Vic & Ola’s is a hidden gem in D.C. Ranch, attracting North Scottsdale regulars keen on keeping these generations-old Southern Italian dishes their little secret.
Vic & Ola’s, established in 2019, draws inspiration from Chef Sheila Bryson’s cherished memories of cooking with her grandmother Ola. Ola Marie of Calabria married Victor Belmonte of Sicily in 1931, hence the name Vic & Ola’s–an ode to Chef Bryson’s heritage. The restaurant brings Bryson’s upbringing to Scottsdale with dishes she grew up eating and by incorporating her family photos in the menu.
It’s no surprise that Chef Bryson knocked Vic & Ola’s menu out of the park. She is best known for consistently being in tune with Scottsdale’s desires with her notable concepts, Soul Café, Alma and Pescada.
As you walk in, you’ll notice the beautiful glass-stained walls, high-vaulted ceilings and large chandeliers. Just when you think it couldn’t get more beautiful, the team will seat you on the spacious, lively patios – where the real magic is. If you arrive early, you can see the transformation of twinkly lights and pink skies. During winter, there are plenty of heaters and blankets to keep you warm.
Vic & Ola’s offers an array of cocktails featuring Italian spirits like our favorite All Saints, with St. George Gin, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, pamplemousse liqueur, fresh lemon juice and around the stem of the martini glass is a charm that has been blessed by a saint that is yours to keep at the end of the night. Such a stylish memento! The Margarita Milano deserves an honorable mention. Although not traditionally Italian, this classic cocktail features fruity notes from the pomegranate liqueur and warmth from Centenario Reposado Tequila. The half-sugar rim adds a delightful sweetness, perfectly balancing the citrus brightness of lime and Cointreau. While the restaurant’s cocktails are one of a kind, you can choose from exclusively Italian wines. Organized by region, each bottle is handpicked to complement the traditional flavors from the kitchen.
The menu at Vic & Ola’s showcases bold flavors of herbs, homemade Italian pastas with an array of fine meats and seafood dishes. Sal’s Polpettes are meatballs cooked to perfection, featuring a unique blend of flavors. The inclusion of chili paste provides a kick of heat. Crafted from a blend of pork and beef, the meatballs are perfectly coated in tomato sauce serving a mouthwatering experience. Another standout on the menu is Costolette Di Maiale, a grilled pork chop that achieves a sweet and salty balance from the stone fruit compote and a delicious yams and sausage hash. Considering the Italian dining, we’d be remiss not to feature the Pomodoro pasta. With rich hues of red, the capellini pasta is perfectly plated with fresh tomatoes and herbs capturing the taste of Italy.
Make sure you leave enough room for the butter cake dessert and ask for the Torta Limon gelato, which is a favorite among the staff. The cake is warm and gooey, and paired with the cool tangy flavor of the gelato, will melt in your mouth. You may want to keep it all for yourself.
Vic & Ola’s is open Sunday to Thursday, 3 to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 3 to 10 p.m. Experience an authentic Italian Aperitivo from 3 to 5 p.m. daily at the bar only.
For more information, visit vicandolas.com.
20775 N. Pima Rd., Ste. 110
Scottsdale, AZ 85255