Calgary is a great place to enjoy Italian food. From traditional family-run places to modern dining spots, the city offers many Italian restaurants in Calgary that serve fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, and rich tomato-based dishes. Whether you are visiting or living in the city, you will find plenty of choices that bring out the true taste of Italy.
This list of the top 35 Italian restaurants in Calgary features places known for good food, welcoming service, and a strong local following. Each restaurant was chosen based on quality, customer experience, and dishes that people often return for. Some offer time-tested recipes, while others introduce new flavors using local ingredients.
You will discover Italian restaurants in Calgary that are popular for creamy risotto, handmade ravioli, and desserts that leave a lasting impression. These places are not just about the food but also about the overall dining experience. Each visit gives you a chance to enjoy a full Italian meal from start to finish.
If you are searching for the best Italian restaurants in Calgary, this list will guide you to the right places. Explore what each one offers and find the dishes that suit your taste. This guide is made to help you enjoy every meal and make the most of what the city has to offer.
1. Franca’s Italian Specialties 🍝
Franca’s Italian Specialties is one of the most beloved Italian restaurants in Calgary for those who appreciate home-style meals made with care. The restaurant offers a quiet, intimate setting that feels like dining in a traditional Italian kitchen. Guests praise the food for its richness, balance, and commitment to classic flavors. The service is personal and warm, adding to the overall dining experience.
Top menu items include the homemade lasagna, prepared with creamy béchamel and savory tomato sauce. The meatballs are also well known for their tender texture and simple seasoning. For dessert, the tiramisu is light and layered perfectly with espresso and cream. Franca’s Italian Specialties remains a favorite among those who seek authentic Italian restaurants in Calgary.
2. Carino 🧆
Carino offers something rare among Italian restaurants in Calgary by blending Italian cuisine with Japanese cooking techniques. The restaurant is owned by a chef with years of experience in Italian kitchens, now using his background to create something original. Guests enjoy a calm atmosphere, carefully crafted dishes, and thoughtful service. The restaurant presents familiar flavors with a refined and artistic touch.
The squid ink pasta stands out, rich in flavor and gently spiced with Japanese chili oil. Their carbonara brings creaminess and structure without overwhelming the palate. The matcha tiramisu is a smart ending, combining two traditions into one thoughtful dessert. Carino is a must-visit for anyone exploring modern takes on Italian restaurants in Calgary.
3. Garden of Italy 🍕
Garden of Italy has built a strong reputation as one of the top traditional Italian restaurants in Calgary. Its menu features well-loved Italian classics prepared with high-quality ingredients and careful technique. The restaurant’s dining room is warm and welcoming, offering a peaceful place for family meals or special occasions. Guests return often for both the food and the genuine hospitality.
A top recommendation is the fettuccine Alfredo, known for its creamy texture and delicate flavor. The margherita pizza is made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on a perfectly crisp crust. Many guests also enjoy the cannoli, filled with sweet ricotta and topped with powdered sugar. Garden of Italy continues to define excellence among Italian restaurants in Calgary.
4. Azzurri Pizzeria 🍽️
Azzurri Pizzeria is a lesser-known gem among Italian restaurants in Calgary, tucked away but offering outstanding flavor and service. Though the setting is simple, the food is carefully prepared with fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation. Guests often mention the friendly staff and consistent quality as reasons to return. This restaurant is a solid choice for pizza lovers and traditional Italian food fans alike.
Try the truffle mushroom pizza, which features a crispy crust, rich cheese, and earthy toppings. The prosciutto and arugula pizza adds a fresh, peppery contrast that diners enjoy. A selection of Italian wines is also available to enhance the meal. Azzurri Pizzeria remains one of the most surprising and enjoyable Italian restaurants in Calgary.
5. Bridgette Bar 🍾
Bridgette Bar brings a modern edge to the list of Italian restaurants in Calgary, offering Italian-inspired dishes in a lively and elegant setting. It is a popular location for social dinners, featuring bold flavors and strong cocktail options. Though the menu includes other cuisines, the Italian dishes consistently earn praise. The service is professional and efficient, completing the upscale dining experience.
The Italian pork sausage pasta delivers deep flavor and a hearty, satisfying texture. Flatbreads, especially the one topped with prosciutto and figs, are another guest favorite. Many end their visit with the olive oil cake, which is soft and slightly sweet. Bridgette Bar stands out among upscale Italian restaurants in Calgary for its style and quality.
