Unveiling Legendary Italian Eateries: Discovering Hidden Gems
Craving authentic Italian cuisine beyond just pizza? Whether you’re in the mood for veal Parmigiana or classic ravioli with red sauce, we’ve scoured the country to find the best old-school Italian restaurants in every state, including Washington, D.C.
Alabama: Joe’s Italian, Alabaster
Located just south of Birmingham, Joe’s Italian is a local favorite known for its tasty lasagna, spaghetti, and decadent cakes.
Alaska: Sorrento’s, Anchorage
Serving traditional Italian dishes for over 40 years, Sorrento’s in Anchorage offers a cozy ambiance and delicious pastas, along with local halibut specialties.
Arizona: DeFalco’s Italian Eatery and Grocery, Scottsdale
DeFalco’s has been dishing up authentic Italian recipes for over a century, including mouthwatering calzones and Italian combo subs.
Arkansas: Venesian Inn, Tontitown
Family-owned since 1947, Venesian Inn in northwest Arkansas is famous for its classic Italian dishes like chicken Parmigiana and three-cheese lasagna.
California: Fior d’Italia, San Francisco
Established in 1886, Fior d’Italia claims to be the oldest Italian restaurant in America, serving up delicious osso buco and other traditional favorites.
Colorado: Gaetano’s, Denver
Gaetano’s, opened in 1947, has a rich history including visits from Frank Sinatra. Enjoy their famous minestrone soup and pasta carbonara.
Connecticut: Consiglio’s, New Haven
A family-run restaurant for over 70 years, Consiglio’s in New Haven offers modern twists like food truck events and murder-mystery dinners, along with classic dishes like homemade cavatelli with braciole.
Delaware: Mrs. Robino’s, Wilmington
An award-winning Italian restaurant since 1940, Mrs. Robino’s is known for its traditional favorites, including a special Thursday menu featuring crabs and spaghetti.
District of Columbia: Filomena Ristorante, Georgetown
A New York-style eatery open since 1983, Filomena Ristorante attracts celebrities with its mouthwatering meatballs, ravioli, and arancini.
Florida: La Locanda, Miami
La Locanda in Miami offers authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a down-to-earth dining experience.
Discover popular Italian restaurants across the U.S. that offer simple, authentic fare to delight your taste buds.
– Indulge in the “beyond compare” thin-crust pizzas at this trendy joint in Miami Beach. Don’t miss the delectable tiramisu that reviewers rave about.
– **Atlanta, Georgia:**
Savor classic Italian dishes at the oldest family-owned Italian restaurant in Atlanta, frequented by celebrities like Paul Newman and Kenny Rogers. High marks for both food and service make this a must-visit spot.
– **Honolulu, Hawaii:**
Experience top-notch Italian cuisine at this humble cottage eatery in Honolulu. From squid ink pasta to eggplant and porcini mushroom risotto, every dish on the menu is a hit with fans.
– **Boise, Idaho:**
Enjoy a classic, unpretentious meal at this local favorite in Boise. Despite the wait, diners swear by the pasta and warm ciabatta that make the experience worthwhile.
– **Chicago, Illinois:**
Step into a culinary time warp at this enchanting Italian restaurant in Chicago. Feast on stuffed shells, cheesy lasagna, and the legendary roast chicken during the Sunday Supper.
– **Indianapolis, Indiana:**
Transport yourself to a charming old-school Italian joint in Indianapolis, where red booths and neon signs set the scene. Indulge in lasagna, cannoli, and savory red sauce at this beloved spot.
– **Des Moines, Iowa:**
Taste award-winning Italian cuisine at this Des Moines gem, known for its chicken spiedini specialty. The marinated chicken breast charbroiled to perfection is a must-try dish.
– **Wichita, Kansas:**
Dine like royalty at this family-owned restaurant in Wichita, where Elvis Presley once savored the traditional red-sauce favorites like lasagna and spaghetti. The top-notch steaks are also a hit with diners.
– **Newport, Kentucky:**
Experience a slice of history at this iconic Italian restaurant frequented by gangsters and Hollywood stars. Relish the famous cannoli while soaking in the storied ambiance.
– **New Orleans, Louisiana:**
Enjoy Sicilian-inspired delicacies in a charming atmosphere in New Orleans. Indulge in the house-special cannelloni and explore the extensive wine list for a perfect dining experience.
