14 Best Italian Restaurants In Arizona To Try In 2026
My nonna always said the secret to great Italian food is passion, not just pasta. That philosophy is alive and well in the most unexpected places, including right here in the Arizona desert.
We’ve done the hard work (and the happy eating) so you don’t have to. My love for Italian food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, and I’ve been chasing that feeling of comfort and joy ever since.
The good news? You don’t have to fly to Naples to find it.
In 2026, Arizona is serving up an ever‑growing lineup of pasta, pizza, and gelato that could rival any Mediterranean shoreline.
Whether you’re a seasoned pasta aficionado or a newcomer craving comfort, these 14 standout Italian spots will make your taste buds sing.
1. Pizzeria Bianco (Heritage Square)
Phoenix’s most legendary pizza spot has been making people wait in lines since 1988, and honestly, every minute is worth it.
Chris Bianco’s wood-fired creations at 623 E Adams St aren’t just pizza; they’re edible art that happens to taste phenomenal.
The Rosa, topped with red onion, Parmigiano-Reggiano, rosemary, and Arizona pistachios, is the kind of pie that changes your definition of what pizza can be. Every ingredient gets sourced with obsessive care, from the local mozzarella to the organic tomatoes.
Bianco himself became the first pizzaiolo to win a James Beard Award, which tells you everything about the level of craft happening in this kitchen. The crust strikes that magical balance between chewy and crispy, with just enough char to add smoky depth.
Reservations get snatched up faster than concert tickets, so plan ahead if you want to experience what many consider America’s best pizza.
The downtown Heritage Square location brings historic charm to match the timeless flavors on your plate.
First-timers should absolutely try the Wiseguy with wood-roasted onion, house-made fennel sausage, and smoked mozzarella.
2. Tratto
Walking into Tratto at 4743 N 20th St feels like stepping into a modern Italian dream where exposed brick meets Edison bulbs and the pasta is ridiculously fresh.
Chef Chris Bianco (yes, that Bianco) partnered with the Maggiore Group to create this neighborhood gem that celebrates Italian comfort food without any stuffiness.
The menu changes with the seasons, but you can always count on handmade pasta that’ll ruin you for the boxed stuff forever. Their cacio e pepe is deceptively simple yet absolutely perfect, with that creamy, peppery sauce clinging to each strand of tonnarelli.
The wood-fired vegetables deserve as much attention as the pasta, roasted to caramelized perfection and dressed with olive oil that tastes like liquid gold.
Portion sizes hit that sweet spot where you feel satisfied but not uncomfortably stuffed.
The vibe strikes a balance between date-night romantic and casual enough for jeans and sneakers.
Service staff actually know the menu inside and out, offering suggestions that feel personal rather than scripted. Don’t skip the focaccia that arrives warm at your table, it’s basically pillowy heaven with a golden, olive oil-kissed crust.
3. Rosso Italian
Tucked inside CityScape at 2 E Jefferson St, Rosso Italian brings upscale dining energy to downtown Phoenix with a menu that goes way beyond standard red-sauce fare.
The space feels sophisticated with its modern design and open kitchen where you can watch chefs work their magic. Executive Chef Dario Sanz crafts dishes that honor Italian tradition while adding creative touches that keep things exciting.
I’ll never forget the first time I tried the burrata here; it arrived at the table so fresh and creamy that I momentarily considered ordering a second one as my main course.
The short rib agnolotti practically melts on your tongue, with tender meat wrapped in delicate pasta and finished with a sauce that ties everything together beautifully. Seafood lovers should zero in on the branzino, which gets prepared with the kind of precision that makes every bite memorable.
The restaurant works perfectly for business dinners or special celebrations when you want to impress without feeling overly formal. Their Italian-inspired plates arrive beautifully presented, proving that food can absolutely be Instagram-worthy and delicious at the same time.
Downtown location means easy access if you’re catching a Suns game or attending events at the convention center.
4. Forno 301
Forno 301 at 1616 N Central Ave brings authentic Neapolitan pizza to Phoenix’s midtown neighborhood with an impressive wood-burning oven imported straight from Italy.
