The 7 Best Italian Restaurants in Phoenix

Craving an authentic taste of Italy right here in the desert? Whether you’re a fan of classic pasta dishes, crave a perfectly baked pizza, or want to indulge in rich risottos, Phoenix offers an impressive range of Italian dining experiences. In this guide, we’ll explore the 7 best Italian restaurants in Phoenix that promise to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy.

When considering the perfect Italian restaurant, there are several aspects to keep in mind:

Menu Variety: Look for a diverse menu that includes traditional Italian favorites as well as unique chef specials.
Authenticity: Consider restaurants that use genuine Italian ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Ambiance: The atmosphere should reflect the warmth and charm of Italy, enhancing your dining experience.
Wine Selection: A well-curated list of Italian wines can complement your meal perfectly.
Service Quality: Attentive and knowledgeable staff can elevate your dining experience by offering excellent recommendations and insights.
Price Range: Consider your budget, with options ranging from casual dining to upscale experiences, typically ranging from $15 to $50 per person.

With these factors in mind, prepare to embark on a culinary journey through some of the finest Italian restaurants Phoenix has to offer.

1. Pizzeria Bianco
2. Romanelli's Italian Deli
3. Federal Pizza

4. Doughbird
5. Pomo Pizzeria
6. Forno 301
7. Nello's Ahwatukee

Number of companies

17276

Verified reviews

4,57

Average rating

(602)2588300

1. Pizzeria Bianco

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,4/5

623 E Adams St, 85004.0, Phoenix

Pizza restaurant
Family restaurant
Italian restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

Pizzeria Bianco is renowned for its artisanal wood-fired pizzas, offering a unique dining experience in a stylish setting. Known for its influence in the artisanal pizza movement, the restaurant was founded by Chris Bianco, who began his journey in a Phoenix grocery store in 1988. Today, it stands as a celebrated destination for pizza lovers, featuring locations in Phoenix and Los Angeles. The restaurant emphasizes quality ingredients and craftsmanship, with offerings that include not only pizza but also a selection of Italian-inspired dishes, making it a versatile choice for family dining and Italian cuisine enthusiasts.

The company boasts several locations, each with a distinct ambiance, such as the Heritage Square and Town & Country spots in Phoenix, as well as its Los Angeles branches. In addition to its dine-in services, Pizzeria Bianco also ships its beloved wood-fired pizzas nationwide through Goldbelly, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite flavors from anywhere. With a commitment to culinary excellence and a stylish presentation, the restaurant has become a staple in both local and national dining scenes, making it a standout addition to our directory.

(602)2499030

2. Romanelli's Italian Deli

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,8/5

3437 W Dunlap Ave, 85051.0, Phoenix

Italian grocery store
Bakery
Deli
Grocery store
Italian restaurant
Sandwich shop

Why we chose them

Romanelli’s Italian Deli is a delightful hub for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine, offering a rich blend of services including an Italian grocery store, bakery, deli, grocery store, Italian restaurant, and sandwich shop. This multifaceted establishment provides a charming and immersive experience, bringing the taste of Italy to its patrons. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes, the deli stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking genuine Italian flavors and artisanal products.

At the heart of its offerings, the deli not only serves as a marketplace for Italian delicacies but also as a vibrant community spot where customers can enjoy freshly baked goods and expertly crafted sandwiches. The combination of a bakery and a full-service deli ensures that visitors experience a wide array of culinary delights, from savory meals to sweet treats. This dedication to authenticity and variety makes it an essential addition to our directory for anyone interested in exploring the rich tastes of Italy.

(602)7952520

3. Federal Pizza

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

5210 N Central Ave #104, 85012.0, Phoenix

Italian restaurant
Caterer
Pizza restaurant

Why we chose them

Federal Pizza stands out as a hip and innovative spot for those seeking creative eats and craft beer. Nestled inside a 1950s Federal Bank building, this mid-century gem offers a cozy and cool atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Patrons can enjoy a unique experience by posting up at the bar to savor an old-school wine cooler or utilizing what was once the bank’s drive-thru lane to conveniently grab a growler of craft beer and wood-fired pizza to go.

Renowned for its role as an Italian restaurant, caterer, and pizza restaurant, this establishment provides a diverse array of services that cater to different tastes and events. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, the combination of creative dishes and a nostalgic setting makes this location a must-visit. Its commitment to quality and atmosphere is why we’ve chosen it for our directory, highlighting its unique blend of history and modern culinary artistry.

(602)3459161

4. Doughbird

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

4385 E Indian School Rd, 85018.0, Phoenix

Italian restaurant
Bar
Chicken restaurant
Family restaurant
Gluten
free restaurant
American restaurant
Lunch restaurant
New American restaurant
Pizza restaurant

Why we chose them

Doughbird offers a unique dining experience by combining house-made pizza with tender, juicy rotisserie chicken, catering to a variety of appetites. This easygoing craft pizzeria and rotisserie restaurant is known for its inventive craft cocktails, fresh juices, and homemade ingredients, making it a popular spot for those seeking comfort food with a twist. As a family restaurant, it provides a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, including options for those who prefer gluten-free meals. The vibrant menu also highlights New American and Italian influences, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for all guests.