– **Portland, Maine:**
Visit this family-run restaurant in Portland for a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. Dive into creamy marinara dishes and popular veal options while surrounded by Neapolitan kitsch decor.
Jess M. from YelpMaryland wrote about Carmela’s Cucina in Cambridge. One highlight of this cozy spot is the chance to meet Carmela herself. Customers appreciate the warm treatment from the proprietors and rave about the delicious pizza, gnocchi, and veal piccata, all made with fresh ingredients and served in generous portions.
Andrew B. shared his experience at La Famiglia Giorgio’s in Boston, located in the North End. Known for its hearty portions of Roman cuisine served family-style, diners recommend trying the lunch sampler with five different dishes. Save room for the cannoli for dessert.
In Detroit, Ron C. recommended Giovanni’s, a decades-old restaurant known for its delicious food and historical significance – Frank Sinatra once dined here. Reviewers suggest trying the lasagna and garlic bread, as well as saving space for the cannoli.
Marisa R. praised Cossetta’s Alimentari in St. Paul, a beloved destination that has evolved from a small Italian market into a larger complex with two restaurants, a pastry shop, and a market. Visitors love the authentic old-world flavors, particularly the sausage and peppers and gelato.
Crystal M. highlighted The Sicilian II in Biloxi, where patrons can find authentic Italian fare in an unassuming strip mall setting. The family-owned restaurant is known for its delicious pizza and homemade mozzarella sticks.
Fern R. recommended Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill in St. Louis for traditional Italian cuisine. Since 1981, this elegant restaurant has been serving authentic dishes, including the toasted ravioli and veal specialties, along with delectable cannoli.
For a taste of classic Italian dishes in Montana, TripAdvisor suggested Scottibelli’s in Kalispell. This spot, run by a Naples-born chef, offers traditional favorites like lasagna as well as unique dishes such as vongole marinate, a sourdough-covered twist on steamed clams.
Fans of old-school Italian fare in Omaha should visit Orsi’s Italian Bakery and Pizzeria, according to Paul R. Established in 1919, this spot is known for its thick-crust pizza and garlic bread, as well as its deli offerings of meat, cheese, bread, and peppers.
Tina R. recommended Battista’s Hole in the Wall in Las Vegas for its classic Italian ambiance, complete with red leather booths and live accordion music. Diners appreciate the generous portions and complimentary house wine served with each meal.
Reed C. praised Trattoria Amalfi in Salem for its authentic Italian cuisine tucked away in a strip mall. Despite its unassuming location, this restaurant offers delicious dishes that shouldn’t be missed.
Some say that despite its unassuming setting, the food at this establishment is fantastic, with some even going as far as comparing it to Italian restaurants in Boston’s North End. Highly recommended dishes include the stuffed artichoke and veal.
In Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, Spano’s has been pleasing many palates since it opened in 2000. It has received accolades, such as winning the reader’s choice award for best Italian restaurant in New Jersey from NJ.com. Guests can bring their own wine as Spano’s is a BYOB establishment.
Located in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Joe’s Pasta House offers a taste of Italy in a state known for its Southwestern fare. Guests can enjoy traditional dishes like carbonara or ziti alla vodka, or opt for a local twist with the Southwestern fettuccine, which features green chile and crushed red peppers.
Mario’s in New York City has been a favorite for over a century, serving up classic Neapolitan dishes. Known for its unassuming atmosphere, this Bronx restaurant is loved by longtime regulars, with reviewers praising the veal dishes.
In Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Di Lisio’s has quickly gained a reputation for authentic Italian cuisine. Diners rave about the seafood dishes, as well as the lasagna and meat sauce options.
Johnny Carino’s, with locations in Fargo and Bismarck, offers classic Italian dishes in a comfortable setting. Despite being part of a nationwide chain, customers appreciate the food and service, with favorites including fettuccine Alfredo and veal Parmesan.
Guarino’s in Cleveland, Ohio, is the city’s oldest restaurant, established in 1918 as a speakeasy. The traditional fare and old-school marinara have remained unchanged, with reviewers recommending the lovely patio for outdoor dining.
Villa Ravenna in Tulsa, Oklahoma, provides an ambiance of a special-occasion restaurant combined with classic comfort food. Diners rave about the pear gorgonzola appetizer and the osso buco main dish.
