, NV, 89502 - Phone (775) 826-5151
- Website https://www.pinocchiosbarandgrill.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
Sorry, Store hours have not been updated. If you are the owner of this restaurants. Please update the store hours.
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
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 : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Paul D.
Fun place, great service and atmosphere. Need to go early for lunch. My favorites are the bowl of meatballs and garlic toast, Calamari sandwich with pesto aioli, Italian deli sandwich on a baguette, and the prime rib dinner special on the weekend is great. Great people, Great food, you won't be disappointed.
(5)M C.
Went there for my niece's birthday. We got our salad and some bread, but you only get one small slice of bread to share among everyone at the table. Weird, but delicious bread. I heard the food was good, but the pasta dishes we all had were VERY bland, and hence OVER-PRICED; we didn't even take the rest home. The brownie sundae was good, and the waitress was nice. My niece got a free piece of mud pie for her bday. They let her wear this birthday mustache for a few minutes, which my other niece got to keep when she went there for her bday 2 months ago, and then came back and said they needed it for another customer's birthday! BLEW me away! If I knew someone had worn it before her I wouldn't have let her wear it. That is so GROSS!!! Especially with all the FLU viruses going around. I gave 1 star for bread and 1 for waitress. Won't be going again. Sorry.
(2)Lindsay A.
Sister and I went in one evening to kill some time. Service was great, garden burger was good and fries were even better!
(4)Michele A.
We came here for Sunday lunch with a party of 12, and we're seated immediately. Service was prompt, attentive, and professional. We were given both a breakfast and lunch menu with many selections. The food was tasty and the music was good! Noise level was minimal. The Pinocchio's pizza salad was wonderful, as well as the handmade manicotti with alfredo and shrimp.
(4)Derrick L.
Great food, friendly service, and interesting decoration that they have there. This place was recommended to me and it was definitely worth the try. How often are you treated with warm bread and an interesting salad dressing at a restaurant. The pork that I had tasted great though I do prefer a little more sauce to it. I think I was too busy looking around at the decoration rather than the food. With all the signs hanging on the wall and a bicycle hanging from the ceiling, who wouldn't be looking up most of the time. Sandwiches are in the $7 range while pasta are in the $11-17. Not bad I guess. Going to definitely come by this place again when I'm in the area.
(4)Spanky D.
This place peaked a few years ago when Meagan was the bartender and manager. The servers were young and enthusiastic, and the food seemed to be a little better. They still continue to make a flavorful house salad with blue cheese crumbles, and they are not shy about giving you as much salad as you want. That's a huge positive for them. But looking back, I don't know that they have ever been the same since they opened the Sparks location. It's still a fun local place but I don't think it's the happening spot it once was when finding a park on a Friday night was next to impossible.
(3)NevadaBackroad S.
Bar food, plain and simple. Maybe it is better during happy hour. Not good, not bad, hate to over use phrases, but mediocre is the proper word.
(2)Richard D.
I had a personal pizza. It was okay. Drink prices are normal but food seems a little pricey for what you get.
(3)Tamara S.
Save yourself the money and low class service! Really gone downhill! Bartender was low class, food was less than mediocre! For a locals bar they sure don't cater to locals!
(1)Erika S.
I think ive decided that pinocchios is a happy hour only destination for me. $2 glasses of wine is awesome and i LOVE their house salad. Its so simple, yet so good. Other than that i just cant find one thing on the menu i think is really good. Its never bad but its never good enough for me to want to go back and eat it again. Last night i had the JP's chicken (blackened chicken served with spinach onions and mushrooms), it was good but it was swimming in a plate full of butter! My boyfriend had the monday night tri- tip special. He said the tri tip was too salty. The service is always wonderful and i really appreciate that but as far as going there for lunch or dinner nothing but the salad really strikes my fancy. The owners are very charitable for so for that reason alone i will continue to support them, it will probably just be in the form of happy hour.
(3)Rebecca V.
Pinocchios is an "unsung hero" in the Reno Restaurant scene. They've been a locals favorite for years providing good food, service and atmosphere! Personally, like an old friend, I tend to sometimes take them for granted. With the emergence of so many good restaurants in the past few years I often forget they are there. However, when I do remember, I am always rewarded with warm bread, tasty salad, yummy appetizers and Reno's BEST bread pudding. My favorite lunch is just a Big House Salad with grilled chicken and for dinner I love the chicken lasagne or spaghetti and meatballs. As if all this wasn't enough, the best part about Pinocchio's is the owners! They do sooooo much for not only the local community but many charitable causes (especially with their Mom's on the Run event). Anyone who makes great food, provides solid service and still finds time to give back as much to the community as they do deserves 6 stars! (if only that were an option!).
(5)Mari M.
As I watched bulldozers pluck La Vecchia for the Moana expansion I remembered Pinocchio's, where I haven't visited since their relocation. I went today and I have to say it's the same old Pinocchio's with an even better atmosphere! All of their paraphernalia moved along with them and the new spot is much more roomy, yet still feels cozy. Some of their booths easily fit 6 people and the barroom has high vaulted ceilings with eye candy up the entire wall (vintage signs, pictures, skis, etc... that has been added to their collection over the past decades). Their kid's menu is amazing (I have no kids but if you do they can satisfy even the pickiest appetites). The service and food quality is the same as before which is awesome as good service in this town is hard to find. The only thing that's changed is it's just not as packed as before...Renoites unite! We all love this family-run institution and they are still here, let's support them. For those of you who are new to town, you're in for a treat! Bonuses on food for today-Mimosa was the perfect combo of champagne and OJ, plus it's easily double a normal size. The bacon on my turkey burger was to die for and oh those crispy fries how I have missed them. House salads come with romaine (thank goodness, why does anyone still use iceberg?). I just wish I'd saved room for dessert! Fresh ingredients, homemade food not from frozen factories. Yummy. Those of us who miss this place, I encourage you to think of Pinocchios as you drive through the upcoming sure-to-be-slow-and-annoying mess of the Moana expansion. This is why they moved, let's pay homage.
