If you’re craving real Italian food—the kind where the pasta is handmade, the sauce simmers all day, and the bread basket is worth the carbs—you don’t have to book a flight to Rome or even brave the crowded restaurant scene in New York or New Jersey. Across the U.S., outside of those famously Italian enclaves, there are chefs and families carrying on the old-world traditions of Italian cooking with serious passion and zero shortcuts. From trattorias tucked in the Pacific Northwest to family-run gems in the Midwest, these spots deliver authenticity, hospitality, and flavor in every bite.
What makes these restaurants stand out isn’t just what’s on the plate (though you’ll find perfectly al dente pasta, velvety risottos, and tiramisu you’ll dream about later)—it’s also the vibe. These are places where nonna might actually be in the kitchen, where the wine list leans heavy on Italian imports, and where meals are meant to be lingered over. Whether you’re dining on wild boar ragu in the hills of Northern California or indulging in classic chicken parm in Chicago, these spots serve true Italian soul food, not Americanized versions.
Here are 14 of the most authentic Italian restaurants in America—not in NYC or New Jersey—that are absolutely worth the reservation (and maybe even the road trip).
Osteria Mozza – Los Angeles, CA
Celebrity chef Nancy Silverton creates magic at Osteria Mozza. With a Michelin star under its belt, this LA hotspot is famed for its rustic Italian dishes. Each plate exudes authenticity, with a special spotlight on handmade pastas and a world-class mozzarella bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, the ambiance and flavors transport you straight to Italy. A must-visit for anyone seeking an immersive culinary experience.
Osteria Mozza offers a taste of Italian tradition right in the heart of Los Angeles, making it a standout in the city’s vibrant food scene.
Sotto – Cincinnati, OH
In a cozy basement in Cincinnati lies Sotto, a hidden gem that brings Southern Italy to the Midwest. The warm, rustic ambiance complements dishes like ricotta-stuffed mezzaluna and wood-grilled octopus.
Each bite is a journey to the heart of Italian tradition, with a modern twist that keeps diners coming back.
The intimate setting, coupled with flavors that burst from each dish, makes Sotto a memorable dining destination. It’s a place where the charm of Italy meets Cincinnati’s unique vibe, offering a taste you won’t easily forget.
Trattoria Stella – Traverse City, MI
Nestled inside a former insane asylum, Trattoria Stella is as intriguing as its location. Traverse City’s culinary darling, it serves house-cured meats and artisan pasta, enriching the local dining scene.
The restaurant’s award-winning wine list pairs beautifully with its authentic dishes, providing a full-bodied experience.
With a focus on fresh, local ingredients, Trattoria Stella offers a unique taste of Italy in Michigan. It’s a testament to how history and innovation can create something truly special in the culinary world.
Rione XIII – Seattle, WA
Rione XIII brings the soul of Rome to Seattle, capturing the essence of Roman cuisine in a casual setting. Named after a historic district in Rome, the restaurant serves pastas such as carbonara and amatriciana, each cooked to perfection.
The atmosphere is laid-back, yet the flavors are anything but simple, capturing the spirit of Italian dining.
Rione XIII offers a slice of Rome’s vibrant culinary scene, right in the heart of Seattle. It’s a place where tradition and taste create an unforgettable experience.
Via Carota – Hudson, NY
Via Carota brings Tuscan warmth to Hudson, NY, with a menu rich in seasonal vegetables and olive oil-infused dishes. An upstate counterpart to its Manhattan sibling, it embraces the slow-food movement, allowing flavors to develop naturally.
The ambiance is cozy and inviting, reflecting the essence of Tuscany.
Diners are treated to a culinary journey that emphasizes simplicity and quality, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic Italian flavors upstate. Via Carota is where rustic charm meets culinary excellence, offering a slice of Italy in New York.
Bestia – Los Angeles, CA
Bestia stands out in LA’s dining scene with its industrial-chic vibe and adventurous Italian cuisine. Known for housemade charcuterie and unique dishes like squid ink pasta, it’s a haven for food enthusiasts seeking bold flavors.
The restaurant’s energetic atmosphere complements its innovative menu, making each visit an experience.