Located in Phoenix, Doughbird is not just an American restaurant but also a versatile venue with services ranging from a bar to a chicken restaurant and pizza restaurant. It is a perfect spot for lunch, with a menu designed to satisfy cravings throughout the day. The restaurant also features a special “Grateful Plateful” initiative, where proceeds benefit The Society of St. Vincent De Paul, showcasing its commitment to community support. With daily dine-in, takeout, and online ordering options, Doughbird ensures convenience and satisfaction for every patron.

(602)7952555

5. Pomo Pizzeria

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

705 N 1st St UNIT 120, 85004.0, Phoenix

Italian restaurant
Pizza restaurant

Why we chose them

Pomo Pizzeria stands out in our directory for its authentic approach to Italian cuisine, specializing in Neapolitan pizzas and a range of delicious Italian staples. This establishment captures the essence of traditional Italian flavors, offering a genuine experience that transports diners to the heart of Italy. With a focus on using fresh and high-quality ingredients, the pizzeria ensures that each dish is crafted to perfection, highlighting the rich culinary heritage of Italy.

As both an Italian restaurant and a Pizza restaurant, Pomo Pizzeria provides a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy the vibrant tastes of Italy. The commitment to authenticity and quality makes it a noteworthy choice for those seeking a true Italian dining experience. Their dedication to preserving the traditional methods of Italian cooking makes this restaurant a valuable addition to our directory, appealing to both pizza lovers and aficionados of Italian cuisine.

(480)7875654

6. Forno 301

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

1616 N Central Ave #104, 85004.0, Phoenix

Italian restaurant
Bar
Pizza restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

Forno 301 stands out in our directory for its authentic Italian dining experience, featuring a traditional wood-fired oven that delivers some of the most genuine Italian pizza in the Phoenix and Scottsdale areas. The restaurant not only serves pizza but also offers a comprehensive menu of Italian staples, including homemade pasta and desserts. With its inviting atmosphere, Forno 301 is perfect for those looking to indulge in classic Italian cuisine, whether they’re visiting for a casual meal or a special occasion. Reservations are recommended, especially for their Scottsdale location, ensuring guests can enjoy a seamless dining experience.

In addition to its culinary offerings, Forno 301 provides a vibrant bar scene and a private room option, making it ideal for hosting private events, business lunches, or cocktail receptions. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in its dedication to using a wood-fired oven, which imparts a unique flavor to their dishes. This dedication to tradition and quality, combined with a welcoming and family-friendly environment, makes Forno 301 a must-visit destination for Italian food enthusiasts.

(480)8938930

7. Nello's Ahwatukee

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

4710 E Warner Rd, 85044.0, Phoenix

Italian restaurant

Why we chose them

Nello’s Ahwatukee stands out in our directory for its authentic Italian charm and award-winning cuisine, rooted deeply in family tradition. Over the past 30 years, this family-owned gem has transformed from a small eatery in Tempe into a celebrated dining destination in Phoenix. Known for their wood-fired pies and delectable Italian offerings, this spot continues to delight patrons with dishes inspired by cherished family recipes, such as Grandpa Cesare’s sausage and Grandma Cleone’s spaghetti sauce. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and dedication to quality make it a beloved choice for locals and visitors alike.

The restaurant not only excels in providing exceptional Italian fare but also fosters a vibrant community experience. With enticing specials like daily happy hours offering discounts on wine, appetizers, and draughts, Nello’s creates a welcoming environment for all. Their commitment to maintaining the essence of traditional Italian cuisine while engaging with the local community makes this establishment a standout in the Ahwatukee area. Whether it’s the allure of their original deep-dish pizza or the chance to win $500 by reviewing a dish, there’s always something exciting happening at this Italian culinary haven.

FAQs

What types of Italian dishes can I expect at restaurants in Phoenix?

In Phoenix, Italian restaurants offer a variety of dishes including classic pasta, perfectly baked pizza, rich risottos, and unique chef specials. Many places also serve appetizers, salads, and desserts to complete your Italian dining experience.

How much does dining at an Italian restaurant in Phoenix typically cost?

The average cost for dining at an Italian restaurant in Phoenix ranges from €14 to €47 per person. This varies based on the restaurant's ambiance and the dishes you choose, from casual to upscale dining experiences.

What should I consider when choosing an Italian restaurant in Phoenix?

When choosing an Italian restaurant, consider menu variety, authenticity, ambiance, wine selection, service quality, and your budget. These factors will help ensure a satisfying dining experience.

Do Italian restaurants in Phoenix offer vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes, many Italian restaurants in Phoenix offer vegetarian and vegan options. These may include vegetable-based pastas, pizzas with plant-based cheeses, and various salads or antipasti.

Is it necessary to make a reservation at Italian restaurants in Phoenix?

While not always necessary, making a reservation is recommended, especially for popular or upscale Italian restaurants, to ensure you have a table available during peak dining hours.

What are some signs of authenticity to look for in an Italian restaurant?

Authentic Italian restaurants often use genuine Italian ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and have a menu that reflects Italy's culinary diversity. The ambiance and decor should also evoke the warmth and charm of Italy.

Can I find gluten-free options at Italian restaurants in Phoenix?

Yes, many Italian restaurants in Phoenix offer gluten-free options, including gluten-free pasta and pizza bases. It's best to check the menu or inquire with the staff about specific dietary needs.

What types of wine selections are typically available at Italian restaurants in Phoenix?

Italian restaurants in Phoenix usually offer a curated selection of Italian wines, including Chianti, Barolo, and Pinot Grigio, which can complement your meal perfectly. Some may also offer wine pairing recommendations.