24 Best Italian Restaurants in Cincinnati

Alfio's Buon Cibo Italian • $$$
2724 Erie Ave, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Brown Sugar and Goat Cheese Cheesecake
Moda Antica Chocolate Cake
Poached Pear and Fig Salad
Chocolate Caramel Tiramisu
Lobster and Crab Ravioli
Pistachio Crusted Salmon
Smoked Gnocchi Bolognese
Braised Beef Short Rib
Veal Short Rib Ravioli
Duck Bacon Fettuccine

“The food is amazing, they have a large wine and spirt offering. The staff are always courteous, knowledgeable and very accommodating. Casual dining with an upscale feel.“

4.8 Superb373 Reviews
2

Sotto

Sotto Italian • $$$
118 E 6th St, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Octopus with White Bean Shishito Ragu and Breadcrumbs
Grilled Octopus with White Bean Shishitto Ragu and Breadcrumbs
Goat Cheese Hazelnut Honey Grilled Bread
Breaded Pork Loin with Caper and Lemon
Breaded Pork Loin w Caper Lemon Sauce
Mixed Salumi & Formaggi Selections
Black Kale Caesar with Parmigiano
Goat Cheese and Hazelnut Honey
Black Kale Caesar Salad
Chicken Alla Porchetta

“The best fine dining spot in Cincinnati. Very down to earth despite the classy atmosphere. Michael, you were the best server we could have asked for!! Thank you for such a lovely experience. The food was amazing, our servers recommendations were phenomenal!!“

4.6 Superb808 Reviews
Pepp & Dolores Italian • $$
1501 Vine St, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Artichokes Alla Giudla
Artichokes Alla Giudia
Carpaccio Piemontese
Marinated Cucumbers
Artichoke Appetizer
Eggplant Involtini
Charred Broccolini
Grilled Asparagus
Housemade Ricotta
Spicy Vodka Pasta

“We travel all around the world, even compared to Italy, their home made pasta was the best we have ever eaten. We had appetizers that were awesome as well. We Highly recommend this place!“

4.6 Superb674 Reviews
Via Vite Italian • $$
520 Vine St, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Handmade Crispy Gnocchi with Four Cheese Fondue & Black Truffle
Tagliatelle Meat Sauce Alla Valentina's Bolognese
Valrhona Dark Chocolate Creme Brulee
Mama's Eggplant Parmigiana
Lobster Tortelloni Al Nero
Alle Voddka 1 2 Portion
Tagliatelle Bolognese
Grilled Artichokes
Lumache Alla Vodka
Brussels Sprouts

“Fabulous bar and food! At top of best in Cincy list!!!“

4.5 Superb393 Reviews
Rosie's Italian Italian • $$
300 E 7th St, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Baked Ziti with Meatballs
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Orecchiette Pugliese
Fried Lasagna Bites
Pepperoni Stromboli
Bucatini Carbonara
Eggplant Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan
Crispy Potatoes
Cannoli Cookie

“Visited Rosie’s Italian Kitchen. Cannot believe it took us so long to check it out. Our server Austin gave very good suggestions and everything was outstanding ! We had the Arancini and Fried Lasagna bites to start and then the Honey Pie! Perfect blend of sweet heat . We also split the Cannoli Cookie with a scoop of vanilla gelato . Forgot to get a photo as we dug right in. We also met the Manager Alex and Kitchen Manager Victor who were so welcoming and made us feel like family . Already planning when we can go back !“

4.5 Superb334 Reviews
Maggiano's Little Italy Italian • $$
7875 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken
Chef kb's Lobster Carbonara
New York Style Cheesecake
Our Riserva Veal Parmesan
Chocolate Layered Cake
Our Famous Rigatoni D
Side Maggiano's Salad
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Truffle Garlic Bread
Warm Apple Crostada

“It was our first time there and they had amazing food, great staff!!! We will definitely come back Again and would highly recommend them!!!“

4.5 Superb274 Reviews
Piada Italian Street Food Italian • $
291 Martin Luther King Dr E, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Blackberry Hibiscus Lemonade
Mediterranean Chicken Roll
Mediterranean Chicken Bowl
Spaghetti with Meatballs
Chocolate Chunk Cookie
Calamari Fritto Misto
Pepperoni Piada Stick
Create Your Own Pasta
Grass-Fed Meatballs
Gluten Free Brownie

“Food is so good! Tried the new avocado chop salad today and it's my new fave!“

4.6 Superb122 Reviews
Biagio's Bistro Italian • $$
308 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Pesto Pasta
Fettuccini Alfredo
Tomato Basil Soup
Banana Cream Pie
Soup of the Day
Penne Boscaiola
Seafood Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo
Italian Wedding
Artichoke Dip

