Ardo

Located in the heart of Old Town, Ardo is a deeply personal project from chef-owner Roberto Marotta and creative director Jacqueline Nicosia. Named after their son Leonardo’s childhood nickname for himself, the restaurant is a love letter to Marotta’s native Sicily. The space itself strikes a balance between intimate trattoria and modern city spot, featuring soft lighting, black-and-white family photos, and a retractable garage door that brings the energy of King Street East inside during warmer months. It is the kind of place where the hospitality feels genuine rather than rehearsed, making it a reliable choice for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a celebratory evening.

For a first-timer, the menu is best approached by sharing a few spuntini—the grilled octopus and the tuna carpaccio are consistently excellent—before diving into the house-made pastas. You cannot go wrong with the gnocchi or the ragu, both of which showcase the kitchen's commitment to authentic, high-quality ingredients. If you are in the mood for pizza, their sourdough crust is exceptionally light and airy. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends, as the intimate dining room fills up quickly. While the price point reflects the quality of the imported Sicilian ingredients, it remains approachable for the caliber of food. Don't leave without ordering the traditional Sicilian cannoli; it is made to order and is arguably the best way to finish your meal.