The little Italy of Fredericksburg

By JULIANNE KUHN

Since its opening, Basilico set out to provide a unique dining experience, intentionally distancing itself from other Italian restaurant competitors. Its convenient location on Cowan Boulevard is easily within walking or driving distance from the University of Mary Washington campus. Upon walking in you can grab a menu and order your choice of a variety of pizzas, pastas, soups, salads, paninis and other deserts at the register.

From there, your food is delivered hot and fresh to your table, and if you order to-go it will be packaged and ready to eat for when you get home. Phone orders are gladly accepted, and delivery is available to the UMW area.

Basilico offers a combination of Italian classics and New York deli favorites, but what sets them apart from the rest is their dedication to bringing a variety of imported Italian products to your fingertips. As the only Italian market in Fredericksburg, Basilico does not disappoint.

Alongside fresh, dried and frozen pastas, you will find risotto imported from northern Italy, cheeses from the regions of Sicily, Veneto, Campania and Piemonte, canned goods, dry goods and, of course, a variety of wine to enjoy with your meal. The staff is knowledgeable about Italy and its foods and will help you along the way to choosing the perfect ingredients for your meal, as well as an Italian wine to go with it.

Each Wednesday, the restaurant hosts a wine happy hour from 4-6 p.m. and offers daily lunch specials that are perfect for getting a fresh, tasty meal without breaking the bank.

However, as delicious as they may be, the entrees are not the crown jewel of the Basilico dining experience. Nested along the far wall is a veritable heaven of dessert offerings, from cannolis, tiramisu and a diverse selection of gelato flavors.

Dessert enthusiasts can indulge in cannolis, tiramisu, fruit tarts, profiteroles (an Italian cream puff covered in chocolate) and many other beautifully made Italian and American favorites. A variety of gelatos in dazzling colors and flavors with Italian names are pleasing both to the eyes and the taste buds. Chocolate lovers can indulge in cioccolato and Nutella, while those desiring a fruity experience can get a scoop of aranciata or limone.

Stop by Basilico for your next lunch break, you will not be disappointed. Buon Appetito!