8 Delicious Italian Restaurants in Tampa
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If you’re on the hunt for the best Italian restaurants in Tampa, you’re in the right place because this city seriously delivers when it comes to pasta, pizza, and all the cozy carb-loaded goodness. Tampa’s Italian food scene is way more impressive than people expect, and whether you’re craving a classic bowl of pasta, wood-fired pizza, or a dreamy date-night spot with a glass of red, there are so many places worth checking out.
I rounded up my favorite Italian restaurants across Tampa so you can find your next go-to dinner spot—because nothing hits like good Italian food.
Best Italian Restaurants in Tampa
1. Rocca
Rocca is bringing a little Michelin-star magic to Tampa Heights, and trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget. The moment you step inside, you can feel the energy—it’s a place where every dish tells a story of craftsmanship and passion.
From the fresh mozzarella spun tableside to the handmade pasta that melts in your mouth, every bite is a work of art. Their dry-aged meats are a carnivore’s dream, and the wine selection? Absolutely top-tier.
Everything at Rocca is made with incredibly fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the vibe strikes the perfect balance between lively and intimate. My go-to is the tagliolini al ragu or the spaghetti al limone! It’s not just one of the best Italian restaurants in Tampa—it’s one of the best restaurants, period.
2. Olivia
If Tampa’s Italian food scene had a tried-and-true bestie, it would be Olivia. This spot never disappoints, and honestly, it’s hard to find someone who’s been here and hasn’t become obsessed.
Everything about Olivia feels like a love letter to Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu is full of surprises, but one thing you can always count on is bold, fresh flavors in every dish. The mini rigatoni and grape bruschetta is a taste revelation, and their wood-fired artisanal pizzas are pure perfection—crispy, smoky, and loaded with flavor.
The atmosphere at Olivia is effortlessly chic, making it the kind of place where you can grab a casual bite or dress up for a night out. It’s cozy yet stylish, with a welcoming energy that makes you want to stay and savor every moment. Once you dine here, you’ll understand why locals can’t get enough!
3. Oggi Italian
Tucked away in Davis Islands, Oggi Italian is a cozy, rustic hideaway that feels like stepping into a charming trattoria straight out of Italy. Everything here is made with love and tradition, from the fresh mozzarella to the perfectly executed pasta dishes.
We started our meal with their amazing Caprese, which was dressed with sweet drop peppers and, of course, featured their signature fresh mozzarella. But the real standout? The butternut squash ravioli. Each bite was rich, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet and savory.
One of the things that makes Oggi stand out is the way every pasta dish comes with a full-on dining experience. Each plate is served with a fresh salad, a warm baguette, and a shot of espresso to round out the meal. And if you’re gluten-free, they’ve got you covered with zoodles and gluten-free pasta options that don’t compromise on flavor.
4. Donatello
Step inside Donatello, and you’re instantly transported to a world of vintage glamour and fine dining. The moment you walk through the doors, you’re wrapped in an atmosphere rich with history, elegance, and an undeniable passion for Italian cuisine.
The staff, dressed in classic tuxedos, provide top-tier service while you soak in the sounds of live jazz from the San Marco Lounge. Whether it’s smooth jazz or current hits filling the air, the ambiance is luxurious yet inviting, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable meal.
When it comes to the food, Donatello doesn’t hold back. The succulent veal chop is a standout, and their tortellini panna prosciutto piselli—a creamy, dreamy mix of pasta, prosciutto, and peas—is pure perfection.
5. Timpano
Timpano is one of those places people either swear by or don’t quite get—but let me tell you, their tableside pesto is next-level. If you love bold flavors and a bit of a show with your meal, this is the place to be. Watching fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts blend together inside a massive parmesan wheel is pure magic, and the result? Absolute flavor perfection.
Beyond the food, Timpano’s bar scene is just as impressive. Their espresso martinis are the real deal—rich, smooth, and exactly what you want in a post-dinner cocktail. The energy here is contagious, with the lively bar area balancing out the romantic, intimate vibes of the dining room.
In my humble opinion, it’s one of the best places to eat in Hyde Park.
6. Casa Santo Stefano
At Casa Santo Stefano, you’re not just a guest—you’re part of the family. This Sicilian-inspired restaurant is bursting with warmth, from its vibrant atmosphere to its authentic, home-style dishes that make you feel like you’re sitting down to Sunday dinner at Nonna’s house.
Kick things off with a platter of antipasti, where every bite is a taste of the Mediterranean. Then, dive into their homemade lasagna Bolognese, a rich, layered masterpiece that tells a story of Sicilian tradition and flavor.
And of course, no meal here is complete without dessert. Whether you go for the heavenly tiramisu, a perfectly crisp cannoli, or a scoop of creamy gelato, you’re in for the perfect sweet ending to an unforgettable meal.
7. Bernini of Ybor
If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Ybor City, Bernini of Ybor needs to be at the top of your list. Housed in the historic old Bank of Ybor City, this Italian spot is as much about the experience as it is about the food—rich in charm, flavor, and a touch of old-world elegance.
But let’s talk about the real reason everyone loves Bernini—their legendary happy hour. From 4 PM to 7 PM, you can sip on $3 martinis and enjoy half-off pastas and entrees. Yes, you read that right. It’s the kind of deal that keeps locals and visitors alike coming back again and again.
When Remi and I stopped by, we couldn’t resist a dirty martini and an espresso martini—both perfect. If you’re craving an unforgettable Italian meal in Tampa, Bernini is one spot you don’t want to skip.
8. Forbici
And finally, let’s talk about Forbici—where modern flair meets classic Italian flavors. This isn’t your traditional trattoria; it’s an energetic, stylish spot that puts a fresh spin on Italian staples, with house-made ingredients taking center stage.
The vibe? Lively, buzzing, and full of character—sometimes even with a surprise serenade from a local band. And if you’re a calamari fan, their $8 happy hour calamari (from 3 PM to 6 PM) is the real MVP. Crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor, it’s the kind of appetizer that disappears way too fast.
Their Erica kale salad is another standout—crunchy, zesty, and refreshing, it’s basically a high-five for your taste buds. And of course, there’s no shortage of delicious pastas and they serve up some of the best pizza in Tampa!
Are you ready to experience the best Italian restaurants in Tampa?
So there you have it—a lineup of the best Italian restaurants in Tampa that are absolutely worth the hype. Whether you’re in the mood for classic elegance, modern flair, or a legendary happy hour deal, you’ve got plenty of delicious options waiting for you. Now the real question is—where are you heading first?
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:
Fun Things to Do in Seminole Heights Tampa
Best Waterfront Restaurants in Tampa
