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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Cincinnati

Italian food spots

A plate of pasta or a warm Italian dish is the only thing that satisfies a deep hunger.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pastizza's Pizza and Pasta image 1
Pastizza's Pizza and Pasta image 2
Pastizza's Pizza and Pasta image 3
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Italian restaurant

Thin crust New York-style pizza shines with authentic flavors in a cozy, old school vibe setting. Meat lasagna and cannoli offer rich Italian taste that feels like grandma's kitchen. Small tables and fun decorations create a family atmosphere that welcomes steady crowds.

Pizza and pasta dishes come with rich, authentic flavors that recall the east coast style. The meat lasagna and cannoli stand out with their velvety filling and perfect texture.

People are saying

"I had the best New York style pizza I've ever had."

"I found the calzone to be always delicious."

"The pizza and pasta here are amazing Italian food."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant primarily offers takeout service.

3

A large pizza costs $23, making it an affordable option.

02
Guardia image 1
Pizza restaurant

Tiny space with limited seating and a walk-up window creates an old school vibe. Burrata pizza shines with fresh, milky cheese, while hot honey pepperoni adds a sweet and spicy kick. Craft cocktails and 90’s hip hop tunes complete the cool, cozy atmosphere.

Burrata pizza stands out with fresh, milky burrata on top. The hot honey pepperoni pizza offers a sweet and spicy kick. Caesar salad also pairs well with these dishes.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be the best I've had in years."

"I enjoyed the fresh chopped salad with balsamic dressing."

"The burrata pizza here is amazing, truly worth the wait."

Good to know

1

Parking at Guardia is one of the worst places in the country.

2

There is limited seating, so calling ahead is recommended.

3

Prices for the 18-inch pie are competitive compared to local options.

03
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 1

Bar and grill offers cozy decor and street views with a lively vibe from background tunes to loud DJ sets. Italian dishes shine with burrata appetizer and rich beef ragu. Outdoor seating provides a relaxed space perfect for cigars and city sights.

Burrata appetizer stands out as a favorite, paired with beef and short rib ragu that impresses with rich flavors. Both vodka and lemon pastas offer distinct, memorable tastes.

People are saying

"I was skeptical about the truffle burger, but it was one of the best."

"The desserts here are decadent; some people even licked the bowl."

"I was skeptical about the truffle burger, but it was one of the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Automatic gratuity is added for large tables, so be aware when dining with a group.

04
Your Mom’s Pizzeria image 1

Small pizzeria offers solid crust pizza with fresh toppings and unique peanut butter cannolis. Cozy seating and a quiet, relaxed vibe create an authentic New York feel. Mostly carryout keeps the atmosphere casual and intimate.

Pizza comes with a solid crust and fresh toppings. Cannolis stand out with small snack sizes and a peanut butter option that adds a unique twist.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and delicious."

"The pizza delivery was fabulous and I don't regret the money spent."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, has a great crust."

Good to know

1

The space is small with limited seating; parties larger than two must carry out.

2

Expect to wait or carry out at peak times, especially during dinner rush hours.

3

There is lots of parking available for anyone not in walking distance.

05
Sunshine Deli on Elm image 1

Deli-style spot offers a welcoming patio and relaxed vibe. Fresh Alfredo sauce shines in Italian dishes. Lunch specials mix American and Korean deli sandwiches with homemade snacks.

Owner makes Alfredo sauce fresh using heavy cream. Pasta salads and sandwiches come out fantastic, with bowtie pasta served at the end of the day.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken salad sandwich was the best I ever had."

"The staff here is so friendly and quick with lunch."

"They made me Alfredo sauce from scratch for my Italian food."

Good to know

1

The deli offers a mix of Asian and American food and groceries.

2

Most items are homemade, including chicken salad options.

3

Expect a line during lunch hours, which may lead to a short wait.

06
Lucy Blue Pizza OTR image 1
Pizza restaurant

Blue ceiling and cute tile floors create a homey atmosphere. Crispy crust and fresh toppings deliver a real-deal New York slice. Garlic breadsticks with minced garlic shine as a signature Italian treat.

Freshly made breadsticks come sprinkled with minced garlic and stand out as a signature item. Large pizzas are available alongside these garlic breadsticks.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was incredible."

"This food, the pizza, is a real-deal New York slice."

"The Italian food breadsticks were outstanding and freshly made."

Good to know

1

Prices are very affordable for a casual meal.

