12 Best and Must-Try Italian Restaurants in Reno, NV
If you’re a food lover residing in Reno or planning a trip to the “Biggest Little City in the World,” you’re in for a delightful experience with the Italian cuisine options available.
Italian cuisine is famous for its delightful tastes and its use of fresh ingredients. It includes classic pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and delectable desserts. Fortunately, a few Italian restaurants in Reno offer this everything.
Whether searching for an intimate and romantic dinner, a laid-back meal with friends, or a family-friendly environment, you can easily find the ideal Italian restaurant in Reno to satisfy your cravings.
So, we picked up some of the top Italian restaurants in Reno. We explored unique culinary experiences you would want to experience in this gorgeous city. Are you ready to satisfy your taste buds? Let’s go!
Italian Restaurants in Reno
La Famiglia
La Famiglia is a must-visit for Italian food lovers. It’s located near Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. Whether you desire a cozy dinner for two or a celebration with friends, La Famiglia has got you covered.
The private party area is perfect for larger groups and can easily accommodate 15 or more people. The menu offers a variety of dishes, but the Grilled Artichoke Hearts and Beef Carpaccio are standout dishes you should try.
The staff at La Famiglia goes above and beyond to ensure customers have an exceptional dining experience. From personalized attention to providing each guest comfortable, the team plays a crucial role in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
La Famiglia should be on your list for a delightful dining experience with great Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting.
Johnny’s Ristorante Italiano
Johnny’s Ristorante Italiano has been serving the finest traditional Italian cuisine prepared from the freshest, hand-selected ingredients since its inception in 1966 by founders Johnny and Mary Cassinari.
Their menu features signature dishes such as Spaghetti alle Vongole, Seafood Lasagna, Caesar Salad, and Penne Maria, making Johnny’s a local favorite for special occasions.
The restaurant offers an authentic ambiance and exceptional service, complemented by an extensive wine selection from domestic and foreign vineyards and tasty housemade desserts.
Johnny’s is also happy to accommodate every request for gluten-free preparations, ensuring gluten-free meat lovers can enjoy different options. We recommend making a reservation if you plan to visit Johnny’s; it is usually busy some days!
Zozo’s Ristorante
Savor the best Italian cuisine at this award-winning, family-owned restaurant in Reno. The menu showcases traditional Italian favorites such as pasta, meatballs, lasagna, and ravioli, all made with the freshest ingredients.
Also, you can’t miss their homemade desserts, including the classic Tiramisu and chocolate mousse with Kaluha cream. Every entree has salad, soup, and garlic bread, making it a fantastic value.
The restaurant also offers several vegetarian dishes and caters to gluten-free diets with advance notification. Gluten-free pasta is available on request.
Many parking available, you won’t have to worry about that. Don’t miss out on this intimate dining experience, one of the best Reno Italian restaurants.
La Cucina
The Cassinari family, owners of iconic Italian eatery Johnny’s Ristorante Italiano, brings you La Cucina.
La Cucina has upheld Johnny’s legacy of delectable old-world cuisine, impeccable service, and unwavering attention to detail in a warm, inviting atmosphere for over a decade.
The Rigatoni Isabella and mushroom ravioli are the best choices for dinner. Remember to try their delicious side salad as well. As a regular at this restaurant for years, you can attest to their consistency in delivering dishes.
You may enjoy their cuisine and wine at La Cucina with your well-behaved furry friends on the gorgeous outdoor patio available in spring and summer.
Come to La Cucina and experience the authentic flavors of Italian culinary culture in Reno.
Mario’s Portofino Ristorante
Mario’s is a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been serving customers since 1997. Chef Roberto and his skilled kitchen staff carefully prepare every dish, using only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients for an authentic Italian dining experience.
Mario’s offers private dining rooms accommodating up to 45 guests, making it an ideal location for hosting special events or meetings. Whether planning a corporate gathering or a personal celebration, this venue provides the perfect setting to create lasting memories.
They can cater to your event’s needs with versatile seating arrangements from banquet to meeting style. They offer a broad selection of Pre-Set Menus, from simple to superb, but they can also custom-design a menu for any function.
Mario’s is open for dining, and its patio is available for customers subject to weather conditions. Currently, they offer dinner service from Monday to Saturday.
So, if you’re searching for the best Italian Restaurants in Reno, visit Mario’s, where exceptional food and service await you.
La Strada
Located at the Eldorado Resort Casino, La Strada is the perfect restaurant for a romantic dining experience in Reno. Their modern twist on classic Italian cuisine makes it a must-stop place for locals and tourists.
One dish worth mentioning is the Mushroom Ravioli, which Food Network considers the best pasta in Reno. However, their Italian menu is broader than just pasta; they also offer a range of seafood and meat dishes.
The stunning Italian architecture and warm atmosphere of La Strada make it an excellent setting for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
Moreover, La Strada’s menu includes an award-winning wine list to complement your meal perfectly. Overall, La Strada is one of the best Italian restaurants in Reno, providing guests with an unforgettable dining experience.
Calafuria
In Midtown Reno, Calafuria transports visitors to an Italian villa through an outdoor garden. At this restaurant, Chef Magee and his skilled team offer a fusion of tradition and innovation in their delicious dishes.