6. Posto Pizzeria and Bar 🍕
Posto Pizzeria and Bar is a top choice among casual Italian restaurants in Calgary, especially for those who enjoy artisan pizza. The restaurant is stylish and welcoming, making it a comfortable setting for lunch or dinner. Guests praise the chefs for their attention to detail and the perfect balance in every dish. It remains a steady favorite for locals who want flavor without formality.
The Diavola pizza offers a bold mix of spicy salami, tomato, and mozzarella. The roasted beet salad provides a cool and colorful side dish that pairs well with any pizza. A classic affogato, made with strong espresso and creamy gelato, finishes the meal. Posto Pizzeria and Bar continues to hold its place among Calgary’s most reliable Italian restaurants in Calgary.
7. La Luna Rossa Ristorante 🍤
La Luna Rossa Ristorante stands among the most comfortable and refined Italian restaurants in Calgary. The interior is clean and spacious, with plenty of room for quiet conversation or family dinners. The service is steady and kind, and the food is grounded in tradition. The menu shows attention to both flavor and balance.
A favorite is the Osso Buco, slow-braised veal served over soft saffron risotto. Guests also enjoy the seafood linguine, made with shrimp, scallops, and mussels in a white wine sauce. For dessert, the panna cotta is smooth and topped with fresh fruit. La Luna Rossa Ristorante remains a strong pick among high-quality Italian restaurants in Calgary.
8. Vero Bistro Moderne 🍝
Vero Bistro Moderne offers an upscale dining experience and ranks among the most elegant Italian restaurants in Calgary. The restaurant combines Italian flavors with French influence, using local produce and seasonal ideas. The space is quiet, stylish, and suitable for special occasions. Service is polished and the staff are knowledgeable about the menu.
Guests often order the lobster ravioli, which is filled generously and served with a rich sauce. The wild mushroom risotto stands out for its creamy texture and subtle truffle finish. For dessert, the flourless chocolate torte offers a dense and satisfying end to the meal. Vero Bistro Moderne continues to raise the bar for fine Italian restaurants in Calgary.
9. Lina’s Trattoria 🥗
Lina’s Trattoria may be new, but it is quickly earning recognition among rising Italian restaurants in Calgary. With a small but focused menu, it delivers fresh ingredients and well-prepared dishes in a cozy space. The service is friendly and relaxed, adding to the comfortable atmosphere. Though still growing, it is clear this restaurant values quality first.
One of the top dishes is the mushroom pasta, prepared with a light cream sauce and herbs. The calamari starter is crisp and paired with a simple lemon sauce. Guests also enjoy the grilled romaine salad, offering a smoky and fresh contrast. Lina’s Trattoria is a name to remember among up-and-coming Italian restaurants in Calgary.
10. Rea’s Italian Cucina 🍕
Rea’s Italian Cucina is one of the most trusted Italian restaurants in Calgary for value and comfort. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, ideal for diners looking for hearty meals in a simple setting. The menu focuses on familiar Italian favorites that are both filling and satisfying. This is a place where quality and price meet well.
Try the meat lover’s pizza, topped with sausage, pepperoni, and bacon for a rich and flavorful slice. The chicken Alfredo pasta is another top choice, creamy and served with plenty of sauce. The tiramisu offers a classic finish with espresso and mascarpone. Rea’s Italian Cucina is one of the most approachable and steady Italian restaurants in Calgary.
11. YYC Pasta Bar 🍝
YYC Pasta Bar is gaining attention as one of the newest standout Italian restaurants in Calgary. With a focus on fresh pasta and bold presentation, the restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and a fun take on traditional Italian fare. Guests appreciate the energy in the room, the friendly staff, and the attention to detail in every dish. The small menu allows the chefs to focus on flavor and consistency.
A popular choice is the truffle cream pasta, served with handmade noodles and topped with parmesan. Their meatball sandwich is also well liked for its tender filling and toasted bun. The dessert menu is worth exploring, especially the tiramisu served in a jar. YYC Pasta Bar continues to make a strong impression among modern Italian restaurants in Calgary.
