11 Under-The-Radar South Carolina Italian Restaurants Locals Keep Recommending
In South Carolina, a fork is disappearing into a plate of pasta while someone at the next table argues over who gets the last slice of pizza.
That is the beauty of an Italian restaurant. Dinner begins with the smell of garlic and ends with everyone lingering longer than planned.
Across the state, these spots serve bubbling lasagna, fresh pasta, and pizzas that demand one more bite. Some feel like a family gathering.
Others make an ordinary night out feel like an occasion.
The best meals often start with a recommendation from someone who has been going for years. Follow their lead, and you may find a table you will want to claim again.
Ready to see where those recommendations lead? These eleven South Carolina restaurants bring their flavors, personalities, and reasons to return.
Come hungry. You might leave with leftovers, a new favorite, and plans for your next visit.
1. Villa Tronco
Here is a fun piece of history: Villa Tronco is often called the oldest Italian restaurant in Columbia, and it has been feeding hungry locals for generations.
The Tronco family started serving up their recipes long ago, and those same beloved dishes still show up on plates today. Their lasagna is the stuff of legend, layered with cheese and sauce that tastes like it was made by someone’s grandmother, because it basically was.
You will find the walls covered with old photos and stories, giving the whole place a cozy, lived-in feeling. It is the kind of spot where the servers remember your name and your favorite order.
The spaghetti and meatballs are a solid choice for first-timers, while adventurous eaters should try the veal dishes. Portions are generous, so come hungry or plan to take leftovers home.
You can visit Villa Tronco at 1213 Blanding St, Columbia, SC 29201. Whether you are celebrating something big or just craving a plate of comfort, this classic never disappoints.
Book a table and taste a piece of Columbia food history for yourself.
2. Il Giorgione
Pizza lovers, listen up, because Il Giorgione is where the magic happens on Devine Street in Columbia.
This little spot has earned a big reputation for its authentic wood-fired pizzas, the kind with bubbly crusts and toppings that taste fresh and simple. The chefs here believe that great Italian food does not need to be fancy, just made with care and quality ingredients.
Beyond pizza, the menu offers handmade pastas and daily specials that keep regulars guessing what deliciousness comes next. The atmosphere feels like a friendly neighborhood hangout rather than a stuffy dining room.
Families, couples, and solo diners all fit right in here. Service is warm and unhurried, so you can actually relax and enjoy your meal instead of rushing through it.
Do not skip the salads, which are surprisingly fresh and the perfect partner for a slice of pizza. Save a little room for dessert too, since the sweet endings are worth every bite.
Find this gem at 2406 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205. Once you taste that crispy crust, you will understand why locals keep coming back for more.
3. Trattoria Giorgio
Right in the heart of downtown Greenville sits Trattoria Giorgio, a spot that proves good things come to those who wander off Main Street’s beaten path.
The restaurant has built a loyal following thanks to its handmade pasta and dishes that taste like they came straight from a kitchen in Italy. Everything feels thoughtfully prepared, from the sauces to the perfectly cooked noodles.
What sets this place apart is the attention to detail. The chefs take pride in balancing flavors so that each bite tastes just right, never too heavy or too plain.
The setting is warm and welcoming, perfect for date nights, family dinners, or catching up with old friends over a shared plate of gnocchi. The staff treats you like a guest in their home.
Regulars rave about the ravioli and the fresh seafood specials that change with the seasons. If you cannot decide, just ask your server for a recommendation, because they clearly know their stuff.
You can find Trattoria Giorgio at 121 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601. It is a cozy escape from the busy street outside and a must-try for pasta fans.
4. Davani’s Restaurant
Tucked into a friendly corner of Greenville, Davani’s Restaurant has quietly become one of the city’s best-kept secrets among Italian food fans.
The kitchen here focuses on classic dishes done right, with hearty portions that will not leave you hungry. Think creamy pasta, savory chicken parmesan, and sauces that taste like they simmered all day long.
What makes Davani’s special is the homey feeling that greets you the moment you walk in. It is the kind of place where the owners might stop by your table just to make sure you are enjoying your meal.
The prices are friendly too, which means you can treat the whole family without emptying your wallet. That combination of quality and value keeps locals returning week after week.
Regulars often point to the eggplant parmesan and the stuffed shells as standout choices. If you have room, the desserts offer a sweet way to wrap up your visit.
You will find this hidden treasure at 1922 Augusta St, Suite 111A, Greenville, SC 29605. Skip the crowded chain spots and give this neighborhood favorite a try.
Your taste buds and your wallet will both be happy.
5. Villa Romana
Get ready for dinner and a show, because Villa Romana in Myrtle Beach is famous for servers who might just break into song while delivering your pasta.
This beach town favorite has been delighting guests for decades with a mix of tasty Italian classics and a lively, fun atmosphere. It is the kind of place where a meal turns into a memory.
The menu covers all the crowd-pleasers, from spaghetti and lasagna to fresh seafood pastas that celebrate the coastal location. Everything arrives in generous portions that reflect true Italian hospitality.
Families especially love coming here because the entertainment keeps kids grinning while the grown-ups enjoy their food. There is a real sense of celebration in the air every single night.
Regulars suggest saving room for the tiramisu, which is the perfect sweet finish to a joyful meal. The friendly staff makes sure everyone feels like a VIP.
You can find all this fun at 707 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. If you want a dinner that feeds both your stomach and your sense of fun, Villa Romana delivers on both counts.
Come hungry and ready to smile.
6. Travinia Italian Kitchen
For a taste of Italian food with a modern twist, Travinia Italian Kitchen in Lexington hits the spot every time.
The restaurant blends traditional recipes with fresh, creative touches, giving you familiar comfort food that feels a little fancy. The result is a menu that pleases both picky eaters and adventurous foodies.
