11 Highest Rated Italian Restaurants In All Of Arizona
Arizona’s sprawling deserts hide a surprisingly lush secret: a line‑up of Italian eateries that could give Rome a run for its money. Arizona‑wide food lovers, including yours truly, have been on a mission to track down the most flavorful plates.
After countless evenings of tasting, scribbling notes, and the occasional “cheese‑pull” selfie, we’ve compiled the 11 highest‑rated Italian restaurants that are turning the Grand Canyon state into a bona fide pasta paradise.
Pull up a chair, and let’s dig in-because good carbs are the true desert oasis.
1. Pizzeria Bianco
Chris Bianco’s legendary spot at 623 E Adams St in Phoenix has earned nationwide recognition for its approach to pizza-making that borders on artistic obsession.
Every pie gets crafted with ingredients sourced from local farms and imported Italian goods, creating flavor combinations that feel both familiar and revolutionary.
The Rosa pizza, topped with red onion, Parmigiano-Reggiano, rosemary, and Arizona pistachios, has become the stuff of legend among food lovers. Lines often stretch around the block, but regulars insist the wait is absolutely worth it for that perfectly charred crust with just the right amount of chew.
I remember waiting nearly two hours on a Friday night, questioning my life choices, until that first bite completely erased any regret. The space itself maintains a welcoming, unpretentious vibe despite all the accolades and James Beard Awards hanging on the wall.
Reservations book up fast, so planning ahead is essential if you want to experience what many consider the best pizza in America.
2. Tratto
Located at 4743 N 20th St in Phoenix, Tratto brings a sophisticated yet approachable take on Italian dining that feels refreshingly modern. Chef Chris Bianco’s second venture focuses on Roman-style cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and simple preparations that let quality shine through.
The menu changes regularly based on what’s available, but the cacio e pepe consistently appears and sets the standard for this deceptively simple pasta dish. Handmade pasta forms the backbone of most entrees, each strand or shape perfectly cooked to achieve that ideal al dente texture.
The intimate dining room creates a neighborhood trattoria atmosphere where conversations flow easily and servers genuinely care about your experience.
Starters like the fried squash blossoms and grilled octopus showcase the kitchen’s ability to balance flavors without unnecessary complexity.
Desserts rotate seasonally but always include at least one gelato option that provides the perfect ending to a memorable meal filled with honest, delicious Italian cooking.
Every visit feels like a celebration of Italian simplicity elevated by thoughtful technique and exceptional ingredients.
3. Forno 301
Tucked into 1616 N Central Ave, Ste 104 in Phoenix, Forno 301 specializes in Neapolitan-style pizza that stays true to traditional techniques while embracing local Arizona flavors.
The wood-burning oven imported from Italy reaches temperatures that create those signature leopard-spotted crusts in just 90 seconds.
Beyond pizza, the restaurant offers an impressive selection of antipasti, salads, and pasta dishes that demonstrate serious culinary chops. The burrata appetizer arrives creamy and fresh, paired with seasonal accompaniments that change throughout the year.
Outdoor seating on the patio provides a pleasant dining option during Arizona’s cooler months when the weather feels absolutely perfect.
The margherita pizza remains a customer favorite, proving that sometimes the simplest preparations yield the most satisfying results when executed with care and quality ingredients.
Service strikes a nice balance between attentive and relaxed, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions. The atmosphere buzzes with energy without feeling overwhelming or too loud for conversation.
Guests often leave planning their next visit, eager to try new seasonal specials. Every dish reflects a thoughtful blend of tradition and innovation, making each meal memorable.
4. Rosso Italian
Situated at 2 E Jefferson St, Ste 113 in downtown Phoenix, Rosso Italian brings contemporary Italian cuisine to the heart of the city with style and substance. Chef Luca Corazzina leads a kitchen that respects tradition while incorporating modern techniques and presentations.
The menu spans regions throughout Italy, offering everything from Northern Italian risottos to Southern Italian seafood preparations. Pasta gets made fresh daily, and you can taste the difference in every forkful of pappardelle or rigatoni.
My friend dragged me here for my birthday last year, and the osso buco literally made me close my eyes and sigh with happiness.
The extensive menu also features wood-fired pizzas, creative appetizers, and protein-forward mains that satisfy heartier appetites.
The sleek, modern interior features an open kitchen where diners can watch the culinary team work their magic. Downtown location makes it convenient for pre-theater dinners or business lunches where you want to impress without being stuffy.
Desserts include classic Italian favorites like tiramisu and panna cotta executed with precision. Seasonal gelato flavors rotate regularly, offering a fresh and light way to end the meal.
5. Fat Ox
At 6316 N Scottsdale Rd in Scottsdale, Fat Ox combines Italian culinary traditions with a distinctly American steakhouse sensibility that results in something uniquely satisfying. Chef Matt Carter’s menu celebrates high-quality meats prepared with Italian techniques and accompanied by housemade pastas.
The restaurant’s name hints at its focus on premium beef, but the Italian influence shines through in preparations like the bistecca alla fiorentina. Pasta dishes hold their own against the meat-centric offerings, with standouts like the agnolotti and bucatini earning devoted fans.
The rustic-chic interior features exposed brick, warm wood tones, and an inviting bar area that buzzes with energy. Portions lean generous, so arriving hungry is definitely recommended if you want to sample multiple courses.
The meatball appetizer arrives the size of a baseball, rich with flavor and swimming in marinara that begs to be sopped up with bread. Service tends to be knowledgeable and friendly without hovering.
Seasonal specials highlight fresh, local ingredients, keeping the menu exciting for repeat visits. The drink list is carefully curated to pair beautifully with both pasta and steak selections, elevating the overall dining experience.
