The Best Italian Restaurant in Every US State: 2024 Edition
Dining on the authentic flavors of your favorite Italian dishes is an exhilarating journey through the tantalizing tastes of pasta, pizza, risotto, and so much more. Each dish is a masterpiece, crafted with a perfect balance of fresh ingredients and centuries-old culinary techniques. From the creamy richness of a perfectly al dente carbonara to the crispy, wood-fired crust of a Neapolitan pizza topped with San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, every bite transports one to the sun-kissed streets of Italy.
The Best Italian Restaurant in Every US State: 2024 List
The menu reads like a heartfelt love letter to the enchanting culinary traditions of Italy, offering a tantalizing and diverse array of regional specialties that promise to delight and satisfy the discerning palate. From the very first bite of perfectly toasted bruschetta to the final, indulgent sip of rich and velvety tiramisu, each exquisite dish stands as a testament to the chef's unwavering dedication to authenticity, quality, and culinary excellence. These are the absolute best Italian restaurants you must try in every US state, showcasing the finest flavors and experiences right now for 2024.
1. ALABAMA
Inside the historic Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa, The Trellis Room is a gourmet's delight. An Italian restaurant that spotlight's the coastal flavor of Mobile and delivers unprecedented hospitality. The culinary team thoughtfully sources fresh ingredients to prepare a simple and elegant menu featuring hand-made pasta, scratch-made sauces, and classic Italian dishes from the Chef's family recipes. An extensive wine list pairs perfectly with each dish and provokes you to discover something new—while house-made desserts finish off a memorable dining experience.
The Trellis Room, 26 N. Royal St., Mobile, AL 36602
2. ALASKA
A James Beard Foundation semi-finalist, In Bocca al Lupo is Italian for “into the wolf’s mouth,” a way to wish someone “good luck.” Known as Juneau’s home for Italian food—this rustic-chic spot features handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a warm, family-style atmosphere. House cured meats and delicious cheeses round out a menu composed entirely of from scratch dishes. Welcome to Italian dining in The Last Frontier.
In Bocca al Lupo, 120 2nd St., Juneau, AK 99801
3. ARIZONA
Helmed by Chef Scott Conant, The Americano is an Italian-inspired steakhouse that is modern in approach and Italian in spirit. With an elevated, yet approachable menu it serves every taste, from fine steaks, such as prime and American Wagyu beef, to freshly made pasta, organic salads, Italian antipasti and Mediterranean seafoods including Italian crudo. The Americano blends a European style of highly personalized, table-side service with contemporary Italian-inspired dining to create an unmistakable, convivial experience within the heart of North Scottsdale. Conant’s culinary vision shares the spotlight with an inventive cocktail program that is playful and intricately devised. Hip and humble, the restaurant offers a sophisticated, warm atmosphere adorned with striking custom art and sculptures.
The Americano, 17797 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85255
4. ARKANSAS
Vetro 1925 Ristorante serves classic Italian flavors with a touch of sophistication. Vetro 1925 treats Fayetteville to the rich flavors of authentic Italian food. Aged prosciutto, cheeses, and Sicilian olives are imported from Italy. Seafood is always sustainably sourced, and their produce and meats come from an array of local farms. Depending on the season, you may see a few surprises on the menu in addition to your old favorites. Enjoy the finest meat and seafood in Arkansas, and vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are always available.
Vetro 1925 Ristorante, 17 E. Center St., Fayetteville, AR 72701
5. CALIFORNIA
Opened in 2016, iTalico is the second restaurant that Franco, Maico Campilongo and Kristjan D’Angelo have opened in Palo Alto. In fact, just a few steps away there is Terún Pizzeria. "Terún’s success inspired us to offer our community another scene to explore more of our executive chef Kristjan’s Italian culinary flavors." The Campilongo brothers together with co-owners Michael Oliverio, Giuseppe Errico and Kristjan D'Angelo, have chosen to focus iTalico's menu on pasta and delicious Italian entrées. "The success of our restaurants comes from our experience, dedication and passion for food combined with the Italian well known spirit of warmth and hospitality." Born in Southern Italy, the five founders grew up with a natural talent in the hospitality and food industry. Bringing those Italian kitchen secrets with them to the Bay Area, the authenticity of their food continues to vivaciously entertain crowds of happy palates with delicious meals often accompanied with live music.
