If you’re looking for a taste of Italy in Tennessee, there are many great options to explore.
This article lists the 10 best Italian restaurants in the state to help you find where to enjoy authentic dishes.
From classic pasta meals to delightful desserts, these restaurants offer something for every Italian food lover.
You can enjoy a variety of flavors and dining experiences throughout Tennessee.
Each restaurant has its own unique atmosphere and menu, making it easier for you to choose the perfect spot for your next meal.
1) PennePazze Nashville
Source: PennePazze Nashville Instagram
PennePazze Nashville offers a true taste of Italy in the heart of Tennessee. This restaurant focuses on farm-to-table dining, emphasizing fresh ingredients straight from local sources.
You can watch chefs at work in the open kitchen, creating authentic Italian dishes.
The menu features a variety of classic recipes and modern twists.
You can choose to dine in for an inviting experience or order for pickup and delivery when you’re on the go.
The restaurant also has an app to help you stay connected with the latest updates.
Located in L&L Market, PennePazze is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere. Social media keeps you in the loop about any special events and new menu items.
Rating: 4.8 (2000 reviews)
Location: 3826 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37209
Contact: (615) 285-3357
Website: Visit Website
2) Pelato
Source: Pelato Instagram
Pelato offers a unique dining experience with a focus on Italian cuisine. You can enjoy a variety of small, sharable plates that bring big flavors inspired by Brooklyn.
The menu is designed for both casual dining and special occasions.
For private events, Pelato provides customizable packages. You have the option for seated dinners or cocktail-style gatherings. This makes it an excellent choice for hosting birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate events.
Catering services are also available for events of all sizes.
Whether you’re planning a family gathering or a larger party, their catering can accommodate your needs.
The restaurant prides itself on creating an inviting atmosphere. This makes it a great spot for both casual dining and celebrations with friends and family.
Rating: 4.7 (1100 reviews)
Location: 1300 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
Contact: (615) 953-0012
Website: Visit Website
3) Giardino
Source: Giardino Instagram
Giardino offers a delightful Italian dining experience in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The restaurant features a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes it a great place for both casual meals and special occasions.
The menu showcases a variety of authentic Italian dishes. You can enjoy everything from classic pasta dishes to fresh seafood options. Each dish is prepared with care and quality ingredients.
Giardino also provides a selection of drinks to complement your meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a fine glass of wine or a unique cocktail, there’s something for everyone.
The staff is known for its friendly and attentive service, ensuring you have an enjoyable dining experience. With a commitment to excellence, Giardino stands out as a must-visit Italian restaurant in the area.
Rating: 4.7 (741 reviews)
Location: 2503 Westside Dr, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Contact: (423) 648-2222
Website: Visit Website
4) Luogo
Source: Luogo Instagram
Luogo offers a fresh approach to Italian cuisine, combining traditional recipes with a focus on Mediterranean coastal flavors. The restaurant is the brainchild of Anthony Scotto, who brings his beloved New York culinary influences to Nashville.
You can expect to find a diverse menu featuring seasonal Italian dishes. They also offer a wide selection of fine wines and craft cocktails, ensuring you have plenty of options to choose from.
For special occasions, Luogo provides private dining spaces and customizable menu packages. This makes it a great choice for events, whether intimate gatherings or larger celebrations.
If you prefer dining at home, you can order online for pickup or local delivery. Luogo aims to make it easy for you to enjoy their delicious offerings wherever you are.
Rating: 4.6 (584 reviews)
Location: 211 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 988-8200
Website: Visit Website
5) Mangia Nashville
Source: Mangia Nashville Instagram
Mangia Nashville offers a unique and fun dining experience. It is designed to feel like a family gathering, where sharing is a big part of the meal. You can enjoy traditional Italian dishes in a lively atmosphere that encourages you to sing and dance.
The restaurant is inspired by the owner’s family traditions and travels in Italy. You will find a menu that showcases a variety of Italian flavors, perfect for sharing with friends or family. Don’t forget to play bocce ball while you’re there!
Mangia Nashville hosts a special Feast on Fridays and Saturdays. This event lasts from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. It’s an excellent way to experience a larger selection of dishes in a festive setting.