“We picked Biagio's for our twin's 21st Birthday dinner. It fell on a Tuesday and we were looking for something special, locally owned, with an intimate setting. We called ahead and the table was ready for us when we arrived. The minute we walked in, we knew we picked the right place. The parking was easy on the street out front. The restaurant is like walking into a secret. The aroma is rich and authentic, and the decor is comfortably elegant. We were well taken care of, without being rushed. The food and wine was outstanding! The dessert was fabulous! We really appreciate the experience we had and the service we received. You only get one shot celebrating that birthday dinner, and fortunately we made a perfect memory! Looking forward to going back soon.“

4.6 Superb119 Reviews
Carrabba's Italian Grill Italian • $$
7500 Beechmont Ave Suite 104, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Four-Cheese & Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup
New Tuscan Breadstick Tower
Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Tuscan-Grilled Pork Chop
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Cannoli Cake for Two
Fettuccine Carrabba
Rigatoni Campagnolo
Fettuccine Alfredo

“We went here because was close to the hospital. Used to go to olive garden. Never again. Carrabbas is top notch from top down!“

4.5 Superb161 Reviews
Giovanni's Family Italian Restaurant Italian • $$
4050 N Bend Rd, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Trio Lasagna Chicken Parmesan Cheese Stuff Sheel
Garlic Knots with Marinara Sauce
Kid's Pasta with Meatballs
Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Breaded Mozzarella Sticks
Spaghetti and Meat Balls
Spaghetti Meat Sauce
Garlic Cheese Bread
Cannoli with Cream

“Absolutely delightful. Superbly delicious Italian cuisine, served by a friendly and attentive staff.“

4.5 Superb151 Reviews
Wildweed Italian • $$$
1301 Walnut St, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Scallops with Vegetables
Squid Ink Paccheri
Tri Color Ravioli
Bread Service
Salads
Apple

“Amazing experience at Wildweed and what an addition to the Cincinnati restaurant scene. We did the chef's table with wine pairing and they knocked it out of the park. From the service, every single person acknowledged and welcomed us to the food (so creative, delicious and locally inspired), to all the small touches of high end glassware for wines, beautiful furniture. I don't know how every single person is not raving about this spot. Can't wait to go back, as it's been the best meal in the city. With fine dining spots in the city lost like Table, Nuvo, L, this one I hope stands the test of time for a new modern type of fine dining.“

4.6 Superb85 Reviews
Nicola's Italian • $$$
1420 Sycamore St, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Wagyu Beef Carpaccio Harry's Bar Venice
Malfatti a True Love for Rome
Pappardelle Short Rib Ragout
Seared Diver Scallop Crudo
Tagliatelle Alla Bolognese
Triple Chocolate Hazelnut
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
Spaghetti Alla Chitarra
Strawberry Panna Cotta
Porcini Crusted Filet

“As an Italian, I’m really happy and proud that Italian cuisine is well represented by Nicola’s. I went there with my lady to celebrate Saint Valentines in advance, and we were so happy to spend our time there. The place is wonderful, the service is perfect and the food… the food is astronomical! Personally I do love the Malfatti “A true love for Rome”. As being born and raised in Rome I do really appreciate that love for my city. Definitely a 10/10, and best place to experience Italian cuisine. P.S. Italiani, se siete di passaggio a Cincinnati fate un salto da Nicola, non ve ne pentirete“

4.5 Superb148 Reviews
Piada Italian Street Food Italian • $
6176 Glenway Ave, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Marinara Pasta with Meatballs
Carbonara Pasta with Chicken
Chef's Favorite Piada
Calamari Fritto Misto
Pepperoni Piada Stick
Create Your Own Piada
Basil Pesto Pasta
Chocolate Brownie
Side of Meatballs
Carbonara Pasta

“great food. my grandson loved it“

4.4 Superb177 Reviews
Forno Osteria & Bar Montgomery Italian • $$
9415 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Whole Wheat Pappardelle Cinghiale
Mama's Tomato Sauce Risotto
Braised Beef Short Rib
Tagliatelle Bolognese
Forno Veal Meatballs
Bruschetta - Sampler
Vanilla Crème Brulee
Eggplant Parmigiana
Veal Scallopini
Creme Brulee

“Great food, great atmosphere loved our dinner there“

4.4 Superb158 Reviews
Gabby's Cafe Italian • $
515 Wyoming Ave, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Parmesan and Eggplant Parmesan
Turkey Sandwich and Fries
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Burgers and Fries
Cauliflower Wings
Fried Mozzarella
The Capone Pizza
Everything Pizza
Meatball Hoagie
Fish and Chips

