12 South Carolina Italian Restaurants That Locals Keep Quiet About (And For Good Reason)
South Carolina has a way of surprising people, especially when it comes to Italian food. Beyond the barbecue joints and seafood shacks, there are small Italian restaurants tucked into neighborhoods and quiet streets that regulars swear by.
They’re the kind of spots where the sauce tastes like it’s been simmering all day and the pizza crust comes out with just the right char.
The atmosphere is laid-back, the portions are generous, and the flavors feel genuine. If you’re craving a taste of Italy without the fuss, South Carolina has plenty of places that absolutely deliver.
1. Melfi’s, Charleston
Walking into this family-owned spot feels like stepping into someone’s home kitchen in Italy. The recipes have been passed down through generations, and you can taste that history in every bite.
Regulars rave about the lasagna, which takes hours to prepare and arrives at your table bubbling hot. The marinara sauce is made fresh daily, and they don’t cut corners with ingredients.
Service is warm and personal, like the staff actually remembers your name.
2. Le Farfalle, Charleston
This charming restaurant sits quietly in downtown Charleston, away from the main tourist strips. The owner greets guests personally and makes recommendations based on what’s freshest that day.
Handmade pasta is the star here, and watching them prepare it in the open kitchen is half the fun. Portions are hearty, and flavors are bold without being heavy.
The tiramisu alone is worth the visit, light and creamy with just the right amount of sweetness.
3. Renzo, Charleston
Locals love this spot for its modern take on traditional Italian cooking. The chef isn’t afraid to experiment, but everything still tastes authentically Italian.
Small plates are perfect for sharing, and the menu encourages you to try multiple dishes. Fresh seafood gets highlighted in creative ways, paired with house-made pastas that have the perfect texture.
The space feels upscale but not stuffy, making it great for both date nights and casual dinners with friends.
4. Indaco, Charleston
Bright and lively, this restaurant brings Northern Italian flavors to Charleston with style. The open layout and energetic vibe make it a fun place to gather without feeling too formal.
Pizza here is Neapolitan style, with a chewy crust and simple toppings that let quality ingredients shine. The gelato is made in-house and changes flavors regularly.
Even on busy nights, the staff keeps things moving smoothly, so you’re never waiting too long for your meal.
5. Villa Tronco, Columbia
Operating since 1940, this Columbia institution has been serving Italian comfort food for generations. The building itself has character, with old photos lining the walls that tell the story of the family behind it.
Traditional dishes like chicken parmesan and spaghetti with meatballs are done right, no shortcuts. Portions are large enough to take home leftovers, which many regulars plan on.
The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, perfect for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
6. Il Giorgione Pizzeria & Bar, Columbia
This pizzeria takes its craft seriously, using imported ingredients and traditional methods to create authentic Neapolitan pies. The dough ferments for days, resulting in a crust that’s both crispy and airy.
Toppings are minimal but high quality, letting the flavor of the dough and sauce come through. The casual setting makes it easy to stop by for a quick lunch or relaxed dinner.
Locals appreciate that it stays true to Italian pizza traditions without trying to be something it’s not.
7. Jianna, Greenville
Greenville’s best-kept secret for refined Italian dining, this restaurant balances elegance with approachability. The menu features regional Italian dishes you won’t find at typical chain restaurants.
Fresh ingredients are treated with respect, and presentation is beautiful without being overly fussy. The pasta carbonara is rich and creamy, made the traditional way.
Service is attentive but never intrusive, allowing you to enjoy your meal at your own pace in a sophisticated yet comfortable setting.
8. Wild Olive, Johns Island
Tucked away on Johns Island, this place sources ingredients from local farms and turns them into Italian classics with a Lowcountry twist. The menu changes with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try.
Their wood-fired pizzas have a perfect crispy crust that’s hard to find anywhere else. Pasta dishes are generous without being overwhelming.
The casual atmosphere makes it easy to relax and enjoy a meal without any fuss or pretense.
9. Trattoria Giorgio, Greenville
This family-run trattoria brings the warmth of an Italian village to Greenville. The owners treat every guest like family, often stopping by tables to chat and make sure everything is perfect.
Classic dishes are prepared with care, using recipes that have been in the family for decades. The veal piccata is tender and flavorful, and the gnocchi melts in your mouth.
Prices are reasonable for the quality, making it a regular spot for locals who want reliable, delicious Italian food.
10. Ristorante Bergamo, Greenville
Named after a city in Northern Italy, this restaurant captures the spirit of that region with authentic recipes and careful preparation. The intimate space creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for special occasions or quiet dinners.
Northern Italian specialties like osso buco and risotto are standouts on the menu. Everything is cooked to order, so patience is rewarded with exceptional flavors.
The attention to detail, from the bread to the dessert, shows a commitment to quality that keeps people coming back.
11. Ciao! Italian Restaurant, Myrtle Beach
Away from the boardwalk crowds, this neighborhood spot serves honest Italian food without the tourist markup. The menu covers all the classics, executed well with fresh ingredients and generous portions.
Families love it because kids are genuinely welcomed, not just tolerated. The chicken marsala is a local favorite, and the house salad comes with a tangy dressing people often ask to buy by the bottle.
It’s the kind of place where you can have a relaxed meal and actually hear your conversation.
12. Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana, Hilton Head Island
This Hilton Head gem has been quietly serving exceptional Italian cuisine for years while tourists flock to flashier spots. The chef’s background in classical Italian cooking shows in every carefully crafted dish.
Fresh seafood from local waters gets paired with house-made pastas in creative combinations. The braised short ribs practically fall apart on your fork.
Reservations are recommended because locals fill the tables most nights, drawn by consistent quality and a menu that rewards repeat visits with new seasonal offerings.