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17 Must-try Italian Restaurants in Pittsburgh

Although Pittsburgh was once known for its steel production, many tourists enjoy visiting the city for its art galleries and theaters in its Downtown Arts District.

a bowl of shrimp and pasta at an italian restaurant in Pittsburgh

I love stopping by the Carnegie Museum of Art, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and The National Aviary whenever I come to the city.

Pittsburgh also offers plenty of hearty international dining options for anyone seeking the best flavors in town.

For example, you can find several restaurants serving quality pasta entrees if you’re in the mood for Italian food.

Don’t know where to stop by for dinner during your stay? Check out my list of the best Italian restaurants in Pittsburgh.

Alla Famiglia

804 E Warrington Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15210
Phone: 412-488-1440
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The Alla Famiglia Restaurant
Source: Alla Famiglia

First up on my list of the best Italian restaurants in Pittsburgh is Alla Famiglia, located in the Allentown neighborhood.

This intimate, upscale eatery serves amazing Sicilian-inspired dishes for anyone interested in an immersive fine dining experience.

They also have outdoor seating on their patio and an upstairs cocktail lounge.

Their menu offers a wide selection of pasta, steak, and seafood dishes.

I love starting with their Garlic Butter Braised Octopus or Smoked Provolone.

Then, I order their Veal Chop Pizzaiola, Seafood Diavolo, Tagliatelle Scoglio Del Mare, or Filet Mignon as my main course.

They also have an extensive wine menu.


DiAnoia’s Eatery

2549 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: 412-918-1875
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DiAnoia’s Eatery Restaurants
Source: DiAnoia’s Eatery

Another one of the best Italian restaurants in Pittsburgh you should skip during your next visit is DiAnoia’s Eatery.

You can find this laid-back cafe in the Strip District, blocks from the Allegheny River.

Its casual atmosphere is the perfect place to enjoy quality Italian dishes at any time of the day.

I recommend sampling their Steak Florentine, Gnocchi & Meatballs, Pesto Al Rapini, or Heirloom Tomato Tripoline with roasted potatoes, fresh bread, or house marinated olives on the side and a Manhattan cocktail.

They also offer brunch every Sunday.

If you’re in the mood for dessert, try their Zeppole or house-made Tiramisu.


Vallozzi’s Pittsburgh

220 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: 412-394-3400
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Vallozzi's Pittsburgh Restaurant
Source: Vallozzi’s Pittsburgh

Nestled within the Downtown District, within walking distance from Market Square, Vallozzi’s Pittsburgh is another excellent fine dining option for anyone who prefers eating in an elegant setting.

Its interior design incorporates a warm Mediterranean vibe that immerses guests as they enjoy their pizza, pasta, and wine.

Try their Veal Osso Buco, Ricotta Ravioli, Veal Parmesan, or Jamison Lamb Shank after starting with grilled asparagus or creamy Parmesan risotto on the side.

If you’re extra hungry, start with their Cured Salmon or Lamb Heart.

They also have a Sicilian-style Prix Fixe menu that offers Sfingi or a Cannoli for dessert.


Girasole

733 Copeland St, Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Phone: 412-682-2130
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girasole restaurant
Source: Girasole

Nestled within the Shadyside neighborhood, Girasole offers contemporary takes on classic, seasonal Italian cuisine in a warm, uplifting setting.

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Its name derives from the Italian word for sunflower. They also offer outdoor seating and takeout services.

Don’t miss out on their Squid Ink Linguine, Spinach Spaghetti, Halibut, or Penne Marinara with Shrimp.

If you follow a specific dietary lifestyle, you can ask your server for gluten-free or whole wheat pasta substitutions.

They have an extensive wine and cocktail menu to pair with any meal.

I prefer ordering their Girasole Mule, Bellini, or Italian Man. Don’t forget to ask about their fresh, monthly dessert options.


Pasta Too

5260 Library Rd, Bethel Park, PA 15102
Phone: 412-831-3400
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The Pasta Two
Source: Pasta Two

Pasta Too is one of those Italian restaurants I just could never get enough of, even if I ate there every day.

This wonderful Italian restaurant is located in Bethel Park which is a little ways away from the heart of Pittsburgh, but still technically part of the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

Either way, it’s worth the drive.

Be sure to check out their famous calzone while you’re there. That was my favorite thing on the menu.


Piccolo Forno

3801 Butler St, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Phone: 412-622-0111
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The Piccolo Forno
Source: Piccolo Forno

You can find Piccolo Forno near Arsenal Park. It has a minimalistic yet classy vibe.

