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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Italian food finds in Jacksonville

Italian kitchens that are actually worth the search, rather than just the ones with the most foot traffic.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pie95 Pizza image 1
Pie95 Pizza image 2
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Pizza restaurant

Stone oven and exposed 1920s brick create a modern yet historic pizza spot with cozy outdoor seating and a quiet back patio. Warm, friendly atmosphere feels like hanging out in a friend's backyard. Artwork and clean design add to the inviting, charming vibe.

Tiramisu stands out as a stellar dessert, often described as an improvement on the original. The pizza and meatballs also deliver solid, satisfying flavors.

Amazing friendly service stands out here. The back patio offers a quiet spot away from the crowd, making it a true hidden gem.

People are saying

"I loved the meatballs with honey and Parmesan."

"The Italian food here, especially the Tiramisu, is out of this world."

"This place is a hidden gem with amazing friendly service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Tuesdays features $2 PBR beers.

2

Pizza classes are available for a fun date night experience.

3

Canned sodas cost $2 each.

02
House Italian Cuisine image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy, homey atmosphere and NY Diner feel. Staff includes family members working together, creating a warm, authentic vibe. Space recently expanded next door, offering more room while maintaining an intimate setting.

Bruschetta stands out with its top notch quality. Pasta dishes like scampi and fra diavolo feature al dente noodles and phenomenal sauces, with the fra diavolo offering a spicy kick. Chicken parmesan, lasagna, and pesto fettuccine Alfredo also deliver solid Italian flavors.

Cozy, family-owned atmosphere stands out as a hidden gem with delicious food. This spot feels like a great find for those seeking something special off the beaten path.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the perfectly sauced pastas."

"The Italian food here is so good, it's perfect for Date Spots."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the food is delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The wait can be long without a reservation.

3

They offer dine-in, takeout, and catering services.

03
Simonetta's Brick Oven Pizza Bus image 1

Pizza is made fresh inside a bus with a built-in brick oven, surrounded by outdoor covered seating under tents on a gravel lot. The atmosphere feels friendly and family-oriented, with a relaxing vibe that suits casual dining without crowds or long waits.

Pizza features a fantastic cheese mix that is stringy but balanced, likely combining mozzarella and Parmesan Reggiano. Cannolis stand out as delicious and well-made.

A brick oven pizza bus on Cassat Ave stands out as a hidden gem in the area. It offers a unique dining experience away from the usual spots.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be great and reasonably priced."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is totally delicious."

"You've got to try these hidden gem pizzas; they're phenomenal and made with high-quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; it's first come, first served.

2

The pizza bus operates until the dough runs out, so arrive early.

3

All pizzas are 12 inches, ideal for one person.

04
Sapori Caffe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers an authentically Italian atmosphere with simple, charming decor and warm hospitality. The space feels light and airy, suitable for quiet moments or socializing. It draws people seeking top-quality Italian pastries and coffee in a relaxed setting.

Tiramisu latte offers a unique twist by blending classic dessert flavors into coffee. Sandwiches feature Italian ham and mozzarella or prosciutto and parmesan, paired with simple, fresh ingredients.

Fresh, flavorful food and coffee stand out here. This spot offers a delicious experience that feels like a true hidden gem.

People are saying

"The coffee here tastes like authentic Italian espresso."

"The owner's passion for Italian food really made the experience special."

"I found this place to be a delicious hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 15-30 minutes during weekend brunch hours.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

The cafe offers free Wi-Fi, making it a great spot for remote work.

05
Ciao Trattoria Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Bright, cozy Italian restaurant with live music and authentic old world Sicilian food creates a welcoming, homey atmosphere. Well-set tables and a private dining room with mood lighting add to the inviting experience. Full bar offers classic Italian drinks alongside quality meals.

Veal Piccata comes with perfect lemon flavor and penne cooked al dente. Eggplant Parmesan features a great sauce and well-prepared pasta. Penne Al'Arrabbiata offers a balanced spice level. Cannoli serves as a solid dessert choice.

Authentic Italian food stands out here, making it a true hidden gem for those seeking genuine flavors.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the eggplant parmesan."

"The food here is amazing, perfect for Date Spots."

"You'll find authentic Italian food and amazing flavors here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant has a special Romantic Dinner Sunday with a set menu.

3

The menu is limited after 9:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

06
Brine image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, intimate seafood restaurant with cozy modern decor and a charming outdoor tent area. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, blending elegance with a sense of being hosted by a family friend. Known for exceptional oysters and thoughtfully curated details that create a refined dining experience.

Lobster carbonara stands out with rich cream sauce and generous lobster. Other dishes include lobster bolognese with parmesan foam, tuna carpaccio with yuzu aioli and caviar, grilled octopus with burrata, and Hokkaido scallops in champagne butter.

