Tampa, Florida is a vibrant and diverse city with a thriving culinary scene. When it comes to Italian food, there’s no shortage of options. But how do you know which ones are worth your time and money? To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best Italian restaurants in Tampa. These restaurants offer a wide range of dining experiences, from casual to fine dining, so you’re sure to find one that fits your taste and budget.
The 12 Best Italian Restaurants in Tampa
Bella’s Italian Cafe
Bella’s Italian Cafe is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving up authentic Italian fare for over 20 years. Located in the heart of South Tampa, this cozy restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Customer Experience
According to reviews on TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google Maps, customers rave about the friendly and attentive service at Bella’s Italian Cafe. Many also mention the cozy and intimate ambiance, perfect for a romantic date or a family dinner.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at Bella’s features a wide variety of traditional Italian dishes, but some standouts include their homemade lasagna, wood-fired pizzas, and seafood linguine. Don’t forget to save room for their famous tiramisu for dessert.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $15 to $30, Bella’s offers a great value for the quality of food and service. They also have a daily happy hour from 4-6pm, with discounted drinks and appetizers.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1413 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606 | (813) 254-3355 | Mon-Sat: 11am-10pm, Sun: 4-9pm |
La Terrazza Restaurant
Located on the rooftop of the Hilton Tampa Downtown, La Terrazza offers stunning views of the city skyline while you dine. This upscale restaurant features a contemporary take on Italian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Customer Experience
Customers rave about the beautiful views and elegant atmosphere at La Terrazza. The service is also highly praised for being attentive and knowledgeable about the menu and wine selection.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at La Terrazza changes seasonally, but some popular dishes include their homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and seafood risotto. Don’t forget to try one of their signature cocktails or a glass of wine from their extensive list.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $25 to $40, La Terrazza is on the pricier side, but worth it for a special occasion or a romantic date night.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 211 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL 33602 | (813) 204-3000 | Mon-Sat: 5-10pm, Sun: Closed |
Casa Santo Stefano
Casa Santo Stefano is a charming Italian trattoria that serves up hearty and flavorful dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the historic Ybor City neighborhood, this family-owned restaurant has been a local favorite for over 15 years.
Customer Experience
Customers praise the friendly and welcoming staff at Casa Santo Stefano, making it a great spot for families and large groups. The cozy and intimate ambiance also adds to the overall dining experience.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at Casa Santo Stefano features a mix of traditional Italian dishes and modern interpretations. Some must-try meals include their chicken parmesan, gnocchi al pesto, and veal marsala. And don’t forget to save room for their homemade cannolis for dessert.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $15 to $25, Casa Santo Stefano offers a great value for the quality of food and service.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1418 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605 | (813) 248-9463 | Mon-Sat: 11am-10pm, Sun: Closed |
Donatello
Donatello is a fine dining Italian restaurant that has been a staple in Tampa for over 30 years. This elegant restaurant features white tablecloths, live piano music, and impeccable service, making it a popular spot for special occasions and business dinners.
Customer Experience
Customers rave about the upscale and romantic ambiance at Donatello, as well as the attentive and knowledgeable staff. Many also mention the extensive wine list and delicious cocktails.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at Donatello features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Some must-try meals include their veal chop, lobster ravioli, and filet mignon. And don’t forget to save room for their famous tiramisu for dessert.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $25 to $50, Donatello is on the pricier side, but worth it for a special occasion or a memorable dining experience.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 232 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33609 | (813) 875-6660 | Mon-Sun: 5-10pm |
Cena
Cena, which means “dinner” in Italian, is a modern Italian restaurant located in the Channelside district of Tampa. The menu features a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
Customer Experience
Customers praise the modern and trendy atmosphere at Cena, as well as the friendly and attentive service. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating with a view of the waterfront, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at Cena changes seasonally, but some popular dishes include their wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and seafood risotto. And don’t forget to try one of their signature cocktails or a glass of wine from their extensive list.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $20 to $35, Cena offers a great value for the quality of food and service.
Address : 1120 E Kennedy Blvd 100, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone : (813) 374-8840
Operating Hour : Mon-Sun: 5-10pm
Osteria Natalina
Osteria Natalina is a cozy and intimate Italian restaurant located in the heart of South Tampa. This family-owned restaurant serves up traditional Italian dishes with a focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients.