2

The location is convenient for dining in or picking up orders.

3

They are open from 4 pm to 8 pm on Tuesdays and until 9 pm on weekends.

07
1 More Bite image 1
Restaurant

Warm space with live jazz sets a friendly tone. Italian dishes shine with Salmon Alfredo and creamy Parmesan pasta. Vegetarian and pescatarian options add variety. Enjoy a gorgeous view while savoring standout meals like Tuscan salmon and smash burgers.

Salmon Alfredo stands out with rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked salmon. Pasta dishes feature a creamy Parmesan sauce that complements the noodles well.

People are saying

"The food here is made with so much love."

"The Italian food here, especially the salmon Alfredo, is so rich and flavorful."

"The staff at this lunch spot are so friendly and kind."

Good to know

1

The off-street parking lot is spacious, clean, and just a few doors away.

2

Lunch specials cost $10, offering good value.

3

The portions are huge, enough to feed at least two people.

08
Blue Oven Bakery image 1

Lines form fast for fresh bread and soft pretzels, often selling out early. Unique breads like Apricot Walnut Cranberry and cheddar spinach scones shine. Focaccia offers a fragrant aroma and perfect chew, blending Italian flavors with high-quality baked goods.

Focaccia stands out with its fragrant aroma and perfect chew. The bread selection includes sourdough, scones, muffins, and pretzels, all high quality and delicious.

People are saying

"I thought I died and went to heaven after tasting their pretzel bread."

"These English muffins are the best I ever had."

"I'm convinced their Italian food is the best bakery in town."

Good to know

1

Items sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

2

Pre-order bread online at least three days in advance for guaranteed availability.

3

Expect long lines, especially during peak hours, but they move fast.

09
The Davidson image 1
Restaurant

High ceilings and warm lighting create a cozy yet lively space. Pasta dishes shine with rich cannelloni and expertly made pesto malloreddus. Abundant plants add charm, making it perfect for social evenings or quiet moments in bar booths.

Pasta dishes come out absolutely perfect with rich, saucy cannelloni filled with ricotta for cheese lovers. Pesto malloreddus and roasted eggplant starters show expert cooking and presentation.

People are saying

"The eggplant appetizer is a must-try for date spots."

"The fine dining here is perfection, especially the exquisite scallops."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday between 4-6pm and Friday to Sunday from 11am to 6pm.

2

There is paid parking with EV charging available right beside the restaurant.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is often available at the bar.

10
Allez Bakery image 1

Classic boulangerie style fills the space with fresh bread aromas and soft lighting. Italian breads like focaccia and ciabatta shine with great flavor and texture. Friendly crowd enjoys quick, quality service at reasonable prices in this to-go only spot.

Focaccia stands out with its amazing flavor and great price. The ciabatta also impresses with its quality and texture.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be the best in town."

"The pastries here are not too sweet, with flavors that linger."

"The Italian Food here, especially the focaccia, is insanely good."

Good to know

1

The bakery is only to go, with no tables and chairs for dining in.

2

The prices are very reasonable for top quality.

3

Allez Bakery offers a good variety of breads and is fully stocked in the morning.

11
Piada Italian Street Food image 1
Italian restaurant

Bright, modern space offers customizable Italian street food with hearty pesto and carbonara pasta. Large, plentiful seating creates a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere perfect for enjoying fresh, healthy meals. Quick service and friendly vibe make it a great spot for casual dining.

Hearty portions of pesto and carbonara pasta stand out, with options to customize bowls by adding ingredients like artichokes and olives. The menu features a variety of pastas, wraps, and salads, all served quickly and with plenty of healthy choices.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and tastes great."

"I found the avocado chop salad to be incredible."

"The pasta here is so good, I loved it."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the rear of the restaurant.

2

There is 15-minute parking behind the building and on side-street parking.

3

The student discount is valid from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and from 8:00 PM to close.

12
Strong's Brick Oven Pizzeria image 1

Big brick oven creates a modern vibe with friendly staff serving phenomenal pizza topped with fresh pepperoni and thick Italian sausage. Noise is extremely loud, making chat tough. Menu shines with bruschetta and flavorful cannolis.

Pizzas feature super fresh ingredients with generous pepperoni and thick Italian sausage chunks. The menu includes bruschetta, pesto cheese flatbread, and cannolis that stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's pizza has a great crust and is loaded with toppings."

"The Caesar salad here is the best around."