Piazza Italia in Portland, Oregon, offers a break from contemporary farm-to-table restaurants in the area. This family-run spot is perfect for catching a soccer game while enjoying dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale or tiramisu.
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Ralph’s faces stiff competition among the city’s old Italian joints. It is a venerable establishment that offers…
South Philly’s iconic restaurant, established in 1900, remains a top contender with a prestigious guest list including Frank Sinatra, Taylor Swift, and Joe Biden. Highly recommended dishes include mussels, veal parmigiana, and cannoli cake for dessert, according to enthusiastic reviewers.
Rhode Island’s Joe Marzilli’s Old Canteen, founded in 1956, maintains its authenticity with an old-school neon sign and classic pink walls. Diners rave about the extensive menu and the seven-course option that offers a satisfying meal at a reasonable price.
In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Villa Romana has been a popular choice since 1985 for authentic Italian cuisine. Guests love the veal marsala, cannelloni, and the entertaining accordion player who adds to the dining experience.
Nonna’s Kitchen in Rapid City, South Dakota, receives high praise for its freshly baked bread and signature dishes like Crazy Green Spaghetti and Truffle Carbonara. Sunday brunch is a recommended time to visit.
Caffé Nonna in Nashville, Tennessee, named after the chef’s grandmother, has been serving delicious Italian dishes made from scratch for nearly two decades. The Seafood Angelina is a standout dish praised by reviewers for its flavors.
Saviano’s Italian Kitchen, a family-owned restaurant in Euless, Texas, has been serving traditional recipes since 1992. Guests appreciate the complimentary garlic knots and recommend trying favorites like chicken Alfredo and penne alla vodka.
Antica Sicilia in Salt Lake City, Utah, is renowned for its quality Italian cuisine and the unique flaming wheel of cheese imported monthly. The carbonara served tableside is a must-try, and diners may even be serenaded by the server while their pasta is spun inside the cheese wheel.
Sarducci’s in Montpelier, Vermont, offers picturesque views of the Winooski River alongside home-style Italian dishes like crab ravioli with shrimp and thin-crust pizza. Reservations are advised for a smoother dining experience.
Ciro’s Italian Eatery in Elkton, Virginia, impresses customers with its generous portions at affordable prices. Co-owned by an immigrant from Naples, the restaurant has garnered praise for dishes like spaghetti carbonara and lasagna rich in cheese.
Ristorante Machiavelli in Seattle, Washington, has been a neighborhood favorite since 1988, known for its enduring presence amidst rapidly changing food trends. Diners recommend trying the spinach ravioli and saving room for the delectable tiramisu.
West Virginia: Muriale’s Italian Kitchen in Fairmont has been a beloved family-owned establishment since its doors opened in 1969. Known for its commitment to serving traditional Italian favorites that have stood the test of time, Muriale’s continues to impress diners with its attentive service and generous portions. Many patrons are often pleasantly surprised by the ample servings, which frequently result in them requesting take-home boxes to savor the delicious dishes later. For those looking to sample a variety of the restaurant’s most popular offerings, the “Taste of Italy” option is a great choice, featuring lasagna, rigatoni, ravioli, and a meatball all for under $20.
Wisconsin: Balistreri’s in Milwaukee boasts two locations within close proximity, but for an authentic and unassuming old-world ambiance, visitors are encouraged to visit the original spot on 68th Street, where the Balistreri’s legacy began approximately 40 years ago. The menu highlights crispy, thin-crust pizza as a standout favorite, although the fried eggplant has also garnered high praise from guests. For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, the Bluemound Inn location offers an extensive selection of classic dishes to satisfy any palate.
Wyoming: L’Osteria Mondello in Cheyenne has earned a loyal following with many patrons swearing by the quality of the pizza served at this charming establishment. Whether you opt to grab a whole pie to-go or enjoy a slice on-site in the pizzeria at the front, the flavors will not disappoint. However, for a more leisurely dining experience, make your way to the back and discover a cozy sit-down restaurant that serves up a variety of Italian standards ranging from pasta and seafood dishes to chicken and veal.
This informative piece was originally featured on Cheapism and showcases a selection of noteworthy Italian dining spots across different states. For more insightful articles, visit Cheapism’s website, and uncover a wealth of useful tips and recommendations for your next culinary adventure.
