You’re in luck, as Nashville has many noteworthy Italian restaurants you can try and explore. Some of these are what the locals recommend and love, while others are popular establishments you just must simply try. Eating Italian food evokes such warm feelings that we hope Nashville delivers. Here are 5 of the best Italian restaurants in Nashville.
Amerigo Italian Restaurant
One of the most popular and one of the best Italian restaurants in Nashville is Amerigo Italian Restaurant.
They are a local staple in the city with all the classics: handmade pizza, authentic pasta, salad, you name it. They also have one of the most varied and extensive gluten-free menus.
You can also pair your meal with something from their wine selection, which has a range of affordable prices to high-quality rare wines.
Their most recommended dishes are cheese fritters, three cheese tortellini, crab cakes, and the fettuccine imperial.
Menu: Amerigo Menu
Top Review: “One of my favorite Italian places ever. I got the gemelli & sausage pasta (basically pasta vodka) and it was so good that I had to eat it all despite feeling like I was going to explode after. Needless to say, the portion was generous. Also their drinks were super good! My group got the veal pasta, fettuccine ravioli, some seafood combo, and the vegan option they have. They all raved about them and either finished it or took boxes home. I hope I find myself in Nashville again because I definitely want to eat here again!” – Kylie F.
PennePazze
Compared to Amerigo, PennePazze is the more casual option when it’s not a special night out, but you still want to indulge in some good food.
This definitely won’t break your wallet. They are known for their pizza and pasta plates with a rustic European vibe all around. You’ll find an open kitchen setup with outdoor seating and a communal table where you can find your own table.
We think you’ll like the Amatriciana, Pinsa Pazza (pictured above), lasagna, or Gnocchi Crema di Gorgonzola.
Menu: PennePazze Menu
Top Review: “From the moment we walked in, we knew the food was gonna be bomb as the aroma was amazing. This place was bustling on a busy Saturday night. They ran out of their pasta of the day and the Raghu ravioli (bummer! I had my eyes on it) but we settled for Pisna porcini and pasta with tomato sauce and cheese and arugula salad. Every thing was 10/10. Staff was very pleasant and helpful. Would highly recommend it!” – Ammara K.
Moto
Moto is decidedly a local Italian favorite. The ambiance is still casual, but the décor is a sleek and modern style, and it is a popular date night spot.
Inside has intimate booths and candlelit tables that complete the romantic vibe.
People recommend black spaghetti, Brussels sprouts, blueberry lasagna, and a Wagyu filet. Their wines are also worth a try with a specialization on by the glass or “enoteca-style.”
Menu: Moto Menu
Top Review: “We had quite the culinary experience at Moto! The portions were generous and flavorful! The black linguini was perfection – Al dente with a good amount of shrimp and just the right amount of heat! We shared the brandy carrots which were delicious!washed this down with a Saia Sicilian red wine, and also shared the tiramisu which was perfection. JJ our server was wonderful, knowledgeable and a true professional. We were visiting from NYC and can hardly wait to return to Nashville, and to Moto! Thank you, and cheers!” – Susan R.
Coco’s Italian Market
Both a restaurant and deli, Coco’s Italian Market is a popular Italian spot in Nashville. This family-owned establishment is a favorite because of its good food, friendly staff, and fast service.
They have an extensive menu with a few standout dishes that people come back for. Visitors say the bruschetta is delicious, along with the tortellini Elliston, chicken marsala, and cannoli.
Speaking their cannolis:
You can also shop in their market for fresh and quality Italian ingredients!
Menu: Coco’s Menu
Top Review: “Coco’s never disappoints. Their food is fresh and authentic. You need to try the bruschetta! It is unlike any other I have had here in the US and in Italy. There are so many dishes to try and I have had a number of them. My favorite is the Chicken Parmesan, but I love all the pasta dishes. The Timpano is a favorite of my husband. Cannolis are wonderful as are the many gelato choices. Prices are very reasonable for lunch and dinner. At the Charlotte Pike restaurant, the extra bonus is the Italian food market on site and the frozen takeout food of many of their popular dishes that is available to pick up.” – Mary A.
Trattoria il Mulino
Trattoria Il Mulino is a newer restaurant in the game, having only opened in 2015. They are a fine dining spot from the Il Muno restaurant brand from New York.
If you’ve tried it in NY, the quality here is just as great as its parent restaurant. They do antipasto well and hit home runs for their entrees and pasta dishes.
People rave about their ravioli, ricotta meatballs, gnocchi, and capellini.
Menu: Trattoria Menu
Top Review: “This place is absolutely fabulous! Came here with a friend awhile back and had this pistachio crusted rack of lamb, the octopus in a lemon caper cream sauce and a number of other very good plates. I would highly recommend this place…it was fabulous!” – Mike V.
144 Rep John Lewis Way S Nashville, TN 37203, (615) 620-3700
Luogo
Nestled in the heart of Nashville, TN, Luogo, which translates to “Place” in Italian, is the brainchild of Anthony Scotto, offering a refreshing upscale twist on beloved Italian cuisine, with a special spotlight on Mediterranean-coastal flavors.
Over the years, Anthony frequently visited Nashville, falling in love with the city’s warm hospitality and delectable food scene. It wasn’t long before he and his family decided to lay down roots and immerse themselves in the local community, thus birthing the culinary gem that Luogo is today.
Menu: Luogo Menu
Top Review: “Wonderfully restraunt. Fantastic menu expertly prepared. Well curated wine and spirits program. Attentive, professional service in conjunction with a beautifully appointed space. I’m not sure what else you could ask for.” – KW
Italian cuisine is celebrated in the city in many different ways, from fine dining elegance to rustic casual spots that are perfect for capping off the night. Nashville has such a vibrant food scene that you won’t regret picking any one of these best Italian restaurants in Nashville.
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