"The pizza here is fantastic, truly the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The lunch special from Tuesday through Friday for $13 is a good deal.

2

Expect a 15-20 minute wait during peak lunch hours.

3

You cannot order pickup online; only call for takeout.

13
Young Buck Deli image 1

Small deli space offers an intimate vibe with window views and friendly staff. Mortadella sandwich shines with creamy stracciatella and pistachio pesto on fresh focaccia. Energetic 80s and 90s hip hop music adds lively local charm.

Mortadella sandwich features thinly sliced mortadella, creamy stracciatella, and pistachio pesto for sweetness. Focaccia is chewy outside and fluffy inside, used fresh for Italian sandwiches.

People are saying

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was unreal with its generous portion and outstanding sauce."

"The focaccia here is just amazing and perfectly baked."

"Their Italian sandwiches are solid, well-seasoned, and worth the wait."

Good to know

1

There is very limited seating inside the deli and no seating outside.

2

Parking is available at the Mercer garage near the deli.

3

I was advised to get there early because they sell out.

14
The Wheel image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Old house setting creates an intimate, family-style atmosphere with a long communal table. Weekend takeout and pop-up dinners feature homemade pasta and Italian-inspired dishes using fresh local ingredients. Food arrives on schedule, highlighting a chef-driven menu with standout dishes like ravioli with northern Italian cheese.

Homemade pasta dishes stand out with delicate textures and well-balanced flavors. The ravioli with northern Italian cheese on butternut squash puree and brown butter shines alongside a 6-hour braised pork shoulder with ricotta gnocchi in a sauce featuring Calabrian chilis.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta dishes here are absolutely delicious."

"I will be dreaming of the fantastic bread here."

"The homemade pasta dishes were absolutely delicious Italian food."

Good to know

1

The Wheel hosts pop-up dinners on select days, offering a unique dining experience.

2

Carry-out is only available on weekends, so plan accordingly.

3

The cost for the pop-up dinner is $100 per person, which includes a multi-course meal.

15
Goodfellas Pizzeria - OTR image 1

1920s speakeasy vibe sets a lively tone with top-end bourbon bar and rustic lounge seating. Pizza shines with rich marinara sauce and quick service. Outdoor space adds charm for eating, drinking, and smoking in a chill spot.

Pizza stands out with a rich marinara sauce and excellent breadsticks. The cannoli matches quality found in New York City, and pasta salad complements the Italian offerings well.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"I loved getting pizza here; it's the place to go."

"The Italian food here has massive pizza slices and breadsticks."

Good to know

1

They offer 50% off on their 12-inch pies every Monday.

2

The lunch special is a fantastic value.

3

Parking is available just down the block or through street parking.

16
LaRosa's Pizza Blue Ash image 1
Pizza restaurant

Warm, cozy spot with a hometown feel and family-friendly vibe. Italian dishes shine with ZITI CHICKEN ALFREDO and cheese ravioli. Hand-tossed crust and local BBQ sauce make pizzas stand out despite a messy floor.

Cheese ravioli and ZITI CHICKEN ALFREDO stand out among the pasta options. Breadsticks and pizzas also come through solid, with salads and hoagies rounding out the Italian offerings.

People are saying

"I loved the food here; it was delicious and always perfect."

"The Italian food here is great, and the service is so attentive."

"I enjoyed the house salads and cheesy bread."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is known for its affordable prices and family-friendly atmosphere.

2

Expect a 10-15 minute wait for food during peak hours.

3

The pickup location is conveniently only 7 minutes away for local customers.

17
Luca Pizza di Roma image 1
Pizza restaurant

Enjoy authentic New York style pizza with a perfect crust and punchy sauce. Italian dishes shine with huge meatballs and mozzarella cheese roll. Quiet mall setting offers easy parking and quick service at reasonable prices.

Mozzarella cheese roll resembles a cinnamon roll but without sweetness or cinnamon. Pizza, spaghetti with huge meatballs, and garlic knots stand out. Mozzarella bread sticks add to the Italian offerings.

People are saying

"The pizza at this Mall has the best thin, crispy crust."

"I tasted the best pizza in Cincinnati here."

"I found the Italian food, especially the pizza, to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect limited pizza options by 5:30 pm on Tuesdays.

2

Parking is easy near the food court entrance.

3

The pizza is reasonably priced at $7 for a 12-inch pie.

