I love Italian food...not as much as Chinese food...but it is close. I have long thought that Mama Ricotta's is the best Italian restaurant in Charlotte. I visited the joint last week. It is relatively close to Uptown, just off King's St. The strip mall that surrounds the restaurant is less than desirable. I firmly believe that someone will buy said strip mall and completely renovate the outside. Mama Ricotta's has a fine exterior, so I wouldn't mess with that, it's just the buildings surrounding it that need to be gutted. Read More to Continue. 

Mama Ricotta's has some of the best penne alla vodka in Charlotte. The penne is cooked to perfection, and the sauce is awesome. I typically add shrimp to my order. The shrimp are big and plentiful within the dish. Nothing angers me more than getting hosed on the number of shrimp, and then finding out the ones I did get are small as hell. 

The portion size is fantastic. You'll definitely be needing a to-go box. I'm fat, and even I need a to-go box. 

While your waiting, I suggest you order a classic caesar salad and use the complimentary bread to soak up the remaining dressing you have. I've eaten thousands of caesar salads in my day, and they do it right at Mama Ricotta's.

The wine selection is vast so I don't anticipate you'll be mad about that.

The ambience is laid back and chill. No need to dress up or try and remember why the hell you have nine forks in front or you and what they are all for. 

I highly recommend going to Mama Ricotta's for a nice night out. It will probably run you close to $60 per couple. That heavily depends on what you're drinking...and if you're drinking heavily.