The restaurant snagged Michelin's prestigious Bib Gourmand award, which is given to a select number of places that Michelin reviewers say best marry good value and good cooking. "We cherish fresh local ingredients and import only the best raw materials for our pasta, pizzas, and offer a carefully selected list of Italian wines. They pride themselves in serving authentic Italian cuisine and are honored for all the recognition their work has received so far. iTalico welcomes you with its open kitchen and bar, multi-room spaces, and private outdoor area—heated and shielded from wind to offer you a totally comfortable experience.
iTalico, 341 California Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94306
6. COLORADO
With over 30 years of experience cooking in the finest restaurants, Chef Franco is excited to present his vision to you at Ristorante Di Sopra. Traditional family recipes are expertly blended with the freshest seasonal ingredients using contemporary Italian culinary concepts. Every part of each dish is made from scratch to ensure an unprecedented dining experience, while a caring and committed staff will ensure you have a fantastic experience. You will always feel welcome, and never leave hungry.
Ristorante Di Sopra, 4 S. 28th St., Colorado Springs, CO 80904
7. CONNECTICUT
L’Orcio features contemporary Italian cuisine sampling from all the regions of Italy. In-house made specialty pastas like ricotta gnocchi, ravioli, pappardelle, and tagliatelle are only part of the L’Orcio experience. Chef d’Amuri also works his magic preparing a variety of meat and fish dishes daily. His kitchen is a place where food is crafted, not assembled. Desserts like Tiramisù, Chocolate Mousse Cake, and Lemon Tart are also prepared in-house. The relaxing and elegant ambiance with a European flare is the perfect backdrop for dinner or a great bottle of wine. Located in a refurbished historical home, the restaurant offers three unique spaces for dining. Whether you’re having a cocktail at the beautiful bar, an intimate dinner in the elegant dining room or appetizers with your friends in the garden area—all of your senses are sure to be pleased.
L’Orcio, 806 State St., New Haven, CT 06511
8. DELAWARE
A semifinalist nominee in the James Beard Foundation’s “Best New Restaurant” category, Bardea Food & Drink, pronounced: bar-DAY-ah, is the Italian term for “the goddess of food and drink.” The stunning and innovative restaurant utilizes ingredients from local Delaware Valley farms and purveyors, and features modern, inventive interpretations of traditional Italian and Mediterranean dishes through reimagined interpretations.
Bardea Food & Drink, 620 N. Market St., Wilmington, DE 19801
9. FLORIDA
Welcome to Renato's — Palm Beach's premier destination for gourmet cuisine and impeccable service. Situated in Via Mizner on Worth Avenue, Renato's Palm Beach impresses in every way making it the perfect destination for any occasion. Accented by soft lighting and elegant décor, Renato's aims to please and succeeds in doing so. The professional staff caters to every need and offers only the finest, highest quality ingredients. The chef-driven menu is vast and eclectic, showcasing an impressive selection of Italian classics.
Renato’s, 87 Via Mizner, Palm Beach, FL 33480
10. GEORGIA
St. Cecilia, from Atlanta chef-owner Ford Fry, serves coastal European food—simple and thoughtful dishes inspired by the coastline of Italy. Located in Buckhead’s Pinnacle Building, St. Cecilia displays the Italian trademarks that have always stood the test of time, old-world and ingredient-driven. The menu has plenty of options, but seafood and pasta lovers will be especially delighted. Start with small plates like fresh Crudo, cured meats, Hearth Roasted Octopus, and Burrata. Then move on to seasonal entrées, like Maine Sea Scallops and Wood Roasted Bronzino. And after dinner, sample a few of pastry chef Chrysta Poulos’ Italian-inspired desserts, like the amazing Pear Pudding Cake.
