Italian Restaurants in Memphis (2025)

James Beard–recognized chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman channel their Italian heritage into handmade pastas and Southern-accented plates in a converted East Memphis home. Frequently praised by Food & Wine and local critics, it’s a perennial Memphis essential.

Downtown in the historic Hotel Chisca, the same chef duo cooks Tuscan and Sicilian grandmother recipes with Memphis ingredients. Noted by Southern Living and run by James Beard–nominated chefs, it’s the city’s lively Italian dinner party.

Chef Jason Severs focuses on Puglia—olive oil–brightened seafood, handmade pastas, and an all‑Italian cheese list. Midtown’s enoteca is frequently praised by local critics and recognized for its wine program by Memphis Magazine readers.

Family‑run since 1948, this East Memphis landmark serves lasagna, baked pastas, thin‑crust pies, and its signature Italian spinach. Highlighted by the city’s tourism board and loved by generations, it’s classic Italian‑American done Memphis style.

A fourth‑generation Memphis Italian standard bearer where the Grisanti family’s Tuscan‑rooted dishes—think Elfo Special and house pastas—anchor polished meals. Frequently praised by local food writers and a go‑to for special occasions.

A love letter to red‑sauce classics from the Majestic Grille team—chicken Parm, spaghetti and meatballs, spritzes, and big salads. Praised by Memphis Flyer and expanding in 2025, it feels like the neighborhood Italian everyone wishes for.

Run by the Grisanti family since 1973, this Midtown standby serves Italian‑American comfort—meatballs, baked pastas, tiramisu—and weekly all‑you‑can‑eat spaghetti nights. A low‑key local favorite with deep Memphis roots.

Midtown’s beloved Italian deli slings stacked sandwiches, baked pastas, and pantry staples tied to Sicilian heritage. Revived by chef Kelly English and often recommended by local publications for quick, satisfying Italian lunches.

A family operation making fresh pasta, ravioli, sauces, and take‑and‑bake favorites for more than three decades. Loved by locals and cited by guides for easy Italian lunches and dinners at home.

Memphis’ oldest restaurant invented the city’s famous barbecue pizza and counted Elvis among regulars. Frequently highlighted by national and regional publications, it remains a South Memphis time capsule with enduring Italian‑American crowd‑pleasers.

A daytime Italian‑leaning cafe overlooking the gardens—panini, salads, and soups from a Project Green Fork–certified kitchen. A peaceful lunch between plant explorations and a favorite of locals in the know.