Menu of Rafael's Italian Restaurant in Winchester, Tennessee, USA

Menu Overview

Rafael's Italian Restaurant, nestled at 2659 Decherd Blvd in Winchester, TN, brings a genuine taste of Italy with a comforting American twist. This local gem serves up a diverse menu where Italian classics meet flavorful Mediterranean influences, offering dishes that are both hearty and satisfying.

The menu highlights reflect a thoughtful blend of Italian and Greek favorites. The Italian Cheese Steak with Fries stands out as a consistent crowd-pleaser—tender, well-seasoned steak melted with cheese, paired perfectly with crisp fries. It holds its own against larger chains, delivering richness and depth without pretension. The Gyro Plate is another must-try, featuring generous slices of gyro meat accompanied by a fresh salad dotted with tangy feta cheese, offering a delightful balance between savory and refreshing flavors. Customers often rave about its generous portions, making it a fulfilling choice that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

Pizza lovers will find solace in Rafael’s variety from the classic Cheese Pizza to the indulgent Veggie Pizza and the hearty Meat Lover’s option. Unlike the frozen or overly commercialized pies, Rafael's pizza arrives piping hot with quality ingredients, earning consistent praise for taste and value. Complementary starters like the Fried Mushrooms and Bread Sticks with Sauce make for satisfying precursors to any main.

The Mediterranean and Greek influences shine through with offerings like the Chicken Souvlaki on Pita and other pita sandwiches, which deliver a pleasant mix of smoky grilled chicken and fresh, soft pita bread. Refreshing Grilled Chicken Salad with House Dressings — especially the handmade ranch — adds a light but flavorful option for those seeking a healthier bite.

On the pasta front, the Fettuccini Alfredo with Chicken and traditional dishes like Veal Parmesan and Manicotti showcase classic Italian cooking with creamy sauces and expertly cooked noodles, reflecting both tradition and quality. The house special dishes and lunch offerings, such as TexMex Chicken Fajitas and Chicken Stir Fry, demonstrate an openness to diverse tastes while maintaining solid preparation standards.

While the food consistently satisfies, customer service experiences have been mixed. One notable concern involved an unfortunate incident around extra salad dressing charges, which although resolved, left a lingering sense of discomfort. Such moments remind us that hospitality is as much about how you treat guests as what you serve them.

Overall, Rafael’s Italian Restaurant delivers solid, flavorful dishes that honor Italian and Mediterranean roots without overcomplication. The food impresses with its heartiness and authenticity, making it a dependable stop for both locals and travelers craving genuine comfort food. Whether it’s the melty goodness of the Italian Cheese Steak or the fresh, plentiful gyro plate, Rafael’s leaves a memorable impression rooted in quality and warmth.