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
Yolan Nashville
Neighborhood: SoBro
Yolan Nashville is the latest Italian concept to join Nashville’s restaurant scene. This fine authentic Italian restaurant is by Michelin-starred chef Tony Mantuano situated in The Joseph. 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.
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 pasta, Mama G’s meatballs, and a variety of cocktail options.
PennePazze
Neighborhood: The Nations
PennePazze is a farm-to-table restaurant featuring an open kitchen concept. This counter-service restaurant is known for its freshly baked pinsas. The 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 ambiance 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 pasta, Neapolitan-style pizzas, wood-oven entrées, and gelato.
Coco’s Italian Market
Neighborhood: The Nations
Coco’s Italian Market has been family-owned and operated 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!
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 pasta and fresh seafood. 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.
Nicoletto’s Italian Kitchen
Neighborhood: East Nashville | Hillsboro Village
Nicoletto’s Italian Kitchen is a family-owned business operated by brothers, Danny and Ryan Nicoletto. In 2016 the Nicoletto brothers opened their first fast-casual pasta restaurant in East Nashville and in 2019 opened another establishment in Hillsboro Village. Guests can expect housemade pasta, made-from-scratch sauces, delicious Italian meats, and more.
Giovanni
Neighborhood: Midtown
Giovanni, one of Nashville’s first Italian restaurants, moved from New York City to Nashville in 2008. This well-loved, upscale eatery focuses on Nothern Italian cuisine and wine. Some popular dishes include the Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe (butter, pecorino cheese, ground pepper), Risotto del Giorno (risotto of the day), and Pappardelle Alla Norcia (home-made wide fettuccine, Italian sausage, black truffles, cream). Make sure to save room for gelato!
Valentino’s Ristorante
Neighborhood: West End
Valentino’s Ristorante has been serving classic Italian cuisine since 1991. When dining at Valentino’s you can expect bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and fine wine. This cozy and intimate restaurant is best known for its housemade lasagna and Chicken Parmesan.
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