River Oaks Pizzeria in Carolina Forest

A Pizzeria in a shopping center next to a Publix is probably the last place you’d expect to find a fine dining Italian restaurant experience.

But here we are.

Not to be critical… but the exterior and the Pizzeria name are misleading.

This spot has a menu with way more than pizza, and the interior is not your typical strip mall pizza joint. Dark wood, cozy seating, and a pretty large bar make this an unexpected upscale dining atmosphere.

You will love the pizza.

A Vodka Margherita Pizza + bottle of Chianti might be the perfect simple date night split.

Pro tip: you can order two specialty pizzas in one!

If you aren’t in the mood for handmade, wood-fired pizza, you’ll have enough pasta options to give you order anxiety. Cavatelli with sausage and broccoli rabe, spaghetti carbonara, fettuccine prosciutto are just a few options. You can also build your own.

Head to Carolina Forest and try this foodie hidden gem.

Coming soon: a second location at South Commons Drive off of 544 in the old popular Scatori’s location.