Customer Experience
Customers rave about the warm and welcoming atmosphere at Osteria Natalina, as well as the friendly and attentive service. Many also mention the authentic and flavorful dishes that transport them to Italy.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at Osteria Natalina features classic Italian dishes such as spaghetti carbonara, chicken piccata, and eggplant parmesan. Don’t forget to save room for their homemade tiramisu for dessert.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $15 to $25, Osteria Natalina offers a great value for the quality of food and service.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 3215 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33629 | (813) 831-1210 | Mon-Sat: 5-10pm, Sun: Closed |
Timpano Hyde Park
Timpano Hyde Park is a modern Italian restaurant located in the trendy Hyde Park neighborhood of Tampa. The menu features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, as well as an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Customer Experience
Customers praise the upscale and trendy atmosphere at Timpano, as well as the attentive and knowledgeable staff. Many also mention the live music on weekends, adding to the overall dining experience.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at Timpano features a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some must-try meals include their lobster ravioli, chicken marsala, and filet mignon. And don’t forget to save room for their famous chocolate cake for dessert.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $20 to $40, Timpano offers a great value for the quality of food and service.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1610 W Swann Ave, Tampa, FL 33606 | (813) 254-5870 | Mon-Sun: 4-10pm |
BellaBrava Tampa
BellaBrava Tampa is a lively and casual Italian restaurant located in the heart of downtown Tampa. The menu features a mix of traditional and modern Italian dishes, as well as an extensive selection of craft beers and cocktails.
Customer Experience
Customers rave about the energetic and fun atmosphere at BellaBrava, as well as the friendly and attentive service. Many also mention the outdoor seating area, perfect for people-watching while enjoying a delicious meal.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at BellaBrava features a variety of dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and seafood specialties. Don’t forget to try one of their signature cocktails or a glass of wine from their extensive list.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $15 to $25, BellaBrava offers a great value for the quality of food and service.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 204 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | (727) 895-5515 | Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm |
Malio’s Prime
Malio’s Prime is a fine dining Steakhouse that also serves up delicious Italian dishes. Located in downtown Tampa, this upscale restaurant features white tablecloths, live piano music, and impeccable service.
Customer Experience
Customers praise the elegant and romantic atmosphere at Malio’s, as well as the attentive and knowledgeable staff. Many also mention the extensive wine list and delicious cocktails.
Must-Try Meals
While known for their steaks, Malio’s also offers a variety of Italian dishes such as chicken parmesan, lobster ravioli, and veal marsala. And don’t forget to save room for their famous key lime pie for dessert.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $30 to $50, Malio’s is on the pricier side, but worth it for a special occasion or a memorable dining experience.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 400 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602 | (813) 223-7746 | Mon-Sat: 5-10pm, Sun: Closed |
OGGI Italian
OGGI Italian is a modern and trendy Italian restaurant located in the Westshore district of Tampa. The menu features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, as well as an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Customer Experience
Customers praise the chic and stylish atmosphere at OGGI, as well as the friendly and attentive service. Many also mention the outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying a meal on a nice day.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at OGGI features a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some must-try meals include their homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seafood specialties. And don’t forget to save room for their delicious gelato for dessert.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $20 to $35, OGGI offers a great value for the quality of food and service.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 236 E Davis Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606 | (813) 251-1000 | Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm |
Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria
Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria is a casual and family-friendly Italian restaurant located in downtown Tampa. The menu features authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, homemade pastas, and other Italian favorites.
Customer Experience
Customers rave about the cozy and inviting atmosphere at Bavaro’s, as well as the friendly and attentive service. Many also mention the outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying a meal on a nice day.
Must-Try Meals
As the name suggests, the pizza at Bavaro’s is a must-try. Made with imported ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven, these pizzas are truly authentic and delicious. Other popular dishes include their homemade gnocchi, lasagna, and meatballs.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $15 to $25, Bavaro’s offers a great value for the quality of food and service.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 514 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602 | (813) 868-4440 | Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm |
Due Amici
Due Amici is a cozy and intimate Italian restaurant located in the historic Hyde Park neighborhood of Tampa. The menu features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, as well as an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Customer Experience
Customers praise the warm and welcoming atmosphere at Due Amici, as well as the friendly and attentive service. Many also mention the outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying a meal on a nice day.
Must-Try Meals
The menu at Due Amici features a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some must-try meals include their homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seafood specialties. And don’t forget to save room for their delicious tiramisu for dessert.
Average Cost
With entrees ranging from $20 to $35, Due Amici offers a great value for the quality of food and service.
| Address | Phone | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1724 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33629 | (813) 254-8009 | Mon-Sun: 5-10pm |
Q&A
Q: What is the best time to visit these restaurants?
A: It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants like Donatello and Timpano. Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends, but it ultimately depends on the restaurant and the occasion.
Q: Are these restaurants suitable for families?
A: Yes, most of these restaurants are family-friendly and offer a variety of options for kids. However, some may have a more upscale or romantic atmosphere, so it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.
Q: Do these restaurants offer vegetarian or gluten-free options?
A: Yes, most of these restaurants offer vegetarian and gluten-free options. It’s always best to inform the server of any dietary restrictions when ordering.
Conclusion
Tampa has no shortage of delicious Italian restaurants, each offering its own unique dining experience. From cozy trattorias to upscale fine dining, there is something for everyone on this list of the 12 best Italian restaurants in Tampa. So next time you’re craving some authentic Italian cuisine, be sure to check out one of these top-rated restaurants for a memorable and delicious meal.
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