From the first bite, diners are hooked on Bestia’s commitment to quality and creativity. It’s a place where Italian tradition meets modern flair, offering a dining experience that is both exciting and satisfying.
Macchialina – Miami Beach, FL
In the vibrant city of Miami Beach, Macchialina offers a laid-back atmosphere with bold, Italian flavors. Favorites include cavatelli with porchetta and the creamiest polenta, each dish a testament to the chef’s culinary expertise.
The relaxed vibe allows diners to savor each bite, turning every meal into a memorable occasion.
Macchialina is a local favorite, bringing a taste of Italy to a city known more for beaches than pasta. It’s a culinary oasis where authentic flavors shine through in every dish.
Il Porcellino – Chicago, IL
Il Porcellino in Chicago combines red-sauce nostalgia with elevated comfort food, offering dishes that honor classic Italian flavors. From baked ziti to Italian sausage & peppers, each plate is a nod to tradition.
The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for families and friends to gather and enjoy hearty meals.
Located in River North, Il Porcellino is where fond memories and delicious food come together. It’s a place where the past meets the present, and Italian culinary heritage is celebrated with every bite.
Renata – Portland, OR
Renata offers Portland a fresh take on Italian cuisine, blending traditional flavors with Pacific Northwest ingredients. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and rustic pastas, the restaurant captures the essence of both regions.
The ambiance is inviting, with a focus on community and shared experiences at the table.
Each dish at Renata tells a story of innovation and tradition, making it a standout in Portland’s diverse food landscape. It’s a destination where culinary creativity and Italian authenticity coexist beautifully.
Giacomo’s Ristorante – Boston, MA (South End)
Giacomo’s Ristorante in Boston’s South End is a bustling, no-reservations joint where seafood pasta reigns supreme. The tiny, lively space is always packed, offering an atmosphere that’s as vibrant as the city itself.
Diners can expect flavorful dishes that keep them coming back for more.
Giacomo’s is where simplicity meets flavor, making it a beloved staple in Boston’s dining scene. It’s a place where each visit is an adventure in taste, with seafood pasta that captures the essence of Italian cooking.
Fasano – Miami, FL
Fasano brings a touch of Northern Italian elegance to Miami, blending refinement with the city’s vibrant energy. As a high-end newcomer from Brazil’s Fasano family, the restaurant stands out with its sophisticated menu and sleek design.
Diners are treated to an upscale experience, where Italian tradition meets modern luxury.
Each dish at Fasano is crafted with precision, offering a taste of Italy’s culinary excellence in a cosmopolitan setting. It’s a destination for those seeking a refined dining experience in Miami’s bustling food scene.
Vetri Cucina – Philadelphia, PA
Vetri Cucina offers an intimate dining experience in Philadelphia, focusing on handcrafted, hyper-seasonal Italian cuisine. Known for its tasting menu, the restaurant provides a culinary journey that’s both unique and unforgettable.
The setting is cozy, allowing for a personal connection with each dish and flavor.
Dining at Vetri Cucina is more than a meal; it’s an exploration of Italy’s culinary artistry. Each visit promises a new experience, driven by the seasons and the chef’s creativity. It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate fine dining.
Otto Enoteca – Las Vegas, NV
Otto Enoteca brings Italian flair to Las Vegas, with house-made salumi and wood-fired pizzas that capture the essence of Italy. Located on the Strip, it offers a vast Italian wine selection, complementing its authentic dishes.
The ambiance is lively, reflecting the vibrant energy of Las Vegas.
At Otto Enoteca, diners can indulge in Italian culinary traditions while enjoying the excitement of the city. It’s a place where the flavors of Italy meet the glamour of Las Vegas, creating a dining experience that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
Andiario – West Chester, PA
Andiario in West Chester, PA, is a farm-to-table favorite that reimagines regional Italian dishes weekly. Using locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant showcases serious pasta skills and a commitment to quality.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making each visit a delightful experience.
With its innovative approach to traditional cuisine, Andiario offers a fresh perspective on Italian cooking. It’s a place where local flavors and Italian techniques blend seamlessly, offering diners something truly unique. It’s a culinary gem in the heart of Pennsylvania.