The restaurant’s culinary team creates Tuscan-style Italian entrees bursting with flavor, including authentic wood-fired pizza.

Consider bringing a bottle of your favorite wine to give your meal a personal touch.

They also have an upstairs private event space.

If you’re treating your friends to dinner, order their Bianca Pizza, Lasagna, Seasonal Risotto, or Speck and Mascarpone Pizza.

I like starting with their Polpette Toscane or Roasted Shishito Peppers to give my night a flavorful kick.

After that, finish with their Tiramisu or Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta.


Sienna Mercato

942 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: 412-281-2810
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The Sienna Mercato
Source: Sienna Mercato

Within walking distance from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center stands Sienna Mercato, a lively and warm Italian eatery.

It serves gourmet Italian fare in a casual, stone-walled setting.

This eatery also has a rooftop beer garden with a beautiful view of the Downtown area and Allegheny River.

This two-story eatery offers customizable meatball dishes, wood-fired pizza, and bar bites.

During my last few visits to Pittsburgh, I had their Beef Meatball Hoagie, Hanger Steak, Margherita Pizza, and Loaded Baked Potato Bowl.

These entrees taste great when paired with a refreshing Blackberry Lemonade, White Sangria, or Porch Pineapple Tea cocktail.


Joseph Tambellini Restaurant

5701 Bryant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Phone: 412-665-9000
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The Joseph Tambellini Restaurant
Source: Joseph Tambellini Restaurant

One of the best Italian restaurants in Pittsburgh you should visit after spending a day at Highland Park is Joseph Tambellini Restaurant.

This restaurant’s refined ambiance lets guests unwind as they enjoy classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. They also have patio seating.

Start with their Crab Balls or Stuffed Banana Peppers and order their Panko Breaded Shrimp, Eggplant Parmesan, Seafood Melissa, or Rigatoni with Salmon & Jumbo Lump Crabmeat.

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They have a wide selection of cordials and spirits to pair with your meal, including Bailey’s Irish Cream and Limoncello.

Treat yourself to their Chocolate Mousse Cake if you’re interested in dessert.


Scoglio Greentree

661 Andersen Dr #100, Pittsburgh, PA 15220
Phone: 412-921-1062
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The Scoglio Greentree
Source: Scoglio Greentree

Scoglio Greentree is another amazing place to grab Italian food in Pittsburgh.

Look for this restaurant off of Anderson Drive, surrounded by hotels like the DoubleTree by Hilton and Pittsburgh Plaza.

If you’re just visiting Pittsburgh and you’re staying nearby, Scoglio Greentree is the perfect place to eat.

Be sure to try their baked italian hogie if you’re headed there for lunch. Otherwise, I recommend the eggplant parmigiana.


Mercurio’s

Multiple locations
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Mercurios Restaurant
Source: Mercurios

With locations in Fox Chapel and the Shadyside neighborhoods, Mercurio’s is your best casual dining option for authentic homemade Italian gelato and Neapolitan pizza.

In addition, they offer outdoor seating if you want to enjoy their tasty treats on a warm, sunny day.

I consider it a great place for a quick bite after going to the park or one of the city’s art museums.

My favorite pizza options are their Quattro Formaggi, Primavera, Lasagna, and Margherita pies.

If you want to sample their gelato, consider ordering their Death by Chocolate, Dulce de Leche, Lemon Sorbetto, or Raspberry Truffle flavors.


Alta Via

46 Fox Chapel Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Phone: 412-408-3816
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Alta Via Restaurant
Source: Alta Via

If you’re looking for a great place to eat in Fox Chapel Plaza, consider visiting Alta Via for quality contemporary Italian cuisine.

It has a cozy and upscale atmosphere for unwinding by the riverfront after a long week.

I enjoy starting with their Tuna Tartare or Stone Fruit.

Then, I order their Swordfish, Cavatelli, Ravioli, or Branzino as my main entree.

Their meals taste amazing when paired with a Smoky Watermelon Margarita, Dolomite Old-Fashioned, or Italian Mule.

They also offer takeout if you’re too busy to stay.

Don’t forget to try their Olive Oil Cake, Chocolate Torta Caprese or Panna Cotta if you’re interested in dessert.


Big Jim’s in the Run

201 Saline St, Pittsburgh, PA 15207
Phone: 412-421-0532
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The Big Jim’s in the Run
Source: Big Jim’s in the Run

If you’re having trouble finding Italian restaurants serving specialty hoagies and calzones, Big Jim’s in the Run is one restaurant you shouldn’t skip after spending your day at Schenley Park.

