Nashville is a city that is known for its vibrant music scene and delicious food. While there are many different types of cuisine available in Nashville, Italian cuisine has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Whether you are a lifelong resident or just visiting for the weekend, there are plenty of Italian restaurants in Nashville that are worth a visit.
Italian cuisine is known for its rich, bold flavors and comforting dishes. From classic pasta dishes to hearty soups and stews, Italian food has something to offer for everyone. In Nashville, there are many Italian restaurants that are known for their delicious food and welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you are looking for a casual spot to enjoy a slice of pizza or a romantic restaurant for a special occasion, there is an Italian restaurant in Nashville that will fit the bill.
In this blog post, we will be exploring some of the best Italian restaurants in Nashville. We will be highlighting the unique features of each restaurant, including their menu offerings, ambiance, and customer service.
Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a newcomer to the Nashville food scene, this guide will help you discover some of the best Italian restaurants that the city has to offer. So sit back, relax, and get ready to take a culinary journey through Nashville's top Italian restaurants.
1. Maggiano's Little Italy
Maggiano's Little Italy is a chain restaurant that serves classic Italian dishes in a family-style setting. The food is consistently delicious and the service is excellent.
The restaurant has a polished and relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends or family.
The menu has a wide variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. The portions are generous, so be prepared to take some home with you.
If you're looking for a reliable Italian restaurant, Maggiano's Little Italy is a great choice.
2. PennePazze
PennePazze is an Italian restaurant that serves fresh, farm-to-table meals.
The restaurant has a casual-hip vibe and offers a unique dining experience where customers can watch their dishes being prepared.
The menu features a variety of classic Italian dishes, including pasta and pizza, that are made with care and attention to detail.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for a pleasant dining experience. If you're looking for delicious Italian food in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, PennePazze is definitely worth a visit.
3. Five Points Pizza West
Five Points Pizza West is a must-visit Italian restaurant for pizza lovers. The menu offers a variety of unique pizza options, including the ability to order half-and-half pizzas.
The garlic knots are a must-try, and the craft beer selection is impressive.
The service is friendly and efficient, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for a potential wait time. However, the food and atmosphere make it well worth it.
4. Manny's House of Pizza
Manny's House of Pizza is a family-owned Italian restaurant that serves the best pizza in the city.
The restaurant offers New York-style slices and pies that are worth every penny. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
The staff is friendly and treats customers like family. The restaurant is small, but there is plenty of seating in the back.
The spinach rolls are a must-try and are bursting with flavor. Manny's House of Pizza is a humble joint that delivers on taste and quality.
5. Margot Cafe & Bar
Margot Cafe & Bar is a charming Italian bistro that offers a constantly changing menu based on the availability of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The rustic French and Italian cuisine is expertly prepared and exquisitely presented, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff provide exceptional service, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable.
With an extensive beverage list, including custom cocktails and a fine wine selection, Margot Cafe & Bar is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. Reservations are highly recommended for this Nashville institution.
6. Pizza Perfect
Pizza Perfect is a must-try Italian restaurant for pizza lovers. Their New York style slices are a hit among customers.
The pasta dishes and sandwiches are also worth trying. The Caesar salad dressing is made in-house and is a crowd-pleaser.
The staff is friendly and helpful with great service. The restaurant has a clean and fast-food feel environment with a good selection of TV channels.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of food served. Pizza Perfect is a great place for a quick bite or a casual dinner.
7. DeSano Pizza Bakery
DeSano Pizza Bakery is a casual Italian restaurant that serves delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas made with imported ingredients.
The open-air seating area gives off a laid-back vibe, perfect for enjoying a slice of pizza with friends or family. The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a perfectly crispy crust and savory toppings.
The restaurant also offers a variety of salads and appetizers, including meatballs and caprese salad.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner. If you're in the mood for authentic Italian pizza, be sure to check out DeSano Pizza Bakery.
8. Moto
Moto is a chic Italian enoteca that offers modern Italian cuisine with a small plates emphasis. The restaurant has an industrial-chic space with a hip bar.
Moto's menu features excellent pasta dishes, including black spaghetti and butternut squash ravioli.
The cocktail menu is innovative and well-executed, and the bartenders are friendly and engaging. The service is outstanding, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu and wine list.
