When it comes to Italian cuisine in America, there are differences between chefs, nonnas, and historians about what constitutes authentic Italian food. Recipes and ingredients vary widely from region to region in Italy, so it makes sense that Italian Americans have different ideas about traditional cooking on this side of the pond.
In Houston, there are countless restaurants dishing up their own take on the cuisine, from trusted old-school recipes to modern approaches. Here is a guide of Italian restaurants in Houston that can wow with an amazing osso bucco, or provide the simple pleasure of a plate of macaroni and gravy.
Roma
Shanon Scott’s Rice Village restaurant is situated in a cozy wooden building with a low-lit patio and intimate dining room. Wine dinners with Italian producers are regular occurrences here, and there are complimentary wine tastings a couple of times a month. The thoughtful Italian wine list is one of the most reasonable in town. The menu offers a multitude of options for creating a multi-course meal, starting with burrata with warm cherry tomatoes and crispy arancini. There are small pasta plates like orecchiette al pesto and entree portions like fettuccine cacio e pepe, which is prepared tableside. Roma is only open for dinner service, so it’s best to make reservations. 2347 University Blvd., Houston, romahouston.com
Potente
Situated right across the street from Daikin Park, this modern Italian restaurant is owned by Houston Astros owner, Jim Crane. It’s a must-visit destination for many Houston foodies, especially for its spaghetti al tartufo nero, which Food Network named “One of the Best Pastas in the Country” in 2020. Chef Danny Trace heads up the kitchen, and he keeps things exciting by using local ingredients and rolling out Italian dishes with Gulf flair like the pappardelle with wild boar meatballs and the frutti di mare with crab and shrimp. 1515 Texas Ave., Houston, potentehouston.com
Il Bracco
This Dallas transplant heated up Houston’s Post Oak Plaza when it opened in the summer of 2022. While there are plenty of handmade pastas like spicy gemelli and pesto rigatoni, there are also entrees such as Mediterranean sea bass, chicken piccata, and NY strip steak. Weekday lunch brings sandwiches like the Italian dip and crispy chicken, while lunch on weekends leans into brunch offerings like shakshuka alla verde and frittata. 1705-A Post Oak Blvd., Houston, ilbraccorestaurants.com
Coltivare
This rustic Heights eatery, founded by Ryan Pera and Morgan Weber of Agricole Hospitality, has been beloved by locals for more than a decade. It took the locavore trend head on by not only sourcing local ingredients, but by growing them in its 3,000 square-foot garden out back. The garden offers outdoor seating where guests can indulge in one of Coltivare’s famous pizzas and sip on a seasonal quaff like the Allora spritz. Its blend of Italian and Texas flavors shows up in dishes like the RC Ranch Santa Maria steak, which uses Texas-sourced beef and tomatoes, and gets an Italian kiss of zesty salmoriglio sauce. 3320 White Oak Dr., Houston, agricolehospitality.com
Amore
This elegant restaurant, owned and operated by Alfredo and Christina Mojica, delivers a white tablecloth dining experience without feeling stuffy. With neutral colors and marble countertops, and even a pizza oven that softly blends in with its surroundings, the restaurant is a zen space. Chef Alfredo has decades of experience from serving as executive chef at iconic Houston restaurants, Grotto and Da Marco, and it shows in Amore’s handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas. There is even an entire menu dedicated to truffles. If you’re a fan of Amore, look out for the couple’s other restaurant, Little Italy, which opened in Katy last year. 3310 S. Shepherd Dr., Houston, amorehouston.com
Milton’s
Benjy Levit is one of Houston’s most well-regarded restaurateurs for his popular Local Foods chain. His foray into the world of Italian cuisine last year was highly-anticipated by both foodies and restaurant critics alike. It quickly earned a top spot among the city’s modern Italian restaurants. Much of that fanfare has to do with chef and culinary director Seth Siegel Gardner and chef Kent Dumas. Their menu is playful, while still offering classics like chicken parm and 100-layer lasagna, and meats like steak Florentine are cooked to perfection on the Josper grill. The second-story space, located directly above the Local Foods in Rice Village, is lively, and those fortunate to snag a booth may never want to leave. 5117 Kelvin Dr., miltonandlees.com
Mimo