St. Cecilia, 3455 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
11. HAWAII
Noe at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina celebrates time-honored Southern Italian cuisine with a modern attitude. Led by Michelin-starred, Japanese-Italian chef Ryo Takatsuka, Noe is a remix of traditional Southern Italian ingredients and age-old recipes, impeccably prepared and presented in a reimagined contemporary outdoor setting. Enjoy a glass of fine wine while savoring the Capri-by-way-of-Oahu menu, featuring local seafood, top-quality meats and homemade pastas.
Noe, 92-1001 Olani St., Kapolei, HI 96707
12. IDAHO
Àlavita is all about fresh pasta and local ingredients—from Gnudi to Rigatoni, Bucatini to Pappardelle—created freshly every day using Northwest flour and local farm fresh eggs. A restaurant whose name means “to life” is a great place for celebrating life with good friends and family alike. The joy of eating fresh seasonal ingredients prepared simple and well among good company is one shared by all at ÀLAVITA. It is with this simple thought in mind that you are invited to join in to celebrate life and be a part of their family.
Àlavita, 807 W. Idaho St., Boise, ID 83702
13. ILLINOIS
Torali, an Italian-inspired steakhouse at The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago is more than a restaurant; it’s a dining experience. Overlooking Downtown Chicago from the 12th floor, Torali offers a modern steakhouse with an Italian touch. Traditional antipasti and handmade pastas are featured alongside prime and dry-aged meats, and Old World-inspired cocktails and fine wines are best enjoyed in the copper-clad bar or the lounge-inspired rooftop.
Torali, 160 E. Pearson St., Chicago, IL 60611
14. INDIANA
Welcome to Ristorante Roma, where Chef-Owner Raffaele D'Eusebio is happy to be your guide. "You don't have to go to Rome to enjoy that experience, our guests can have exactly the same experience—handcrafted food from scratch, right here in Carmel." With a passion for food and years of guidance in the kitchen from his grandmother, Chef Raffaele seeks to bring the authentic flavors of Rome to his guests with his fresh and seasonal menu. "This is a specific cuisine with specific recipes from the area of Rome where I am from." Here, the pasta is made fresh daily and served al dente.
The vegetables rotate with the seasons, and each sauce in simmered and stirred with love. The menu includes traditional antipasti, Insalate, pasta, and Secondi options that lean on fresh ingredients and simple yet creative techniques to produce layers of abundant flavor. Ristorante Roma offers an exceptional wine list highlighting many family-owned wineries and boutique labels.
Ristorante Roma, 89 Veterans Way, Carmel, IN 46032
15. IOWA
Conveniently located in downtown Des Moines lives one of the city’s most renowned restaurants, Centro. Specializing in delicious Italian-inspired cuisine featuring fresh ingredients and masterful preparation by Executive Chef George Formaro, Centro's lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for dining with friends, family and clients. For nearly 20 years, the Centro team has been providing some of the most memorable food and service in the Des Moines area.
Centro, 1003 Locust St., Des Moines, IA 50309
16. KANSAS
Every night is a special occasion at 715 Restaurant. Since 2009, the locally owned and operated Italian bistro located in the historic Anderson building in downtown Lawrence, Kansas has earned a reputation as a friendly, comfortable, and authentic gathering place beloved by Jayhawkers and tourists alike. 715 exudes a quirky, playful sense of humor: The we-don’t-take-ourselves-too-seriously décor includes a mirrored disco ball, which casts soft prisms of light onto tables set with Mamma Mia-style red globe candles, cheeky drink coasters, mismatched vintage China plates and an eclectic soundtrack in the background. An open kitchen sets the stage for Executive Chef Kelly Conwell’s culinary choreography, while a soaring stone bar offers inventive craft cocktails, an extensive wine list (with a few truly celebratory options on the chalkboard) and zero-proof cocktails.
The menu leans heavily Italian, highlighting handmade pastas, including Lasagna Bolognese, Lumache alla Vodka and the off-menu, fan favorite (and slightly fiery) Penne Rage. Other don’t-miss items include indulgent Goat Cheese Croquettes, Silky Salmon Carpaccio, Housemade Focaccia, the satisfying BIG salad, Veal Parmesan, Pork Schnitzel and the Tomahawk Ribeye. For a sweet finish, dive into Cannoli Dip, Limoncello Cake, Affogato or a hefty slice of 715’s signature Sprinkle B*tch Cake. Special features include fabulous outdoor dining options, with heaters and blankets for the colder months. The front-facing sidewalk café allows diners to perch at a table for a weekday happy hour and check the pulse of the vibrant college town, while the back patio offers a magical escape into a secret garden studded with fairy lights, setting the stage for magical theme parties, including French Disco, Crab Boil and Rosé Night.
