Best Italian Restaurants in Central Southwest

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

Houston

Neighborhoods

BellaireDowntownGalleria / UptownMidtownMontroseRice Village

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

35 restaurants available nearby

1. Coppa Osteria

4.7

Exceptional(597)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Rice Village

Booked 73 times today

Coppa Osteria in Rice Village, Houston, is a cocktail bar that truly dazzles with its craft cocktail offerings, making it a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts. The bar scene at Coppa is lively and inviting, perfect for sipping on a signature drink while enjoying the charming neighborhood ambiance. Praised for its “superior service” and “excellent” offerings, patrons are consistently impressed by the quality and creativity of the cocktails. Reviewers often highlight the “great drink and food selection,” ensuring that each visit is a memorable experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Coppa Osteria promises an authentic and delightful cocktail journey.

2. Milton's

4.8

Exceptional(149)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Rice Village

Booked 32 times today

Milton's is a delightful culinary gem nestled in the heart of Rice Village, Houston, offering an exceptional blend of American and Italian-American cuisine that truly stands out. Known for "delicious food and perfect service," Milton's is celebrated for its homemade pastas, like the unforgettable mushroom pasta, and wood-fired meats that offer a comforting yet innovative dining experience. Guests rave about the "outstanding service and food quality," making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic American flavors with a twist. The vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service ensure that every visit is memorable, promising patrons a taste of true American dining excellence.

3. Marmo

4.6

Exceptional(1455)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Montrose

Booked 68 times today

Marmo, meaning “Marble” in Italian, will feature fresh hand-rolled pastas, house-made charcuterie, and hand-cut prime steaks. To complement the food menu, Marmo will boast an impressive wine list, with selections from all around the world spotlighted by wines from Italian regions. The bar and lounge will include a baby grand piano where a rotation of Houston’s best singers will perform nightly.Happy Hour is offered daily from 3pm-6pm, on a first-come first-served basis, and is available at our bar, high top tables, and patio. (Please note that we do not accept reservation for our Happy Hour)

A photo of Lombardi Cucina Italiana - Houston restaurant

4. Lombardi Cucina Italiana - Houston

4.5

Awesome(843)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Westside

Booked 85 times today

Lombardi Cucina Italiana in Westside, Houston, is a culinary gem that artfully merges authentic Italian cuisine with contemporary flair. Guests are thrilled by the "delicious food" and "beautiful decor," which transports them to an open-air villa in Italy. The menu showcases an impressive selection of "fatto a Mano" pastas and fresh delicacies, while the innovative cocktail menu uses kitchen ingredients like prosciutto and rosemary. Diners rave about the "wonderful service" and "amazing experience," highlighting standout dishes like the spicy rigatoni and braised lamb ravioli as "chefs kiss." Lombardi offers an unforgettable ambiance, making it a "highly recommended" destination for Italian cuisine lovers.

5. Rosie Cannonball

4.8

Exceptional(83)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Montrose

Booked 44 times today

Rosie Cannonball in Montrose, Houston, is a vibrant celebration of authentic Italian cuisine, skillfully prepared with a focus on live fire cooking. The restaurant's wood-burning oven and grill bring out the best in their hand-crafted pastas and wood-fired pizzas, drawing rave reviews for their "perfection" and "top quality." The menu, inspired by fresh, local ingredients, pairs exquisitely with an Italian-centric wine list curated by Master Sommelier June Rodil. Diners consistently praise the "extraordinary" service and "exceptional" food, making it a beloved gem in the heart of Houston. With its lively atmosphere and delectable offerings, Rosie Cannonball promises an unforgettable Italian dining experience.

6. Fiori

4.1

Excellent(666)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Montrose

Booked 5 times today

Nestled in the heart of Montrose, Houston, Fiori stands out as a beacon of exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine. Helmed by Chef Alessio from Rome, this charming restaurant offers an authentic taste of Italy, beautifully blending traditional recipes with a modern twist. Guests rave about the "incredible food and great atmosphere," and the decor, featuring fresh flowers and paintings, echoes the elegance of a European café. From the "delicious Cacio e Pepe" to the "tender octopus," every dish delights the palate. With its cozy ambiance and attentive service, Fiori is a "gem" perfect for romantic outings or special celebrations.

