Ratings and reviews
Vita del Lago Photos
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM |
| Thursday | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM |
| Friday | 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
| Sunday | 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM |
Vita del Lago Reviews
Amazing food and service. The ambiance was right on for the experience. I would say it hits family style, just a little bit short of fine dining. Super flexible in customizing meal orders. I highly recommend going here for a delicious dinner with good service.
I first time to this restaurant in Michigan city. I am Italian and very rarely do I enjoy Italian food at restaurants. This wonderful place blew me away. I would highly recommend almost anything on the menu. The atmosphere is tremendous. If the weather is nice, the patio is a great place to hang out. it is a wonderful place for a special event or just a drop in as you are. We will be back.
Everything about this place was fantastic! The food, service, ambiance! What a great place in Michigan City! At the recommendation of the owner we ordered a salad, pasta, and meat and shared, and I HATE sharing when it comes to food. Everything was delicious and we were so full! The meatball lasagna is a great dish! This just became my new favorite Italian place in the area. It is a la carte but totally priced well.
My friends & I had an amazing experience dining at Vita del Lago. It was a first for all of us and everything we tried was delicious! The service was great, ambiance was comfortable and welcoming, and we even got to speak with the owner for a bit. Amazing wine and cocktail selection, as well. I plan to go back soon!
First time dining here. So wonderful. Greeted promptly and warmly. All 4 of us really enjoyed everything. New York Strip MR - perfect - 2 of us had the truffle mushroom ravioli- amazingly delicate such a light sauce - white wine with sliced mushrooms. We marveled at the delicacy with each bite. One person had the Mediterranean salad. We all shared the 2 huge meatballs as an appetizer- family recipe and it did not disappoint. The owner was bartending and made spot on Cosmos - she was delightful, warm and projected true welcome and hospitality plus! Our server was Shaq ( hope that's how to spell his name?) and he was so engaging, knowledgeable and fun. I wish I remembered the young ladies name, who seated us and helped keep bread flowing and our table cleared . She was clearly knowledgeable and easily kept the glow going for the whole restaurant.
Hands down THE BEST bruschetta I've had in ages. It was served with crostinis and a fresh mozzarella ball in the center. Service was prompt and kind. I had the meatball marinara with anti pasta salad as a meal and my husband had the meatball lasagna. Both were very good. The sauce on the lasagna was a little more on the sweet side but he enjoyed it. My sauce on the meatballs was a bit more garlic flavored which is the way I like it. Warm bread is served upon seating with a olive oil blend. Only suggestion would be to drop it with some parm as a lot of guests will like to mix some in. Upon arrival I was a bit concerned it wouldn't be good because it was not a full house on a Saturday night like the place down the street we tried first. But don't let that fool you I don't know if this place is possibly new or something but it should only be a matter of time until this place is also on a wait. My only other con is the food is al a carte which is why I switched from ordering a steak, typically I like it to come with a side salad and some potatoes which they did have a side of potatoes but I didn't notice a side salad. Overall when we come back to the area we will dine here again! We are only about an hour away though and I might make that trip for that bruschetta alone and to try the goat cheese app!
Vita del Lago
If you're looking for a culinary escape in Michigan City, Vita del Lago is a restaurant that promises an exceptional experience, combining a delightful menu with an inviting atmosphere. Nestled at 521 Franklin St, Vita del Lago offers more than just a meal; it offers a taste of Italy with a touch of local charm. Whether you're indulging in fresh seafood, savoring a homemade pasta, or enjoying a juicy steak, every dish is prepared with the finest ingredients and care.
A Menu that Celebrates Fresh Ingredients and Bold Flavors
Vita del Lago's menu reflects its dedication to offering high-quality, flavorful dishes. The appetizer options alone are enough to tempt your taste buds. Baked Goat Cheese and Burrata y Bruschetta set the stage with creamy, rich flavors, while the Colossal Shrimp Cocktail and Calamari and Shrimp Caprese introduce a delightful mix of seafood and Italian flair. For something heartier, the Bucatini alla Siliciana and Cavatelli Arrabbiata provide a satisfying choice for pasta lovers. The robust Meatball Lasagna and Mediterranean-inspired Spanish Seafood Paella make sure no one leaves hungry. On the grill, you can savor perfectly chargrilled options like the 8 oz. Chargrilled Filet or the succulent 16oz Ribeye. If you're craving lighter sides, the Vegetable Medley or Braised Rainbow Carrots pair perfectly with any dish.
The restaurant's wide variety of meals, including Handhelds like the Pesto Chicken Caprese and Vodka Chicken Cutlet, guarantees that there is something for everyone to enjoy. The extensive selection ensures that every visit can bring something new, whether you are looking for a quick bite or a more sophisticated, multi-course meal.
An Inviting Atmosphere with a Range of Services
One of the standout features of Vita del Lago is its versatility in providing exceptional service in various settings. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy indoor meal or a more relaxed outdoor experience, the restaurant caters to all preferences. It features heated outdoor seating for those chilly evenings and covered outdoor seating to enjoy Michigan City’s pleasant weather.
The establishment offers delivery and takeout services, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your home. For those who need it, wheelchair accessibility is provided, making it a welcoming space for everyone. Not to mention, bike parking encourages eco-friendly travel for those visiting by cycle.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, the intimate yet classy ambiance strikes the perfect balance between casual and fine dining. Their full bar complements the menu’s flavors, and if you're looking to relax after work, the happy hour specials are a great way to unwind.
The option for private dining makes Vita del Lago an ideal location for hosting events, whether personal or corporate. The restaurant also offers catering, ensuring that any event can be infused with the same outstanding culinary experience. Furthermore, free Wi-Fi and TVs provide entertainment for those who want to stay connected while dining.
Positive Reviews from Enthusiastic Patrons
Many guests have shared glowing reviews about Vita del Lago's excellent food and welcoming atmosphere. One customer, G.M., recalled their first visit and expressed surprise at how much they enjoyed the Mediterranean pasta, especially with the gluten-free option. They appreciated the comfortable setting and plan to return to explore other dishes.
John P. also noted that Vita del Lago strikes a perfect balance between family-friendly and fine dining. With great flexibility in customizing orders, the restaurant has earned praise for its exceptional service and great ambiance, making it a favorite for casual dinners and special celebrations alike.
Larry F., an Italian native, described his experience at Vita del Lago as exceptional, admitting that he rarely enjoys Italian food at restaurants. However, the restaurant’s authentic dishes, coupled with the pleasant atmosphere (especially the outdoor patio), made it a memorable experience. He highly recommends the restaurant for any occasion, from special events to casual visits.
These reviews speak volumes about the quality of both the food and the service, and they reflect the restaurant's commitment to excellence.
Vita del Lago continues to stand as a remarkable culinary destination in Michigan City. From its diverse menu to its wide range of services, it offers a dining experience that caters to all tastes and occasions.
First time here with a friend. Absolutely LOVED our dishes. I ordered the Mediterranean pasta and chose the GF option for this dish. It was even better than I had anticipated. I can't wait to go back and try more of their dishes. Nice atmosphere. Very comfortable. Great local option.