The 900-degree heat creates those signature leopard-spotted crusts that pizza purists dream about.
Owner Claudio Urciuoli grew up in Naples, so the techniques and flavors here come from generations of Italian family traditions. Beyond pizza, the menu explores regional Italian dishes that you won’t find at every corner trattoria.
Their arancini are crispy golden spheres hiding creamy risotto centers that practically burst with flavor.
Pasta gets made in-house daily, and you can taste the difference in every forkful of their rigatoni alla vodka or linguine alle vongole. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want quality food without the fuss of fine dining.
Prices stay reasonable considering the quality of ingredients and level of craft involved.
Lunch specials offer even better value if you’re looking to experience Forno 301 without breaking the bank.
The Margherita pizza here is a masterclass in simplicity, proving that great ingredients need minimal interference to shine.
5. The Sicilian Butcher
At 15530 N Tatum Blvd, The Sicilian Butcher takes the Italian dining experience in a totally different direction with a meat-focused menu that would make any carnivore weep with joy.
This isn’t your grandmother’s Italian restaurant (unless your nonna was really into creative charcuterie boards and gourmet meatballs).
The concept combines a traditional butcher shop with a modern restaurant, so you can actually buy quality meats to take home if you’re feeling inspired. Their meatball flight lets you sample different varieties, from classic beef to lamb to vegetarian options that even meat-lovers appreciate.
Pasta dishes incorporate house-made sausages and specialty cuts that showcase the butcher shop connection.
The Sicilian old-fashioned pizza features a thick, fluffy crust that’s more Detroit-style than traditional Italian, but it works incredibly well. Families love this place because the menu offers enough variety to please picky eaters while still satisfying adventurous palates.
The industrial-chic design with hanging lights and exposed elements creates an energetic atmosphere that feels contemporary and fun.
Weekend brunch adds Italian twists to morning favorites, like carbonara Benedict that’ll change your breakfast game forever.
6. Pomo Pizzeria (Downtown Phoenix)
Pomo Pizzeria brings Roman-style pizza al taglio to downtown Phoenix at 705 N 1st St, which basically means rectangular slices sold by weight that you absolutely won’t be able to resist.
The concept originated in Rome where bakeries sell pizza by the slice throughout the day, and Pomo captures that casual, grab-and-go energy perfectly.
Dough gets a long fermentation process that creates an airy, digestible crust with complex flavors you won’t find in quick-rise versions. Toppings rotate based on what’s fresh and seasonal, so every visit offers something new to discover.
The potato and rosemary slice sounds simple but delivers comfort food satisfaction that’ll have you coming back weekly.
Vegan and vegetarian options get just as much attention as meat-topped varieties, with creative combinations that never feel like afterthoughts. Last summer, I stopped by after a museum visit and ended up eating three different slices because I couldn’t decide on just one flavor.
The staff will heat your slice if you want it warm, or you can enjoy it at room temperature like Romans do.
Pricing by weight means you control exactly how much you spend and how much you eat, which feels refreshingly flexible.
7. Éléphante (Scottsdale)
Perched at 7014 E Camelback Rd with stunning views, Éléphante brings a glamorous, California-meets-Mediterranean vibe to Scottsdale’s dining scene.
The rooftop setting alone makes this spot Instagram gold, with sunset views over the Valley that’ll make you forget you’re in the desert.
While the menu draws from broader Mediterranean influences, the Italian components shine with fresh pastas and coastal-inspired seafood dishes. The space feels like a vacation, decorated with plants, natural materials, and design elements that create a breezy, sophisticated atmosphere.
Their cacio e pepe gets elevated with premium ingredients while staying true to the Roman classic’s soul.
Small plates encourage sharing, which works perfectly for groups who want to taste multiple dishes throughout the evening. Brunch service transforms the space into a chic daytime destination where rosé flows and avocado toast meets Italian flair.
The crowd skews trendy and fashion-forward, so this is definitely a see-and-be-seen kind of place.
