You walk into a place that feels like a time capsule. Red leather booths. Dim lighting that makes everyone look just a little bit more mysterious. White tablecloths so crisp they almost snap. This is Nello's Restaurant Redding CA, or more accurately, Nello’s Place, a spot that has been anchoring the local dining scene since 1980.
Honestly, if you ask three different locals about Nello’s, you’re gonna get four different opinions. Some people swear it’s the only place in town for a real anniversary dinner. Others will tell you it hasn't changed since the Reagan administration—and they don't mean that as a compliment. But that’s the thing about a landmark. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a vibe.
The Story Behind the Red Booths
Nello and Tomiko started this whole thing decades ago. Nello himself actually came out of "retirement" to open the place because he couldn't find a decent Italian meal in Redding. Think about that for a second. The man was so committed to a good plate of pasta that he built an entire business just to satisfy his own standards. That’s peak old-school energy.
Before landing in Northern California, Nello was a fixture in places like Las Vegas and San Francisco. We're talking 1960s Vegas—catering to the stars at a place called "Talk of the Town." You can still feel that DNA in the service. The servers here aren't just "order takers." They know the menu. They understand how to pace a meal.
It’s a family affair, too. Even today, you’ll see the family influence throughout the operation. That’s likely why it hasn’t been "corporatized." There’s no streamlined, focus-grouped efficiency here. It’s just Italian-American food served with a side of nostalgia.
What to Actually Order (And What to Skip)
Let's get real about the food. If you go to Nello's Restaurant Redding CA and just order a basic spaghetti, you're doing it wrong. You're there for the show.
The Caesar Salad for Two
This is arguably the most famous thing on the menu. They prepare it tableside. It involves a raw egg, lots of garlic, and a serious amount of theater. It’s salty, it’s creamy, and it’s arguably the best Caesar in the county. Some people think the raw egg thing is "too much," but honestly, it’s the only way to do it properly.
🔗 Read more: Why an Arts and Crafts Box is the Only Screen-Time Antidote That Actually Works
Steak Diane and Saltimbocca
If you want the full Nello's experience, you go for the Steak Diane. Again, tableside prep. It’s flambéed, it’s dramatic, and it smells incredible. The Veal Saltimbocca is another heavy hitter—tender veal lined with prosciutto and sage.
The "Hidden" Hits
- Escargots: Not everyone’s cup of tea, but they do them in a heavy garlic butter that begs for extra bread.
- Scampi della Casa: Massive prawns that haven't been overcooked to rubber.
- Homemade Cannoli: Don't leave without one. They’re crunchy, sweet, and actually taste like they were made in-house.
The Atmosphere Debate
Okay, we have to talk about the "dated" factor. If you’re looking for a sleek, modern gastropub with exposed brick and Edison bulbs, you will hate it here. Nello's Restaurant Redding CA is dark. Like, "can't read the menu without a flashlight" dark.
Some call it romantic. Others call it a cave.
But there’s a comfort in that darkness. It feels private. In a world where every new restaurant feels like a bright, loud cafeteria, Nello’s offers a corner where you can actually have a conversation. The price point is definitely on the "upscale" side for Redding—usually $30 to $50 for an entree—but you aren't just paying for the calories. You're paying for the fact that nobody is rushing you out the door.
👉 See also: Cotton Flannel Pajamas for Women: What Most People Get Wrong About Staying Warm
How to Navigate a Visit
Planning is key here. You can't just roll up on a Saturday night and expect a booth.
- Call Ahead: They do take reservations. Do it. Especially for groups of five or more.
- Dress Up (A Little): There’s no formal dress code, but you’ll feel weird in flip-flops. Most people go "business casual" or "date night sharp."
- Pace Yourself: The portions are deceptive. Between the bread and the appetizers, it’s easy to hit a wall before the main course arrives.
- Check the Hours: They’re usually closed Sundays and Mondays. Dinner service typically starts at 5:00 PM.
Why It Still Matters in 2026
Redding’s food scene has grown a lot. We’ve got better coffee, better tacos, and more variety than we did ten years ago. But Nello’s occupies a specific niche that hasn't been replaced. It represents a style of "fine dining" that is slowly disappearing—the kind where the owner knows your name and the recipes haven't changed since 1983.
Whether you think it’s a "landmark" or a "relic" depends entirely on what you value in a night out. If you want consistency and a sense of history, it’s hard to beat.
👉 See also: Why Adding Lime in Coke Actually Changes the Chemistry of Your Soda
Actionable Insights for Your Visit:
- Request a Booth: The 1/2 circle booths are the most comfortable and offer the best "vibe."
- Ask About Specials: They often have seasonal fish or veal preparations that aren't on the standard printed menu.
- Validation: Parking is in a private lot, so you don't have to worry about Bechelli Lane traffic.
- Celebrate Something: It’s one of the few places in town that truly feels "special" for a birthday or anniversary, often involving a complimentary treat if you mention it.