The 10 Best Italian Restaurants in Houston

From Neapolitan-style pizzas to handmade pasta, here’s our list of the best Italian restaurants in Houston. Buonissimo!

Roma’s daily offerings include fresh seafood, fruit and vegetables.

COPPA OSTERIA

Nestled nicely between the South Hampton and West University neighborhoods, Coppa Osteria serves innovative Italian dishes, Neapolitan-style pizzas, a smorgasbord of meats and cheeses, and so much more. As for our dish of choice? We’re between the spaghetti carbonara mixed with black pepper, parsley, salumi toscano, egg yolk and parmesan cream or the whole roasted branzino topped with crispy herbs, fresno chili and grilled lemon. 5210 Morningside Dr.,coppaosteriahouston.com

TRATTORIA SOFIA

Crafted with amore and authenticity, Trattoria Sofia is the latest concept from Berg Hospitality Group in the Houston Heights. It’s alluring vibes and romantic aesthetic sets the scene for a rich menu rife with seasonal fare and fresh ingredients. The crostini de stracciatella with Sicilian pesto, mint, toasted Sicilian pistachios, parmigiano-reggiano and Calabrian chili is an absolute must-order appetizer—before diving into signature dishes like the Sofia salumi for two, poll all parmigiana, bucatini all pesto Siciliano and more. 911 W 11th St.,trattoriasofia.com

OSTIA

When weekending around Montrose, we recommend popping into chef Travis McShane’s delicious eatery, Ostia. Marrying Mediterranean fare with savory Italian flavors, this neighborhood-centric joint features an ever-evolving menu rooted in seasonal, farm-to-table offerings from local H-town vendors. Dine alfresco on the air-conditioned outdoor terrace and nosh on decadent dishes like the linguine ‘aglio e olio’ with gulf crab and chili, or (from Sunday through Thursday) share a speciality pizza with the table. 2032 Dunlavy St.,ostiahou.com

POTENTE

When we think of the most romantic Italian restaurants around the city, Potente is top of mind. Spearheaded by Astros-owner Jim Crane (and yes, sister restaurant to Osso & Kristalla right next door), this upscale eatery showcases local ingredients, daily seafood selections, homemade pastas and an impressive wine list. On executive chef Danny Trace’s menu, expect favorites like the spaghetti al tartufo nero (featuring cacio pepe, with parmigiano reggiano and Dr. Delicacy Italian black truffle tableside), and the Agnolotti with jumbo lump blue crab, fire roasted artichoke, fennel bulb and vermentino Bianco. 1515 Texas Ave.,potentehouston.com

Potente’s spaghetti al tartufo nero, made with cacio pepe, parmigiana regginao and Dr. Delicacy Italian black truffle tableside.

COLTIVARE

With Sunday evening lines spilling out onto the sidewalk and patrons patiently killing long wait times by sipping crisp glasses of wine at the bar, getting a reservation at Coltivare is a must. The popular and lively red brick Italian restaurant is revered for its thick, crust oven-baked pizzas and stand-out service. Its back garden creatively integrates home-grown ingredients with outdoor dining for a true farm-to-table experience. Whether you’re looking for a fun and hearty family dinner or a romantic date under fairy lights, Coltivare most definitely has you covered. 3320 White Oak Dr.,agricolehospitality.com

CAVATORE

With over 30 years of culinary expertise in Houston, its safe to say Cavatore knows what they bring to the table. This neighborhood gem is rustic, cozy and downright delicious. We recommend grabbing a table Thursday through Sunday night to enjoy live music from local talent, while munching on classics like the fettuccine alfredo con pollo, lasagna al forno and the Cavatore margherita pizza. 2120 Ella Blvd.,cavatores.com

LA GRIGLIA

A Houston favorite for decades, the award-winning River Oak’s trattoria serves authentic Italian cuisine that never ceases to impress. Featuring an artsy, relaxed environment, join their patio or dining room and enjoy some traditional favorites, including the wild mushroom lasagna and specialty mussels. Craving seconds? Join them for happy hour daily from 3-7pm to sip on wine, Italian beer and one-of-a-kind cocktails. 2817 West Dallas St.,lagrigliarestaurant.com

OSSO & KRISTALLA

Another fan favorite from Astros-owner Jim Crane, Osso & Kristalla sits across the street from Minute Maid Park. Open for lunch and dinner (with weekend brunch, we might add), the menu overflows with both, traditional dishes and fresh new takes, like the prosciutto and pear pizza topped with honey whipped goat cheese, petite arugula and almond and more. 1515 Texas Ave,ossoandkristalla.com

ROMA

If you’re looking for authentic Italian food, Roma is just the spot for you. Housed in a 1939 bungalow in the Rice Village area, the restaurant touts a warm and cozy neighborhood restaurant that evokes the spirit of Italy—offering classic Italian fare. Indulge in creamy pasta like the fettuccine cacio e pepe prepared tableside with fettuccine pasta, cracked pepper and pecorino truffle topper, or go for the Ossobuco di Vitello—a veal shank served with creamy polenta. 2347 University Blvd,romahouston.com

ZANTI

With a pre-theater dinner specials for $55; happy hour Monday through Friday; and a palate-pleasing brunch Saturday and Sunday, it’s no wonder Zanti made our list. The spritz lineup is impressive to say the least, and you can’t get better than homemade pasta and Neapolitan-style pizza. If you need help ordering, the black truffle tagliolini, complete with butter, pamigiano reggiano, truffle oil and fresh black truffle is tried and true. Dig in! 1958 West Gray St., Ste. 101,zanticucina.com