Cucina di Gerardo stands as a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Island Pond, Vermont. Nestled at 29 Derby St, this Italian restaurant invites diners into a warm, homey atmosphere where every dish is crafted with care and tradition. From the first bite to the last, the flavors embody genuine Italian heritage, offering a true dining experience that resonates deeply with lovers of classic Mediterranean fare.
Their appetizers set the tone beautifully-fresh mussels scampi and vibrant Mediterranean salad are standout selections that awaken the palate with bright, robust flavors. The salad, praised by many, bursts with fresh, quality ingredients that make it a memorable starter or light meal on its own. Entrées like the Meat Lasagna and Chicken Cacciatore deliver heartiness and soulful comfort, perfectly balanced with rich tomato sauces and tender, slow-cooked meats. The Pasta Arrabiata offers an ideal kick for those who enjoy a little heat, making each course feel thoughtfully composed.
Highlighting the menu are their calzones, generously filled and baked to golden perfection. Options such as the Chicken Parm and Sausage, Peppers, Onions calzones present a satisfying handheld experience, marrying melty cheese and savory fillings in every bite. The variety caters to diverse tastes, ensuring every visit reveals something new and delicious.
What truly elevates Cucina di Gerardo is its attentive service and genuine hospitality. Reviewers often mention the friendliness of the owner and staff, who make guests feel like part of a family. This warmth complements the food’s authenticity and quality, making each meal more than just nourishment-it becomes an occasion. The care shown in boxing takeout orders with instructions for reheating exemplifies their commitment to excellent customer experiences beyond the table.
As a food reviewer, the Butternut Squash Ravioli in Marsala sauce stands out as a soulful dish, marrying sweet and savory in a way that lingers pleasantly on the palate. Their wine selection, notably the Sauvignon Blanc with its tropical mango notes, pairs effortlessly, enhancing the meal’s overall harmony.
In a town with few options for genuine Italian fare, Cucina di Gerardo is more than a restaurant-it is a hidden gem that delivers authenticity, warmth, and unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re passing through or seeking a destination dining experience, this place invites you to savor Italy’s culinary heart in the scenic surroundings of Vermont.
Sarah Bone
14/12/2025
We ordered takeout - 2 pizzas and a Mediterranean salad. The salad was definitely the star of the show - it was PACKED with toppings and super fresh and delicious! The pizza was good too, just expensive for the portion size. Would recommend if passing through or staying in Island Pond!
Chef Coffey Dodge
04/12/2025
Place was amazing. I had the gnocchi with a tomato sauce. Service was class. This was a true dinning experience. I would say best spot in pond island. I ate at 3 other places and this one was supreme. Thanks.
Thayne Spencer
30/11/2025
This wonderful establishment is a GEM! Popped in for dinner and it was fantastic! Served in the hot pan it was cooked in! Our waitress was also spectacular, even boxed our food and told us how to re-heat it! Will be back every time!
Meghann Carter
27/10/2025
I went here for the first time just last night and it was amazing! It feels casual and homey, which is perfect for the location, and the food is amazing! I followed a recommendation to have the butternut squash ravioli in the marsala sauce and it was mind-blowingly good! We also had a lovely Sauvignon Blanc that had such a strong Mango note that my cousin and I took our first sip and both said "Mango!" Highest recommendation, I will be coming back again for sure
Belladonna Rosemarie
23/10/2025
This is a true hidden gem in Island pond Vermont. I drove 8 1/2 hours from northern Maine just to have dinner here. This is the ultimate place to get fresh authentic Italian food. The owner is extremely friendly and makes you feel at home. If you're in the Island Pond Vermont area I highly recommend to anyone to definitely try this place out
Jemima Talbot
14/09/2025
This is one of my favorite places to go- anywhere! The food is outstanding and the Italian family that owns the place couldn’t be nicer. I look forward to eating here every time I’m in the NEK and it’s never disappointed me. I’ve probably eaten half the menu too, so this is a very fair review.
P.R. Event Photography. The Drone Guy.
25/08/2025
The best pizza and Italian food you can eat without traveling to Italy. I have eaten here twice and both times the food was great. First time I ordered a pepperoni pizza with peppers and onions. Absolutely delicious. No other pizza is like it in the area. Second time my mother and I had dinner. She ordered eggplant parmesan with a Cesar salad.I ordered a chicken parmesan calzone with Mediterranean salad.This place makes amazing eggplant parmesan according to her. My mother is Italian and can never find a place in Vt that makes good eggplant parmesan from scratch. Mom's Cesar salad came with real fresh anchovies. Not just the anchovi paste most places use. This was the real deal. My calzone was huuuuge and packed with delicious chicken. The Mediterranean salad came with loads of sun dried tomatoes and Olives and feta. This is officially my goto for Italian food. Ran by a sweet little Italian family. Authenticity at its finest.