18
Salazar Cincinnati image 1

Mediterranean small plates shine in an intimate space with buzzy energy and a farm-inspired design. Gnocchi offers intricate flavors and mezzi rigatoni balances rich yet bright notes with blue crab and preserved lemon. Creative cocktails and lively music complete the vibe.

Gnocchi stands out with intricate, savory flavors and a delicate texture. Mezzi rigatoni offers a rich yet bright balance featuring blue crab, preserved lemon, and Brussels sprouts in a French-inspired sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"I dare say this Italian food is the best I've ever had."

"The desserts here were quite memorable and terrific."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

2

Parking options are available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

3

The menu features a variety of seafood dishes along with other options.

19
Adriatico's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Lively spot blends brew pub style with a sports bar vibe, filled with TVs and a busy crowd. Italian eats shine with parmesan breadsticks and fried mozzarella appetizers. Cozy yet energetic, it suits both college groups and families.

Parmesan breadsticks come warm, fluffy, and coated in cheese, often paired with garlic butter for dipping. The pesto base pizza and veggie lasagna offer solid Italian options, while the fried mozzarella stands out as a notable appetizer.

People are saying

"I thought the Sicilian style pizza was the best in town."

"They have a great selection of beer on tap."

"You have to try the Italian food; the pizza and breadsticks are great."

Good to know

1

Parking at Adriatico's is limited; consider using the garage across the street.

2

They charge $2 for paper plates, which may be unexpected.

3

Expect a wait for pickup orders; time estimates can be inaccurate.

20
Al'Lupo Ristorante image 1

Dining inside an old pottery mill offers a lively, loud atmosphere with easy conversation. Italian dishes like clam linguine and Bucatini Carbonara shine with rich flavors and perfect cooking. Outdoor seating provides city views that enhance the unique vibe.

Pasta dishes like clam linguine and pork jowl stand out with perfect cooking and rich flavors. The Bucatini Carbonara offers a creamy sauce with crispy guanciale, delivering classic comfort food. Desserts include a unique sweet potato tiramisu that finishes the meal well.

People are saying

"I love the Italian food here; it feels like a blessing."

"The Caesar salad was missing key components, like fingerling potatoes."

"The bread service, including focaccia, was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely recommended to ensure a table.

2

Being able to pay by the QR code on the receipt allows for quick departures.

3

The restaurant offers a non-fried option for calamari, which is a rare choice.

21
Something to Wine About image 1

Wine bar boasts a self-serve wine dispenser and stylish décor perfect for photos. Italian dishes like jerk chicken pasta and shrimp pasta come with fresh romaine salad, though temperature can vary. Live music and DJ sets create a lively atmosphere for groups and casual visitors.

Rasta pasta with chicken offers a flavorful and satisfying experience. The jerk chicken pasta and shrimp pasta come with a romaine salad, though the jerk chicken pasta sometimes arrives lukewarm.

People are saying

"The Rasta Pasta is full of flavor and a must-try."

"The decor here is so gorgeous and photogenic."

"The Rasta Pasta here is full of flavor and a must-try."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

2

The venue is open until 1AM on weekends, despite Google listing midnight.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

22
Primavista image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Fine dining spot boasts stunning city skyline views and a warm, elegant atmosphere perfect for special occasions. Italian dishes shine with ravioli appetizers and flavorful cioppino seafood. An outstanding bar rounds out the sophisticated experience.

Pasta dishes stand out here, with ravioli served as a solid appetizer. The cioppino offers a flavorful seafood option without pasta. Bruschetta also features as a tasty starter.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and wonderful."

"The view of the city is spectacular and outstanding."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when it gets busy.

2

The restaurant offers stunning views, particularly at sunset around 8 PM.

3

Expect to pay a premium for the atmosphere and views.

23
Goodfellas Pizzeria - Pleasant Ridge image 1

Pizza shines with homemade marinara and delicious cannolis. Upstairs bar offers craft cocktails and bourbon tastings. Outdoor balcony patio creates an incredible vibe for relaxing and enjoying great food.

Pizza and breadsticks come with a homemade, hearty marinara sauce that tastes like it has simmered for hours. The cannolis stand out as extremely delicious, and the pesto bread is exceptionally good.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"The upstairs bar has an incredible atmosphere and holiday decor."

"I thought the pizza here was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Goodfellas offers different food and drink specials every night.

2

Parking can be tricky, so plan ahead.

3

There is typically a 30 to 50-minute wait at most.