(4)Whitney M.
I have some family that live in Reno, NY and ever time I go see them this is always one of the stops I make! Last time I ate there was maybe 5 years ago but I still remember how amazing the food was!!!! My uncle had me order some pasta dish that was really spicy... I wish I could remember the name of it because it was one of the best meals I have ever had!!!! EVER!!!! I can wait to go back and see my family so I can make a stop by here for dinner!!!
(5)Melissa E.
We went this weekend, and I had a great Chicken Ceasar (with candied walnuts... little different and I liked it). I also had a berry mojito - so fresh and a great treat for a Saturday afternoon with a friend talking about life. The service was super! Thanks guys!
(4)Carol M.
After sending the sandwich with the burnt bread back for a burger, I have never seen a hamburger burnt on both sides and served up as food like I saw at this place, but the frys were good. I guess the cook thought "I'll show you burnt!". Service was poor, she was a little POed. Seafood ravioli was OK, bland and mushy. I won't be back.
(1)Caroline Q.
With only two locations, one in Reno and one in Sparks, Pinocchio's is a local restaurant with great tasting food, a decorating motif to fit the Reno-Tahoe theme, and the owners are actually at their restaurants saying hello to their guests desiring any negative or positive (hopefully all positive) feedback their customers may have. The menu serves a variety of items, from ribs to burgers, yet pasta is the largest item on the menu. There are about 15 different pastas from vegetable pasta, pasta with a spicy tamato sauce, lasagna, and more. All items are served with a big bowl of salad and freshly baked bread. Every item I have had was delicious and unique in taste. To clean your palate, you are given a Tootsie Roll on your way out of the restaurant. On a side note, Pinocchio's also has a room in their sparks location in which can be rented for parties and receptions. In May, the restaurant also puts on local run called Mom's on the Run where all proceeds go to females with breast cancer and other types of cancers ( momsontherun.info ).
(4)Kristy N.
We had dinner the first night at their new location and you would have never known that this place hadn't been open for ages. Super friendly waitress and got to mention the owner (when we mentioned we found them on Yelp). They have a great kids menu (yea!), amazing fries & great veggie burger. I had the salmon salad and really enjoyed it. Filled with locals, this is a great place to stop when in Reno!
(5)sj c.
I haven't been here in several years but a friend recently chose this place after I told her I'd meet her anywhere, her choice. I like that it's a local's joint with owners that are active in the community, but I hate to say I do not like their food. It's very starchy, bland, and boring. It's sort of italian influenced for the most part, but very very americanized. The pasta is all overcooked, no al dente here. Thecream sauces are watered down and bland as if they skimped on the actual cream along with cheese or salt. The portions are hefty and the prices aren't expensive (but I still don't think you get your money's worth). I do like their salad and that the bread is warmed and served with soft butter and their service is peppy. I doubt I'll ever choose to come here on my own, but when I leave the responsibility of choosing a spot and it's here I will drag my ass over and stick with non pasta dishes.
(2)Seth P.
This review can serve for both locations. This is some of the worst food in Reno-Sparks. What amazes about the Reno area is that restaurants like this succeed. It is a testament about how food starved Reno is in terms of having good restaurant choices. If this place was in a larger City with better choices there is no way anyone would go here. I am not trying to be flippant or over the top but the food is really terrible. I don't get how people think this is good food. Really! I am not exaggerating here when I say I would choose fast food over this place for taste of food. Maybe the atmosphere which is warm, friendly and usually good service keeps people coming back or out of habit.
(1)Chris K.
Definitely quantity over quality. Cheap food dressed with heavy sauces and dressings. Caesar I ordered was swimming in fake Caesar dressing. They claim to be Italian, but the food is more American cafeteria style. My chicken spaghetti was like they took leftovers from the fridge and put them together for lunch. Loud, slow service and not so friendly management. The woman at the door kinda rushed and crabby. This is not real Italian food. Just another joint cutting corners.
(1)Ellen C.
I've been to Pinocchio's for dinner a handful of times -- most recently, last night. The food is excellent. The chicken lasagne is great, as is the ravoli. The service is always prompt and pleasant. The decor is a kick -- I really like all the old memorabilia. Regarding the prices, entrees are in the $14 dollar range. If you regard it as a place to pick up "pub grub" for cheap, then the prices seem high. I regard Pinocchio's as an Italian restaurant that has great food and a full bar, with prices that reflect the quality of their food. Although it is a casual atmosphere and you don't have to "dress up" to eat there, Pinocchio's serves great quality food for a reasonable price.
(5)Diana A.
I like the spinach salad, it is huge and very filling If Pinocchio's has a wait (and they often do), you might be sent two doors down to Jakes Place which is owned by the same people (Jake Pinocchio in fact) and has the very same menu. Jakes Place is more of a bar and grill atmosphere (pool table included). I love the decor Pinocchio's has.
(3)Fred V.
We fly twice s year from Long Beach, CA to Spokane and stop for fuel at Reno. We always make a point to stop for lunch at Pinocchio's , and we always get the same great food, friendly staff and pleasant place to kill an hour! Wonderful place!
(4)Gessa C.
Their fries are awesome and so is their grilled mushroom burger
(4)ang s.
I eat at Pinocchio's when I am in the Sparks area visiting my family. The meat eating members of my family love the food. I like that they have more vegetarian options than most places and their fries are delicious. I could live off of the fries alone. Their veggie burger is Boca, or Grillers Prime, or some other meaty tasting veggie burger. I personally don't like the taste of meat... I am a vegetarian after all. If you are a vegetarian I would suggest going with a pasta dish or a veggie sandwich.
(3)Sara P.
I went for a late lunch one day with the room mate (a localish dude) and had the Vegetarian sandwich on ciabatta..... OMG it was awesome! Cheesy, big chunks of eggplant, tomatoes, artichokes..... warm bread and tasty fries..... Does it get any better? No? Didnt think so....
