Italian food has become one of America’s favorite cuisines, with beloved dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto earning devoted fans far beyond Italy’s borders. Across the United States, Italian restaurants range from generations-old family establishments serving recipes passed down for decades to upscale dining destinations known for handmade pasta, regional specialties, and unforgettable hospitality. Drawing on reviews from diners and food lovers across Yelp, TripAdvisor, and other trusted sources, we’ve rounded up some of the best Italian restaurants in America.
Alabama – Gianmarco’s
Gianmarco’s is one of the top restaurants in Birmingham, Alabama. Diners rave about the homemade pasta, the attentive service, and the classic flavors served at this Italian restaurant. This establishment has earned a solid reputation for the consistent quality of its dishes, making it a popular choice for special occasions like anniversaries and celebrations. Interestingly, Alabama isn’t known for having a large number of Italian restaurants. Diner Alan K commented on TripAdvisor: ”I had linguini and clam sauce that had chili flakes imbedded in the recipe, a wonderful touch”.
Arizona – Andreoli Italian Grocer
Diners at Andreoli Italian Grocer in Scottsdale, Arizona, rave about dishes like the sandwiches, imported products, and fresh pasta. What impresses diners most in the traditional, neighborhood restaurant atmosphere that the owners have cultivated. Locals recommend Andreoli to all visitors for the authentic Italian ingredients used in their meals. Michael B. indicated on Yelp: “The sandwiches have great quality bread and the best quality meat. The focaccia bread is amazing. The fried calamari is the best I’ve had and they even have guanciale that looks to be homemade”.
California – Bestia
Bestia, a restaurant in Los Angeles, California presents itself as a place where homemade pasta is cooked over a wood fire in an industrial-chic setting that is quite appealing to customers. This establishment has given a new face to Italian food in Los Angeles, as some customers describe it as one of the most reliable restaurants for special occasions, but be sure to book well in advance because there is a waiting list. TripAdvisor user teddy commented: “The staff were knowledgable and enthusiastic about pairing suggestions, which elevated the overall experience. Highly recommended for anyone who loves Italian cuisine with innovation, character, and depth”.
Connecticut – Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
Unlike Alabama, where there isn’t as much competition among Italian restaurants, in Connecticut, and especially among pizzerias, the competition is fierce. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana has managed to stay among the best since opening its location in New Haven, thanks to its coal-fired pies and the famous clam pizza which has become a legendary dish. TripAdvisor user twin commented: “I’d heard about this place for decades. Perfectly cooked thin-crust pizza. The clam pizza with fresh clams is exactly as advertised. The tomato pie with mozzarella was excellent too”.
Florida – Cafe Martorano
At Cafe Martorano in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, you can enjoy dishes like meatballs, rigatoni, and chicken cutlets, which have earned it a reputation as a South Florida institution. The atmosphere they’ve created is uniquely energetic, setting it apart from so many other establishments in the area and transforming a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. TripAdvisor Gigi commented: “The atmosphere is vibrant, lively, fun and nostalgic all at once! Even the simplest dishes have a twist! Unreal quality, flavor, and presentation! Top-notch service! You never have to ask for anything; it’s already on its way or on the table!”.
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Illinois – Monteverde
Lists of Illinois’ top restaurants consistently rank Chicago’s Monteverde restaurant among the top choices. Their homemade pasta and innovative menu items, such as the Soppressata Meatball, draw diners in. And as one of the best Italian restaurants, pasta is the menu’s specialty. TripAdvisor user Alex K commented: ”We were seated quickly, served delicious food in a friendly and professional manner, and the atmosphere was pleasant. You could see people making pasta by hand in the main dining room”.
Louisiana – Vicent’s Italian Cuisine
Known as one of the best Italian restaurants in New Orleans, Vicent’s Italian Cuisine combines the city’s hospitality with old-fashioned Italian cooking featuring generous portions and traditional recipes. Some of the best dishes there are Corn and Crab Bisque, Shrimp Fettuccine in a seafood cream sauce and panéed Veal. Happyflyer user of TripAdvisor indicated: “Each dish had something different and shared. The Oysters Rockefeller soars, escargot splendid and Shrimp Fettuccine was terrific”.