Reservations are absolutely essential, especially for prime sunset dining times when everyone wants that golden-hour glow. Prices reflect the upscale setting and prime location, but the experience delivers on the investment.
8. CiBO Pizzeria
CiBO Pizzeria at 603 N 5th Ave has been a Phoenix favorite since 2007, serving Neapolitan-style pizza that stays faithful to Italian traditions.
The name means “food” in Italian, which perfectly captures the straightforward, quality-focused approach here.
Wood-fired ovens reach the high temperatures needed to create those perfectly blistered crusts in just 90 seconds. Their Diavola pizza brings spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, and just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming your taste buds.
The dough recipe uses imported Italian flour and gets a slow fermentation that develops flavor and creates that characteristic chewy texture.
Salads here deserve attention too, especially the Caprese made with heirloom tomatoes when they’re in season.
The Evans Churchill neighborhood location puts you in one of Phoenix’s most walkable, vibrant areas with plenty of pre-dinner or post-dinner exploring options.
Casual vibes make it perfect for everything from solo dinner at the bar to family gatherings in the dining room. Lunch deals offer excellent value, and the patio seating is absolutely perfect during Arizona’s gorgeous winter months.
Gluten-free crust options mean everyone can enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza regardless of dietary restrictions.
9. Saint Pasta
Saint Pasta at 100 W Portland St keeps things refreshingly simple with a focused menu of handmade pasta dishes that let quality ingredients do the talking.
The minimalist approach means every element on your plate gets the attention it deserves.
Chef Luca Corazzina brings Italian heritage and professional training to create pasta that tastes like what you’d find in a small Roman trattoria.
My friend dragged me here on a random Tuesday, insisting I’d understand after one bite, and honestly, she was absolutely right about the rigatoni.
The menu changes regularly based on what’s available, but standards like carbonara and amatriciana showcase classic preparations done exceptionally well.
Portion sizes are generous without being overwhelming, hitting that perfect balance where you finish satisfied but not uncomfortable. The intimate space seats maybe 30 people, creating a cozy neighborhood feel that makes you want to become a regular.
BYOB policy keeps costs down and adds a fun element of bringing your favorite bottle to pair with dinner. No reservations means you might wait during peak times, but the turnover moves relatively quickly.
Prices stay remarkably reasonable for the quality, making this a spot you can visit regularly without financial guilt.
10. Mimi Forno Italiano
Way out in Laveen Village at 3624 W Baseline Rd, Mimi Forno Italiano proves that incredible Italian food exists beyond the central Phoenix corridor.
This family-owned gem serves authentic dishes with recipes passed down through generations.
The wood-fired oven produces pizzas with perfectly charred crusts, while the pasta menu explores regional Italian specialties you won’t find everywhere. Their lasagna is the kind of comfort food that makes you understand why people get emotional about Italian grandmothers and family recipes.
Fresh ingredients get sourced locally whenever possible, creating a farm-to-table approach with Italian sensibilities.
The tiramisu here is dangerously good, with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream that taste authentically homemade. The location might require a bit of a drive depending on where you live, but locals in the Southwest Valley consider this their secret treasure.
Friendly service makes you feel like family from the moment you walk through the door. Prices are incredibly reasonable, especially considering the generous portions and quality of preparation.
The casual, unpretentious atmosphere welcomes everyone from date nights to family dinners with kids in tow. Weekend specials often feature dishes that rotate based on seasonal ingredients.
11. Franco’s Italian Caffè (Old Town Scottsdale)
Franco’s Italian Caffè has been serving Old Town Scottsdale at 4327 N Scottsdale Rd since 1993, making it a true veteran of the local Italian dining scene.
Franco Fazzuoli opened this spot to bring authentic Northern Italian cuisine to Arizona, and decades later, the quality hasn’t wavered one bit.
The menu reads like a tour through Italy’s diverse regions, from Tuscan-style grilled meats to Venetian seafood preparations.