6. Marcellino Ristorante
Nestled at 7114 E Stetson Dr in Scottsdale, Marcellino Ristorante delivers an authentic Italian dining experience that feels like stepping into a family-run trattoria in Rome. Owner Marcellino Verzino brings recipes and traditions from his Italian heritage, creating dishes that taste like they’ve been passed down through generations.
The menu emphasizes fresh seafood, housemade pastas, and classic preparations that don’t rely on trendy gimmicks. Regulars rave about the veal dishes and the linguine alle vongole, which features fresh clams in a delicate garlic sauce
The intimate dining room seats fewer than 50 guests, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels like a valued regular.
Marcellino himself often greets diners and shares stories about the origins of various dishes, adding a personal touch that larger establishments simply cannot replicate.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends when the small space fills quickly. The authentic approach and genuine hospitality make this spot a hidden gem in Scottsdale’s dining scene.
7. Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano
Perched at 2321 W Highway 89A in Sedona, Dahl & Di Luca combines stunning red rock views with exceptional Italian cuisine that makes any meal feel like a special occasion.
Chef Andrea Di Luca and partner Lisa Dahl have created a refined dining destination that showcases both Northern and Southern Italian influences.
The menu changes seasonally but consistently delivers sophisticated dishes that balance innovation with respect for tradition. Fresh pasta, locally sourced ingredients, and imported Italian specialty items come together in preparations that delight both the eye and palate.
We celebrated our anniversary there last spring, and watching the sunset over the red rocks while eating incredible gnocchi felt almost surreal. The upscale atmosphere suits romantic dinners and celebrations, though the welcoming service never feels stuffy or pretentious.
An extensive selection of Italian imports complements the food perfectly. The dessert menu features housemade creations that provide a sweet conclusion to an already memorable dining experience in one of Arizona’s most beautiful settings.
8. Vivace Restaurant
Located at 6440 N Campbell Ave in Tucson, Vivace Restaurant has been serving Southern Arizona’s Italian food lovers since 2006 with a commitment to fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The menu draws inspiration from various Italian regions, offering diners a culinary tour without leaving Tucson.
Chef Daniel Scordato’s kitchen turns out impressive pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and protein entrees that showcase seasonal ingredients.
The pappardelle with wild boar ragu exemplifies the restaurant’s ability to balance rustic heartiness with refined technique.
The warm, inviting dining room features an open kitchen where you can watch the team work, adding an element of theater to your meal. Tucson locals consider Vivace a reliable choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special celebrations.
The restaurant also offers cooking classes for those interested in learning Italian techniques at home. An extensive list of imported and domestic options provides plenty of pairing choices for every dish on the menu.
9. Bacio Italiano
At 943 E University Blvd, Ste 125 in Tucson, Bacio brings a contemporary twist to Italian classics in a lively atmosphere that attracts everyone from university students to longtime Tucson residents. The restaurant’s name means kiss in Italian, and the food definitely lives up to that affectionate promise.
Wood-fired pizzas emerge from the oven with perfectly blistered crusts and creative topping combinations that go beyond standard offerings. The pasta menu features both traditional favorites and inventive new creations that change with the seasons.
I stumbled into Bacio on a random Tuesday looking for something quick, and ended up staying for two hours because the food and atmosphere were just that good.
The outdoor patio provides a pleasant dining option during Tucson’s many beautiful evenings.
Prices remain reasonable despite the high quality, making it accessible for regular visits rather than just special occasions. The energetic vibe and consistently delicious food have earned Bacio a loyal following in Tucson’s competitive dining scene.
10. Andreoli Italian Grocer
Found at 8880 E Via Linda in Scottsdale, Andreoli Italian Grocer functions as both a marketplace and a restaurant, offering an authentic taste of Italy in multiple ways.
The attached dining room serves lunch and dinner featuring recipes that have been in the Andreoli family for generations.
Chef Giovanni Scorzo prepares traditional Italian dishes with imported ingredients available in the adjacent market, creating a farm-to-table experience with an Italian twist.
The lasagna, made with housemade pasta sheets and slow-cooked ragu, tastes like something straight from an Italian grandmother’s kitchen.
The market side sells imported cheeses, cured meats, pastas, oils, and other specialty items that allow you to recreate Italian magic at home. Regulars know to arrive early for the freshly made paninis at lunch, which sell out quickly.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere focuses attention squarely on the food, which speaks for itself with authentic flavors and generous portions. Takeout options make it easy to enjoy quality Italian food at home.
11. The Sicilian Butcher
At 15530 N Tatum Blvd, Ste 160 in Phoenix, The Sicilian Butcher reimagines the Italian dining experience with a modern, energetic approach that appeals to adventurous eaters.
The restaurant combines a traditional butcher shop with a full-service dining room where creative pizzas and charcuterie boards take center stage.
The meatball flight offers a playful way to sample different regional styles, from classic beef to lamb and even a vegetarian option. Build-your-own pizza options let diners customize their pies with an impressive array of premium toppings and housemade sausages.
The lively atmosphere, complete with upbeat music and stylish decor, creates a fun dining environment that works well for groups and celebrations.
The open kitchen and butcher counter provide entertainment as skilled staff prepare meats and assemble dishes.
Generous portions and reasonable prices make it a popular choice for families and large groups. The restaurant has expanded to multiple locations due to its popularity, but this original Phoenix spot maintains the energetic spirit that started it all.
Seasonal specials highlight innovative flavor combinations, keeping regulars excited to return. Every dish reflects a thoughtful balance of quality ingredients and playful creativity that sets the restaurant apart.