(4)Erin J.
The atmosphere is cool, and the food is decent. It is nothing spectaular. It is a bit overpriced, however, the portion size pretty much makes up for the price. The customer service is pretty good. The spicy pasta is to die for!
(4)Alexander C.
Love it! The décor is an eclectic collection of so much stuff on the walls and ceilings, that you might see something new every time. We love the Big Salad and the hot & spicy pasta really is hot & spicy! We most love the Italian Deli sandwich. As an east coast sandwich connoisseur, I am thrilled to now find one so good in my back yard. From the seed covered bread with pesto mayo, to the diced Peperoncini, even my anti-carb wife can't help but devour every drop! We often walk to their sparks location and enjoy their outdoor dining on the rear covered patio and occasional events in the front parking lot.
(4)Evette W.
Awesome food and atmosphere. The house salad is a must. Tuesdays are spaghetti and meatball day. Be prepared to wait for a table if you go during peak hours and parking is usually a challenge. The ravioli specials are never a let down. Other favorites are the Frisco burger and the Mud Pie. Try their Iced Tea, and look forward to the tootsie rolls you get with your check.
(5)Tom B.
Being from the bay area, and in the Reno/Tahoe area for my birthday weekend, my wife and I really weren't interested in eating at a chain restaurant, so we asked a salesperson at a store we had stopped in about a decent, locals' restaurant. She didn't hesitate before raving about Pinocchio's - funky (don't expect matching plates), friendly, good mix of food - just what we wanted. We weren't disappointed. As others have noted, the decor is all over the place - it has a very fun vibe to it. The owner(s) are very friendly - they stopped by out table several times to ask about what we were doing in the area, how we found out about the place, how the food was. Super-nice and gregarious (not fake.) The food was very good - we starting with the roasted garlic bulb (served with lots of toasted bread, fresh basil and a slice or two of tomato; the Saturday special was apple wood smoked prime rib - smoke one day, roasted the next - no mistaking the flavor of the smoking, but it was perfectly done; the other entree we had was the chicken and wild mushroom lasagna with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce - two very different dishes, and we couldn't decide which we liked more, though in the end, I think it was the lasagna - I kept sneaking bites after I'd polished off my beef. They had a nice special on one of their listed Spanish style red wines - regularly $11/glass, but $7 tonight. We've enjoyed bread pudding lately, so opted for that for dessert. Like everything before, the portion was very generous; acceptable quality, but not the best rendition we've had. We thought the prices were very good - the prime rib (with salad, vegis, and a baked potato) was only $17. total bill for appetizer, two entrees, dessert, and 4 glasses of wine was $78 (figure 50 without the wine). If we find ourselves in Reno again, we'll definitely come back.
(4)Rachel F.
I really like this Phocchios. I always like to try something different on the menu and I have yet to be disappointed. Some of my favorites include the Pasta Burbon Street which has a great cream sauce with a hint of spicy in it. I also love to sub with veggies so that I don't eat all the carbs! There is also a really good sandwich called the Italian which has a heaping pile of meats, cheeses and veggies! They also have a great beer selection and i really enjoy drinking Lauganitas and they always have the seasonal on tap which has never been a bad beer! They never really have a wait which is something i look for in a company. i know being busy is great but i also hate to wait when i am hungry! The waiters are always very friendly and always make sure they have my order right and my drinks are full. They environment inside is really cool, they have fun signs, wine bottles and odd little things hanging around the place. If you want a fun experience with good food and beer, its a great place to relax and have a good time.
(4)Tracey C.
Two beautiful ducks greet you at Pinocchio's Bar & Grill, which is a unique place to visit and I would recommend trying their food too !! I went with my parents last night for the Prime Rib Special that they have every Wednesday night, my dad said it was good, although a little too fatty for him, but it was a large piece so he got his fill of juicy meat. The cost was 21 dollars which included salad, potato and veggies. I had the Grilled Cheeses sandwich which was HUGE and full of flavor, it had melted swiss, american and I think provolone with avocados, tomatoes and onions on thick sourdough grilled bread !! I had a salad instead of fries. Mom had the meatball appetizer....WELL, it was a bowl full of little tasty meatballs, although they weren't homemade, but they were still good none the less, with sauteed onions, red and green peppers, whole roasted garlic and some garlic bread. And for dessert we shared the Brownie Sundae, which was OK, I don't think I would try that one again cause to me the brownie was too mushy. The decor is really cool, they have everything you can think of from hats, bikes, records, sport memorabilia, instruments, license plates and signs on every inch of the walls and ceiling. There is also outside seating on the patio and they have a bar area with some TV's in there. I would definitely recommend stopping in for a nice cold beer and some good food !! I give it 4 lbs !!
(4)Doug H.
Easy choice - get the Big Ass Salad with cajun chicken every time. Seriously. Get it every time. It is delish - the right amount of goods, great chicken and the house dressing is just great. You'll love it. That could be my entire review as it is all I ever do here and I eat here at least twice a month. I always sit in the bar area and I always get the BAS. The decor is Nevada fun. Lots of memorabilia and funny signs - makes the place feel homie. The service is good - the girls do a great job and are usually friendly. JP is usually grumpy but it works :) There are a ton of regulars in the lunch crowd. You can tell because everyone knows someone and people are waiving across the dining room constantly. It is a Reno lunch institution for sure. So, you can do lunch? How about happy hour on the patio? Great location, great drinks - would struggle to be better. Join me next time!
(5)Julie M.
Always have great service when we come here. The fried calamari is THE BEST ever! Thus last trip I had the special Mushroom Spinach Ravioli w/sausage. It was awesome!
(4)Stacy M.
Tasty. Awesome awesome house made salsa my daughter got the chicken taco lunch, little weird with fries but the fries were also tasty. I got a turkey burger and added mushrooms which really yummy and it was very filling. The Decour reminded me of Applebees and TGIF. I love that in the bathroom they actually had a table with Aqua net yes ,you heard correct Aqua net on it
(4)Donna S.