24
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant image 1

Elegant space with dim lighting sets an upscale vibe. Italian dishes like butternut squash ravioli and spicy sausage gnocchi shine. A wine-forward focus offers free barrel reserve samples at the tasting bar. Expect a loud, energetic crowd and closely spaced tables.

Butternut squash ravioli with seafood stands out alongside three cheese and Italian sausage arancini. The menu features gnocchi with spicy sausage in vodka sauce and premium steak and seafood options.

People are saying

"The wine staff here is so knowledgeable and personable."

"The bar staff here are always friendly and accommodating."

"The Italian food here is amazing, and the service is so prompt."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The tasting bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

25
Lucy Blue Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with clean decor and a quiet vibe perfect for casual dining. Savor fresh, delicious pizza topped generously, including a unique fig and prosciutto option. Meat lasagna is rich and easy to pick up, paired with hot breadsticks and chunky marinara for a true Italian taste.

Meat lasagna comes frozen and is easy to order for pick up, with a rich, yummy flavor. Breadsticks arrive hot, short, and heavy, paired with a chunky homemade marinara sauce. The fig and prosciutto pizza offers a unique twist on Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The pizza here is phenomenal, especially the Thai pizza."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza crust, is really good."

"The salad here is bright, green, and so fresh."

Good to know

1

The buffet is priced at $14.99 for adults, offering good value.

2

They close at 8 PM, so plan to order before 7:30 PM.

3

Expect limited seating; arrive early for a table.

26
Angilo's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Offers crispy fresh crust pizzas with a unique Indian twist and classic Cincinnati favorites. Meatball Spaghetti delivers hearty Italian flavors while mozzarella sticks serve as a common side. Friendly vibe and prompt service make it a great spot for quick, tasty meals.

Meatball Spaghetti offers a classic Italian dish with hearty flavors. The Italian hoagie adds a sandwich option, while mozzarella sticks appear as a common side, though their quality varies.

People are saying

"I loved their flavorful Indian style pizzas."

"The Italian food portions are huge and the prices are great."

"The garlic cheese bread here is huge, like a medium pizza."

Good to know

1

This location is carry out only.

2

Parking is a bit restricted.

3

The price point for the food is excellent considering how expensive everywhere else is.

27
Pennyflower American Bistro & Bar image 1

Space blends tasteful design with semi-circular booths and a communal table for a chill vibe. Carbonara Croquettes deliver a crispy outside and silky inside, while Crispy Vegetable Lasagna offers a modern twist on Italian classics. Lighting is bright enough to read menus despite loud music.

Carbonara Croquettes offer a crispy outside with a rich, silky inside. The Crispy Vegetable Lasagna layers homemade pasta, cheese, and flavorful sauce for a modern twist on a classic dish.

People are saying

"The S'mores dessert is nostalgic and creative."

"This lunch spot's menu reflects the chef's incredible culinary journey."

"The Italian food, especially the crispy lasagna, is amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinner service.

2

The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.

3

Lunch is not served on Saturdays and Sundays.

28
Nonstopflavor image 1
Restaurant

Bold Jamaican flavors shine in large portions at fair prices. Shrimp and chicken pasta dishes offer rich seasoning and bold flavors, with chicken rasta pasta as a standout. Energetic vibe fills the cool but loud atmosphere, often with long waits.

Shrimp and chicken pasta dishes come with rich seasoning and bold flavors. The chicken rasta pasta stands out for its distinctive taste.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and very flavorful."

"I found the Jerk Chicken to have the perfect amount of spice and lots of flavor."

"The chicken and shrimp pasta here is seasoned so well."

Good to know

1

The price of the jerk chicken meal increased to 39 dollars.

2

They now charge 13 dollars for mac and cheese.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours.

29
LaRosa's Pizza Sharonville image 1

Pizza restaurant offers drive-thru convenience and a party room for groups. Italian dishes like cheese breadsticks and lasagna with meat stand out. Atmosphere is clean but dated, with affordable lunch specials and generous toppings on pizzas.

Pizza and cheese breadsticks stand out as highlights. The menu includes spaghetti and lasagna, with the lasagna containing meat despite some menu photos showing otherwise.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I've ever had."

"The service at this lunch spot is always super quick and friendly."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and spaghetti, tasted great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special with several different options.

2

Prices for breadsticks have increased from $10 to $15 over the past year.

3

The restaurant has a drive-thru for convenient takeout.

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