“Gabbys and their owners recently held a dinner benefit for one of their former employees and chef with 30+ years experience. The hospitality by the team, the welcome we received and the support from their employees was excellent. In a world where community means alot, consider supporting small businesses who support others. I'll definitely make the drive to visit here during normal operation.“

4.4 Superb63 Reviews
Forno Osteria+Bar Italian • $$
3514 Erie Ave, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Goat Cheese and Chestnut Honey Bruschetta
Wild Mushroom & Marscarpone Risotto
Tagliatelle Bolognese with Meatball
Whole Wheat Pappardelle Cinghiale
Grilled Swordfish Siciliana
Alléz Bakery Bread Basket
Tagliatelle Bolognese Meal
Braised Beef Short Rib
Pope's Chocolate Salame
Forno Veal Meatballs

“UPDATED REVIEW: 4-30-25 Dining Experience

The traveling manager, Justin, reached out and invited me back in to try Forno again. This visit was spectacular from service (Maiya was amazing!) to the entire meal and after! We got the Burrata appetizer and a delicious saffron ball appetizer to start. Then, we got the half and half pasta bolognese and wild boar which were full of flavor! We also got a bottle of wine half off for ‘Wine Down Wednesday’! Thank you for reaching back out to make up for the prior birthday visit debacle. I would highly recommend Forno to anyone and also insist that you try their ‘Pope’s Chocolate Salame’ dessert because it is, without a doubt, the best dessert I’ve ever had. You won’t be disappointed!

Original review from my birthday dinner in November of 2024:

Dined with a party of 6 at Forno for my birthday (also noted on the reservation) and was very excited since it was my first time here and the reviews were anything short of wonderful!

I’ll start with what was slightly disappointing and end on a high note:

We were sat by a friendly host and were then introduced to our server. He did not ask if we were celebrating anything nor did he wish me a happy birthday. We were treated as any regular table (which is fine, I did not ask nor expect any “special” treatment). I suppose I was just hoping for a simple “happy birthday!!” enthusiastic verbal recognition or a candle in my dessert (that we were happy to and did pay for). I mean, hey, who doesn’t want a candle or someone to wish them happy birthday?

We had a pretty substantial bill so it wasn’t that we had hardly ordered anything. I will chalk it up to the restaurant being busy during this time. I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a bit disappointing and my friends also commented that he didn’t even say happy birthday or give a candle.

The food was good. I liked my dish and my partner said his was decent. Other feedback from members in my party were “delicious! I want to try another dish now too but I am too full!” and “maybe a bit too salty for my tastes but otherwise good!”

The dessert salami was what blew me away, I wish I could order the entire thing (loaf?) of it, ha!

Not sure I would return to celebrate anniversary or anything, but maybe for a casual meal.“

4.3 Superb160 Reviews
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant Italian • $
475 Ohio Pike, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine Alfredo Tossed with Saut
Never Ending Dipping Sauces for Breadsticks
Never-Ending Soup Salad & Breadsticks
TW Chicken Marsala Fettuccine
Chicken Alfredo Pizza Fritta
Salad with Italian Dressing
Brownie Cheesecake Lasagna
Seafood Stuffed Mushrooms
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Shrimp Scampi Pasta

“Our server was fantastic... and thr food was phenominal... i am not a fan of spinich and artichoke dip but theirs is fire!!!

Kid-friendliness: I saw a kid there so i guess

Wheelchair accessibility: They have handicap parking and a ramp“

4.3 Superb160 Reviews
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant Italian • $$
3290 Vandercar Way, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Parmigiana a Classic with Our Homemade Marinara and a Side of Spaghetti
Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine Alfredo Tossed with Sautéed Shrimp
Spaghetti & Meatballs 2 with Meat Sauce 680 Cal
Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Fettuccine Alfredo and Chicken Parmigiana
Spaghetti with Meatballs and Shrimp
Strawberry Limoncello Margaita
Chicken & Shrimp Carbonara
Chicken Marsala Fettuccine
Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

“Chicken and steamed broccoli (+ salad and bread sticks)
Waitress forgot marinara sauce for side order of meatballs.
Wrong salad dressing.

