We had a wonderful experience at Paolettis. Our hostess seated our group as requested in table promptly. Our server, Saundra was superb, attentive , but not overbearing, and made great wine and food suggestions based on years of experience at the restaurant. Everyone was pleased with their choices, so I will just comment on mine. Saundra had suggested the cioppino paoletti after hearing us talk about a recent trip to Maine. This dish was phenomenal! It easily compared to the seafood dishes we ate in Maine, and in some aspects was better. Desserts and after dinner dinner drinks were also great.
Paoletti's is a Highlands, NC classic and one of our favorite dining experiences for the past 10 years. But don't think they are resting on their laurels and well-established reputation. I found many new dishes that stood up to my expectations of creative and well executed culinary offerings. The new and updated interior also added to our overall experience. Finally, this review would be egregiously remiss if it did not mention that Paoletti's has, hands down, the best and most extensive wine list in Highlands. After all these years, still our favorite restaurant in town!
A rare exceptional experience, Gina, third generation restaurateur, stopped by our table to ensure we were tended to properly. Saundra led us through an incredible dining experience. The octopus was the best we've ever eaten. We found out it arrived fresh from the Mediterranean within hours of being served. The Bolognese was classic and superb. The wine was transcendent and paired perfectly with the outstanding culinary experience. We will be talking about this meal for years to come!
The restaurant is quite crowded and has a tight layout, so it may not be ideal for those who are claustrophobic. However, our server Bryon was fantastic! He was knowledgeable, attentive, and brought a sense of humor to the evening.
This was our first visit, and we’re excited to return. I plan to try the fish next time. The menu is wonderful! As for parking, finding a spot in downtown Highlands can be a bit challenging, but it’s manageable.
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My wife and I had a wonderful romantic dinner last night at Ristorante Paoletti. The ambiance was charming with a cool vibe and an excellent music playlist. We shared the grouper, which was incredibly delicious! Our server, Juan, was outstanding—very personable and warm, with an engaging demeanor. We truly enjoyed a fine dining experience in Highlands, and we will definitely be returning. Service: Dine-in Meal type: Dinner.
**Meal Type:** Dinner
**Price per Person:** $50–$100
**Food:** ★★★★★
**Service:** ★★★★★
**Atmosphere:** ★★★★★
I highly recommend trying the Carbonara and the Escargot All' Forno. Both dishes were outstanding and added to the overall exceptional dining experience. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was inviting and warm, making it a perfect spot for a nice dinner.
This was one of the best dining experiences my husband and I have ever had. We were celebrating our honeymoon and the staff could not have been kinder or more exceptional. Not only was the service amazing, but the food was absolutely incredible. We would absolutely recommend this restaurant and can’t wait to come back!
It had been several years since we ate dinner at Paolettis. The service was the same as we remembered- exquisite. The new bolognese was the best I have ever had. We were treated with an especially good dinner and had one of the most memorable anniversaries. Thank you Paoletti team!!
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Everything about our meal was fabulous. Our waitress, Heather, was outstanding. We had multiple people attend to us and no detail was left out. The food was incredible, and the wine list is extensive. We celebrated our anniversary here and will definitely be going back.
The best meal I’ve had all year. Always a wonderful experience! Service was amazing. And the coconut cake was to die for!
Gnocchi Di Ricotta Al Filetto Di Pomodoro
Costolette Di Vitello Alla Marsala
Risotto W/ Grilled Shrimp Scallops
Tortellini Di Formaggio Alla Panna
Spinaci Alla Panna Con Formaggio
Scaloppine Di Vitello Al Gusto
Mezze Rigatoni Alla Bolognese
Porcini Crusted Rack Of Lamb
Spiced Cervena Elk Rib Chop
Broccoletti Al Aglio E Olio
