Let me share a little secret that most West Islanders know. Still, many others on the island haven’t discovered: Resto Vieux Four Manago, an Italian restaurant on St. Charles in Kirkland, is our hidden gem. When my kids were younger, we used to bring them there for the kids’ pasta meal. For a while, it became our family’s go-to spot. You know how kids are—picky eaters with ever-changing tastes—and eventually, they grew tired of pasta. But during that time, my wife and I stuck to one thing we loved: the “frutti di mare” pizza. As the name suggests, it’s a seafood-inspired pizza, topped with shrimp, scallops, crab, and a rich seasoned tomato sauce to bring it all together.
Though the restaurant was a favorite, life and changing preferences led us away from it for several years. But Vieux Four Manago has always remained a family-driven place, with a welcoming ambiance, soft background music, and a bar area where you can catch a game if you’re into sports. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for celebrating life’s milestones, from birthdays to anniversaries, or any event where you want to be surrounded by loved ones. The restaurant’s heart has always been its family atmosphere, and the staff make you feel right at home, like part of their own family.
Now that our kids are much older, they still haven’t developed the same love for pasta, but recently, my wife and I decided to take a nostalgic trip back to Vieux Four Manago and order our old favorite, the frutti di mare pizza. It felt like we were stepping back in time—the wood-fired brick oven was still there, tirelessly producing pizzas for both dine-in patrons and takeout orders. When our pizza finally arrived, it was just as we remembered it. The toppings were perfectly browned, exactly how I’ve always liked them, and the crust was golden, light, and deliciously crispy. We added a drizzle of chili oil with just the right amount of heat, giving each bite a subtle extra kick. As soon as I took that first bite, a flood of memories came rushing back. It tasted every bit as wonderful as it did in the past, reminding us of all the good times we’d shared at this spot.
Can you believe it? Resto Vieux Four Manago boasts an incredible selection with over 27 different pizzas and 16 pasta dishes! Whether you’re craving a classic like Margherita or feeling adventurous and want to try something bold, there’s a pizza to satisfy every taste. The variety is impressive, with something to suit everyone’s preferences, all crafted with that signature, old-fashioned flavor that instantly makes you feel at home. From traditional favorites like pepperoni and mozzarella to more inventive combinations, this place has every pizza lover’s dream covered. Plus, their menu offers a wide range of meals with chicken, beef, and seafood to satisfy all appetites beyond just pizza. With their focus on pizza and pasta, there’s truly something for everyone, and the options fit various budgets, ensuring an excellent meal for every occasion. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, they will hit the mark!
If you’re looking to dine out and enjoy a quiet evening, the atmosphere at Vieux Four Manago is refreshingly serene compared to many other restaurants. It’s not too loud, allowing you to relax and let the background fade away. My wife and I had a wonderful evening there. With delicious food in my belly and mature love in the air, it was the perfect recipe for a satisfying end to the night. The digital candlelight setup created an intimate and romantic setting, with the soft glow of the virtual candles adding a warm touch to the experience. Light, soothing music played gently in the background, enhancing the mood without overwhelming the conversation.
From the moment we arrived, the service was impeccable. The staff was attentive, courteous, and genuinely friendly, making sure everything was just right throughout the evening. We were seated at a lovely table with a beautiful view, and the waitstaff went out of their way to ensure we felt at ease, almost as if we were dining in the comfort of our own home with a bunch of strangers. Our pizza dish exceeded our expectations, perfectly reflecting the restaurant’s well-earned reputation for consistently delivering top-tier food and service.
There’s even a charming, intimate outdoor terrace if you want to make the most of the warm summer weather. It’s set back far enough from St. Charles Blvd., so you can enjoy your meal without being bothered by the usual street noise. The terrace offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can relax and savor your food in the fresh air, making it the perfect spot for those who prefer dining al fresco. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a romantic evening under the stars, the terrace provides a lovely escape from the bustle of the city while still soaking in the summer breeze.
The restaurant still carries that celebratory vibe, with balloons at the tables for birthday parties, and nothing about the quality of the food has changed. It’s still the same beloved spot we knew, with fair prices and in line with other places, but with a value that makes every visit worth it. If you haven’t been, or if you’re looking for a cozy, family-friendly restaurant, Resto Vieux Four Manago is that special, under-the-radar place that you’ll fall in love with. It’s our little secret, and one we’re happy to keep going back to.
Vieux Four Manago is ideally situated at 3636 Saint-Charles Blvd., making it a convenient choice for those looking to enjoy a memorable dining experience. However, be sure to plan, as reservations are required—walk-ins are not guaranteed, simply call in advance. If you prefer to savor their incredible food from the comfort of your own home, they also offer an easy and efficient carryout service. Just give them a call, and they’ll prepare your meal fresh and ready for pickup. For both reservations and takeout orders, you can reach them at (514) 428-0100. Want to explore their menu before you call? Visit their website at vieuxfourmanago.com, where you’ll find a tempting array of pizzas, kinds of pasta, and more.
Reviewed by Tony Medeiros