Can't review the restaurant and bar. But I can tell you about their food and service for private parties. My office had their Christmas party there last week. There are a couple of different size room Available, we used a smaller one downstairs which was perfect for our group of 35. Pinocchio's set up a buffet of two green salad ( both very fresh and crisp lettuce), pasta & red sauce, meatballs, and an incredibly delicious white lasagna and rolls. There was a waitress available the entire time of our party to get drinks for us. Also a nice touch that they did a few Christmas decorations on the table. I need to go back sometime for more if that lasagna
(3)Sadie H.
Pinocchio's is the best!! I love the food and the owners and staff are amazing! This is one of my family's favorite places in Reno!
(5)Rachel S.
My mom and I recently had a chance to go on a lunch date, just the two of us. She'd been to Pinocchio's before and wanted to try it again. It was a little later than the normal lunch crowd, maybe 2:00 or so. We got seated immediately; it wasn't very busy. My mom went for the calamari sandwich. I chose the special which was an open faced prime rib sandwich with blue cheese and sauteed mushrooms and onions. My mom said her sandwich was pretty good but could have used a wedge of lemon to squeeze on it. She would have asked for one but the server never checked back on us. I did see that the chunks of calamari in there were enormous, and she gave me a bite of one and it was cooked to perfection. It almost seemed a shame to put them on a sandwich- they need to be served straight up with some marinara for dipping. (But then again, I think I've established my love of calamari by now, right?) My sandwich was only OK. I didn't get to choose how I wanted my meat cooked and it came out much more well done than I usually go for. It was a very thick, large piece of meat though, for the price. So since it was more toward the medium-well level and I prefer the "get it near-ish to the flame" level, I did find it to be fairly dry. However, it was nicely seasoned and not very fatty. And the blue cheese, onions, and mushrooms did help some to cover the dryness. The fries were battered, crisp, and piping hot. I enjoyed the decor. Lots to look at. Looked like they had a really good wine selection. I would go back.
(3)Mary L.
There is a reason it's been in reno FOREVER! The food is good, the staff is wonderful, and the owner is amazing! Just be careful going at lunch time, cause there is often a 20 minute wait! Their chicken salad sandwich is heavenly! Their park crusted lemon chicken is lovely!! But if it's a Friday or Saturday night... ORDER THE SPECIAL!!! Friday its ribs, Saturday it's prime rib... Both are amazing!!! The service is super fast, and always friendly!!! This place is an institution in reno... And there is a reason!!
(5)Michael T.
Wanna know how long JP has been a part of the Reno community? Well it became apparent to me when a possibly pre-Alice Heiman Fred McElroy, lounging on a sailboat, greeted me at the urinal on a recent visit. It was a funny and friendly reminder that JP Pinocchio is someone everybody knows and loves, and a staple in our community. From Mom's on the Run, to catering the Reno Rodeo, and much much more, his support of our community is legendary. JP's passion is Reno and and you can see evidence of the many years of this on all of the walls in his restaurant. From old photos to plaques, antiques, and everything in between, Reno's rich history, and Pinocchio's part in it, are well displayed all over. You cannot be bored looking around here, it's almost like a museum. I came here for the second time with Ashley and her dad. Ashley and I split the spinach dip and the Peppered Salmon Salad. The spinach dip was good, but I really liked the freshly fried corn tortillas that came with it. The salmon was perfectly cooked, flaky, and moist, and the salad it came on top of was lightly dressed and had a lot of goodies throughout. I'm not usually a salad guy, but this was a good one. Ashley's dad ordered a steak sandwich, and he thought it needed a bit more steak. I concur, but the beer battered fries it came with, now there can never be enough of those! Pinocchio's is a great neighborhood restaurant serving up food to match. It's a great place to meet up with friends, grab a drink, reminisce, or meander around and let the stuff on the walls bring you back to your favorite times passed. Will I be back? Sure! I hope to see you there too!
(3)Dawn D.
My husband and I tried Pinnochios for the first time last week. We loved it! Wonderful atmosphere, so much stuff to look at. The food was delicious. I would have given them 5 stars but they ran out of my husband's favorite beer so he drank iced tea instead. We had a male waiter and I wish I could remember his name (Chance?) He was wonderful. We will definitely be going back. I recommend trying this place if you haven't yet.
(4)Alyssa S.
Time out! I feel really excited right now because I just found some AMAZING lasagna right here in Reno, NV! I have always driven by Pinocchio's but never really gave it any thought or credit to being a restaurant that served good food. I guess I just assumed it was a bar that served bar food. My girl Katie, keeps raving about this chicken lasagna they serve and how delicious it is. We agreed to take our men here and catch up over dinner. We walked in and were greeted promptly. We were sat immediately as there was no wait and our server came over and offered to take our drink order. We looked over the menu and being I am part Italian, and grew up with Italian cuisine, I couldn't resist to try the classic meat lasagna. The lasagna came with a house salad which was pretty basic...they serve it family style so we all dug in. We also ordered the flatbread appetizer, which was topped with cheese, garlic, olive oil, tomatoes and basil. It came out in adequate time and really did please everyone's taste buds. The server cleared our plates to make room for our entrees that were about to arrive. (I always love when a server practices good table service!) Next came the Italian cheesy mother of all red sauce goodness. The lasagna was bubbling hot. I couldn't even wait for it to cool down, I justified it as it "Hurt so good" with the steam pouting out of the stretchy layers of mozzarella cheese. It was fantastic and I am going to vote it as the best Reno has to offer. My husband got the Lemon chicken Scallopini which was breaded perfectly, not greasy and fried and have savory and sweet flavors that complimented every bite. We are just so pleased with our dinners and are looking forward to returning! Definitely a great relationship in the making!
(4)CJ o.