Rating: 4.7 (452 reviews)
Location: 701 Craighead St, Berry Hill, TN 37204
Contact: (615) 750-5233
Website: Visit Website
6) Maggiano’s Little Italy
Maggiano’s Little Italy offers a rich taste of Italian-American cuisine. You can enjoy dishes inspired by traditional recipes. The atmosphere is great for both lunch and dinner.
Located in Nashville, this restaurant provides a full dining experience. You can also book a reservation to ensure a spot during busy hours. The menu includes a variety of classic Italian dishes.
Chef Gary Rauls leads the kitchen at Maggiano’s. With his background in cooking, he customizes dishes to meet your needs. Whether it’s for allergies or personal preferences, the chefs are happy to accommodate you.
The restaurant also features event spaces for special occasions. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to celebrate with friends or family.
Rating: 4.6 (6300 reviews)
Location: 3106 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 514-0270
Website: Visit Website
7) Pasta Galifi
Source: Pasta Galifi Instagram
Pasta Galifi is a delightful Italian restaurant located in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. It was founded by Andrea and Annabella Galifi, who aim to bring authentic Italian flavors to the area. You can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere as you enjoy your meal.
The menu features fresh, handcrafted pasta made with high-quality ingredients. Signature dishes include classic spaghetti and meatballs, creamy fettuccine Alfredo, and decadent lobster mac and cheese. Each dish highlights the love for Italian cooking that the founders embody.
You can also enjoy their food truck, Perla Strada, which offers fresh pasta on the go. For those looking to savor Pasta Galifi’s creations at home, they provide online ordering for pickup or delivery. You can find a variety of pasta options and Italian dishes available.
Pasta Galifi is dedicated to providing a memorable dining experience with friendly service. Their focus on quality and authenticity sets them apart as one of the best Italian restaurants in Tennessee.
Rating: 4.9 (296 reviews)
Location: 480 Long Hollow Pike suite c, Goodlettsville, TN 37072
Contact: (615) 546-2113
Website: Visit Website
8) iggy’s
Source: iggy’s Instagram
Iggy’s in Nashville is a modern Italian restaurant known for its fresh pasta. The restaurant is run by brothers Ryan and Matthew Poli. They create a unique dining experience focused on high-quality ingredients and traditional Italian flavors.
The ambiance is inviting, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
You can enjoy a prix fixe menu, ideal for groups of 7 to 15 people, served family-style. It’s a great way to share delicious dishes with friends or family.
Iggy’s welcomes diners at the chef’s counter on Sundays. This offers a special experience where you can watch the chefs at work. Couples can enjoy a curated selection of starters, pastas, and desserts tailored just for them.
Be sure to note that Iggy’s only accepts credit card payments. A 20% service charge is added to each bill, which supports the service and kitchen teams.
Rating: 4.8 (233 reviews)
Location: 609 Merritt Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 645-9949
Website: Visit Website
9) Chrysalis Modern Italian
Source: Chrysalis Modern Italian Instagram
Chrysalis Modern Italian offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes. The restaurant focuses on high-quality ingredients, ensuring every meal is delicious and satisfying.
You can enjoy a range of pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and flavorful sauces that reflect true Italian cuisine.
This restaurant also provides catering services for various events. Whether it’s a corporate gathering or a family celebration, Chrysalis can help make your occasion special with tasty food and exceptional service. Their catering menu is designed to meet different preferences and needs.
The atmosphere at Chrysalis is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a meal with family or friends.
You’ll find both casual and elegant settings, perfect for any occasion. The attentive staff is always ready to assist you.
Make sure to check out their website for more details and to view the menu. It’s a great way to plan your next visit or event.
Rating: 4.6 (433 reviews)
Location: 9040 Carothers Pkwy Suite A201, Franklin, TN 37067
Contact: (615) 472-1390
Website: Visit Website##
10) Valentino’s Ristorante
Valentino’s Ristorante is a great choice for anyone in Nashville looking for authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere that enhances your dining experience.
You can enjoy a wide range of dishes made with fresh ingredients.
The menu features classic Italian favorites like pasta, seafood, and delicious desserts. You can find options for both hearty meals and lighter fare.
Many guests appreciate the flavorful sauces and handmade pastas that showcase traditional cooking methods.
