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Local picks in Indianapolis

Desserts and pasta

Made for those who believe a proper meal is incomplete without a sweet finish and refuse to choose between a savory pasta dinner and a sugar-filled dessert.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
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Updated May 2026
01
Macizo Restaurant image 1
Macizo Restaurant image 2
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Cozy, minimalist space offers a homey, warm atmosphere with friendly, personable energy from owners. Casual, lived-in vibe contrasts with more upscale local spots. Bright, fruity cocktails and sangria complement exceptional Mexican dishes like tiradito and chorizo tacos.

Pear pound cake stands out as a dessert, often served with ice cream. The special dessert options impress with rich flavors and satisfying textures.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and some of the best."

"The pear cake with ice cream was the best dessert Iโ€™ve tried."

"You have to try the Pasta Huancaina."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant offers a unique blend of Mexican and Peruvian cuisine.

3

Tamales are made in-house, showcasing a commitment to quality.

02
Bocca image 1
Restaurant

Cozy restaurant with a stylish, modern interior and a gorgeous outdoor patio featuring live local music. Atmosphere feels intimate and perfect for romantic date nights or small gatherings. Basement speakeasy adds a unique, chic vibe to the overall experience.

Brown butter cake stands out as a fantastic dessert option. Birthday guests receive a dessert of their choice, sometimes complimentary.

Mushroom ravioli stands out with a flavorful, rich sauce and perfect balance. Truffle arancini serves as a notable appetizer, while dishes like Lasagna Bianca and shrimp pasta in lobster sauce add variety.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the Tortellacci, is outstanding."

"The mushroom ravioli here is outstanding."

"You have to try the pistachio dessert; it's sweet and light."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $1 oysters and discounted drinks from 4-5pm daily.

2

Live jazz performances occur every Tuesday evening on the patio.

3

Bocca has a one-hour happy hour with special liquor pours.

03
Amore! Italian Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a warm, relaxing atmosphere with old Italian charm and Edison bulb lighting. The vibe is calm and friendly, filling up without feeling crowded, though it can get loud. Live music and a thoughtful playlist add to the experience.

Italian desserts taste homemade with huge portions. The Turtle Cannoli stands out as a divine choice.

Lasagna stands out with a sweet sauce and rich layers. The beef ragu pasta offers a hearty, excellent flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food service here is fantastic and makes it an experience."

"The lasagna here is cooked with love."

"The desserts here are charming and attentive."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, wine is half price and there are specials on bolognese.

2

Wednesdays feature live music at the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights.

04
Pasquale's Pizza & Pasta image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers homey atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe and fresh, made-to-order toppings. The space feels busy and warm, suited more for takeout or delivery than dining in. Toppings are priced fairly, and pizzas come loaded with cheese and meat.

Desserts include an incredible dessert pizza and an excellent cinnamon dessert. Both come after a quick sit-down meal within an hour.

Baked spaghetti and meatballs stand out with excellent flavor and a good baked pasta option exists. Some dishes like lasagna arrive sloppily served, and baked spaghetti may lack expected cheese.

People are saying

"This local spot has great pizza with a nice sauce and chewy crust."

"The baked pasta here is always hot and delicious."

"I found the pizza here to be incredible."

Good to know

1

Almost all toppings, except one, cost $1.03 to add.

2

Everything is made to order, ensuring freshness.

3

Expect a messy hallway with construction supplies leading to the restrooms.

05
Rosemary & Olive Italian Restaurant image 1

Small interior with chic modern design and an art deco twist creates an intimate setting. Warm, inviting atmosphere contrasts with a high noise level due to minimal sound barriers. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant alternative for quieter dining.

People are saying

"The Dinner Spots here are authentic Italian with huge portions."

"The pasta here has a perfect tender texture."

"You have to try the desserts, especially the creamy lemoncello cake."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Expect a wait if visiting during peak dining times.

3

The restaurant participates in Devour Downtown with special menus.

06
Iaria's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with old-school family charm and walls covered in quaint memorabilia creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Full bar area offers a 50's vibe that blends classic and hip styles. Loud and lively, it feels like a small-town gathering spot.

Tiramisu and cannoli stand out as dessert choices. Other options include pistachio cake and strawberry cake, all delivering solid flavors.

Ravioli stands out as delicious and the spaghetti sauce traces back to 1912, adding a unique touch. Dishes like Chicken Marsala with Fettuccine Alfredo and penne with sausage and meatball show variety and quality.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and better than any chain."

"The spaghetti and meatballs were delicious, with a unique meatball flavor."

"You have to save room for their delicious cannoli for dessert."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get full quickly.

2

Expect a wait of over 40 minutes if you arrive without a reservation.

3

Dinner service can take over two hours from reservation to dessert.

07
Aberdeen Social House image 1

Upscale restaurant offers a mid-century modern vibe with curated artwork and thoughtful architectural details. Outdoor patio provides a comfortable, zen atmosphere ideal for leisurely dining. The space balances swanky and welcoming energy, attracting those who appreciate quality and style.

Desserts feature unique flavors like banana cream pie and carrot cake. The pumpkin crรจme brรปlรฉe comes with a flaming rosemary sprig for a striking presentation.

Lasagna stands out with options like capri and bolognese varieties. Pierogis, pork belly, and short rib accompany the pasta dishes, adding variety to the menu.

People are saying

"The food at these Date Spots is phenomenal and packed with flavor."

"The pasta here is amazing, with attentive service."

"The desserts here are unique and super sweet."

Good to know

1

The menu changes frequently with local ingredients prepared by a creative culinary team.

2

Expect higher prices for unique dishes and elevated dining experiences.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and special occasions.

08
Portofino image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate setting with dim lighting and comfy booths creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels distinctly Italian. Quiet and cozy energy suits those seeking a high-end, relaxed dining experience without rush. Reservation-only policy ensures tables are held for the night, enhancing the unhurried vibe.

Creative and indulgent desserts stand out here. Italian appetizers and pasta complement the quality dessert offerings well.

Quality shines in the Quattro formaggio pasta and baked fontina. Italian appetizers and desserts like the cannoli complement the pasta well.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta dishes are cooked to perfection."

"The handmade pasta dishes were cooked to perfection."

"The desserts here are elegant and sophisticated, perfect for a fancy night out."

Good to know

1

Dinner is reservation only, especially on weekends.

2

Opting for the 5-course tasting menu allows full experience of the culinary offerings.

3

Asking the server for wine pairing recommendations is advised, as they are experts.

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Indianapolis, Indiana

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