Honestly, I don't want to like this place. It oozes Reno Good Ole' Boys Club and I find the decor to be annoying and kitschy, BUT they have good food. Their fish and chips are awesome and the salads are fresh and a good size. Pair that with good service and gigantic soda glasses (I love not having to ask for multiple refills) and I am a two time customer. Let's be honest, I will probably be back :)
(4)Todd S.
Pinocchio's Bar & Grill has accomplished something of a magic trick: they moved to a new location in the midst of a recession and not only survived, but thrived and expanded (with a second location in Sparks). Established in a Reno strip mall circa 1997, the family-owned quasi-Italian restaurant is fondly known for good food and an eclectic collection of kitschy decorations. I'm not entirely certain whether the goal was more room for customers or knick-knacks, but the 2011 move to a new two-level building on South Virginia provides plenty of space for both. I say "quasi-Italian" because the recently-retooled menu is a mashup of pasta dishes, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees, burgers and sandwiches, salads, and bar munchies. If you've never been, a great place to start is the fresh, homemade Ravioli of the Day ($11.95-$13.95). Shortly after our group was seated, a basket of deliciously warm bread arrived with a bottle of 2011 Bell'Agio Chianti I'd selected from the wine wall ($11.99). The selection is pretty impressive, and the prices more so compared to the mark-up usually added to wine in a restaurant setting. Bottles are available for sale to take home or enjoy in-house, with pricing on par to the best retail shops in town (including Big Box stores known for great deals on wine). Affordability shouldn't be the sole motivation to enjoy wine with your meal, but it certainly helps. For starters we ordered Grilled Polenta ($10.95) and deep fried Calamari steak strips ($11.95). The humble texture and flavor of cornmeal combined quite well with melted mozzarella cheese, sauteed mushrooms, and homemade marinara sauce. The menu says it comes with bleu cheese, but I couldn't detect any in the dish and didn't really mind. We scarfed it right up. The battered calamari was served with marinara and lemon wedges, but a bit chewy compared to similar examples. Chewy squid usually indicates either being left in hot oil for more than a couple minutes, or perhaps having sat on the plate too long prior to serving. It wasn't bad, but left some room for improvement. My daughter and I each ordered a cup of Clam Chowder ($3.95) which was full of chopped clam, potato, onion, carrot, and a slightly spicy, herbal-seasoned broth reminiscent of chowder served on Martha's Vineyard. Definitely above average, not the usual flour-thickened fare, and my hard-to-please daughter finished her entire serving. My wife ordered the Big Ass Salad ($8.95) with the grilled chicken option ($3.25). Tossed in a uniquely tangy house vinaigrette and loaded with greens and goodies, they aren't kidding about the size. My daughter and I each got a taste, and you could easily split this salad between two people. The meats on both specials sampled were outstanding, including the 16oz Prime Rib ($21.95) and Pork Loin ($16.95), both applewood-smoked to perfection. The loin was lightly drizzled in a "drunken bourbon sauce", served with a surprisingly spicy, truly tasty capellini primavera (steamed garden veggies with long, thin pasta tossed in a tomato basil sauce). The menu indicates scalloped cheese potatoes, but the prime was served with steamed veggies and mashed potatoes with brown gravy. Nothing wrong with that, but compared to the fantastically medium-rare, smoke and beef delivery system on the plate, the sides felt like stand-ins for something lost in translation. With still wine left to finish, we capped the meal with a shared Brownie Sundae ($8.95), featuring vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, rum sauce, and chocolate syrup topping a molten-hot, plate-sized chocolate fudge brownie. The dry chianti paired perfectly with the gooey, creamy, chocolatey chaos, and both were cleaned up in short order. The goal of the evening was to spend quality time with people we love, and Pinocchio's provided the perfect setting.
(3)Brian E.
We had a corporate seminar at Pinocchios and having been to lots of these type of lunches I almost stopped to get a snack on the way. I have to say that the food was good. They had a couple types of lasagna (both- yes I had both- very tasty), some chicken which was scrumptious and there were 2 salads, rolls and cookies. They had a decent assortment of drinks (some sparkling water that my co-workers snatched up saying "this stuff is like $4 a bottle!) and snacks. All in all a good experience.
(4)Travis S.
If you want a store bought Digiorno pizza with some extra spices for dinner, this is the place for you. Seriously, they buy pizza's at the store, throw spices on them, pass them off as their own. Mediocre food. The bar area is nice and they do have an good house salad. I just question all the food in there when I realized the pizza aspect.
(2)Betty M.
Yum Yum Yum. Great comfort food, I love the chicken lasgana dish- to die for. I felt so relaxed and comfortable while waiting a bit for a table, but worth the wait.
(4)Paul S.
November 22, 2013 Friday - dinner 7:30 PM 2 adults Atmosphere - 4 star Food - 2 stars Service - 3 stars Background - I have been to their old location but never to this one. Atmosphere - The crazy walls covered with odds and end. The new place seemed more organized then the old place, kinda lost that charm. I did love seeing a Chico Heat baseball hat on the ceiling. It dates back to when the Reno Chukars played at Moana Stadium as part of the Western Baseball League. Food Drinks - Just water today. Appetizer - Free bread, small flat French loaf. It was sliced into 4 pieces. I wish it came with plates. You have to eat it right over the table and the crust was very flaky leaving crumbs everywhere. My Main Course - I went with the beef ciabatta. It was a big piece of bread with lots of meat and peppers. The meat was very flavorful, I enjoyed it very much. But the sandwich was a challenge to eat. Half of the filling was on my plate by the time I was half way done. The beef was tuff, which probably helped with the toppings falling out of the sandwich. It was actually easier just using the fork and knife to each the fillings off the plate. Dessert - none. Service - Our waitress was just there. There was nothing special about the service. We did sit at a table and not a booth. We sat by the wine rack which made the table feel like an afterthought. It was a table for four and we both sat at the side away from the walking path. Several times I noticed the wait staff slide their hands across the table as they walked by, really you need to do that? It was just visually distracting as that is my personal space. Future - Probably not as my wife and I were not impressed with the place, so disappointed by that.