Wheelchair accessibility: Handicap parking is completely full during peak hours.“

4.3 Superb150 Reviews
Piada Italian Street Food Italian • $
3780 Paxton Ave, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

The Farmers Market Salad
Small Salmon Carbonara
Avocado Rolled Piada
Parmesan Piada Stick
Carbonara Pasta
Chicken Fingers
Grilled Chicken
Crispy Chicken
Diavolo Pasta
Garlic Dough

“great food. my grandson loved it“

4.2 Good69 Reviews
The Wheel Italian • $
3805 Brotherton Rd, Cincinnati

“We recently attended a private "pop up" dinner here. The home made pasta dishes were absolutely delicious and the best pasta that I have experienced outside of Italy. All meal courses were wonderful and unique. The chef has a true gift. The service was friendly and efficient. We will definitely return!“

3.9 Good13 Reviews
21

Subito

Subito Italian • $$$
311 Pike St, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Sea Salt and Caramel Gelato and Pistachio Cannoli
Pepperoni and Hot Honey Pizza
Truffle Mushroom Risotto
Sausage and Goetta Hash
Fried Brussels Sprouts
Beef Short Ribs Barolo
Sausage & Goetta Hash
Pappardelle Bolognese
Charcuterie Board
Turkey Sandwich

“The entrance delivers luxury and elegance. Hostess was very inviting and friendly! A live performance was also showcased at the front of the restaurant. A pianist played beautifully throughout the evening.

Heads up to first time guests- parking is ONLY valet or you need to find parking out on street with a meter.

We went to celebrate our anniversary and they made us feel so special. We were brought two glasses of champagne (which was delicious!) by our server as she greeted us.

Our server was wonderful! She had great recommendations and was so kind. Also very prompt and on top of everything!

There was a lady I’m unsure of her status. But she helped clean up a table (possibly supervisor? ) and she was speaking down to a young bus boy. To me it appeared to be a language barrier and that made my husband and I uncomfortable to see.

Let’s get to the food!
We started with Brussel Sprouts which were delicious! Highly recommend trying. The soft Gorgonzola dulce was such a nice compliment to the saltiness of the pancetta and perfectly seasoned Brussel sprouts.

For dinner entree my husband had the butternut squash risotto and I had NY strip that was paired with Potatoes.

Hands down the risotto is one of the best dishes I have had. Compliments to the chef on putting together such a fantastic dish. Sweetness paired with a subtle hints of pesto. This is one of those dishes you’re going to crave and will have to go back specifically for.

The Ny strip wasn’t special by any means. $57 I was expecting to be wowed. Overcooked, charred and lacked flavor that I was hoping for. The risotto coming in around $20 was the winner of the night. My husband and I both ate from it and it was enough.

We really enjoyed our evening! Again, the atmosphere was wonderful. So elegant and inviting. The service was fantastic. Our server was just amazing. We felt so welcomed and highly recommend the Brussels the risotto.“

4.2 Good301 Reviews
Sorrento's Italian Joint Italian • $
5143 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Mama T's Italian Sausage Pizza
Garlic Bread with Cheese
Mama Santina’S Lasagna
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Spaghetti Meatballs
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Pasta Bolognese
The House Salad
Pepperoni Pizza
Chicken Alfredo

“Cincinnati Pizza Week brought us here! Fiancé has high standards for Italian food and loved the red sauce on the pizza. Food was great. Wedge was the best wedge salad I’ve ever had and HUGE! Restaurant is decorated lovely and smells like Italy. Service, however, was disappointing. Host stand is at the other end of the entrance. Unless there’s a different entrance we didn’t know about- but didn’t see any signs stating otherwise. Host didn’t greet and rather went to the table and pointed for me to come to the table rather than walking us there. Table was hardly cleaned and food on the table cloth. Not a single person came to our table to greet us for almost 15 min. Server didn’t apologize for us waiting. Server hardly came by to check after food came out or would do so when walking by, not stopping to check on us. I wanted a bowl for the wedge salad. It was huge so hard to eat on the plate but she didn’t stop long enough for me to tell her and I had to blag someone else down. Al thought it was Pizza Week, I would’ve expected it to be busy but business didn’t seem busy and had several tables to expect this kind of service. Maybe she was just having a bad day.“

4.1 Good86 Reviews
Scotti's Italian Restaurant Italian • $$
919 Vine St, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Veal Cutlet Ala Parmigiana
Veal Rollatine with Shrimp
Minestrone Soup
Salad Pickled
Garlic Bread
House Salad
House Soup
Fettuccine
Carbonara
Spaghetti

“I love Scotti's we have been going there for over 45 years. We have never had a bad meal. The food is great and so are the are the owners.i give Scotti's a 5“

4 Good83 Reviews
Al-Posto Italian Ristorante Italian • $$$
2710 Erie Ave, Cincinnati

Customers` Favorites

Arancini Breaded and Fried Rice and Mozzarella Balls
Linguini Alla Flora
Eggplant Parmigiana
Eggplant Parmesan
Tiramisu S'More
Panzella Salad
Meatballs
Chardonnay
Bottarga
Cannoli

“Great service awesome atmosphere but food (we ordered) a bit underwhelming. Appetizers were good, so was the burger we were told by a member of our party but our two Italian dishes were a bit one or two dimensional. But id go back to try something else for sure.“

4.1 Good401 Reviews

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