Leaning Tree Italian Restaurant, nestled at 6168 Deans St, Bailey, NC, is garnering stellar reviews for its authentic northern Italian cuisine and inviting atmosphere. Guests like Courtney Cassidy highlight the homemade pasta and exquisite desserts, particularly praising the limoncello mascarpone cake. The owner’s warm hospitality and thoughtful touches, such as complimentary tiramisu, enhance the dining experience.
Jenette Arreola describes the ambiance as charming, matched by delectable entrees like salmon with zucchini squash—proving that the menu caters to diverse palates. The restaurant's commitment to service is echoed by Hannah Santana, who enjoyed attentive staff and timely food service during her celebration of love. This attention to detail ensures that visitors do not feel rushed or neglected.
With stunning gardens and live music, Robert Ferris emphasizes that leaning back to soak in the atmosphere is equally enjoyable. Such elegant surroundings make Leaning Tree a perfect spot for both intimate dinners and special milestones. Patrons leave not just satisfied but looking forward to their next visit, as evidenced by multiple reviewers planning return trips to explore more of the menu and enjoy the garden's charm.
Amenities and More
From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Food
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Romantic
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Photos
Reviews For Leaning Tree Italian Restaurant
Courtney Cassidy
Jun 20,2025
I found the Leaning Tree by happenstance after looking for somewhere to eat after visiting the Country Doctor Museum. My husband and I visited for an early dinner and we were so impressed by the food, the atmosphere and the service. We met the very lovely owner and explained that we were visiting from Wake Forest, about 30 minutes away. She kept bringing us extras to try and sent us home with a portion of her tiramisu (which was amazing). The pasta is all homemade and everything we tried was delicious, but our favorite was the limoncello marscapone cake. The food alone would be enough to make the trip for, but the gardens and carriage house bar are as good or better than anything we’ve seen in Wake Forest or Raleigh. We were assured that the gardens and bar are child and dog friendly, and they have a take out pizza place (Mary’s Pizza), that we will definitely be checking out the next time we go.
Jenette Arreola
Jun 13,2025
Last Friday, I was treated to dinner at The Leaning Tree, a restaurant my friend spoke very highly of. This is located just outside Wilson, and as my friend did, I highly recommend it! I felt comfortable instantly upon entering the lobby; everyone was hospitable and the dining area was gracefully decorated. What really impressed me was the taste of my entree: marvelously delectable! I ordered salmon with zucchini squash (which I smothered with the gravy that accompanied my fish). I tried my friend’s chicken, and I reacted in a similar fashion (although I prefer the salmon ). To give credence to their great hospitality, at exactly 9 pm (closing time), my server suggested I try their dessert. Surprised with his consideration and patience, I ordered the lemon cake. I was pleased the cake wasn’t overly sweetened—it was perfect, as was my dinner experience at The Leaning Tree!
Lara Mi
May 17,2025
Had a lovely time here to celebrate a milestone birthday. We had a reservation and were seated right away. Our server was so professional and the food was served very hot and fresh! We walked the gardens after our meal, it was so charming with the fountain and twinkle lights...Will definitely be back.
Robert Ferris
Apr 29,2025
Wow, what an experience. Plan on spending your evening here. The dining room is fabulous, food and service are spectacular. The piano player was great. The garden was a surprise. We hung out for hours listening to the band and enjoying the amazing sense of place. I think you have to make reservations.
Hannah Santana
Apr 3,2025
My husband and I are visiting NC as a “mini-moon” after just getting married May 24. While we’ve eaten all over NC since we arrived this past Monday, The Leaning Tree was a quick favorite. Our waiter was so nice and quick to check on us. Even when I cut him off (out of rushing to order something), he brushed it off with a joke and remained kind and courteous. We got the special appetizer, Arincini, and it was amazing. My husband got the chicken Milanese and I got the chicken piccata. Both were absolutely amazing. Food came out at the right times so we weren’t lingering and waiting for food, nor did we feel rushed. Ended our meal with a piece of the chocolate mousse and two shots of limoncello. Easily a 10/10 and maybe even my most favorite meal ever!
Alyssa Allen
Apr 1,2025
We celebrated our anniversary here, and everything was wonderful! Luigi was our server, and he took excellent care of us. The food was amazing! We will definitely return!
Jonathan Millikin
Mar 15,2025
Nice, quiet, authentic Italian restaurant. We went when they had live piano, and it made the atmosphere fantastic. Great food, with a few well selected specials. Will definitely go again on our next special occasion.
Shelly M
Mar 8,2025
Their food was absolutely amazing and authentic! I had gluten free pasta and I have never had anything gluten free taste that good. The owners came and visited our table and gave us an authentic Italian experience. We came to know that they make their pasta and bread from scratch. All of their ingredients are European and you can taste the difference! Hands down the best restaurant experience we have had in a long time. The alcohol (liqueur) is a bit pricey but otherwise all else is well priced. You may also have some issues parking but it is absolutely an experience you must try!
Reviews For Leaning Tree Italian Restaurant