Fresh fish dishes stand out as a hidden gem here, paired with amazing food and best service that make the experience memorable.

People are saying

"The seafood here is outstanding, especially the creative caviar dishes."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the oysters are so delicious."

"The Italian food, especially the lobster carbonara, was exceptional."

Good to know

1

$2 Oysters are available every Tuesday.

2

Brine offers happy hour, lunch, and dinner options.

3

The outside patio a la carte menu requires no reservations.

07
St Gabriel Bakery image 1

Cozy bakery with warm aromas and a homey self-serve setup featuring wicker baskets and tongs. Clean, well-organized space with inviting decor and a village market feel. Friendly, family-like atmosphere encourages lingering at front window seating or outdoor tables.

Tiramisu stands out as a highlight, noted for its rich flavor. The menu features Burrata Caprese and Bruschetta Caprese, both fresh and satisfying.

A small hole-in-the-wall Guatemalan bakery stands out as a true hidden gem. It offers an amazing, authentic experience that feels special and off the beaten path.

People are saying

"I found the bread and pastries to be amazing and freshly baked."

"I found this place to be a true hidden gem, a small Guatemalan bakery."

"The Italian Food, especially the Burrata Caprese, was amazing."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers a wide variety of fresh baked goods daily.

2

Prices for baked goods are very reasonable compared to other bakeries.

3

Cash and credit cards are accepted for all purchases.

08
Sofi's image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant blends rustic charm and modern elegance with beautiful decoration and a stylish vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, avoiding hectic crowds. Bartender crafts expert cocktails that complement a menu featuring standout seafood and pasta dishes.

Homemade sauce and pasta stand out alongside excellent dishes like calamari, tiramisu, and Frutti Di Mare. The menu also features a charred Octopus appetizer and Ribeye entree.

Authentic and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine stands out here, making it a true hidden gem for those seeking genuine tastes away from the usual spots.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is amazing."

"It's a great place for a romantic date night."

"I found Sofi's to be a hidden gem for authentic Mediterranean cuisine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Valet parking is available on weekends for convenience.

3

Sofi's offers gluten-free pasta options for dietary needs.

09
Dolce Vita Modern Italian image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with intimate seating and carefully curated decor creates a cozy, upscale vibe. Live performances by saxophone and violin players add phenomenal music that lifts the atmosphere. Guests enjoy balanced cocktails and authentic Italian dishes in a setting that feels like a refined home.

Authentic Italian cuisine shines through dishes like gnocchi and lasagna. Desserts include a notable tiramisu and drinks such as martinis and limoncello.

A spot tucked away in Tapestry Park offers a hidden gem experience with modern Italian flavors. This place stands out quietly but clearly for those seeking something off the usual path.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great."

"The Italian food here is amazing, thanks to the attentive servers."

"The birthday dessert cart with fireworks made it feel like a movie."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm, Monday to Friday.

2

Karaoke night occurs weekly; check the schedule for specific dates.

3

Entertainment events are scheduled on select dates; visit the website for details.

10
Olympia Cafe image 1
Greek restaurant

Small, hole-in-the-wall Greek restaurant with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and simple, unpretentious decor. The place feels authentic and welcoming, attracting locals who appreciate affordable, high-quality gyros and Mediterranean dishes.

Lasagna stands out as a delicious and frequently praised dish. Spaghetti also appears as a solid choice, enjoyed by both adults and kids.

Small, quaint, and cozy, this spot stands out as a hidden gem in its area. It offers a unique charm that feels like a discovery in time.

People are saying

"The Greek food here, especially the gyros, is huge and amazing."

"You'll find the falafel here is fresh, light, and perfectly made."

"Their pizzas are amazing, especially the supreme with butter parmesan crust."

Good to know

1

Olympia Cafe offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes including gyros, pizza, and subs.

2

The restaurant has affordable prices for the quality and quantity of food served.

3

Expect large portion sizes, making it a good value for your money.

11
The Coffee Grinder image 1

Coffee shop combines cozy indoor seating with outdoor tables and a low-key eclectic vibe. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxing during the day to lively with DJ music late at night. Prices stay very reasonable, attracting a mix of people seeking comfort or a casual night out.

Tiramisu stands out with its rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced sweetness. It scores consistently high for being mouth-watering and satisfying.

A quiet spot with great coffee and a welcoming vibe for expats and coffee enthusiasts. Chairs invite you to relax and enjoy time with friends and family.

People are saying

"The coffee here is always great and excellent."

"The tiramisu here is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

The Coffee Grinder stays open past midnight for late-night coffee cravings.

2

Prices for coffee are very low, often less than half of Starbucks.

3

The whole order for two people can be as low as $5.

12
La Cena Ristorante image 1
Northern Italian restaurant

Northern Italian restaurant offers an intimate, quiet atmosphere with understated elegance and luxuriously set tables. The space feels cozy yet classy, attracting diners who appreciate serious class and careful attention to every detail. Reservations are required, and the setting excludes children and strong perfumes to maintain a refined experience.