Stylish and welcoming, the dining room strikes a nice balance between casual and special occasion. You could show up in jeans or dress up for a celebration, and either way you would fit right in.
Handmade pastas, wood-grilled dishes, and flavorful sauces are the stars of the show here. The kitchen clearly cares about quality, using fresh ingredients that make each dish shine.
Regulars often recommend the chicken marsala and the shrimp pasta, both packed with flavor. The bread that arrives before your meal is dangerously good, so pace yourself.
Service tends to be attentive without being pushy, which makes for a relaxed and enjoyable evening. It is easy to see why locals keep this spot on their regular rotation.
Visit Travinia Italian Kitchen at 5074 Sunset Blvd, Lexington, SC 29072, and treat yourself to a memorable Italian meal.
7. Miramare Italiano
Down in the historic town of Beaufort, Miramare Italiano serves up authentic Italian flavors that transport your taste buds straight across the ocean.
This charming spot focuses on traditional recipes made with love and care. The chefs put real heart into their cooking, and you can taste it in every forkful of pasta.
The menu features a wonderful mix of classic dishes, from rich pasta plates to flavorful chicken and seafood options. Each one arrives looking as good as it tastes, which is saying a lot.
Beaufort has plenty of Southern charm, and Miramare adds a delightful Italian chapter to the town’s food story. The cozy setting makes it feel like you stumbled onto a little slice of Italy.
Regulars love the friendly service and the way the staff makes everyone feel welcome. It is the sort of place where you leave feeling full and happy.
Try the homemade pasta specials, and do not forget to ask about the daily offerings that showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients.
You will find Miramare Italiano at 27 Market St, Beaufort, SC 29906. If you are exploring the Lowcountry and craving something Italian, this hidden gem is well worth the stop.
8. Angelo’s Steak & Pasta
Can’t decide between a juicy steak and a plate of pasta? At Angelo’s Steak & Pasta in Myrtle Beach, you do not have to choose.
This beloved beach town spot has been serving up the best of both worlds for years, combining hand-cut steaks with a generous Italian buffet. It is a paradise for anyone with a big appetite.
The buffet is a real highlight, loaded with pasta, salads, and Italian favorites that let you sample a little bit of everything. Foodies love the freedom to go back for seconds, or thirds.
The steaks are cooked to order and come out sizzling, tender, and full of flavor. Pair one with a heaping plate of spaghetti and you have got yourself a feast fit for a king.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a favorite for families and groups celebrating special occasions. Everyone leaves with a satisfied smile and probably a doggy bag.
Regulars swear by the combination platters, which give you the ultimate mix of surf, turf, and pasta.
Head over to 2311 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, and get ready to loosen your belt a notch.
9. Scratch Italian Kitchen + Bar
The name says it all at Scratch Italian Kitchen + Bar in Beaufort, where nearly everything is made fresh from scratch every single day.
This spot has become a local favorite thanks to its commitment to homemade quality. From the pasta to the sauces, the kitchen crew rolls up their sleeves and does the work by hand.
The menu changes to highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, so there is always something new to try. Regulars appreciate that dedication to keeping things fresh and exciting.
The setting is modern and inviting, striking a nice balance between casual comfort and upscale style. It is a great choice whether you are grabbing dinner with friends or marking a special day.
Standout dishes include the handmade ravioli and the creative pasta specials that showcase the chef’s skills. Each plate feels thoughtfully crafted rather than rushed.
Service here is warm and knowledgeable, and the staff genuinely seems to enjoy sharing their food with guests. That friendly vibe makes the whole experience even better.
You can find Scratch Italian Kitchen + Bar at 831 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort, SC 29906. For a fresh take on Italian classics, this from-scratch gem is a must-visit.
10. Gusto Ristorante
On beautiful Hilton Head Island, Gusto Ristorante brings a genuine taste of Italy to the sunny South Carolina coast.
The word gusto means enthusiasm and enjoyment, and that spirit shines through in every dish this kitchen creates. The chefs cook with real passion, and it shows on your plate.
The menu features authentic Italian recipes prepared with fresh ingredients and careful attention. From rich pasta dishes to flavorful entrees, everything is designed to delight your senses.
The atmosphere is warm and refined, making it a wonderful choice for a special dinner or a relaxing night out. You feel pampered without any of the stuffiness of overly formal spots.
Regulars often praise the homemade pasta and the excellent seafood options that take advantage of the coastal location. Each dish feels like a little celebration of Italian cooking.
The service adds to the experience, with a friendly staff that makes you feel right at home. They are happy to help you pick the perfect dish for your mood.
Find Gusto Ristorante at 430 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926. Whether you are a visitor or a local, this island gem serves up Italian food worth savoring.
11. Panini’s on the Waterfront
Imagine enjoying a delicious Italian meal with a gorgeous water view, and you have got Panini’s on the Waterfront in Beaufort.
This scenic spot pairs tasty food with one of the prettiest settings in town. The waterfront location makes every meal feel a little more special.
The menu offers a satisfying mix of Italian favorites, including pizzas, pastas, and, of course, paninis packed with flavor. There is something here to please just about everyone at the table.
Grabbing a seat outside is the way to go when the weather cooperates, letting you soak up the breeze and the view. It is a peaceful, relaxing way to spend a meal.
Locals love this place for its combination of good food, friendly service, and unbeatable scenery. It is a favorite for both casual lunches and easygoing dinners.
Regulars recommend the wood-fired pizzas and the fresh pasta dishes, which never disappoint. The desserts make a sweet finish while you enjoy the last of that lovely view.
You will find Panini’s on the Waterfront at 926 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902. For Italian food served with a side of stunning scenery, this Beaufort favorite is hard to beat.