(3)Acacia N.
After years of saying "I need to go to Pinocchios" I finally went to Pinocchios. Two words: Ahhh-mazing! Not only was the food (and margarita) delicious, the atmosphere was fantastic. I always pictured Pinocchios as more upscale for some reason and when a friend suggested we try it, I dressed nicely but casual. Thank goodness I didn't go all out. I could literally hang out there in a tank top and flip flops any day of the week. Our sever was the cutest, sweetest thing under the sun and was so excited that it was our first trip there. We asked the normal "what's good here?" And she gave us her lists of favorites and best sellers. Most of which we ordered. Everything was so good and we had so much fun with each other, and the adorable server, that we decided before dinner was done that this is our new same time, same place hangout.
(5)Ashley G.
Pinocchio's is a fun little neighborhood joint - laid back and inviting and the food is pretty good. I shared a salmon salad and a spinach dip with the man. The salad was pretty good, with a nice piece of well-prepared fish. The spinach dip was lacking flavor and more bland white cheese than anything else. It was served with tortilla chips, which I assumed would be corn, but I'm pretty sure they were flour. Even the waitress was uncertain about that. Bummer for us gluten sensitive folk. Best part about this place - if your dinner date is boring you (or you are dining solo), there are plenty of interesting things to check out hanging all around you on the walls and ceilings.
(3)Brian G.
The menu here is good, and everything is done right. They have a good bar and the wines are awesome and reasonable. We have never had a bad experience at Pinocchio's. It is a family atmosphere. I usually reserve a 5 star dining experience for a "fine dining resturant." This place has it all, great honest food, nice atmosphere and excellent service. You just can't go wrong. If you want a surprisingly good sandwich, try the calamari. If it's beef you crave, the rib eye steak or a cut of perfectly seasoned prime rib is the way to go. The salads are heaven, and don't neglect to check out the wine wall! If you want low carb, sub pasta for veg on any pasta dish and you won't be disappointed. Something for everyone!
(5)Katie A.
Love their Big A** Salad!! It's the best with Cajun chicken! They will have it ready for you in 15 minutes if you call it in! The only thing I think they could work on is service. Sometimes the girls at the counter aren't very friendly.
(4)Cork C.
All of our office celebrations seem to be at Pinocchio's, just went there last week for one of my office managers 12 years of loyal service. As always they are very accommodating friendly not to mention the food which is always bountiful and delicious. It starts at the top with the owners who are good solid characters and works its way down. Always a festive and fun loving atmosphere. Thanks for all the memories and look forward to more to come.
(4)Mi M.
Soooo happy that we stumbled across this place on a recent errand trip to Reno! Boyfriend had the Turkey Club with fries and I had the Italian Deli sandwich with side salad. We both agreed that they were the best sandos we've had in years. Bread was fresh and delicious, and the fillings were piled high and oh-so-tasty. Fries were good and I was pleased that the salad wasn't just a bowl of iceberg lettuce as has been the case far too often lately. It was a nice combo of mixed greens with shredded carrots, onions, blue cheese crumbles and a wonderful Dijon vinaigrette - yummy! At first I thought it was pretty pricey, at about $12 per sandwich, but then I realized we would have two meals out of it since we were completely stuffed after finishing half a sandwich each. Next time, we might split one. We love that they have a full bar, but since I was driving I only had iced tea. Even that was really good, with a slightly different and more interesting flavor than the same old black tea every place serves. Service was prompt, friendly and very efficient. Overall, it was a great experience and we look forward to our next visit.
(4)Nicole C.
Really appreciated the friendly service combined with our HUGE Portions of spaghetti & meatballs. Definately homemade meatballs and sauce. Above our expectations.
(4)Katie P.
I recently attended a bridal shower here and I wasn't expecting much. My boyfriend and I had eaten here a year or so ago and it was good, but nothing to write home about. Also, I'm always disappointed by "catered" in-restaurant food (you know those events: office Christmas parties, retirement parties, receptions, etc.) where it always seems the food never resembles anything the restaurant even serves and they forget to add the flavor. Well, I had no idea how pleasantly surprised I was about to be. When they lifted the lids off the warmers it was like I was in food heaven. The choices seemed endless and the quantity didn't have me worried they would run out before it was my turn. I chose a little of this and a little of that. I sampled it all. The crowning glory was the tomato soup and the mushroom chicken lasagne. Good God was the lasagne gluttonous. My friend and I decided to look like the fattest chicks there and went for seconds. It was dangerous, but WORTH IT. There was also the biggest bowl of fresh fruit I've ever seen in my life. The best part? Everything they served at the shower, they have on.the.menu . I wanted to find a table downstairs and order another piece of lasagne, but I felt that was overkill. I WILL be back to get more of that lasagne.
(5)Rob O.
Highly recommend to Yelpers out there! The Calamari sandwich for lunch will never disappoint. Nice variety of food choices you can pretty much bring anyone here and they will enjoy it.
(5)Glenn B.
A local favorite. Very good food. Never had a bad dish. Location in Reno is newer and very clean. I like the flank steak cesar salad.
(5)Robert S.
A coworker of mine kept raving about this place having an amazing dessert. I didn't have the dessert, but I still enjoyed my meal. We arrived for a late lunch. The place wasn't very busy and we were immediately seated. Both the hostess and our waitress were VERY efficient. We ordered..... Nachos (probably wont again) These were more homestyle baked in the oven. Nowhere near bad, just not my style. It did have some great guacamole. Cashew Chicken Salad Sandwich bread was a little weak for the sammich but is worth doing again. Big Ass Salad. Usually when something has a name like this, it doesn't live up to the hype. But this one certainly did. Perfectly pre-dressed and fresh. Quite possibly the best salad in Reno. Turkey Ciabatta too much food was eaten before this for my son to do anything but take a bite and ask for a box. It should be noted he ate it later happily. The prices here are mid market and a good value. They aren't uber budget food, but they definitely aren't so spendy it's a rare occasion to go here. The atmosphere is great on the inside. It's very surprising how a concrete building on the outside can be so comfortable on the inside. I will return and I will recommend Pinocchio's to my friends.