715 Restaurant, 715 Massachusetts St., Lawrence, KS 66044
17. KENTUCKY
Dining at Bella Notte in Lexington, Kentucky, is a rich experience that transports you to a charming Italian villa without leaving the Bluegrass State. Known for its authentic Italian fare with a modern twist, Bella Notte uses high-quality ingredients, many of which are sourced locally, to craft a memorable meal for each guest. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with Tuscan-inspired decor that sets the perfect scene for anything from a romantic evening to a family gathering. Each dish, from their handmade pastas to wood-fired pizzas, is crafted with meticulous attention to traditional Italian techniques, resulting in flavors that are both fresh and comforting. The menu’s variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you're craving a classic spaghetti carbonara, seafood risotto, or an artisanal pizza topped with gourmet ingredients. Bella Notte offers a taste of Italy with a uniquely Kentucky twist, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an elevated dining experience filled with warmth, authenticity, and unforgettable flavors.
Bella Notte, 3715 Nicholasville Rd., Lexington, KY 40503
18. LOUISIANA
Rooted in tradition, Domenica translates to “Sunday,” in Italian, it is the day of the week to explore and cook leisurely, abundant meals. Tucked away in The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel and forged in fire, the culinary team seeks to transport guests to those coveted moments, offering passionately prepared dishes that marry pure, local ingredients with revered techniques.
Domenica, 123 Baronne St., New Orleans, LA 70112
19. MAINE
Situated in the heart of Portland’s vibrant Old Port district, ViA VECCHiA is a dining destination that masterfully blends old-world charm with contemporary Italian cuisine. The restaurant is housed in a historic building, featuring exposed brick walls, ambient lighting, and vintage décor that transport diners to a rustic Italian villa. From the moment you walk through the doors, the inviting atmosphere sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a casual night out. The chef’s inventive takes on classic dishes — like handmade pastas, perfectly charred pizzas, and savory meat dishes — are crafted with precision and creativity. Highlights include their signature lobster ravioli, an homage to Maine’s coastal bounty, and their rich osso buco, slow-cooked to perfection. Pair these dishes with an extensive selection of fine Italian wines or expertly crafted cocktails for a meal that delights at every turn.
Image Courtesy: ViA VECCHiA in Portland, Maine
Beyond the food, the service at ViA VECCHiA elevates the dining experience to something truly special. The knowledgeable staff is passionate about guiding guests through the menu and wine list, ensuring every choice complements the flavors of the meal. With its warm hospitality, exquisite cuisine, and enchanting atmosphere, this spot has become a beloved gem in Portland’s thriving food scene, offering a slice of Italy right in Maine. Don’t miss the chance to savor this exceptional Italian dining experience in Portland.
ViA VECCHiA, 10 Dana St., Portland, ME 04101
20. MARYLAND
At Rec Pier Chop House, Chef Andrew Carmellini brings his soulful, urban Italian cooking to an American landmark by specializing in prime steaks and chops. The menu features locally-sourced ingredients, sustainable seafood, farm-raised organic poultry, and some of the country’s best beef from James River, Virginia and Donnely Ranch, Nebraska along with the irresistible pastas that Carmellini is best known for. Located within the luxurious Sagamore Pendry Hotel, his rustic chic Italian chophouse combines the flavor and feeling of a countryside rosticceria with a modern-day steakhouse experience in Baltimore’s Fell’s Point.
Rec Pier Chop House, 1715 Thames St., Baltimore, MD 21231
21. MASSACHUSETTS
Adorning The Newbury Boston like a crown jewel, Contessa brings the elegance of Northern Italy to Boston. Designed by Ken Fulk to evoke a nostalgia that conjures another era, Contessa boasts sweeping views of Back Bay and the Boston Public Garden. Major Food Group brings their acclaimed creative palette and flair to Contessa’s classic grand trattoria cuisine where guests dine in a sun-soaked space for breakfast, lunch, and brunch or under the stars for drinks and dinner.
