If there is one thing Italians do best, it’s food. Italian cuisine is perfect for almost every dining occasion, especially romantic dates and family gatherings! From delicious homemade pasta to wood-fired pizza, Nashville has it all. Here are Nashville Guru’s top picks for the best Italian restaurants in Nashville.
The Best Italian Restaurants in Nashville
PennePazze
Neighborhood: The Nations
PennePazze is a farm-to-table restaurant featuring an open kitchen concept. This counter-service restaurant is known for their freshly baked pinsas! Their pinsas are made up of flour, 80% water, and 72 hours of dough rising, which means fewer calories, less salt, and lower fat content than a pizza.
Moto
Neighborhood: Gulch
At Moto, guests can expect rustic Italian cuisine and an award-winning wine selection with over 250 labels. Must-try dishes are the Agnolotti (mushroom, blueberry, balsamic, sage), the Black Spaghetti (lobster ragu, gulf shrimp, calabrian chile), and the Hot Honey Pizza (Italian sausage, honey, Calabrese). Moto is a great date-night spot and can accommodate large group dining for special events and celebrations.
Bella Napoli
Neighborhood: Edgehill
Bella Napoli was the first Neapolitan-style pizzeria to open in Nashville and has been in business for over 10 years. When weather permits, guests can enjoy dining in the courtyard decorated with string lights—the perfect ambience for a romantic date. If you’re in the mood for pizza, try the Parma Pizza (fresh mozzarella, diced tomatoes, arugula, Parma prosciutto, parmigiano).
Pastaria
Neighborhood: West End / ONEC1TY
Pastaria is an approachable, kid-friendly Italian restaurant created by Chef Gerard Craft. This pasta and pizza concept is situated within the ONEC1TY development. Their flavorful menu is inspired by Chef Craft’s Italian travels and features organic pastas, Neapolitan-style pizzas, wood-oven entrées, and gelato.
Mangia Nashville
Neighborhood: Melrose
Guests can eat, drink, sing, dance, and celebrate at Mangia Nashville! A fresh causal focacceria menu is served from Monday to Friday and a multi-course, song-and-dance Italian feast takes place every Saturday night. Mangia Nashville focuses on bringing family and friends together to share a meal and have a memorable time.
Nicky’s Coal Fired
Neighborhood: The Nations
If you’re craving coal-fired pizza, then Nicky’s Coal Fired is a must-try spot. This Italian-inspired restaurant has a custom-made, four-ton, coal-fired oven (named “Enrico”) that cooks up some of the best pizza in town. Nicky’s menu also includes house-made pastas, charcuterie, cheeses, and desserts like gelato and sorbet.
Coco’s Italian Market
Neighborhood: The Nations
Coco’s Italian Market is a family-owned and operated restaurant since 1964. Whether you’re stopping in for a delicious dinner or looking to purchase unique Italian goods in the market, Coco’s has it all. Make sure to try their homemade cannolis!
Yolan Nashville
Neighborhood: SoBro
Yolan Nashville is the latest Italian concept to join Nashville’s restaurant scene. This fine authentic Italian restaurant is from Michelin-starred chef Tony Mantuano situated in The Joseph Hotel. In addition to Yolan’s à la carte menu, guests can enjoy either five to eight courses from a tasting menu along with optional wine pairings.
Pomodoro East
Neighborhood: East Nashville
Pomodoro East is one of East Nashville’s best Italian restaurants. This family-friendly eatery focuses on creating fine Italian cuisine in a warm environment. Aside from serving delicious food, Pomodoro East offers noteworthy food and drink specials.
Amerigo
Neighborhood: West End
Amerigo has been a Nashville staple for almost three decades and is the longest standing restaurant on West End! Amerigo’s menu features traditional Italian pastas, fresh seafood, and more. Guests can dine at Amerigo for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Amerigo also offers family-style catering, perfect for team meals, family gatherings, and office meetings.
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