(4)Luyang Z.
The worst restaurant I have ever been. There were only a few customers inside and most of the tables were empty and clean, but the server still made me waiting for 15 minutes and got no response at all.
(1)Kerry G.
Great food and great service! Had to stop here while visiting Reno! Will return next time I'm in town!
(4)Manny G.
Salads are the best. Service was a bit slow for not being very busy. Interior is decorated really cool. Good place for lunch.
(4)Forrest C.
Great food and atmosphere. My visit was during the winter, we visited several restaurants, this was the first one that I didn't have to wear a jacket while eating. Very nice for a Californian not use to cold weather. Pinocchio's is very family friendly but great for couples too. We got to meet the owner and his Daughter who runs this Restaurant and will definitely be back. Great local eatery, not to be missed. Wish they would open a location in Santa Cruz. Nice wine list and very helpful recommendations.
(5)Doreen N.
food awful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(1)Paul W.
I've had good and bad from Pinocchio's. This time I'm zeroing in on Pinocchio's home made clam chowder. It's the best I've had west of Rhode Island. I don't know if it's on the menu every day, but when it is you should order a bowl. Incredible spicy complexity for a clam chowder. I suggest a bottle of white wine, a bowl or a bowl and a cup of the chowder, some bread and BOFFO! The number of stars on this post is about the chowder only, and it deserves five stars! The waitress that served our table that evening deserves at least six stars.
(5)Ray F.
I've been here many times over the years and the food is always of a fairly high quality and cooked well. If you go on prine rib night don't pass it up its fantastic. The staff is usually fairly attentive. I enjoy eating here because it's big portions for a fair price and the waitresses are cute.
(3)Sandy Y.
This place has been around Reno for quite a few years but I never tried it growing up. It recently moved to a new location but still has a local following. The restaurant has a great vibe with crazy crap all over the walls from Italian posters to wedding pics to statues, you name it! They have a decent wine offering and a full bar but drinks are pretty pricey especially for a small, local restaurant. They had some fun holiday cocktails as well. My brother-in-law had a Long Island Ice Tea, nothing fancy but it was $9 just for the drink. I'd say it should be closer to $7. The service was good and food came pretty quickly. Prices were also very reasonable for the dishes and portions were good. My sister had the country fried chicken salad with a peppercorn blue cheese dressing on the side, which is not a common salad dressing option which she very much enjoyed. The chicken was also not overly breaded but very fresh and tasted great with just the right amount of crisp. My brother-in-law had the hot and spicy pasta dish (not for whimps) and they weren't lying. The chicken and sausage were very good but the pasta definitely is a punch in the month. It tastes delicious but may be difficult to stomach a whole plate of pasta since your mouth starts being on fire! I tried the chicken/mushroom ravioli special in a white cream sauce. The sauce definitely mimicks an alfredo sauce so if you're not into heavy cream sauces, not the best choice. Otherwise, the flavor was great and was a good portion. Good local spot similar to a BJs or Chili's with lots of options.
(4)Em K.
I understand this is a dive bar...but the food was no good. ambience: fun, eclectic, good dive bar vibe. service: friendly and pretty attentive food: no bueno. the portions are generous but the food was really no good. no finesse in any of the dishes. calamari sandwich had small fried sticks of calamari and a LOT of mayo. fries were over-fried. overall a very very greasy dish. the husband had a pasta dish that was...mediocrely prepared. I'm not a good cook, so when i feel like I can make a dish better at home, that's a problem. Doesn't look like we'll be returning.
(2)Brandy C.
Salads are HUGE and amazing and the service is great (whether their busy or slow)! Can't ask for a better place!!
(5)Elaine C.
Best wings in town, favorite family place. Great service. Company mediocre. The big ass salad is delicious.
(5)Adam J.
Great lunch and good service, menu needs work but sure to be something there you will like. Company I sat with had a veggie wrap, the big ass salad, and I had a cajun chicken sandwich. Veggie wrap looked great but maybe a pita would have worked better, the salad was big, and my sandwich had great flavor, chicken wasn't over done, and bread could hold it all together. The menu is very starchy in general be ready for carbs and pasta if you go!
(4)Sunny D.
My husband had been a regular of Pinocchio's in Sparks so we decided to try the Reno location. I ordered the cashew chicken salad sandwich and my husband ordered Jake's big burger. Both were awful! My sandwich was so soggy I couldn't pick it up to eat it. It actually dripped from my fork with which I had to eat it with. I barely stomached half and was done. The burger made my husband sick. He was up most of the night in the bathroom. We will not be going to Pinocchio's again. I gave 2 stars for the very nice waitress. She was kind and attentive to each table. We will not be going back.
(2)Michael S.
My family of 5 all gave it 5 stars. We found the food flavorful and not at all short on taste. Be back soon!!!
(5)Quinn B.
Tuesday night spaghetti and meatballs. Enough said, but more to come for sure. Love the turkey ciabatta and I could eat the fries all day long. JP and family always treat you like you are a part of the family. Even sitting down with you every so often to catch up. Miss this place everyday Tuesday and every other day for that matter.
(5)Arnold M.
Food is adequate, but in general this restaurant is hugely overated. The steak calamari is like shoe leather. UUggh!
(1)Stephanie C.
I used to be a huge fan of this place. I would want to eat here all of the time. It is still pretty good but it seems like their food has gotten so much heavier and oilier than it ever was before. The service is always really friendly so that makes it nice to visit. I can take my son here and he likes the decor and the booths make it nice to keep him locked in and busy so we can enjoy a meal. I would have given this place 5 stars a few years ago but they just aint what they used to be.
(4)Valarie R.
