Small Plates, Big Flavor: Appetizers That Shine at Piattello Italian Kitchen
Every great night at an Italian restaurant begins with good company, a glass of wine, and something irresistible to share. At Piattello Italian Kitchen in Fort Worth, the appetizers set the tone for what’s to come — simple, bold, and beautifully crafted dishes that capture the heart of Italy with a Texas touch.
Chef Marcus Paslay’s from-scratch kitchen celebrates the seasons, the ingredients, and the joy of sharing food that brings people together. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, the appetizer menu is your perfect warm-up to a memorable meal.
House Favorites That Steal the Show
Let’s be honest — at this Italian restaurant, skipping appetizers isn’t an option. Every plate has a personality of its own, made to mix, match, and share around the table.
The Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. Made with rich Duroc pork and served in a vibrant marinara sauce, they’re topped with a dusting of Grana Padano that melts into every bite. One forkful, and you’ll know why these are a Piattello favorite.
Then there’s the Garlic Bread — golden, buttery, and finished with chili flakes and parsley for the perfect kick. It’s simple, it’s addictive, and it’s everything you want in the first few minutes of a meal.
A Taste of the Sea
Piattello’s seafood starters prove that freshness makes all the difference. The Fried Calamari is crispy, tender, and served with Castelvetrano olives, lemon, and a zesty Calabrian aioli that ties it all together. It’s light, flavorful, and perfectly shareable.
If you love coastal Italian flavors, try the PEI Mussels. Cooked with tomato, garlic, shallot, leek, fennel, and a touch of chili, the aroma alone will make you swoon. Order an extra side of sourdough to soak up every last drop of that sauce — trust us, you’ll want to.
From the Garden, Italian Style
Even the vegetables at this Italian restaurant come with bold flavor. The Roasted Broccolini combines Calabrian chili, white wine, shallots, and Grana Padano for a dish that’s both rustic and refined. It’s the kind of simple perfection that makes Italian cuisine so timeless.
And then there’s Prosciutto & Melon, a pairing that never goes out of style. The sweetness of the melon, the salt of the prosciutto, and the touch of basil make for a bite that’s pure harmony. It’s light, elegant, and perfect for summer nights on the patio.
For the Cheese Lovers
If you believe no meal is complete without cheese, Piattello understands you. The House Ricotta & Sourdough is a must-try — creamy, slightly sweet ricotta drizzled with olive oil and sea salt, served with warm sourdough bread. It’s simple, fresh, and absolutely addictive.
For something more indulgent, the Fried Squash Blossoms are little pockets of joy. Stuffed with housemade mozzarella and ricotta, then topped with basil and marinara, they’re crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth inside. One bite, and you’ll see why they’re one of the most talked-about starters in Fort Worth.
The Perfect Start to Any Meal
Whether you’re here for date night, family dinner, or happy hour with friends, the appetizers at Piattello Italian Kitchen are designed to bring people together. Each dish reflects the heart of Italian dining — fresh ingredients, shared plates, and moments that linger long after the last bite.
Explore the full menu on the Piattello website, or check out the beautiful dishes on Instagram for a little pre-dinner inspiration.
Visit Piattello Italian Kitchen in Fort Worth
Located in the heart of Fort Worth, Piattello isn’t just an Italian restaurant — it’s an experience built on flavor, creativity, and community. Start your next visit with these unforgettable appetizers, and you’ll understand why locals call this one of the city’s true culinary gems.
Buon appetito!