Osso buco is fall-off-the-bone tender, braised to perfection and served over creamy risotto that soaks up every drop of that rich sauce.
Pasta gets made fresh daily in-house, and you can taste the difference in texture and flavor. Old Town location puts you in the heart of Scottsdale’s most popular tourist and entertainment district.
The elegant interior with white tablecloths and romantic lighting makes this ideal for special occasions and celebrations. Service maintains that old-school professionalism where servers know their craft and treat every table with genuine care.
Prices reflect the upscale nature and prime location, but the consistent quality justifies the investment.
12. Gerardo’s Pizzeria (Sedona)
Nestled in Sedona at 2675 W State Rte 89A, Gerardo’s Pizzeria brings New York-style pizza to red rock country with authentic recipes and generous slices.
Gerardo himself grew up in Brooklyn, so the techniques and flavors here come straight from East Coast pizza traditions.
The crust achieves that perfect foldable texture that true New York pizza demands, crispy on the bottom yet pliable enough to fold in half.
I stopped here after a Cathedral Rock hike last spring, and that pepperoni slice tasted like absolute heaven after burning a thousand calories on the trail. Beyond pizza, the menu includes Italian-American classics like chicken parmigiana and baked ziti that deliver serious comfort food satisfaction.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere feels refreshingly down-to-earth compared to some of Sedona’s more tourist-focused dining options.
Prices stay reasonable despite the Sedona location, which is saying something in a town known for inflated costs. The family-friendly vibe welcomes everyone from hiking groups to couples exploring the area.
Takeout works great if you want to grab pizza and enjoy it at one of Sedona’s scenic viewpoints.
Local residents consider this their go-to spot when pizza cravings hit, which tells you everything about the consistent quality.
13. Gusto Osteria (Tucson)
Gusto Osteria at 7153 E Tanque Verde Rd brings contemporary Italian dining to Tucson’s east side with a menu that balances tradition and innovation beautifully.
The modern space features clean lines and warm lighting that creates an inviting atmosphere without feeling stuffy or overly formal.
Chef-driven dishes showcase seasonal ingredients with Italian techniques, resulting in plates that feel both familiar and exciting.
Gnocchi practically floats on your fork, pillowy soft and dressed with sauces that change based on what’s fresh and inspiring the kitchen.
Wood-fired pizzas offer creative topping combinations alongside classic favorites, all built on perfectly charred crusts.
The antipasti selection encourages sharing and provides a great way to sample multiple flavors before committing to an entree.
Tucson locals have embraced this spot as a reliable destination for everything from casual dinners to celebratory meals. The east-side location serves the foothills neighborhoods with easier access than downtown options.
Patio seating takes advantage of Tucson’s incredible weather, especially during those perfect winter evenings. Service strikes a nice balance between attentive and relaxed, letting you enjoy your meal at whatever pace feels right.
Desserts get made in-house and provide sweet endings worth saving room for.
14. Perché No? Italian Bistro (Tucson)
Downtown Tucson’s Perché No? at 46 W Congress St asks “why not?” and then proceeds to answer with exceptional Italian cuisine in a charming, intimate setting.
The name translates to “why not?” in Italian, capturing the adventurous spirit that defines both the menu and the atmosphere.
Chef-owner brings serious culinary credentials and a passion for authentic Italian flavors to every dish that leaves the kitchen.
Handmade pasta forms the foundation of many menu items, with shapes and sauces that honor regional Italian traditions.
The space itself feels cozy and romantic, with exposed brick and warm lighting that makes every meal feel special. Seasonal menu changes keep regular customers coming back to discover new favorite dishes throughout the year.
Commitment to using local and organic ingredients whenever possible creates a sustainable approach that benefits both flavor and community.
The downtown Congress Street location puts you in the heart of Tucson’s arts and entertainment district. Small plates and sharing options work perfectly for couples or groups who want to taste multiple dishes.
Prices reflect the quality and care involved, positioning this as a special-occasion destination rather than an everyday casual spot.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends when the intimate space fills up quickly with devoted fans.