From wood‑fired pizzas to wine‑soaked evenings, these independent spots capture Ann Arbor’s Italian spirit. Expect handmade pasta, deep local roots, and editors’ picks. Come hungry—and book ahead for weekends.
Italian Restaurants in Ann Arbor (2025)
7 Places
From wood‑fired pizzas to wine‑soaked evenings, these independent spots capture Ann Arbor’s Italian spirit. Expect handmade pasta, deep local roots, and editors’ picks. Come hungry—and book ahead for weekends.
Mani Osteria and Bar
Italian restaurant
Downtown favorite for wood‑fired pies and handmade pastas since 2011. Regularly highlighted by Eater Detroit and local critics, and still locally owned. Go for the tartufo pizza or seasonal antipasti; energetic, city‑center vibe.
The Earle Restaurant
Italian restaurant
An Ann Arbor institution serving French‑Italian country cooking with live jazz. Its 1,200‑label wine list repeatedly earns Wine Spectator honors; Metro Times and OpenTable call it a date‑night classic. Order housemade pasta and linger over Barolo.
Paesano Restaurant & Wine Bar
Italian restaurant
Family‑run since 1984, with regional Italian menus and robust wine programming. Hosts ongoing winemaker dinners and carries an award‑recognized list. Locals recommend the gnocchi and seafood pastas; service is warm and personal.
Casa Dominick's
Restaurant
Seasonal, campus‑side hangout dating to the 1960s with pizza, pasta, and famed sangria. Featured by Eater Detroit for one of the city’s best patios. Expect counter service, big portions, and a lively, multigenerational crowd.
New York Pizza Depot
Pizza restaurant
Family‑owned slice shop since 1997 turning out New York‑style pies, Chicago stuffed, and hearty pastas. Named best slice by ClickOnDetroit readers; beloved for late hours and student‑town energy.
Pizza Bob's
Restaurant
A local original tied to U‑M lore, known for pies, calzones, and the Ann Arbor‑born Chipati. Documented by the Ann Arbor District Library and celebrated by the Michigan Daily; still independently run and community‑minded.
Anthony's Gourmet Pizza
Pizza restaurant
Independent shop with New York and Chicago‑style pizzas plus Italian‑American pastas. Recognized on Eater Detroit’s Ann Arbor pizza map; locals praise the buttery, layered stuffed pies. Mostly takeout with loyal neighborhood following.