The relaxed atmosphere at this neighborhood ristorante tucked away in the historical Tlaquepaque Market Square is a major part of its appeal. Co-owners Fernando Rios and Mike Sammons make a strong pair with Rios’ culinary chops and Sammons’ wine expertise. Though the restaurant is only a couple of years old, it’s made a name for itself among locals. The menu varies seasonally, but diners can’t go wrong with one of the homemade pasta dishes like lamb pappardelle or John’s cacio e pepe. Start with the pane, a skillet bread with olive oil and herbs. 736 ½ Telephone Rd., Houston, mimohtx.com
Rosie Cannonball
This European-inspired restaurant from Goodnight Hospitality is centered around a wood-burning oven and grill from which pizzas and proteins like pork chops, octopus, and chicken Basquaise emerge with the right amount of char. Pasta dishes such as lamb ragu and cavatelli alla Bolognese pair beautifully with one of sommelier June Rodil’s curated wine choices. Desserts from executive pastry chef Micaela Victoria are not to be missed, whether it’s peach olive oil cake or mint gelato. 1620 Westheimer Rd., Houston, rosiecannonball.com
Zanti Cucina Italiana
After gaining popularity with its original location in the Woodlands, Zanti opened in River Oaks in 2022. Owner Santiago Pelaez and his team focus on service as much as the food, welcoming guests into a chandelier-lit space that is sceney and fun. The menus from either location vary slightly, but tagliatelle Bolognese and osso buco with pappardelle are examples of the pasta dishes on offer, plus a decadent black truffle tagliolini for those willing to splurge a bit. Multiple locations, zanticucina.com
Paulie’s
Founded by Bernard and Kathy Petronella in 1998, this Montrose restaurant was named for their son Paul. In 2007, he took over the family business and serves as chef, general manager, and operator today. Inside and out, its ambiance is reminiscent of New England Italian eateries with exposed brick walls, chalkboard menus, and stocked pastry cases. The La Marzacco espresso machine stands ready for those craving coffee drinks, while a small selection of wine and beer provide pairings for sandwiches, panini, pizzas and homemade pastas. Nightly dinner specials might include chicken saltimbocca or eggplant parmigiana. The frosted cookies at Paulie’s are holiday favorites, but guests can enjoy them as a sweet treat after a meal year-round. 1834 Westheimer Rd., Houston, pauliesrestaurant.com
Trattoria Sofia
Another feather in Berg Hospitality Group’s cap, this Heights-area restaurant is open for dinner,, plus social hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Nighttime is the right time to enjoy a romantic repast under the pergola-covered terrace. Stone walls, wooden beams, and ambient lighting add to the rustic glamour. Large booths make for the perfect spot to hang out with your own “Rat Pack”, drinking martinis, and sharing one of the Sofia salumi plates. There are gourmet pizzas and authentic pastas like casarecce alla norma or vongole. 911 W. 11th St., Houston, tratttoriasofia.comPaulie’s
Giacomo’s Cibo e Vino
Giacomo’s has been a fixture of the River Oaks area since 2009 when it was founded by Lynette Hawkins. With a menu similar to that of Venetian cicchetti, it’s a spot where friends and family can hang out and share flavor filled bites and good wine. Cold plates like marinated mushrooms and ratatouille are refreshing, while hot dishes such as gnocchi alla Romana more than satisfy. The fresh egg pasta is made in-house and includes tortellini, fettuccine alfredo, and tagliatelle with parmesan cream sauce. 3215 Westheimer Rd., Houston, giacomosciboevino.com
Ostia
With the ambiance of a California wine country restaurant, Ostia offers Mediterranean and Italian cuisine that focuses on fresh and seasonal ingredients. A patio allows for al fresco dining, but most guests prefer the charming greenhouse room where natural light floods in through large glass windows. Joining chef-owner Travis McShane in the kitchen is executive chef Ray Melendi, with the duo showcasing no-nonsense Italian plates like bucatini carbonara with guanciale and linguine with ‘nduja and royal red shrimp. Pizza is a must, as is the half chicken with salsa verde. During weekend brunch, sweet delights such as ricotta pancakes and a pizza dough doughnut entice. 2032 Dunlavy St., Houston, ostiahou.com
Tavola