It’s a few minutes from the Monongahela River.

It has a casual atmosphere ideal for a late-night dinner. Big Jim’s menu offers a wide selection of Italian favorites served in hefty portions.

Their best dishes are Stuffed Shells, Steak Calzone, Meatball Hoagie, and Eggplant Parmigiana.

They also have a wide selection of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches.

Ask your server about their best beer, ale, and coffee pairings to enhance your meal’s flavors.


Bravo! Italian Kitchen

4976 McKnight Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Phone: 412-366-3556
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The Bravo! Italian Kitchen
Source: Bravo! Italian Kitchen

Can’t find any Italian restaurants with a family-friendly atmosphere?

Then, consider booking a dinner reservation at Bravo! Italian Kitchen.

It has an upscale-casual vibe, perfect for any occasion.

In addition, the restaurant incorporates Roman-ruin decor to give it a unique and immersive aesthetic.

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My favorite dinner options are Lobster and Shrimp Fettuccine, Sicilian Pizza, Chicken Parmesan, and Spaghetti & Meatballs.

If you’re dining with your family, start with their Calamari or Crispy Mozz Ravioli.

Then, indulge in their Caramel Mascarpone Cheesecake for dessert.

Don’t miss out on their $5 martinis on Wednesdays and $5 wine on Thursdays.

They also offer brunch every Sunday.


Carbonara’s

250 Mt Lebanon Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Phone: 412-341-4011
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the carbonaras
Source: carbonaras

If you’re looking for a place to eat near South Hills, consider stopping by Carbonara’s for quality Italian comfort food.

It has a laid-back atmosphere and is the perfect destination for hosting large parties.

Their menu offers plenty of pasta, seafood, and specialty entrees.

They also have plenty of menu options for kids.

During my last trip to the city, I had their Baked Ziti, Seafood Marinara, Seafood Casserole, and Hot Sausage Calzone.

I also recommend starting with their Fried Zucchini or Provolone Sticks if you’re dining out with others.

Don’t forget to wash down your hot meal with pink lemonade or iced tea.


Cucina Vitale

2516 E Carson St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Phone: 412-481-8000
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The Cucina Vitale
Source: Cucina Vitale

If you’re looking for quality Italian food in the South Side Flats neighborhood, consider having dinner at Cucina Vitale.

This mellow eatery serves traditional Italian dishes near the riverside bursting with flavor.

They also offer catering and private party services for any occasion.

I like ordering their Pappardelle Bolognese or Ravioli for dinner, their Meatball Sandwich for lunch, and their Customized Frittata for breakfast.

You can bring your favorite bottle of beer to the restaurant to enhance your dining experience.

Try their Lemon Mascarpone Cheesecake, Cannoli, or Chocolate Chip Biscotti for dessert with iced tea or sparkling water if you want something sweet.


Delallo’s Fort Couch Cafe

91 Fort Couch Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Phone: 412-835-4320
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The Delallo’s Fort Couch Cafe
Source: Delallo’s Fort Couch Cafe

For over 35 years, Delallo’s Fort Couch Cafe has served hearty, family-style Italian dishes for Pittsburgh’s residents and tourists craving authentic flavors in a relaxed environment.

This restaurant’s culinary team prepares their dishes with local ingredients to ensure bold flavors in every bite.

They also offer catering services and private party spaces.

The best appetizers you should start your night with are their Fried Provolone Sticks and Jumbo Lump Crab Cake.

Then, consider ordering their Lasagna Salsiccia, Seafood Ravioli, Veal Romano, or Gnocchi with Short Rib Ragu.

Stop by their bar and try their beer on tap before ordering a Strawberry Shortcake for dessert.


Enrico Biscotti Co

2022 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: 412-281-2602
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The Enrico Biscotti Co
Source: Enrico Biscotti Co

Last but not least on this list of the best Italian restaurants in Pittsburgh is Enrico Biscotti Co, located in the heart of the Strip District.

This casual, rustic bakery serves tasty Italian pastries made from scratch.

I love stopping by in the afternoon for their Neapolitan-style pizza.

It’s a great setting for private, fixed-price dinner parties.

They also offer cooking classes for making pizza, sauce, and bread.

My favorite pizza options are their Verdura, Pizza Carne, and Quattro Formaggi pies.

You can also order pastries online or pick them up at their shop if you crave something sweet, like Chocolate Vanilla Swirl Biscotti, Ricotta Pie, and Focaccia.

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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