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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown, Nashville's best

Italian food

Made for those who have a singular focus on authentic Italian preparations when they sit down to eat.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Villa Castrioti image 1
Villa Castrioti image 2
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Restaurant

Restaurant offers a romantic, candlelit atmosphere with live piano and acoustic music that complements conversation. Space features modern, polished design with a secret dining room and street-side booths providing views. Guests enjoy a quiet, upscale vibe ideal for relaxed evenings away from city noise.

Italian food stands out with its rich flavors and authentic preparation. The service is top-notch, complementing the charming setting for a complete dining experience.

Classic Italian dishes include chicken, veal, beef, fish, and pasta at reasonable prices. The Garlic & Oil spaghetti and spaghetti with olive oil stand out for hitting all the right notes.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, truly a life-changing dining experience."

"The food at these date spots is outstanding and out of this world."

"The Italian food here is so delicious, I felt like I had never eaten before."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Monday at 8pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties or special events.

3

The restaurant sanitizes menus after each use for cleanliness.

02
Modern Love image 1
Restaurant

Stylish decor blends retro design with local art, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance. The atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly, welcoming casual meals and professional gatherings alike. A private room offers space for games or watching sports, adding to the inviting vibe.

Chef's Tasting offers a special dining experience with a variety of dishes. Drinks and food both stand out, complemented by attentive staff and a welcoming space.

Handmade pasta stands out, especially in the Beef Ragu and wild mushroom lasagna. Dishes blend comfort with creativity, like the corn-filled pasta and mushroom ravioli, offering balanced and unforgettable flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible; I cleared every plate."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"Chef Sam's Italian Food creations were outstanding and showed care."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available on Fridays, but specific items may not be offered.

2

Reservations require a credit card for a $25 per person no-show fee.

3

Free valet parking is available for diners, making access easy.

03
The Lounge at 2nd image 1

Modern bar and grill offers a laid-back atmosphere with live music and comfortable seating. It stays quiet off the beaten path near a busy area, attracting those who enjoy good tunes and relaxed vibes. The space feels inviting and clean, with occasional lively moments from talented performers.

Food arrives quickly and tastes delicious with fantastic service. Prices stay fair, making dining smooth and enjoyable.

Pasta dishes like penne vodka, spaghetti carbonara, and linguini with chicken stand out for their care and flavor. The menu blends Italian with other cuisines, offering unique combinations alongside classic pasta.

People are saying

"The live music here is fantastic and fun."

"The food and service here were amazing."

"I thought the Italian food here was the best I'd ever experienced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6pm with reduced price drinks.

2

The kitchen is open late for late-night dining.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other places in the area.

04
St.Vito Focacceria image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen and rockin' music creates a cozy, intimate vibe blending Sicilian flair and Nashville grit. Guests watch chefs prepare food up close while enjoying lively energy and sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The setting suits both dates and groups seeking unique Italian dining.

Food here stands out for its delicious flavors and consistently high quality. The dining experience combines excellent service with a memorable taste that leaves a strong impression.

Focaccia stands out with spicy burrata and house-made chili oil. Sfincione focaccia pizza offers a rich, delicious flavor profile.

People are saying

"The pizza here is memorable and exceptionally delicious."

"The food here is out of this world."

"The Italian food focaccia is delicious, soft, and airy."

Good to know

1

The pizza pricing is $15 for a slice and $45 for a whole pie.

2

A 20% service fee is automatically added to all orders.

3

Happy hour includes a focaccia and a glass of wine.

05
Mr. Pizza & Gyro image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant built into a parking garage with glass-walled kitchen and stadium views offers an inviting patio and late-night vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic Egyptian and lively, especially after midnight. Setup suits hanging out after clubbing with great music and outdoor seating.

Food stands out for its delicious flavors and fast service. The menu offers consistently great dishes that satisfy after a night out.

Chicken Alfredo pizza stands out with its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken. The buffalo chicken pizza offers a spicy kick that complements the Italian flavors well.

