Blue Cave Italian Restaurant

My husband and I recently dined at your restaurant, drawn in by its stylish décor and promising Italian menu. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and our server, Jacob, was friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome from the start.

That said, we felt the food didn’t quite match the high expectations set by the surroundings. The biggest issue was the flavor—many of the dishes were underseasoned and lacked the bold, layered taste we associate with good Italian cooking. We’re not ones to send food back to the kitchen, so we did our best to enjoy the meal, but it was hard not to notice the absence of that extra spark.

The gnocchi bolognese, which we hoped would be a highlight, was just okay. The gnocchi were soft but a bit too close to mushy, and while the sauce was generous, it leaned heavily on tomato rather than the rich depth of a slow-cooked ragu.

With the wonderful service and appealing atmosphere, we truly wanted to love the experience. We think with a bit more attention to seasoning and balance, the food could match the charm of the space and service.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 2

Service: 5

Nicely decorated quiet dining area. Everything was well prepared, in ample portions and fairly priced. Short but carefully chosen wine list. We enjoyed the Grillo and the Nebbiolo. We have been fans of Mario and the Blue Cave since it opened in downtown Buffalo and we enjoyed its new home.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Absolutely delicious! The dining area is cozy and comfortable. The staff is attentive and friendly and the food is out of this world. They are obviously using top quality ingredients and it is masterfully prepared! Spotless silverware and crystal clear glassware. The prices are reasonable for the caliber of food and service they present you with. I would definitely pay more. We will be back again and again. I’m excited to experience it in the fall. They are using the old-fashion motto of just giving people what they want. Works every time! Thank you so much!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I ate the WHOLE thing. Most delicious food I think I've ever had! Filleto di Branzino. I highly recommend!!!!!!! Thanks chef Mario

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I've dined at The Blue Cave several times and have never been disappointed. Delicious Italian food, great service and a lovely atmosphere.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Gnocchi Bolognese, Short Ribs-Brasato, Bread Service

I have been there multiple times and the food/service/drinks have been AMAZING every single time

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The restaurant is Italian and has a rustic European look - we were told the 2nd floor is normally used for parties of 8 and up. The patio is open for seating and is dog-friendly but it was too warm today so we ate inside. The bar and kitchen are in the center and there is seating on both sides. We started with drinks and complimentary focaccia bread. My husband had salmon wrapped in a puff pastry served with asparagus, his sister had Ziti alla Genovese (see menu photo), and I had Gnocchi Bolognese. We shared two desserts - lemoncello cake and a strawberries and cream gelato. The service was great (Gianni), the temperature inside not too cold or hot, and the bathroom was clean. We definitely recommend!

The restaurant is Italian and has a rustic European look - we were told the 2nd floor is normally used for parties of 8 and up. The patio is open for seating and is dog-friendly but it was too warm today so we ate inside. The bar and kitchen are in the center and there is seating on both sides. We started with drinks and complimentary focaccia bread. My husband had salmon wrapped in a puff pastry served with asparagus, his sister had Ziti alla Genovese (see menu photo), and I had Gnocchi Bolognese. We shared two desserts - lemoncello cake and a strawberries and cream gelato. The service was great (Gianni), the temperature inside not too cold or hot, and the bathroom was clean. We definitely recommend!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

First time there... loved the food (big portions), great service and relaxed atmosphere. Will definitely go again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Authentic Sicilian (Arancini / Caponata / pane Pannelle ) and Southern Italian comfort food ... Fantastic location in Lewiston with plenty of parking . Wishing Blue Cave continued success !

The restaurant is Italian and has a rustic European look - we were told the 2nd floor is normally used for parties of 8 and up. The patio is open for seating and is dog-friendly but it was too warm today so we ate inside. The bar and kitchen are in the center and there is seating on both sides. We started with drinks and complimentary focaccia bread. My husband had salmon wrapped in a puff pastry served with asparagus, his sister had Ziti alla Genovese (see menu photo), and I had Gnocchi Bolognese. We shared two desserts - lemoncello cake and a strawberries and cream gelato. The service was great (Gianni), the temperature inside not too cold or hot, and the bathroom was clean. We definitely recommend!

I've been to Blue Cave twice now...their orecchiette with sausage and mushrooms is ADDICTIVE!! Not sure what made me order it ...typically I order a seafood pasta with a creamy Alfredo-like sauce, but now I cannot get enough of it!! The chef is extremely talented, and in my opinion, he works magic in his kitchen. Every dish I watch go by looks extraordinary! Bellissimo....absolutely amazing food Chef!

Outstanding meal tonight at Blue Cave in Lewiston! Each dish was perfectly prepared and so delicious, fresh and flavorful, and served very timely. The menu offered a range of southern Italian dishes that we already know and love, but with each having the Chef's own special twist to them. We tried: perfect crisp chicken Milanese, amazing salmon en crosta, freshly made burrata, fresh fried oysters, limoncello cream cake, and house-made cannoli! Each was excellent and perfect for a summer evening. The staff were courteous and friendly, service was efficient and the cocktails were well-made with a well-stocked bar. The wine list appears to be curated to complement the menu items and offers a good range of choices. They have made some pleasant improvements to the dining room, lightening the decor to feel more like a fine trattoria now, and the space feels brighter and more open. There is also a patio dining area with several tables that we would have tried had it been a cooler evening. Highly recommend giving Blue Cave a try! We can't wait to return! Thinking about having that Branzino next...

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Just superb. First time here. If you know Italian food, you will want one of everything on the menu. Had the burrata (which must have been made fresh on premises) and the chicken Milanese. Both flawless. Cocktails expertly made and good selection, and very nice wine choices as well. Highly recommend this new addition to the Lewiston dining scene.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This place is pro tRump. Not me, I'll spend my money elsewhere.