The glamor and glitz of Post Oak Boulevard is the perfect setting for Tavola, which explores the many culinary regions of Italy with its menu, while offering a “see and be seen” stage for Houston’s well-heeled entrepreneurs and socialites. Some culinary highlights include octopus carpaccio and fritto misto, along with dishes such as lobster risotto and Colorado lamb chops. Salvatore Martone’s pastries showcase his Michelin star cred with treats like the stunning tiramisu dolce vita or classic torta della nonna. 1801 Post Oak Blvd., tavolahouston.com
Bari Ristorante
Located in the River Oaks District, this Italian concept fits in perfectly to the stylish retail and dining enclave. Whether you’re celebrating the purchase of a new Rolex, or you simply want a taste of the good life, Bari provides the backdrop for a voguish meal. It’s not just a pretty face, though. The risotto dishes are some of the best around, and the Chianti-braised short rib with creamy polenta offers a major melt-in-your-mouth moment. There’s an outdoor patio for watching all the beautiful people walk by, and it’s cheaper than a trip to Milan. 4444 Westheimer Rd., Houston, bariristorante.com
Tony’s
When people speak of Tony’s, it’s with affection and nostalgia. Founded in 1965 by restaurateur Tony Vallone, it has been the scene of many presidential and celebrity visits, as well as serving as a go-to haunt for Houston’s social set. When Vallone passed away in 2020, his wife Donna turned to former executive chef Kate McLean to help keep the restaurant going at the level Houstonians have come to expect. McLean is a dynamic force, both in the kitchen and out, and her goal has been to keep the classic Italian menu, while injecting some creativity and whimsy. Whether she’s making it rain truffles across the dining room tables, or sticking sparklers into cotton candy coifs, McLean is doing her part to keep Tony’s moving forward. Still, guests do enjoy its classic dishes like veal chop and seared sea bass. The house-made pasta program is another important element with plates like pappardelle Bolognese and caviar orecchiette. 3755 Richmond Ave., Houston, tonyshouston.com
Cavatore
For more than forty years, this family-owned eatery has been the setting for holidays, graduations, and family events big and small. The restaurant is housed in a rebuilt Hill Country barn that’s over a hundred years old, giving it the rustic charm of an old lodge. Its menu is what many food writers would label as red sauce, but that’s okay. Sometimes, the best Italian comfort food is topped with tomato gravy and lots of cheese. That makes everyone happy, from picky toddlers to dads who don’t dig modern Italian cuisine. There’s a plethora of memorabilia lining the walls and there is occasionally a piano player in the dining room. 2120 Ella Blvd., Houston, cavatores.com
La Griglia
Once a busy lunch and happy hour spot in the River Oaks Shopping Center, La Griglia recently made its move to the Harlow District in Montrose. The building stuns from the outside, with the look of an Italian villa, complete with a covered patio and its own dedicated bar. Gone are the colorful murals from its earlier days, replaced by a more serene and classic pairing of white tablecloths, black marble, and a neutral palette. The shrimp and crab cheesecake is raved about, as is the flounder piccata. 2817 W. Dallas St., Houston, lagrigilarestaurant.com
Carrabba’s-The Original on Kirby
Nearly 40 years ago, Johnny Carrabba and his uncle Damian Mandola, opened the first Carrabba’s Italian Grill, which was soon followed by a second location on Voss. In partnership with Bloomin’ Brands, the restaurant was franchised with locations across the United States and Canada, but its original location is still family-owned and holds a special place in the hearts of Houstonians. Johnny Carrabba himself can often be seen keeping an eye on the dining room. The family’s Sicilian heritage is reflected in the menu, with dishes that incorporate scratch-made sauces and wood-fired meats. From its signature lasagne to chicken Bryan, its motto is “At Carabba’s, every dish tells a story.” At the original location, the story is even better. 3115 Kirby Dr., Houston, carrabbasoriginal.com
Coppa Osteria
This bustling eatery from the Big Vibe Group takes its cue from the surrounding West University neighborhood, offering a welcoming space for family get-togethers, ladies lunches, and romantic dinners. The tre burri is the go-to starter. It’s a housemade rosemary focaccia served with a variety of butters and fragrant olive oil. There are light options such as the Italian chopped salad, plus pizzas like the carnissima, loaded with salumi, Italian sausage, and prosciutto. On nice weather days, take to the sprawling wraparound patio and watch the Rice Village foot traffic. 5210 Morningside Dr., Houston, coppaosteria.com
