The Best Italian Restaurants in Tampa for 2025 🍝🇮🇹

If you’re looking for the best Italian restaurants in Tampa, you’re in for a treat. The city’s Italian dining scene is a delightful blend of traditional flavors, modern culinary artistry, and authentic family recipes passed down through generations. Whether you’re craving classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizza, or a romantic fine dining experience, Tampa has a spot to satisfy every Italian food lover.

Here’s a curated list of top Italian restaurants in Tampa you won’t want to miss:

🍝 Bella’s Italian Café

A staple in South Tampa since 1986, Bella’s Italian Café offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a menu filled with traditional Italian favorites. From signature pasta dishes to indulgent desserts, Bella’s delivers an authentic Italian dining experience that keeps locals coming back.

🌟 Rocca

Located in Tampa Heights, Rocca is a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant that combines innovation with tradition. Chef Bryce Bonsack crafts artful dishes inspired by Italian culinary roots, making Rocca a must-visit for serious foodies seeking one of Tampa’s most elevated Italian dining experiences.

🍷 Donatello Italian Restaurant

Since 1984, Donatello has been Tampa’s go-to for upscale Northern Italian cuisine. With elegant white-tablecloth service, live jazz, and impeccable hospitality, this restaurant is ideal for a romantic date night or celebrating a special occasion.

🧀 Forbici Modern Italian

Located in Hyde Park Village, Forbici offers a fresh, modern twist on Italian classics. Known for its Roman-style pizzas and handcrafted pastas, Forbici combines sleek design with bold flavors — perfect for both casual dinners and stylish nights out.

🥂 Esposito’s Italian Restaurant & Bar

With roots tracing back to Mulberry Street in NYC, Esposito’s brings Sicilian and Neapolitan recipes to Tampa. The family-run restaurant showcases generations-old dishes, offering a genuine taste of southern Italy in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

🍇 Vino e Pasta

For a cozy neighborhood trattoria vibe, Vino e Pasta is a beloved local favorite. The menu emphasizes house-made pasta and an extensive wine list, making it one of the best Italian restaurants in Tampa for an intimate dinner with friends or family.

🎶 Bocelli

Named after the world-famous tenor, Bocelli blends Tuscan inspiration with coastal Italian flavors. Guests enjoy seafood specialties, handcrafted pastas, and a romantic ambiance that makes it a top pick for anniversaries or upscale dining in Tampa.

🍽 Trattoria Pasquale

A hidden gem in South Tampa, Trattoria Pasquale serves heartfelt Northern Italian cuisine rooted in chef-owner Luigi Cavallaro’s family traditions. The restaurant is known for dishes like Farfalle Luigi and Nonno Pasquale’s veal or chicken, as well as its famous “Big Night” — a monthly 7-course dinner highlighting a different region of Italy. With its intimate setting and authentic recipes, this spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking truly traditional Italian food in Tampa.

Final Thoughts

From fine dining landmarks like Donatello and Rocca to cozy trattorias like Vino e Pasta and Trattoria Pasquale, Tampa’s Italian dining scene offers something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for wood-fired pizza, a hearty bowl of pasta, or a romantic date night, these restaurants deliver the best of Italy right here in Tampa.

So next time you’re searching for the best Italian food in Tampa, bookmark this list and buon appetito! 🍷🍝