Happy hour is a highlight, offering drinks and small plates to unwind after a long day. The restaurant also hosts live music, which adds to the vibrant atmosphere.
It’s a perfect spot for a night out or a special celebration.
You can easily make reservations through their website. This ensures you have a table ready when you arrive.
Being popular, it’s a smart choice to plan ahead.
Rating: 4.6 (472 reviews)
Location: 1808 Hayes St, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 327-0148
Website: Visit Website
Italian Culinary Traditions in Tennessee
Tennessee has a rich tapestry of Italian culinary traditions. These traditions blend history, regional flavors, and both authentic and modern interpretations, creating a unique dining experience across the state.
History and Influence
Italian immigrants began arriving in Tennessee during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many settled in cities like Nashville and Memphis.
They brought their cooking styles, recipes, and a passion for food, which shaped the local cuisine.
Dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto became common in Italian communities. The use of fresh ingredients and homemade sauces remains a strong tradition.
Local restaurants often reflect these roots, offering dishes that pay homage to their Italian heritage.
Events such as festivals and food fairs celebrate this rich history. These gatherings provide opportunities for the community to experience authentic Italian flavors while enjoying traditional music and dancing.
Authentic vs. Modern Twists
You will find a mix of authentic Italian dishes and modern twists in Tennessee’s Italian restaurants.
Classic recipes like spaghetti and meatballs or lasagna often remain unchanged. They focus on using quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Modern twists include creative dishes that combine Italian flavors with local ingredients or unique presentations.
For example, some restaurants might use barbecue flavors in a pizza or integrate Southern spices into pasta.
This blend allows you to experience both authenticity and innovation. Whether you prefer a traditional dish or a reimagined favorite, Tennessee’s Italian restaurants offer something for everyone.
Key Ingredients in Italian Cuisine
Italian cuisine is known for its simple, fresh ingredients. These ingredients bring out the natural flavors of the dishes. Here are some key ingredients you might encounter:
- Olive Oil: A staple in Italian cooking, used for frying, dressing salads, and drizzling over dishes.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, canned, or sun-dried, they are essential for sauces, salads, and pizzas.
- Garlic: Adds depth of flavor to many dishes; used in sauces, marinades, and sautéing.
- Basil: A fragrant herb that enhances sauces, salads, and pizza.
Other important ingredients include:
- Cheese: Varieties like mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta are crucial in many dishes.
- Pasta: Made from wheat, it comes in many shapes and is a key component of countless recipes.
- Meats: Options like prosciutto, sausage, and chicken are commonly used in Italian dishes.
- Seafood: In coastal areas, fresh fish and shellfish are popular.
These ingredients help create the diverse flavors of Italian cuisine. Using them fresh and in season makes a big difference. Whether you are cooking at home or dining out, look for these key components to enjoy authentic Italian food.
Pairing Italian Dishes with Wines
Choosing the right wine can enhance your Italian dining experience. Understanding the basics of wine varietals and pairing tips will help you make informed selections.
Popular Wine Varietals
- Chianti
This red wine from Tuscany is known for its bright acidity. It pairs well with tomato-based dishes like pasta marinara. - Barolo
A bold and tannic red from Piedmont, Barolo complements rich dishes such as osso buco and hearty meat sauces. - Pinot Grigio
Crisp and light, this white wine goes great with seafood pasta and lighter fare. Its refreshing taste balances flavors nicely. - Prosecco
A sparkling wine, Prosecco is perfect for appetizers and light salads. Its bubbles make it a festive choice for any meal. - Verdicchio
This white wine is known for its fruity and floral notes. It pairs well with chicken and vegetable-based dishes.
Wine and Food Pairing Tips
When pairing wine with food, consider the main ingredients. Here are some tips:
- Match the Intensity: A strong dish needs a bold wine.
- For instance, rich sauces pair well with heavier reds.
- Acidity Matters: Wines with high acidity can cut through rich or oily foods.
- This makes them great with creamy sauces or fried dishes.
- Try Regional Pairings: Pair regional wines with regional dishes.
- For example, enjoy a local Chianti with a traditional Italian pizza.
- Consider Sweetness: For sweeter dishes, like dessert pizzas, opt for a sweeter wine like Moscato to balance the flavors.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new combinations.
- Your personal taste plays a big role in finding the best pairings.