People are saying

"It's a great late night spot for a delicious pizza slice after a night out."

"I found the food here to be awesome."

"The Italian food, especially the Alfredo pizza, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Mr. Pizza & Gyro is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

2

Street karaoke happens on weekends, attracting a lively crowd.

3

The restaurant operates as a curb-side window under a parking garage.

06
Culaccino Italian Restaurant + Bar image 1

Upscale Italian restaurant with a stunning interior and sophisticated atmosphere creates a perfect setting for date nights or relaxed dinners. Bartenders craft notable espresso martinis and signature old fashioneds, adding to the lively bar vibe. Handmade pasta and fresh, flavorful dishes define the menu, making it a standout spot in downtown.

Food full of flavor and beautifully presented defines the menu here. Every dish is impeccable, making the dining experience consistently outstanding.

Handmade pasta stands out with perfect cooking and rich sauces. Butternut squash ravioli tastes very fresh and the chicken is notably moist. An off-menu Affogato offers a unique finish.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"The bar seating is great for killer old fashioneds and spot-on cocktails."

"The food recommendations here are amazing and helpful."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated for 2 hours in the east garage.

2

Reservations are easy to make using Resy.

3

The restaurant charges a 3% fee if I pay with a credit card.

07
Ophelia's Pizza + Bar - Nashville image 1

European cafe style blends with cozy, theatrical decor and loud Italian music to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Private patio seating offers a quiet contrast to the lively indoor energy. The space feels like a unique Italian villa with quirky, unapologetically southern touches.

Food offers a great variety with consistently excellent quality. Meals combine fresh ingredients and solid flavors for an amazing dining experience.

Mortadella pizza stands out as a memorable dish. The menu includes whipped ricotta, freshly baked bread, Caesar salads, pizza, spaghetti and meatballs, and meatball sandwiches. Desserts feature a tiramisu with hazelnuts and a Cannoli Sundae that is crunchy and creamy.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Caesar Salad was possibly the best I have ever had."

"The food here is fantastic, especially the pizza."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy times like weekends.

2

The Thanksgiving buffet is a special event offered during the holiday season.

3

The restaurant accommodates gluten allergies without issues.

08
Margaritaville Restaurant - Nashville image 1

Two-level American restaurant combines live music with a lively atmosphere and a sports bar upstairs showing college football games. Noise levels are high, making conversation difficult even without music. Decor mixes mother-of-pearl booths with city views, creating a casual yet energetic vibe.

Food here is consistently amazing and phenomenal with a focus on great taste. Service complements the dishes well, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

Seafood Cajun pasta stands out with shrimp and scallops delivering strong flavors. Chicken Alfredo and penne chicken Alfredo also offer rich, creamy options.

People are saying

"I experienced great food here."

"The live music here is awesome and creates a lively atmosphere."

"You have to try the Cajun seafood pasta; it's exceptional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available upstairs with live music.

2

Validated parking is offered during special events, but may run out.

3

Expect higher prices for food and drinks compared to other local spots.

09
Goodfellas Pizzeria - Gulch image 1

Pizza restaurant combines classic New York style pies with a Goodfellas-themed interior featuring real photos and detailed dรฉcor. Back area hosts a speakeasy lounge with live music and a bar, creating a cozy yet lively atmosphere. The vibe mixes a cool hangout spot with a touch of vintage gangster style.

Food stands out with excellent quality and a spring mix salad with Italian dressing that gets noticed. Late night options include great drinks and food that keep the energy up.

Pizza features about five small rounds of mozzarella and several thin shaves of Parmesan cheese. Breadsticks stand out as affordable and delicious, with some pesto bread also very good.

People are saying

"I've never had a better tasting thin crust pizza."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and breadsticks, is delicious and affordable."

"This food, especially the pizza, is awesome and top-notch."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is $10 and includes a slice of pizza, a side, and a drink.