A photo of il Bracco - Post Oak restaurant

7. il Bracco - Post Oak

4.8

Exceptional(153)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Galleria / Uptown

Booked 67 times today

At il Bracco - Post Oak, located in the vibrant Uptown area of Houston, diners are treated to a delightful fusion of Italian flavors with a touch of American flair. The restaurant consistently delivers "outstanding food, service, and ambiance," making it a standout choice for those seeking high-quality American cuisine with an Italian twist. The menu features expertly crafted dishes such as hand-cut steaks and seafood, complemented by freshly made pasta and desserts that are made from scratch daily. Guests rave about the "exceptional service," where staff members go the extra mile to ensure a memorable dining experience. Whether it's a business lunch, a romantic date night, or a casual dinner, il Bracco promises a "wonderful place" for any occasion.

8. Enoteca Rossa

4.6

Exceptional(1111)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Bellaire

Booked 26 times today

Nestled in the historic Bellaire neighborhood of Houston, Enoteca Rossa is a standout destination for Contemporary Italian cuisine. With a commitment to authentic Italian traditions and quality ingredients, the restaurant offers meticulously prepared dishes that capture the essence of Italy. Patrons rave about the "fantastic food and amazing service," with standout dishes like clam linguine and chicken marsala with parmesan risotto leaving a lasting impression. Enoteca Rossa's delightful ambience, attentive service, and varied, seasonal menu make it a "hidden gem" for both locals and visitors alike, ensuring every dining experience is both memorable and delicious. Highly recommended for Italian food enthusiasts!

A photo of Zanti Cucina Italiana - River Oaks restaurant

9. Zanti Cucina Italiana - River Oaks

4.7

Exceptional(1134)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • River Oaks

Booked 50 times today

Nestled in the charming neighborhood of River Oaks, Houston, Zanti Cucina Italiana offers a sublime Mediterranean dining experience with an authentic Italian flair. This high-end casual eatery captivates with its contemporary décor, lively dining room, and inviting outdoor patio. Guests rave about the "delicious and hearty food" and "impeccable service," making Zanti a standout choice for those craving genuine Mediterranean flavors. Handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas are among the highlights, consistently praised as "extremely delicious." Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Zanti promises an unforgettable dining journey that embodies the true essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

10. Bari Ristorante

4.7

Exceptional(561)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • River Oaks

Booked 33 times today

BARI THE SIMPLE JOY OF ITALIANThere is a casual, effortless style found in Italy that has us falling in love over and over. It’s an elegant simplicity that is found in legendary food, cities, art, fashion, and everyday life. A spirit the world is instinctively attracted to. A nuanced approach that crosses generations and always in style. When it comes to Italian food…a balance between classic and modernity. Along comes Bari where diners experience respect for Italian food in a setting that evokes the stylish glamour of Milan and Rome. Serving classic dishes found from the mountains to the sea.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

M
medicinewomanVIP
New York City •18 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
I love this restaurant, it’s cozy and always buzzing. The staff are attentive and helpful. The food is delicious and there’s a good selection of drinks. It tends to be cold in there so I always bring a jacket or shawl.
More info
Rosie CannonballPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Montrose
•
4.8
S
Sonya
New Orleans / Louisiana •23 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
The ambiance and that food was amazing! The staff was friendly and very helpful! Will be back soon.
More info
il Bracco - Post OakPrice: Expensive• Italian• Galleria / Uptown
•
4.8
P
PaulVIP
Denver / Colorado •96 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Food and services were top Notch. I had the snapper and it was served beautifully and tasted great. Server Sarah was excellent
More info
Zanti Cucina Italiana - River OaksPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• River Oaks
•
4.7
OT
OpenTable Diner
Victoria •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The food was incredibly tasty! We all had a wonderful time and will be back again. Thank you
More info
Coppa OsteriaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Rice Village
•
4.7
S
Sylvia
Houston •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Unbelievably delicious and the ambiance was fabulous
More info
Lombardi Cucina Italiana - HoustonPrice: Expensive• Italian• Westside
•
4.5

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