The hardest part of ordering appetizers isn’t picking something that sounds good.
It’s picking something the whole table will actually enjoy. Then realizing, halfway through, you ordered three rich dishes and nothing light. Or you played it too safe and nobody talks about the starters at all.
Di Mario’s Trattoria gives you a lot of strong options, which is a good problem to have. Their starters range from crispy bites to bright, shareable plates, plus a few “snack-first” picks like olives and cured meats: some of the best Italian appetizers Burlington has to offer.
This guide breaks down what guests tend to love most, how to order for a group, and how to start your meal with confidence.
Why people search for Italian appetizers in Burlington
When someone searches for appetizers before visiting a restaurant, they’re usually trying to solve one of these:
- The menu has too many choices and they want a fast, reliable starting point
- They’re ordering for a group and want something shareable, not awkward
- They want a strong first impression for date night or a celebration
- They don’t want to spoil their appetite before mains
Appetizers set the tone. They can make a meal feel thoughtful even if everyone orders different mains.
What “popular” really means at Di Mario’s
“Popular” doesn’t only mean the fanciest dish.
It usually means one (or more) of these:
- Easy to share
- Easy to understand
- Big flavour without being polarizing
- Great texture (crispy, creamy, or both)
- Consistently ordered because it fits many moods
Di Mario’s current posted dinner menu shows several starters that naturally fall into that “repeat-order” category, including arancini, burrata, warm garlic piadina, calamari & shishito pepper frito, polenta fries, and meatballs.
One quick note: menus can shift seasonally. For the most up-to-date choices, it’s always smart to check the live menu before you go.
Classic Italian appetizers that work for almost any table
A good Italian start usually mixes contrast: crispy with creamy, rich with fresh, salty with bright.
Here are the Di Mario’s starters that fit those “table-friendly” roles, based on what’s listed on their menu.
Crispy starters
If your table loves texture, start here. Crispy apps also tend to be the easiest crowd-pleasers.
- Arancini (fior di latte + parma crema) bring that golden crunch with a rich centre.
- Calamari & shishito pepper frito is a classic “order it for the table” move, especially for groups who like something crisp and savoury.
- Polenta fries are a smart pick when you want something snackable that still feels Italian.
If you’re ordering for people with different tastes, including one crispy option is the easiest way to keep everyone happy.
Creamy and rich starters
These are the options that feel indulgent and “restaurant night out.”
- Burrata (caponata + pesto + arugula) is the kind of plate that gets passed around fast.
- Di Mario’s also spotlights whipped ricotta as a signature-style appetizer on their blog, which is a useful cue that guests respond to it.
Creamy starters pair well with something crunchy on the table, like arancini or polenta fries, so the meal doesn’t feel one-note.
Briny and snackable starters
These are perfect if your group wants to nibble while deciding mains or sipping a drink.
- Marinated olives (orange + herbs + caper leaves) are an easy share that doesn’t fill you up.
- Cured meats & cheeses give you variety without needing everyone to agree on one flavour profile.
These are also great “add-ons” when you’re ordering only one hot appetizer but still want the table to have something to pick at.
“For the table” starters
If you want balance, these are your move.
- A shared salad can reset the table when you’re ordering rich apps like burrata or meatballs. Di Mario’s lists Caesar salad and arugula & endive salad under “For the Table.”
A salad-first start also helps groups with mixed preferences, especially when someone wants lighter options.
How to order appetizers for a group without overdoing it
People worry about two things when ordering starters:
They’ll order too much. Or they’ll order the wrong kind of “shareable” and it won’t land.
A simple way to think about it is table roles. You’re not ordering “the best appetizers.” You’re ordering a good mix.
Here are three role-based combinations using Di Mario’s starters:
- The safe crowd mix: calamari + burrata + a “for the table” salad
- The comfort mix: meatballs + warm garlic piadina + polenta fries
- The lighter mix: marinated olives + cured meats & cheeses + arugula & endive salad
If the table is two people, one shared starter plus one lighter “table” plate usually feels right.
If the table is four to six people, two share starters plus one lighter plate tends to avoid the “we’re full before mains” moment.
For current pricing and availability check out: Di Mario’s menu.
Pairing tips that make appetizers feel like a proper start
Italian dining is often about pacing and shared moments, not rushing through courses.
That idea got a big spotlight recently when UNESCO recognized Italy’s national cuisine as an intangible cultural heritage, emphasizing food culture as a social practice tied to community and tradition.
That’s a useful lens for an appetizer blog because it reinforces why starters matter: they’re the “settle in” part of the night.
A few pairing cues that work well for appetizer ordering:
- Bright starters like burrata and salads pair nicely with crisp drinks and lighter wines.
- Fried starters like calamari and arancini can handle something refreshing that cuts richness.
- Salty snack plates like olives and cured meats tend to shine when you’re taking your time and sharing.
Plan your visit
If you’re building a night out around appetizers, checking the menu and booking ahead are the two steps that make the whole thing smoother.
Start here to see what’s currently available and what fits your group: Di Mario’s menu https://www.dimarios.com/menu/
When you’re ready, reserve a table here: https://www.dimarios.com/reservations/
FAQs
What are the best Italian appetizers to share in Burlington?
Shareable starters usually include a crispy option, a creamy option, and something lighter for balance. Di Mario’s menu includes table-friendly picks like arancini, burrata, calamari, and salads for sharing.
Are Di Mario’s appetizers meant for one person or the table?
Many are naturally shareable, especially fried starters, burrata plates, and “for the table” salads. If you’re unsure, the safest approach is ordering with variety and asking your server what’s best for your group size.
What should I order first at Di Mario’s if it’s my first visit?
Start with one “crowd” appetizer (like something crispy) and one lighter plate for balance. The menu makes it easy to mix textures and flavours.
Do appetizers change seasonally?
They can. Di Mario’s promotes seasonal menus on their site, so it’s best to confirm the latest options online before you go.
What if someone at the table wants something lighter?
Add a shared salad or a simpler snack plate like olives or cured meats and cheeses, then let mains do the heavier lifting.