Tucked away on a quiet side street in historic Charlotte Amalie, Virgilio’s is one of St. Thomas’ long-standing culinary staples. Located just off the main waterfront on Raadets Gade, this charming restaurant feels like a hidden escape from the island’s bustle.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and romantic, inspired by classic Italian trattorias, with hand-painted murals and soft Italian music setting the tone. Family-owned and operated, Virgilio’s is known for its house-made pastas, rich, flavorful sauces, and fresh local seafood. The menu is extensive, offering a wide range of Italian classics.
Unfortunately, the service did not match the quality of the food. Our waitress was not particularly friendly and offered no recommendations, providing very cut-and-dry service. Orders were taken efficiently, but food was delivered by someone else, creating a disconnected dining experience. One female server appeared disengaged and uninterested while serving a table of four. The restaurant was extremely crowded, with tables packed tightly together “like sardines,” and the high noise level made ordering meals and requesting drink or bread refills difficult.
That said, the drinks were well made, and the wine list was extensive and thoughtfully curated.
The food was the clear highlight of the evening. The tableside Caesar salad was very good and freshly prepared. The Prosciutto e Melone was fresh and tasty, while the Fresh Roasted Peppers Caponata was enjoyed by everyone at the table. The Capellini al Pomodoro Fresco was vibrant and flavorful, and the Linguini alle Vongole, prepared with fresh clams in a wine sauce, was excellent. The standout entrée of the night was the Roasted Lamb, herb-roasted and served with a natural brown sauce alongside fettuccine Alfredo—truly the highlight of the meal. The Spinach and Cheese Ravioli with Shrimp in Vodka Sauce was also quite tasty.
To end the evening, we enjoyed the Bananas Foster flambé, prepared tableside, which was a great and memorable finish to the meal.
Overall: Virgilio’s delivers good Italian cuisine and a classic ambiance, but the crowded layout and inconsistent service detract from what could otherwise be a standout dining experience. The food alone makes it worth a visit—just be prepared for a lively, noisy environment and service that may feel impersonal. We would come back again.
Rating 7.4/10