Contessa at The Newbury Boston, 3 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116
22. MICHIGAN
A hidden gem on the New Buffalo Harbor, Terrace Room offers waterfront dining in an intimate fireside setting. Take a leisurely tour of locally-sourced rustic Italian fare, handmade pasta, and fine wine at this trendy restaurant located within The Harbor Grand Hotel. The Terrace Room partners with local farms and makers to source regional ingredients including meat, cheese, produce, beer, wine, and spirits. The culinary team communicates daily with farmers to create “Weekly Features,” selecting items based on real-time harvests.
Terrace Room, 111 W. Water St., New Buffalo, MI 49117
23. MINNESOTA
Benvenuti amici! Tavola Italian Kitchen is a warm and inviting Italian restaurant in Minneapolis that seeks to create a culture of comfort for intimate dining. Located within the Elliot Park Hotel, Autograph Collection—Tavola welcomes guests and neighbors with gracious service coupled with rustic and hearty Italian food made from the freshest ingredients and inspired by the Tuscan countryside. As soon as you walk in, you’re enveloped by the sophisticated vibe of this upscale urban eatery.
Savor a moment of reprieve as you sip handcrafted cocktails, while breathing in the heady aroma of wood-fired specialties, like Carricato Foccacia bread, flame-kissed Porchetta and bubbling artisanal pizzas. The glow of candlelight and a mellow palette of amber, copper and wood tones put you right at ease.
Tavola Italian Kitchen, 823 5th Ave. South, Minneapolis, MN
24. MISSISSIPPI
The fresh, refined Italian cuisine of Pulito Osteria offers bold, sophisticated flavors, coupled with a warm and inviting atmosphere right in the heart of Jackson’s Belhaven Town Center. Chef Chaz Lindsay set out to complement and amplify the collective ethos of the Greater Belhaven District, Chaz's hometown, in the form of delicious food, a great atmosphere, and unmatched service. From pasta to wood-fired pizzas, Pulito offers an upscale dining experience without the black tie.
Pulito Osteria, 800 Manship St., Jackson, MS 39202
25. MISSOURI
Farina is a James Beard award-winning, chef-driven restaurant specializing in handcrafted Italian food. The Italian word for flour, Farina was chosen as the name for Chef Michael Smith’s Kansas City’s Crossroads Arts District restaurant, paying homage to his lifelong lust for the purity of pasta and authentic, soulful Italian food. Since opening in February 2019, Farina has consistently received accolades for Chef Smith’s riff on modern Italian cuisine. The menu showcases piattini (small plates), insalata and soups, handcrafted pastas, seafoods and meats and mouth-watering dolce. Nancy Smith, Farina’s General Manager and Wine Director (as well as wife and favorite travel partner), enhances the restaurant’s dining experience with a thoughtfully curated wine list. Setting the mood with creative cocktails is Farina bar director and top Kansas City talent Berto Santoro.
Chef Smith developed a passion for cooking at an early age and honed his skills in Nice, France, and iconic Chicago restaurant, Charlie Trotter’s, among others, before assuming the helm in 1994 of Kansas City’s revered The American Restaurant as Executive Chef and Corporate Chef. One of Kansas City’s first James Beard Award-winning chefs, Smith opened two popular restaurants, Michael Smith and Extra Virgin, in 2007 and 2008, respectively, before launching Farina. Guests visiting Farina enjoy an award-winning interior exuding casual elegance accented by stunning, handpicked art. Featuring earthy tones, wood accents and Italian-inspired rugs to add warmth, Farina boasts a well-appointed wine room for private dining, a main dining room with a cocktail bar and an oyster bar, and several other smaller, intimate dining spaces, including a stunning rooftop terrace.
