Pesto’s by Lance

"I'm going to start with something that sounds negative...but I want to get it out of the way, and then will explain why I brought it up... Pesto's by Lance is attached to a very unassuming motel. I say this for only one reason...STAY!!! We almost rolled through the parking lot and left, but decided to stay, and that was 100% the right idea. Inside is a little small, but it is well decorated and cozy. We were seated by a friendly hostess, and then I appreciated that our server brought the waters when she came, instead of coming for drinks first. We were given bruschetta, and then we were already set on wanting the garlic bread. Both were very good. I loved the house tomato sauce. We ordered chicken parm and the cheese manicotti. Entrees came with house or Cesar salad. The entrees arrived in good time, hot and fresh, and great portion sizes. Everything tasted great. We got tiramisu, but honestly I'm full and haven't tried it yet. Excellent experience across the board. Stop here for sure. You will leave full and happy."

"Pesto’s My boyfriend and I got out on a frigid Saturday to have dinner at Pesto’s by Lance for the first time since Chef Lance reopened the restaurant following the closure of the original Pesto’s. I like what Chef Lance has done in editing and finessing the menu while keeping the typical Italian-American dishes that are so popular. If you’re hungry or like generous portion sizes to take some home for lunch the next day, definitely order the lasagna (they say it weighs a full pound and they’re not kidding). The service is friendly attentive, and responsive. Unless they’re super busy, Chef Lance makes a point to welcome guests and introduce himself after you’re seated. Water is brought to the table promptly. Entrees include a small Caesar or garden salad as well as complimentary bruschetta (focaccia bread with diced tomatoes and olive oil topped with micro greens). We loved the Caprese with a generous slather of pesto - I can’t resist a Caprese salad- even in winter when tomatoes are iffy) and the Florentine Shané - an off- menu special of shrimp and scallops with spinach and sundried tomatoes and linguine in a light cream sauce. And be sure to save room for dessert! They are all outstanding! Chef treated us to a “preview” of the dessert sampler they will be featuring the entire month of February (inc. Valentines Day and Fayetteville Restaurant Week). This heavenly plate included cheesecake, tiramisu, cannoli, and an incredible lemon raspberry martini cake. Scrumptious!! Chef Lance maintained the original Old World vibe but cleaned and decluttered the dining room - something the space needed, IMO. In time, I hope they refine the decor and lighting - maybe feature local artists to add some interest. Meanwhile, we’ll continue to try other menu items and plan on coming for dinner on a weekday to check out the music (Mon-Wed). P.S. We chatted with the nice people at the table next to us. They dined here often and bring gluten-free pasta which Chef Lance gladly prepares for them."

"I hadn't been here since Lance reopened the restaurant, and I absolutely love what he has done with the place. The atmosphere inside is cute, quaint, and a bit elegant. It's definitely a fun place to get dressed up and have a fancy evening and dinner. The food was amazing. The Wild Mushroom Ravioli was easily our favorite and a must try for sure. The shrimp were cooked perfectly, and the sauce was rich. The Mozzarella Caprese was one of the best I've had. The pesto was incredible. The chicken parm was much larger than expected and delicious as well. The cannoli and tiramisu were my favorite parts, we didn't expect 2 cannoli with the order, a pleasant surprise! We were already planning our next visit by the time we got to the parking lot! The only thing I would have changed is that the beautiful live music was a hair too loud and made it tough to hear people at our table"

"Just had a fabulous brunch with friends for the holidays. My husband and I had been several times and would highly recommend for dinner, as well. Super friendly staff and great overall vibes."

"My husband and I have had the opportunity to go a couple of times and we absolutely love it! It’s a beautiful and comfortable little place. All of the servers are amazing and you never feel like you’re an inconvenience to them. The food though! I absolutely LOVE the food. Chef Lance has really brought Italy to NWA. I’m always excited to try something new every time I go & I’ve never been disappointed!!! It’s fresh and comes out hot, but not scorching. It’s absolutely delicious and elegant! A must try if you’re ever in the area!"