Italian Restaurants in Detroit

Modern Roman pastas made from flour milled in-house anchor chef Anthony Lombardo’s destination dining room. Praised by Hour Detroit and Eater Detroit, it’s a benchmark for contemporary Italian in the city; reservations recommended.

Chef Jared Gadbaw’s seafood-forward Italian pairs oak-fired cooking with impeccable pastas. Named Restaurant of the Year by Hour Detroit and praised by local critics, with The Upright cocktail bar downstairs for a refined nightcap.

Eastern Market’s thin-crust institution returned refreshed after a fire, and the New Center sibling adds pastas and hearty specials. Frequently cited by Eater Detroit and local press for superb pies and Italian comfort.

Family-run since the late 1960s, this Southwest stalwart serves handmade pastas, classic veal, and seafood in a white-tablecloth setting. Celebrated by Hour Detroit and longtime local critics for old-school charm and consistency.

A Capitol Park classic reborn by the founding family, known for brick-oven pizzas, house pastas, and an easygoing bar. Noted by Visit Detroit and local writers as a downtown fixture with history.

Palmer Park’s villa-like dining room and garden patio set the scene for regional Italian plates and a lively weekend brunch. Featured by Eater Detroit and Axios Detroit for romantic vibes and patio season.

Corktown’s neighborhood Italian mixes wood-fired pizzas, pastas, branzino, and a convivial patio with bocce. Regularly highlighted by Eater Detroit as a go-to for groups, dates, and outdoor dining.

Operating since 1948, Mario’s brings tuxedoed service, tableside Caesar, ballroom dancing, and pre-theater shuttles. Recognized by Broadway in Detroit and Visit Detroit as a beloved Midtown tradition.

Southwest Detroit’s unique dual menu—Italian and Mexican—reflects chef-owner Norberto Garita’s story. Regularly recommended by Eater Detroit for housemade pastas and regional Mexican dishes in a white-tablecloth room.

Next door to El Barzón, this wood-fired bistro leans Italian with Neapolitan pizzas, pastas, and aperitivi, plus a casual feel. Frequently noted by local guides and OpenTable for steady service and hours.

Midtown’s counter-service deli channels Italian-American flavors with excellent sandwiches, antipasti, and a small bottle shop. Applauded by Eater Detroit and Axios Detroit as a legit lunch stop that locals frequent.

A Detroit-born modern Italian from a local group, known for naturally leavened pizza, house pastas, spritzes, and late hours. Included in Eater Detroit’s Italian roundups; a lively Midtown option for bigger groups.