If you're looking for a fantastic Italian restaurant with a great ambiance and superb service, Moto is the place to go.
9. Little Hats Market
Little Hats Market is a charming Italian restaurant that offers authentic and delicious sandwiches. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the portions are generous.
The market also offers grab-and-go options, frozen pasta, and a great selection of Italian cooking products.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the outdoor seating is a bonus. The meatball sub is a must-try, and the eggplant Parm sandwich is also highly recommended.
Little Hats Market is a great addition to any neighborhood and is definitely worth a visit.
10. Valentino's Ristorante
Valentino's Ristorante is a hidden gem of an Italian restaurant that offers traditional Italian food cooked to perfection.
The knowledgeable and talented staff make the dining experience a five-star one.
The cozy and authentic atmosphere feels like a trip back in time with period music and a nice wine list.
The housemade pastas and wines are a must-try, and the live music adds to the upscale ambiance. Valentino's Ristorante is a great option for a romantic night out or a special occasion.
11. Villalba
Villalba serves up authentic Italian cuisine with huge portions and great service.
The menu boasts a variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. The cozy and warm atmosphere makes for a comfortable dining experience.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the homemade spinach and artichoke dip is a must-try.
Villalba is a great spot for families, couples, or anyone looking for delicious Italian food.
12. Coco's Italian Market & Restaurant
Coco's Italian Market & Restaurant is a must-visit for those craving authentic Italian cuisine.
With an extensive menu and fully stocked Italian market, this family-owned restaurant offers traditional dishes such as pizza, pasta, and veal parmigiano, as well as imported meats, cheeses, and desserts.
The service is attentive and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Don't leave without trying their delicious cannnolis and gelato.
Coco's Italian Market & Restaurant is a hidden gem that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
13. Roma Pizza & Pasta
Roma Pizza & Pasta is a casual Italian restaurant that serves classic and creative pizzas, subs, wings, and pasta.
It offers prompt delivery and kind, attentive staff. The food is cooked to perfection, and the portions are huge.
The meatballs and manicotti are on point and go well with a variety of available sauces. The tiramisu and Mississippi strawberry cake are perfect desserts.
The staff is friendly and jovial, making the dining experience enjoyable. Roma Pizza & Pasta is a great choice for pizza and pasta in the area.
14. Carne Mare
Carne Mare is a fantastic Italian restaurant that offers a wide range of options for patrons with dietary restrictions.
The food is simply delicious, including the oysters. The service is top-notch, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
The atmosphere is great for date nights, and the attention to detail is impressive. Although it is a bit pricey, the quality of the food and service makes it well worth the cost.
Reservations are recommended. If you are a foodie, Carne Mare is a must-visit restaurant.
15. Bella Nashville Pizzeria
Bella Nashville Pizzeria is a must-visit if you're a fan of Neapolitan-style, wood-fired pizzas.
They use local, seasonal toppings to create delicious, authentic pies. The crust is perfectly chewy and the sauce is light and flavorful.
The owner is an old-school Italian who takes pride in using only the best ingredients. The staff is friendly and the service is great.
The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous. Don't miss out on this diamond in the rough.
16. Porta Via Ristorante e Bar
Porta Via Ristorante e Bar serves delicious Northern Italian cuisine in a quaint Italian setting.
Their wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and house-made pasta are standout dishes, as well as their fresh gelato for dessert.
The restaurant also has a cocktail bar and offers pizza takeout. The customer service is excellent, with friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Porta Via Ristorante e Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine.
17. IL Forno
IL Forno is a new Italian restaurant that has quickly become a hidden gem.
The menu features authentic Italian dishes made with high-quality ingredients. The wood-fired pizza and fresh-made pasta are particularly noteworthy.
The ambiance is cozy and perfect for a date night or dinner with friends. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, making for a great dining experience.
Reservations are recommended, as this place is becoming increasingly popular. Don't miss out on this great addition to the city's dining scene.
18. Nicoletto's Italian Kitchen
Nicoletto's Italian Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone who loves fresh pasta.
Their handmade noodles and delicious sauces are sure to satisfy any craving for Italian cuisine. The prices are reasonable and the portion sizes are generous.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant also offers vegan options and a nice selection of wines.
The outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy a meal on a sunny day. Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the best pasta in town at Nicoletto's Italian Kitchen.