Farina, 19 W. 19th St., Kansas City, MO 64108
26. MONTANA
When you come to Lucca’s you are not eating out you are dining out. The unique fine dining experience is designed to tantalize all the senses. You see a relaxed atmosphere of Montana elegance, bended with sophistication—without the pomp and circumstance. You taste the flavorful cuisine that harkens back to Italian traditions with a contemporary flare that is in keeping with today’s tastes and palate. You smell the wonderful aromas of food made from the freshest and finest ingredients. And, you feel the care and warmth of a well trained staff.
Lucca’s, 56 N. Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601
27. NEBRASKA
Avoli Osteria is a Northern Italian restaurant, located in the historic Omaha neighborhood of Dundee. Opened by Dario and Amy Schicke, your dining experience at will remind you of a trip to Italy or help you imagine what eating in Italy would be like. An Italian restaurant with a modern twist, Avoli’s wine list contains only wines you will find in the Northern regions of Italy, the food consists of many local ingredients and what they can’t find locally, they import from Italy.
Avoli Osteria, 5013 Underwood Ave., Omaha, NE 68132
28. NEVADA
Inspired by centuries of colorful culinary traditions, LAGO by Chef Julian Serrano is a gastronomic mecca made for sharing. Newly reimagined lunch and dinner menus offer distinctive à la carte selections. Take a personalized epicurean journey with an array of pastas made fresh daily; superbly prepared fare from the land, sea and garden; and creatively decadent desserts. Refresh along the way with our coastal-inspired cocktails and expansive selection of Italian wines. Tucked away in the famed Bellagio Hotel, LAGO’s preeminent view of the iconic fountains is the crown jewel of an unparalleled dining experience that sends all your senses soaring.
LAGO by Chef Julian Serrano, 3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, NV 89109
29. NEW HAMPSHIRE
La Vista, Italian for “The View,” is located in the RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain in Lincoln, New Hampshire. One of the main features is the wood-fired pizza oven offering some very unique flatbread pizzas. The dinner menu features chef-inspired entrees such as Chicken Parmesan, Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Piccata, and Veal Saltimboca. In addition to the Italian menu, the culinary team bakes fresh focaccia bread daily—perfect for dipping in Italian olive oil and balsamic vinegar with freshly shaved parmesan.
La Vista, 22 S. Mountain Dr., Lincoln, NH 03251
30. NEW JERSEY
Chef Ryan's "Italian without Borders" style is modern and seasonal, from house made pastas to local fish and high graded meat—letting the ingredients shine in a cozy and intimate setting. Refined and redefined, Fascino sources all of their fresh ingredients from local farmers and purveyors and invites you to experience the best flavors and ingredients in Montclair, New Jersey.
Fascino, 331 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair, NJ 07042
31. NEW MEXICO
Executive Chef Christian Pontiggia hails from Lombardy’s Valtelline Valley and brings the underlying tradition of culture and fine Italian dining into contemporary world cuisine—producing innovative dishes that are a delight to the eye as well as the palette. A recipient of the coveted AAA 4-diamond award, Sassella is the recipient of many awards. In addition to working at two Michelin Star awarded restaurants in Europe, he has received awards for cooking and wine knowledge from the Chaine des Routisseurs. The Italian government recognizes him as a Master Chef and he holds a culinary degree that certifies him as a Doctor of Oenogastronomy. The restaurant provides a unique stage to highlight Chef Pontiggia’s culinary artistry and you are invited to experience the merging of new world cuisine with old world traditions in his signature style.
Sassella, 225 Johnson St., Santa Fe, NM 87501
32. NEW YORK
Ilio DiPaolo's was established in 1965 by international pro-wrestler Ilio DiPaolo, an immigrant from Abruzzo, Italy. Ilio came to America in 1951 aspiring to continue his professional wrestling career which began in Europe and South America. Upon retirement, Ilio and his wife Ethel built a restaurant in Blasdell, New York, inspired by the idea of always having the ability to provide food to his family and those in need. In 1995, Ilio tragically passed away, and the Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Fund was established in 1996 by loyal friends who admired Ilio’s outstanding support of his community. Now 27 years later, Ilio DiPaolo’s Scholarship Fund thrives, donating to those in need in the Buffalo community, student athletes and future leaders. The cuisine at Ilio’s is authentic Italian including traditional Italian entrees including Tripe, Calamari, Veal, and many Pasta Specialties.
