Best Cozy Restaurants in Short Pump

Maggiano’s in Richmond, VA, gave us a truly unforgettable family-style dining experience, thanks to their warm atmosphere, delicious food, and the exceptional service from our waiter, Nello! We started with the mozzarella sticks and truffle honey ricotta—and let me tell you, they were both absolutely amazing. The mozzarella sticks were perfectly crispy on the outside, with melty cheese inside that was pure comfort food bliss. The truffle honey ricotta was a delightful combination of creamy richness and a touch of sweetness, paired perfectly with the crusty bread. These appetizers set the tone for an incredible meal. Our group began as four, but by the end of the evening, we grew to eight people. The staff didn’t miss a beat, seamlessly accommodating our last-minute additions with a smile and efficiency. It was such a relief, and we couldn’t have been more grateful for how effortlessly they handled it. Nello, our waiter, was the real MVP of the evening. He didn’t push specific dishes but made us feel confident in all of our choices, letting us know we had made excellent picks. His enthusiasm, attentiveness, and genuine warmth made us feel so well cared for throughout the entire meal. He managed our table with ease, making sure every person—new arrivals included—felt welcome and had everything they needed. From the appetizers to the entrees and desserts, the food was flawless, and the portions were perfect for sharing. The experience was elevated by Nello’s encouragement and positivity, making us feel like we’d picked the best dishes on the menu (and judging by how delicious everything was, we probably did!). Maggiano’s Richmond is a must-visit, especially if you’re looking for a dining experience that combines incredible food, outstanding service, and a team that goes above and beyond. We can’t wait to return—and hopefully see Nello again for another amazing evening!

Oliver was our server and he did an exceptional job of making sure that all of my wife's allergies were addressed and the food was properly prepared. It is surprising that a high end restaurant offers no gluten free bread, roll, or breadsticks to customers who are gluten-free. As with lesser restaurants, my wife had brought her oun gluten-free crackers to eat while I enjoyed the fresh warm bread. I felt badly for her. When we inquired about possible future gluten-free breads being offered,, we were told that there was no intention to go in this direction.

We dined in on the senior menu. The Senior Menu and meal were outstanding. The steak was cooked to perfection, the pear and pecan salad was fresh and very tasty, shared a cream spinach as a side and a crème brûlée for dessert. The restaurant is charming, our server was fantastic and friendly, and the noise level was minimal. If you haven’t tried Perry Steakhouse at Short Pump, you need to treat yourself to an excellent dining experience!

What an amazing, delicious dining experience. Everyone in our group was extremely pleased with their gastronomic meal choice. Great food, great atmosphere, and great service from entering the restaurant, being seated, and served. The mood lighting and music added to the overall enjoyment of our meal.

We had a great time. We celebrated a birthday for my son and he loved it!