CIAO DOWN: The Best Italian in Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida is known for its theme parks, sunny weather, and vibrant atmosphere, but it’s also home to great Italian restaurants. We’re taking a closer look at the best Italian restaurants in Orlando, highlighting their unique offerings and what sets them apart from the competition. So, if you’re a foodie with a passion for Italian cuisine, read on and discover the culinary delights that await you in the heart of Orlando.

Christini’s Ristorante Italiano

Christini’s Ristorante Italiano is a go-to destination for those seeking exceptional cuisine in Orlando.

Veal chop at Christini's Ristorante in Orlando Florida, best italian in Orlando Florida
Photo: Gorgeous J.

They’re known to have excellent freshly-caught seafood and premium steaks. This fine-dining restaurant has elegant interiors, dim lighting, and live music for the ambiance.

You can get the Chilean Sea Bass, veal chop, or veal parmigiana. They have some of the best Italian in Orlando, you do want to miss them.

Menu: Christini’s Menu

Top Review: “This place is about as authentic Italian as it gets! It’s got a high end vibe but is also very welcoming. I came in straight from the airport on a Friday evening and sat at the bar, the bartenders were really sweet and attentive. I came solely for the pear pasta! Ever since I had this dish a few years ago from another FL restaurant I have scoured every menu across the country in search of it again… and Christini’s satisfied my craving. So SO good. Albeit a bit pricey, but with every dollar!”Brandi R.

7600 Dr Phillips Blvd Orlando, FL 32819, (407) 545-6867

Il Pescatore

Il Pescatore offers a laid back and welcoming atmosphere that feels like a visit to your favorite Italian grandmother’s home.

Il Pescatore, best italian food in Orlando, Florida
Photo: Ren H.

The restaurant’s menu is no exception, featuring classic Italian dishes prepared with heart and soul.

Their popular dishes are tortellini, lasagna, tiramisu, and carbonara. Their marinara sauce also deserves a shout-out.

Menu: Il Pescatore Menu

Top Review: “Looks small and I’d probably describe it as a hole in the wall as somebody not familiar with the area, but what a pleasant surprise! The portions are large and the bread was fantastic!!! The entrees come with a salad which we all loved the house Italian dressing, I dipped lots of bread in it! Service was phenomenal. They gave us more bread and we’re very attentive. My water was never empty. The reception area was very welcoming- greeted us when we entered and thanked us as we walked out. I eat a lot, but I was able to box up some more bread and half my meal and eating it now for lunch! Good Italian, great service, reasonably priced. Can’t wait to go back and try the mussels appetizer!”Laura P.

651 N Primrose Dr Orlando, FL 32803, (407) 896-6763

Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse

Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse, a well-known Italian restaurant franchise, has quickly become one of the best Italian restaurants in Orlando.

Veal Marsala at Delmonico's Italian Steak House in Orlando Florida
Veal Marsala Photo: Cheri Y.

It also has, as some consider, some of the best steaks in Orlando. You’ll get a perfect marriage of steak and classic Italian dishes in this spot.

Their dinners are not to be missed, with outstanding steaks, lasagna, Frutta di Mare, chicken marsala, chicken prosciutto, and homemade pasta dishes with rich, creamy sauces.

Shrimp Scampi at Delmonico's steak house in orlando florida
Succulent Shrimp Scampi Photo: Figue F.

Their most popular steak is the Delmonico steak, which is not to be missed.

Menu: Delmonico’s Menu

Top Review: “This place was phenomenal. You get the old school italian vibe from all the pictures on the wall. I dined solo and sat at the bar to watch an NFL playoff game. Both bartenders were super nice and very attentive. I had the fried cheese appetizer and the lasagna. The lasagna was HUGE and definitely enough for 2 people, and the fried mozzarella was stupendous. The wine selection is also top notch. If I’m ever in Orlando again, I would return to this place. Great food, reasonably priced, great service – what else can you really ask for?”Bridget M.

6115 Westwood Blvd Orlando, FL 32821, (407) 226-2662

Papa Lozzi Italia

Papa Lozzi Italia is an Orlando staple and the go-to place for anyone craving a filling meal with flavorful ingredients and a satisfying taste. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from eggplant parmesan to risotto with beef and portobello mushrooms, that are sure to satisfy any craving.

Photo: Sarah S.

No meal is complete without a delectable dessert, and Papa Lozzi Italia has plenty of options to end your day on a sweet note.

Menu: Papa Lozzi Menu

Top Review: “Papa Lozzia Italia was a welcome find after having returned to the United States after a week in Rome. The food was fantastico. We were tempted by the evening specials – I ordered chicken Francese and my sister ordered a delicious veal tortellini in a tomato sauce. A rigatoni in a lemon butter sauce was served alongside my chicken. The NYT recipe I looked up after dinner suggests that chicken Francese is an American-Italian dish –  in this dish a few slices of chicken breast were delicately breaded and fried and smothered in a delicious lemon butter sauce.”Bryan W.