Calafuria offers fresh pasta and homemade desserts on its menu, and the chefs thoughtfully source other ingredients from Italy and local producers and farmers.
The restaurant’s wine list predominantly showcases European wines, focusing on Italian, German, and French cult producers. Don’t fret if you’re unfamiliar with these wines; the knowledgeable staff will guide your selection.
Calafuria is also available for private events and offers pop-up dinners with curated menus. These unique dining experiences require an advanced purchase, but authentic Italian cuisine is undoubtedly worth it.
Romanza
Romanza is an Italian restaurant located in the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino. Romanza offers a unique dining experience that combines handcrafted meals, authentic flavors, and a stunning atmosphere of Roman luxury.
You can watch master chefs prepare your dishes with fresh ingredients, premium meats and seafood, and homemade pasta in the open kitchen. You can also select wines from Tuscan wineries to complement your meal.
You will also admire the classic sculptures and columns that adorn the restaurant, creating a feeling of elegance and romance. The dome above you will enchant you as you dine, changing from a starry night to a bright dawn while classical Italian music plays.
Romanza is more than just a restaurant; it is a destination for lovers of Italian cuisine and culture!
Romano’s Macaroni Grill
If you want a chain Italian restaurant in Reno, check out Romano’s Macaroni Grill. A bottle of wine welcomes you to the table, inviting you to enjoy it freely as they discover authentic Italian dishes.
You must try their chicken marsala! Savor the chicken breast, complemented by earthy mushrooms and a marsala wine sauce. The roasted garlic adds a subtle depth of flavor that will leave you desiring more, and the delicate capellini provides the perfect finishing touch.
The kitchen staff consistently prepares the food ideally, and the servers give premier service to every visitor.
You can stay informed of their frequent menu changes and special deals by signing up for their email or following their Facebook page. We highly recommend this location.
Casale’s Halfway Club
Casale’s Halfway Club is a family-owned and operated Italian restaurant that has been serving food for over 75 years in Reno.
What sets them apart from other Italian restaurants in Reno is the cozy and warm atmosphere that makes you sense like you’re part of the family.
Casale’s Halfway Club menu is full of different dishes, and they specialize in handmade ravioli, meat and cheese, lasagna, and pizza.
Their famous meatballs are also hand-rolled and created from scratch, making them a must-try dish.
If you’re a vegetarian, you’ll be happy to know that options are available for almost everything on their menu. And remember to try their garlic bread, which has the perfect crunch and is a great appetizer.
Casale’s Halfway Club is where you can enjoy authentic Italian food with excellent service, so book your table in advance.
Pasta Fresca
Near Bartley Ranch Regional Park in Reno, Pasta Fresca specializes in homemade pasta and sauces made with traditional Italian methods.
They use local and organic ingredients as much as possible, caring for the environment and the quality of their food. Their recipes are simple and delicious, letting the flavors of their carefully selected ingredients stand out.
Besides pasta and sauce, they also offer antipasti, salads, desserts, and espresso coffee drinks; all made in-house.
You have many options to enjoy their fresh pasta dishes. You can dine in their cozy restaurant, take home ready-to-eat meals, or grab ready-to-make meal kits.
Their kits come with fresh housemade pasta and sauce you may get in less than 10 minutes; try!
Pinocchio’s Bar & Grill
Pinocchio’s is a family-owned restaurant in Sparks and Reno, Nevada. Since its establishment in March 1997, the restaurant has offered customers a top-notch casual dining experience for 19 years.
The restaurant features a lovely bar area with seating, and the attentive and informative table service ensures a seamless dining experience.
The menu has a strong Italian influence, with plenty of options ranging from pizza and lasagna to salads, sandwiches, desserts, and a Kid’s menu. In addition to the meal options, you’ll also find a superb selection of beer and wine to complement your meal.
We recommend their Italian Cobb salad if you want a unique choice. It’s a delightful mix of spinach, sundried tomatoes, feta and Parmesan cheese, mushrooms, red onion, roasted walnuts, hard-boiled egg, and croutons.
Pinocchio’s has hosted several big parties, and the exceptional service has always continued. Whether coming to eat or celebrating a special occasion, customers can guarantee a pleasant choice.
FAQs
What are the best Italian restaurants in Reno?
Our top five picks of Reno Italian restaurants include Campo, Johnny’s Ristorante Italiano, La Vecchia, Zozo’s Ristorante, La Cucina, and Mario’s Portofino Ristorante.
Do these Italian restaurants in Reno offer gluten-free options?
Many Italian restaurants in Reno offer gluten-free options, including pasta dishes made with gluten-free noodles, gluten-free pizza crusts, and gluten-free appetizers and desserts.
Are reservations necessary for these Italian restaurants in Reno?
We recommend making reservations for these restaurants in Reno, especially during peak dining hours and on weekends. Some restaurants may also offer online reservations, making securing your table in advance even easier.
It’s always good to check with the restaurant beforehand to determine their reservation policy and availability.
Note: Since all the information in this article is based on the date of publication, for some reason (health, economic, social), these businesses may be temporarily or permanently closed or moved to another location.
