+1 716-684-2418
Located in the heart of Lancaster, NY, Ripa's Italian Restaurant is a cherished culinary landmark that masterfully blends authentic Italian flavors with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Specializing in traditional Italian cuisine, this beloved establishment serves up a menu that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly refined, making every visit a memorable experience.
The heartbeat of Ripa’s is undoubtedly its house-made pasta. From the delicate, tender strands of Spinach Ravioli with Meatball to the satisfyingly robust Tortellini and Gnocchi, each bite bursts with the rich textures and vibrant flavors reminiscent of a true Italian kitchen. Guests rave about the perfectly layered, comfort-inducing Lasagna—a dish that embodies the soul of Ripa's culinary craft. Complementing these pasta masterpieces are signature entrees such as the flaky, buttery Sea Bass and the hearty, savory French Onion Chicken Parmigiana, both expertly prepared to deliver a memorable dining experience.
The appetizers and sides are equally tempting; the Chicken Bruschetta offers a fresh, bright start, while the warm, fragrant French Onion Soup is a comforting embrace on cooler evenings. The Bread with Pesto Oil, lauded by regulars, serves as an elegant introduction that sets the tone for the meal—each crusty piece dipped in aromatic, herb-infused oil ignites the senses and prepares you for what’s to come.
Diners often note the generous portions balanced thoughtfully with options for half servings, catering to different appetites without compromising flavor or quality. The menu extends beyond classic Italian treats to include delightful surprises like Shrimp and Steak Tips and the uniquely inspired Lomo Saltado, reflecting an embrace of diverse flavors while maintaining a cohesive dining identity.
Beyond its exceptional cuisine, Ripa's exudes a relaxed, comfortable ambiance that invites guests to linger. The space is characterized by a spacious, clean layout with lighting that creates an intimate yet welcoming mood, perfect for anything from a casual dinner to special celebrations. Patrons repeatedly praise the friendly, attentive staff—experience enhanced by service professionals like Sandy, who add a personal touch to every visit.
Moreover, Ripa's doubles as an elegant banquet and event venue, seamlessly blending the charm of an authentic Italian restaurant with the versatility needed for weddings, corporate events, and private parties. Clients have enthusiastically shared their experiences of hosting memorable company holiday dinners and personal celebrations here, highlighting the timely, piping-hot service and flawless execution that ensure every event is a success.
In any role—be it casual diner or event planner—Ripa's Italian Restaurant makes you feel not just like a customer, but like a welcomed guest at an Italian family table. Whether it's the soulful melodies of freshly made pasta, the perfectly cooked steak, or the genuine hospitality, this gem truly stands out as a Lancaster treasure worthy of discovery and repeat visits.
For an authentic taste of Italy, paired with heartfelt service and a versatile event space, Ripa’s is simply unparalleled.
This is a gem of a restaurant. It's old and well established and the menu reflects as much. Each dish I've had has been prepared perfectly. Even the oil served with the bread is absolutely astounding. The pasta is all freshly made in house and you can tell. Each bite is transcendent and is probably the best pasta you could get short of an Italian grandmother's kitchen. The only minor issue we had was getting seated after our reservation time and my water not being filled when it ran low. But don't let that deter you the food alone is worth the trip and any minor issues with the service are just that minor and easily overlooked with how good the food is.
Been going here for 4 years now. The food is amazing and portions are large. If you prefer smaller portions they do offer half portions on some items. The owners and bartender are very nice. Relaxing atmosphere. Very reasonably priced. Would highly recommend! Pics of some of my favorites.
A very spacious, clean, and comfortable Italian Restaurant with great menu items for anyone. Upon entry (4:30pm reservation) the lighting appeared as though they weren't seating, yet. However, we were greeted and taken to sit at our table right away. Once in the dining area, the lighting was just right. Within minutes a pleasant server, Sandy, took our drink orders and gave us ample time to ponder over the menu. We enjoyed a carafe of wine, a beer, and our water glasses were kept refilled nicely. Beginning salads with a house creamy Italian dressing were delicious and perfectly portioned. The soup of the day was a turkey noodle and I was told it was a tad on the salty side. Our plates included: BAKED LASAGNA which was a good size portion for a hungry man, to-the-tooth pasta, beef, pork, ricotta, topped with meat sauce and mozzarella cheese, and baked to a perfect golden brown. Char-broiled (double) PORK CHOPS which tabled on a sizzling hot platter. Thick cut and marinated with a fantastic flavor of house seasoning! We ordered a double enabling us to take the 2nd piece home for another dinner. However, there is so much meat I took home 1 1/2 chops! Ripa's correctly claims to have the Most Popular Pork Chops in WNY! Cannot wait to have the left-overs! The side small-red baked and cut in half potatoes, and applesauce made for a very enjoyable meal. FETTUCCINE ALFREDO was to-the-tooth noodles in a very flavor full creamy homemade sauce and the portion was good for a hungry man, as well. FRENCH ONION CHICKEN was two beautiful cutlets sautéed perfectly in sherry wine with caramelized onions, atop angel hair pasta with a beautifully browned covering of Swiss and mozzarella cheese. Sandy checked whether we needed anything just the right amount of times. No annoying over-service. The deserts: LEMON ITALIAN CREAM CAKE was such top quality to be fit for a King; moist cake, great lemon flavored cream inside, and sprinkles of confection sugar, with a dab of whipped cream. NEW YORK STYLE CHEESECAKE was an awesome circle of graham crust, creamy custard, the right hint of lemon! VANILLA ICE CREAM SUNDAE was just the right amount for one too full of dinner to enjoy a sweet little cup of vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, and dab of whipped cream. From beginning to end, the dinner was a wonderful experience. The portions were such that you definitely did not go away hungry. The price was perfectly set for the portion and quality of food. Service was fantastic and friendly. We will definitely return!
Food is fantastic, steak cooked to perfection. Service is great! Very friendly staff. Clean environment. Great for private events as well.
We had our company holiday dinner here last night. The food was delicious, on time and piping hot. The service was excellent! Thank you Ripa’s!
All around great spot for dinner. I enjoy the pork chops and traditional beans and greens soup, which is a central Italian staple. The staff and service is friendly too!
Thank you Dana for a lovely experience and a great meal. We loved the tournedos and the lasagna. The peanut butter pie was superb. I am sure we will visit again.