Scallop fettuccine stands out as extraordinarily delicious and deeply moving. The affogato surprises with its rich flavor. Overall, the Italian dishes deliver consistently unbelievable taste and quality.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem that's tough to find. Its secluded location adds to the charm and discovery.

People are saying

"The pasta here is out of this world, truly decadent."

"The seafood here is fresh, perfectly cooked, and flavorful."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the food is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance for dinner service.

2

They won't seat walk-ins even when the restaurant is empty.

3

Children are not allowed in the restaurant.

13
Live Oak Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with live music featuring classic rock and country tunes. Decor blends Italian modern style with playful touches like a lava lamp and movie posters. Guests enjoy thin crust pizza and a relaxed vibe with a modest bar area.

Pizza, calzones, and pastas come with heart and love in every dish. The vodka pasta stands out with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, while portions like the fettuccine Alfredo are generous enough to share.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem with a strong local vibe. It offers a unique experience that feels special and under the radar.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, was delicious."

"The service here is amazing; the staff make you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Live music happens on Saturdays from 6 to 9 PM.

2

Wings cost $0.60 each on Tuesdays.

3

Draft beers are available for $3 all day, every day.

14
Indulgence Southern Bistro image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Petite space with neat decor and an exclusive feel creates a homey atmosphere. Old school R&B music plays at a comfortable volume, supporting easy conversation. The vibe reflects black excellence with attentive service and a relaxed energy.

Seafood Alfredo stands out with its rich flavor and a sauce that has a slightly tanned color from unique seasoning. Chicken Alfredo comes with a flavorful sauce and bread used as a spoon, while Salmon and Spinach Lasagna offers a tasty alternative.

Offers a Sunday Brunch that surprises many who discover it last minute. Known as a hidden gem in the city, it stands out for its Southern Bistro style.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the salmon croquettes and grits, is perfection."

"The chicken Alfredo was seasoned with a flavorful sauce."

"The service here is amazing, with staff like Tabby and Trish being so welcoming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait time of 2-3 hours during peak hours.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and food.

15
The French Pantry -Jacksonville image 1

Warehouse-style building hides a cozy interior with communal seating and an old school French vibe. Atmosphere feels busy and lively, with a mom and pop shop energy that encourages sharing tables. Space is tight, creating a close-knit dining experience.

Bruschettas stand out with options like portobello, spinach, and goatโ€™s cheese or mozzarella and fontina. Pesto rolls, pasta salads, and paninis also feature prominently on the menu.

Looks like a factory but stands out as a hidden gem. Offers a unique vibe that surprises with its unexpected charm.

People are saying

"The bread here is so fresh and heavenly."

"The bruschettas here are amazing and taste so fresh."

"I considered this place a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open for lunch, limiting dining options.

2

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends; arrive early.

3

Prices for pastries and sandwiches are considered high by many visitors.

16
Dua Restaurant & Lounge image 1

Elegant space blends Mediterranean vibes with cozy lounge areas featuring hookah and outdoor patio seating. Atmosphere balances relaxed comfort with high-end sophistication, enhanced by aromatic jasmine and smooth music. Guests enjoy a calm yet vibrant setting suited for dining and unwinding.

Homemade tiramisu offers a light, fluffy texture with balanced sweetness. Main dishes include Avocado Fettuccine and Chicken Caprese, alongside sides like Brussels sprouts and truffle fries.

An inviting atmosphere and phenomenal service make this spot stand out as a hidden gem in the area.

People are saying

"The Night Lounge has such a classy, relaxing vibe."

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the perfectly crisp calamari."

"The staff here are awesome and make you feel so welcome."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The Love Island watch party occurs every Wednesday at 8pm.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy events like watch parties.

17
The Blue Crab Crabhouse image 1
Seafood restaurant

Nautical-themed seafood restaurant nestled under live oaks with string lights and Spanish moss creating a cozy, charming atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and comfortable, attracting a social crowd around over 20 tables. Known for fresh, local seafood and a relaxed, homey feel away from commercial joints.

Seafood dishes like seafood pasta, crab balls, and stuffed flounder stand out with fresh flavors. Pasta with shrimp and crab and a Caesar salad with blackened chicken also feature prominently.

Locals frequent this spot, making it a true hidden gem. It feels tucked away yet offers a little known charm that stands out in the area.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly, especially when serving the Crab Cakes."

"You have to try these hidden gem seafood dishes; the oysters were amazing."

"The pasta with shrimp and crab was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Bloody Mary and mimosa specials are available on Sundays until 5 pm.

2

Margarita specials are offered on Tuesdays.

3

Oyster specials are available on Wednesdays for $1 each.

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