12. Toscana Italian Grill 🍕
Toscana Italian Grill is a reliable name among traditional Italian restaurants in Calgary, offering warm service and classic recipes. The space is clean and welcoming, with a focus on simple dining and honest cooking. Guests return for the consistent quality and straightforward approach to Italian cuisine. The experience feels both casual and complete.
Their spaghetti pomodoro is a top recommendation, served with a tomato sauce that is both rich and refreshing. The Diavolo pizza is another guest favorite, with spicy toppings and a crispy crust. A fresh garden salad adds balance to the meal. Toscana Italian Grill remains a popular option for guests who enjoy familiar and comforting Italian restaurants in Calgary.
13. Rozzini’s Restaurant and Pub 🍗
Rozzini’s Restaurant and Pub offers something different among Italian restaurants in Calgary, combining Italian recipes with influences from Greek and Indian cooking. The pub setting is relaxed and friendly, making it a nice choice for casual meals. Guests enjoy the wide variety and the effort made to blend cultures on the menu. Service is helpful and the food is well portioned.
Their chicken parmesan is a reliable dish, offering crisp breading, melted cheese, and marinara sauce. The house lasagna is another favorite, layered with meat, ricotta, and a generous tomato base. Many also recommend the calamari appetizer. Rozzini’s may not be a classic Italian eatery, but it earns its place among flexible and flavorful Italian restaurants in Calgary.
14. UNA Pizza + Wine – 17th Ave 🍕
UNA Pizza + Wine on 17th Avenue is one of the most talked-about Italian restaurants in Calgary, known for creative pizzas and a modern dining experience. The restaurant combines Canadian touches with Italian roots, producing dishes that feel new but still familiar. Guests enjoy the lively setting, ideal for a group dinner or casual date night. Service is upbeat and the menu offers a good mix of items.
Try the 4-Maggi pizza, topped with a variety of cheeses that blend into a smooth, flavorful finish. The mushroom toast with truffle oil is another dish that draws attention. Pair any meal with a glass from their wine list, which includes both local and Italian selections. UNA Pizza + Wine continues to draw crowds as a fresh take on Italian restaurants in Calgary.
15. Cucina 🍝
Cucina is a sophisticated entry on the list of fine Italian restaurants in Calgary, known for polished service and beautifully presented plates. The café-style space transitions well from daytime meals to quiet evening dinners. Guests speak highly of the attention to detail and the flavor depth in each dish. This restaurant offers an upscale but approachable experience.
A standout menu item is the braised beef pappardelle, served with fresh pasta and a bold reduction sauce. The ricotta-stuffed ravioli with sage butter is also a guest favorite. The dessert list features panna cotta and lemon cake, both light but satisfying. Cucina brings refinement and precision to the world of modern Italian restaurants in Calgary.
16. Il Centro 🍕
Il Centro is a small and inviting restaurant that earns praise as one of the most personal Italian restaurants in Calgary. It offers traditional recipes and simple preparation, delivering a home-style experience for every diner. The staff provide warm service in a quiet space that is ideal for both lunch and dinner.
Top dishes include their classic pepperoni pizza, served with a crispy crust and generous toppings. Guests also recommend the linguine alfredo, which is creamy without being too heavy. Their tomato and bocconcini salad is a fresh and easy appetizer. Il Centro continues to be a valued name for those who enjoy neighborhood-style Italian restaurants in Calgary.
17. Toscana Italian Grill 🍝
This second location of Toscana Italian Grill holds the same reputation as one of the steady Italian restaurants in Calgary. The service is consistent and friendly, and the food reflects a deep respect for traditional Italian recipes. Guests appreciate the casual feel and honest menu, making it a good choice for weeknight meals.
Try the Margherita pizza, which comes with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato, and a thin, oven-fired crust. The spaghetti carbonara is another well-prepared option, with a smooth sauce and crisp pancetta. For dessert, the vanilla panna cotta is a popular choice. This location of Toscana Italian Grill stands strong among reliable Italian restaurants in Calgary.
18. My Little Italia 🍲
My Little Italia is a quiet newcomer on the list of Italian restaurants in Calgary, but its first reviews have been full of praise. The setting is cozy and personal, and the dishes are made with clear attention to flavor. Guests describe the food as deeply satisfying and balanced, served in generous portions. The menu is simple, but every item feels thoughtfully prepared.