504 N Alafaya Trail STE 105, Orlando, FL 32828, (407) 440-2099

Tartini Pizzeria & Spaghetteria

Tartini Pizzeria & Spaghetteria is a popular Italian restaurant located in Orlando, Florida. Tartini’s is known for its rustic and fresh concept, bringing unique flavors that only oak wood can bring.

The owners, waiters, and staff are praised for making guests feel special and like part of the Tartini family. The food is highly recommended, with excellent pizza and pasta dishes made with fresh, homemade ingredients. The vibe is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. Don’t miss out on some of the best Italian in Orlando!

Menu: Tartini Menu

Top Review: “Received the recommendation from a co-worker who claimed it to be the “best pizza in Orlando”. To my surprise it lived up to expectation. Our waitress, Ashley, was very swift and attentive in making sure our cups were always full and allowing us to crack a joke to her. It really does better the experience when the waiter is so interactive and enjoyable. And I have to admit after having the pesto pizza, it is in fact the best pizza in Orlando. Definitely a 5 star experience I would recommend to anyone.”

6327 S Orange Ave #101, Pine Castle, FL 32809, (407) 704-8011

Prato

Prato’s location in Winter Park makes it a popular go-to for people coming from the park. It’s also one of the more casual and laid-back restaurants on our list.

Their menu is crafted with seasonal ingredients, classic Italian takes, and balanced flavors. The mustard spaghetti, cacio e pepe, and widowmaker pizza are a hit among Prato regulars.

Some of the best Italian in Orlando can be found at Prato’s.

Menu: Prato’s Menu

Top Review: “Authentic Italian food with a nice cozy atmosphere? Yes please! You can tell Prato uses quality ingredients and perfectly crafts their recipes because this place was to die for! My friend and I spilt a bottle of one of their red wines (they have a huge wine menu!) and their potato gnocchi which had truffle butter, Parmesan and pangrattato Aka breadcrumbs. I ate every last drop and it is well worth the price. My friend ordered the Spaghettini Cacio E Pepe which was rich and flavorful. Definitely make a reservation if you do not want to wait. My friend  and I lucked out and grabbed a spot at the bar! The bartenders were attentive and the service was pretty fast to bring out our dinner. A few people beside us ordered what looked like a margherita pizza that looked incredible, I might have to try that next time although their gnocchi will be hard to beat!”Delanee B.

124 N Park Ave Winter Park, FL 32789, (407) 262-0050

Mia’s Italian Kitchen

There are several reasons why Mia’s Italian Kitchen is considered one of the best Italian restaurants in Orlando.

It’s a popular Italian restaurant in the neighborhood, well-known for its inviting atmosphere, authentic and delicious food, and attentive service in a straightforward setting.

People recommend their tiramisu, giant meatball, cannoli, and chicken parmigiana. Mia’s is easily one of the best Italian restaurants in Orlando, Florida. Give them a go as soon as you can!

Menu: Mia’s Menu

Top Review: “This place is an absolute gem!! Me and my family went in to check it out for the first time and also to celebrate my boyfriend’s birthday. The food was absolutely delicious. We tried the brunch and couldn’t believe how amazing the food was. Noora, our server, provided the most exceptional customer service. She made us feel welcomed and she kept saying she was kind of new but I couldn’t tell at all. She did such a wonderful job explaining everything to us. Noora was positive and her energy made our experience at Mia’s that much better. We do plan on visiting again and would love for her to be our server whenever we decide to visit. It is service like that, that will keep us coming back along with the amazing food!”Maria E.

8717 International Dr Orlando, FL 32819, (407) 601-7130

F & D Woodfired Italian Kitchen (Temporarily closed)

F&D Woodfired Italian Kitchen is a charming Italian restaurant located in Orlando, Florida. The restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The menu features a range of Italian classics, from wood-fired pizzas to homemade pasta dishes.

The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a variety of craft cocktails to complement your meal. Try their spaghetti and meatballs or their amazing bolognese.

Try F&D’s for some of the best Italian food in Orlando.

Menu: F & D Woodfired Menu

Top Review: “Such a great meal!  We had the chicken parm, peperoni pizza and the garlic bread.  All were amazing!  You can visit the brewery next door for a beer while waiting on a table.  This little area has several great restaurants!”Hollie A.

2635 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL 32806, (407) 449-8473

Orlando has it all if you’re in the mood for traditional Italian dishes, upscale dining, or a casual and laid back experience. From the five-star Christini’s Ristorante Italiano to the neighborhood favorite Mia’s Italian Kitchen, each restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Next time you’re in the city, try some of the best Italian restaurants in Orlando.

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