Massachusetts – Giacomo’s
Among Boston locals, Giacomo’s has become a legend. It’s no wonder there’s always a line of people waiting to get in, and despite often having to wait, they return for the exceptional experience. The menu focuses on two key elements: Traditional Italian ingredients and generous portions. Its popularity, which has been building for years, continues to grow stronger through word of mouth. TripAdvisor user Ward R commented: “We all went to the seafood feast and were rewarded at every turn, fresh, beautifully prepared, bursting with flavor, with perfectly cooked pasta. The kind of meal where you just keep looking across the table in disbelief at how good everything was”.
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Michigan – Giovanni’s
In the Detroit, Michigan area, Giovanni’s highlights classic dishes like veal parmigiana, specialty pastas, and seafood variations making it one of the best Italian restaurants. Add to that a warm, homey atmosphere, and it’s win-win. TripAdvisor user Kerrdo indicated: “I can only say that the place is one of the best and I have visited Italian restaurants in Italy. The Angel Hair Pasta Alfredo is without doubt something I would travel to taste again. The service was outstanding too”.
Nevada – Esther’s Kitchen
Diners at Esther’s Kitchen highlight the seasonal ingredients that make homemade pasta dishes stand out. What sets this restaurant apart from most in Las Vegas, Nevada, is that visitors don’t choose it for the entertainment inside, but for the food. Bruce C, from TripAdvisor commented: “The atmosphere is great, and the people and service are always excellent. And, of course, the food is fantastic. We love that everything is made there, but no matter what you order, it’s delicious”.
New Jersey – Razza
New Jersey is perhaps one of the states that takes Italian food most seriously, sparking numerous social media debates about which is one of the best Italian restaurants. And in Jersey City, Razza is often praised for the quality of its ingredients and the meticulous attention to detail. In fact, some food critics have ranked Razza as the best pizza restaurant in the nation. What you’ll experience there is a superb, modern take on Italian cuisine. Travelers J&E user of TripAdvisor indicated: “The place hasn’t changed much since they opened. It still offers a modern, clean, and welcoming atmosphere for enjoying great pizza with family, friends, or on a date. They add some seasonal items to the menu and they bake their own bread and butter, so the quality is top-notch”.
New York – Carbone
In New York City, Carbone has distinguished itself by combining classic Italian-American cuisine with an elegant presentation and celebrity appeal. That’s why, if you want to enjoy one of their dishes, like the Spicy Rigatoni with vodka, and Veal Parmesan, you should book well in advance. What’s certain is that Carbone continues to dominate the Italian food scene in the state. Shaun S from TripAdvisor commented: “Spicy vodka rigatoni is a must. Cesar salad is another winner. And of course, the meatballs”.
Pennsylvania – Vetri Cucina
Vetri Cucina boasts an extensive menu that allows diners to indulge themselves as they wish. Those who step through the doors of this Philadelphia location which is one of the best Italian restaurants remember it as an unforgettable experience. Some of their highlight dishes are the Spinach Gnocchi, Sweet Onion Crepe and Foie Gras Pastrami. TripAdvisor user Charles commented: “I had the lamb tartare with sheep milk yogurt and still in awe about how absolutely delicious was. Top six meal of my life, one of the greats!”.
Texas – Intero
The preparation of dishes at Intero, the Texas restaurant, combines Italian techniques with local American ingredients, resulting in highly creative menu items. Locals consider Intero one of their go-to restaurants for special occasions. Tripadvisor user Weyl indicated: “It’s a good restaurant with several excellent dishes though with strong sauces. Very warm and friendly feelings inside the restaurant with outstanding service.”.
Washington – Spinasse
One of Seattle’s best Italian restaurants is Spinasse, known for its homemade pasta, which is one of its most popular dishes. Those who visit often say that every bite transports them straight to Italy. TripAdvisor user Hal L. indicated: “The risotto was delicious with the touch of chili oil. The egg-based pasta with sage butter was excellent as well. I highly recommend it”.
What These Great Italian Restaurants Have In Common
The best Italian restaurants on this list have consistently earned their reputation over the years, a fact recognized by their customers. The quality of their ingredients, their respect for traditional recipes, and the carefully selected innovations on the menu give them a touch of both history and modernity. This customer support is far more important than national recognition or a mention in the press.