2

Goodfellas Pizzeria participates in Nashville Pizza week, attracting pizza lovers.

3

Expect limited seating, which can make it crowded during peak hours.

10
Brugada Kitchen and Bar image 1
American restaurant

Modern American restaurant offers a calm and serene atmosphere with live soulful music at a comfortable volume that allows easy conversation. The space features stunning decor and a loungey vibe near a busy area, creating a relaxed yet vibrant dining experience.

Food stands out for its excellent quality and amazing flavors. Service complements the overall dining experience well.

Huge portions of fresh charcuterie and salmon pasta stand out. The lamb meatball pasta with vodka sauce offers a rich, flavorful option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good and tasty."

"The service here makes it a great spot for dates."

"The salmon pasta here is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 pm with special drink prices.

2

Gluten-free options are limited to eggs, bacon, and fruit.

3

A $20 cover charge applies on certain nights.

11
Sinatra Bar & Lounge image 1

Steak house with swanky 50s decor and live Sinatra-style music creates a classy, inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and high-quality steaks in a setting that honors timeless elegance. Upstairs lounge offers exclusive, intimate seating despite limited space.

Food stands out with fantastic quality and outstanding service. Dining here offers an incredible experience combining taste and atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"The food and service at these dinner spots were outstanding."

"The ambiance for Italian food here is warm and elegant."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least two weeks in advance due to high demand.

2

Restrooms are located two flights up, which may be challenging for those with disabilities.

3

Live music starts after 7:30 pm, enhancing the dining experience.

12
Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges image 1

Restaurant occupies a beautifully renovated basement space with historic decor and intimate bar setting. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet lively, with a high noise level similar to a bar. Guests often enjoy exceptional cocktails and unique dishes in a setting that blends elegance with casual energy.

Food features high quality ingredients with dishes like risotto and avocado pizza standing out. Service complements the laid back vibe, making dining feel special and enjoyable.

Rigatoni from grandmaโ€™s recipe stands out with rich flavor. Unique dishes like mushroom pizza and sea bass offer a fresh take on Italian classics.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have incredible food, especially the shrimp salad."

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

"The Italian food here is incredible, especially the warm shrimp salad."

Good to know

1

Valet service costs $30, despite claims of being complimentary.

2

Expect to pay $9 per glass of water for large groups.

3

Brunch is offered on Saturdays with a great menu.

13
Caesarโ€™s Italian Restaurant & Pizza image 1

Pizza takeout spot offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere with clean, authentic decor that feels a bit dated. The place suits family gatherings and late-night bites, maintaining a chilled, peaceful vibe most of the time.

Food features good portions and great flavor with Italian classics like calzones. Quality and taste stand out consistently.

Lasagna stands out as very delicious and better than Olive Garden's. Fettuccine Seafood Alfredo and Alfredo Pizza offer rich, flavorful options. Pizza, spaghetti, and breadsticks also deliver solid Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"This is a great late night spot for fresh, hot pizza."

"The pasta and pizzas here are so tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open from 4pm to 4am, perfect for late-night dining.

2

Dine-in, delivery, and carry-out options are available.

3

Expect additional fees for delivery services, which can exceed $12.

14
Craig's image 1
Restaurant

Upscale restaurant with comfortable seating and a large front bar featuring big screen TVs playing sports. Atmosphere blends lively energy downstairs with a vibe mixing casual and upscale elements, quieter than many similar places. Menu offers standout dishes like Wagyu steak and addictive bread basket, paired with a full bar serving premium cocktails.

Food here stands out for its incredible quality and amazing flavors. The dining experience combines excellent ambiance and service with dishes that impress beyond typical expectations.

Clam pasta and bolognese stand out among the Italian dishes. Chicken parmesan and vodka pasta also feature alongside fresh salads like the chopped salad.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are rockstars and make top-notch drinks."

"I found the food here to be incredible."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the calamari."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure availability, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant has a dress code; business casual attire is preferred.

3

Expect higher prices compared to other local dining options.

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