Okay, giving this place five stars might immediately make you think I don't have great taste. And I know, the food here really doesn't warrant this high of a ranking, but I'm taking a lot of other things into account. It isn't a fine restaurant. If you are looking for a place for a special occasion, this might not be it. But for a bite to eat and a beer, this is the spot. Fun decor, warm and inviting atmosphere, excellent, happy staff, and the ever-present J.P. (owner) are all plusses. The food is good, consistent, solid, with lots of choices. I really like J.P.'s chicken because I am on a special diet and it fits it, tastes delicious, and is a bargain at $11.95. It comes with a nice salad and garlic bread. My husband and I usually pick a bottle of wine off the wine wall, which is ingenious. The wine is very well priced (I think we paid $10.95 for a Grothe Chardonnay), they will re-cork and let you take home whatever you don't drink. However, really the reason I am giving this place five stars is the people. Let's face it, Reno is in trouble. We need to support each other, because nobody is coming to bail us out. An important way to do that is to support local businesses that give back to our community. The Pinocchios are a wonderful local family. They are the heart and soul of the Moms on the Run fundraiser for breast cancer research. They give wholeheartedly to this community; their time, their energy, and most assuredly their money. It is because of this that we spend our money there. I understand that I vote with my dollars, and that this is the type of place that needs my vote. My money stays here in my community instead of being shared by stockholders that most-likely spend their money somewhere else. Thank you Pinocchio's for both providing a great eating establishment, and for giving so much to this community. I support you, too.
(5)David B.
Pinocchio's has a tight menu, and everything I've tried is spectacular. I would recommend this little restaurant to anyone looking for American bar and grill food with an Italian flare. The theme is a bit hard to pin down with the old timey pictures, wall of old skis, various pictures, instruments, do-dads and anything else you can think of, but it is quite comfortable, and the service is excellent. As for the food, let me tell you about what I've tried so far. The Chicken and Wild Mushroom spinach lasagna is to die for with its rich cheesiness--definitely made with lots of parmesan and perhaps Asiago, but there's no ricotta filler here--just pure creamy delight. Trust me it's dynamite. The Chicken Scallopini is unbelievable too. You get 2 large chicken breast pieces battered and fried and topped with a delicious lemon caper sauce with mushrooms coupled with Mostaccoli tube pasta and a stunningly good red sauce with steamed veggies on the side. That same Mostaccoli tube pasta and red sauce seems to be the base for the Hot-n-spicy Pasta, but they kicked it up about 15-hundred notches. This dish is ridiculously spicy--"not for wimps" the menu says. It's so spicy it makes my nose run and eyes water, but I still want more because it's so darn good. It's made with chicken, Italian sausage, mushrooms, the spicy red sauce, and the tube pasta. If you like spicy, you'll love it. I also tried the Parmesan Crusted Lemon Chicken several times. This dish is just amazing. They serve 2 pieces of chicken, breaded with heavy parmesan. The lemon is just a subtle note in the flavor and isn't nearly as noticeable as the parmesan. I hear that the restaurant is moving soon to the Whole Foods shopping center on the NW corner of S. Virginia and Neil.
(5)Chad L.
I love this place. My wife and I visit Pinocchio's every year before we head to Tahoe for vacation. Incredibly friendly staff, great food (BBQ rib eye), and creative drink specials. I love the atmosphere of this place, too.
(5)Tracy S.
I had heard that Pinnochio's had an awesome lasagna, so Husband and I decided to try it out for lunch last week. The place was packed with the polo shirts and khaki shorts crowd, and we actually felt a bit too young to be eating here (and let's face it, at my age that can be a good feeling!). We were seated at a comfortable booth seat, which made me happy, because the center tables didn't look too comfortable. I was made uneasy, though, by the tremendous amount of random junk hanging directly over our heads by thin wires. It really looks like one good earthquake will bring it all crashing down! Anyways, back to the lasagna. I opened up my menu, and found the lasagna. Then I saw the price of the lasagna and my eyes started bleeding. In fact, everything on the menu was really overpriced for lunchtime fare. The lasagna was on the entrees side, and the cheapest entree was $14.95. The sandwiches side wasn't much better, with an average sandwich price of $10. I wouldn't mind these prices for dinner, but I was disappointed that there was no cheaper lunch menu to choose from. So really, Husband and I were kind of irritated by Pinnochio's before we even got our food. Really, it just feels like it thinks way too much of itself for a bar in a strip mall. Kind of like it was designed to attract an older, wealthier kind of clientele who want to feel like they've discovered a "hole-in-the-wall" place without actually having a dive restaurant experience. And the food? The food was good. That is what pushed it up a star. I had the veggie sandwich and it was very tasty...hearty and filling. The fries were nice, too. Husband was not a fan of his steak sandwich, but I think he was letting his irritation with the price sneak through. Overall, it was good food, but for the price, I would not go back again. And no, I didn't even try the lasagna. Sorry, but I'm not willing to drop $16 on pasta for lunch.
(3)Scott R.
One of Reno's hidden gems. The food is just spectacular, the service is home grown friendly, most of the staff are family. There is more Reno history on the walls than the Reno History Museum (do we have a museum?). 60% of the time, it works....everytime. Wondering where to go for dinner tonight? Pick Pinocchio's, I ain't lyin'. My nose hasn't grown since 8th grade. Too far?
(5)Michelle K.
Over priced pasta
(2)Garry A.
Nice restaurant very eclectic . Great food. Uncomfortable atmosphere! we came to visit family in Sparks and Yelped for a good Italian restaurant and Pinocchio's had good reviews. But who was that man yelling at an employee in front of the customers? How DEMEANING TO STAFF, LACKING MANAGEMENT SKILLS! if he was the manager he needs to get a grip.! Felt very sorry for that employee and hope she realizes that this is harassment, you can tell- these employees are working in a hostile work environment. Not sure if I would go back again. If this is the restaurants work ethics, it is very dehumanizing for the employees!
(2)