Our new favorite sister restaurants are Carmello’s and Monza Italian in downtown Manassas.
Located a short drive away from Arcadia Run, these two restaurants are ideal for a night out. And while they each offer a distinct menu and atmosphere, both are guaranteed to be a hit; these restaurants know authentic European food.
Carmello’s specializes in find Portugese food, which includes an extensive, and irresistible, list of Portugese wines. So whether you’re a wine snob or just looking for a delicious vino, Carmello’s has you covered.
The food at Carmello’s is bright, fresh and made with meticulous attention to detail. And since the meals are crafted with local food made at its peak season in mind, Carmello’s menu changes seasonally. We love the Lambo de Porco – a mouthwatering combination of prosciutto, risotto, pork tenderloin, shittake mushrooms and golden raisins in a delicious wine sauce. If you’re feeling particularly authentic, don’t miss the Mussels Portuguesas, mussels made to perfection (but warning: you just might start scoffing at the dish at other restaurants!). And for dessert? You must try the mascarpone mousse.
And the best part about having sister restaurants is that you can go to both in one night, if you want! Waiting for your table at Carmello’s? Head over for a pre-dinner drink at Monza. When it’s time, it’s no problem bringing your drink over to the Portugese restaurant. And the same goes for the opposite.
We love Monza Italian and their diverse selection of pastas, salads and sausages. And one of the best parts about Monza is that you’ll sit down to a delicious meal without feeling overstuffed at the end; the food is decadent without being overbearing. And Monza boasts an impressive beer menu; few fine restaurants have such a variety of bottled brews! From brick oven pizzas to creative pastas – we strongly suggest the Jack’s Special, a Monza favorite, and every time you order the entree Monza donates $1 to the Wounded Warrior Project and Oral History Fund! – the food at Monza is affordable and delicious. And the flavors you get here are hard to find anywhere else, so look no further than Monza!
We don’t know many sister resturants that have such different menus but share such similar dedication to only serving up the best possible dish. But that’s what you’ll find at Monza Italian and Carmello’s Portugese Restaurant, and you’ll be glad you came.
For more information on the sister restaurants, “like” them both on Facebook! Monza | Carmello’s
Image: Carmello’s