A strong choice is the baked penne with meat sauce, served hot with melted cheese and herbs. Their risotto, especially the mushroom version, is creamy and earthy. Many diners also enjoy the caprese salad, made with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. My Little Italia is quickly building its name among the most promising Italian restaurants in Calgary.
19. Cardinale 🍝
Cardinale brings upscale energy to the group of refined Italian restaurants in Calgary, with sleek decor and a menu built around seasonal ingredients. The staff are attentive and well-informed, ready to help with wine pairings or dish suggestions. The space is ideal for special occasions and quiet meals alike.
One of the most requested dishes is the ricotta gnocchi, served in a light sauce with fresh herbs. The house Caesar salad is well seasoned and presented with flair. Dessert includes classics like tiramisu and flourless chocolate cake. Cardinale offers a mature and focused experience for those looking for elevated Italian restaurants in Calgary.
20. Luca Restaurant 🍤
Luca Restaurant is one of the few Italian restaurants in Calgary with a stronger focus on seafood and modern cooking. The environment is clean and well designed, ideal for guests who enjoy a creative approach to familiar dishes. The service is detailed and the pace allows time to enjoy each course.
Top recommendations include the pesto pasta, bright with basil and served al dente with pine nuts and cheese. The focaccia with pea mousse is unique and light, offering a soft start to the meal. Seafood fans often enjoy grilled shrimp or calamari. Luca Restaurant stands out for those seeking innovation among modern Italian restaurants in Calgary.
21. Stromboli Inn 🍕
Stromboli Inn is a quiet and comfortable spot that offers classic pizzas in the tradition of old-school Italian restaurants in Calgary. The restaurant has earned a loyal following with its no-frills, high-quality approach to food. Located away from the city’s busiest streets, it provides a relaxing environment with attentive service. The menu focuses on taste and simplicity.
Their pepperoni pizza is a customer favorite, baked with a golden crust and generous cheese. The four-cheese blend pizza also stands out for its balanced flavor and crisp edges. A small wine list offers pairings for every meal. Stromboli Inn remains one of the more understated but consistent Italian restaurants in Calgary for pizza lovers.
22. Actually Pretty Good 🌶️
Actually Pretty Good is a modern, playful addition to the list of Italian restaurants in Calgary, known for its bold name and even bolder flavors. This casual eatery surprises first-time visitors with the quality of its pizzas, prepared with care and thoughtful ingredients. The space is small but clean, offering a cozy place to enjoy familiar dishes.
Try the classic margherita, which features fresh basil, tomato, and mozzarella on a perfect crust. Their spicy salami pizza is also a favorite, with just the right level of heat. A small dessert menu rounds out the experience with sweet finishes. Actually Pretty Good confidently earns its place among modern Italian restaurants in Calgary.
23. Escoba Bistro & Wine Bar 🧆
Escoba Bistro & Wine Bar is a stylish and upscale restaurant that combines Mediterranean flair with elements found in top Italian restaurants in Calgary. The space is elegant and relaxed, ideal for dinners with friends or special evenings out. Guests praise the knowledgeable service and the vibrant mix of flavors across the menu.
The tiger rose pasta is a top choice, featuring jumbo prawns in a creamy, tomato-based sauce. Their seafood risotto is another standout, rich in flavor and cooked to a perfect consistency. The wine list includes both local and international bottles. Escoba Bistro offers a refined dining experience that broadens the profile of Italian restaurants in Calgary.
24. First Street Market YYC 🥘
First Street Market YYC is a modern food hall that features a variety of kitchens, including one of the more creative Italian restaurants in Calgary—La Mano. Though the setting is shared, La Mano stands out with its straightforward yet satisfying Italian dishes. Guests enjoy the casual environment and wide range of food choices in one place.
The margherita pizza from La Mano receives consistent praise for its clean flavors and classic crust. Their gnocchi, made fresh daily, is another favorite for its soft texture and subtle butter sauce. A rotating selection of specials keeps the menu exciting. First Street Market adds variety to the growing list of informal Italian restaurants in Calgary.
25. The Place Steakhouse 🍖
The Place Steakhouse may focus on grilled meats, but it still offers some of the best pasta and pizza among casual Italian restaurants in Calgary. The environment is family-friendly, and service remains steady even during peak hours. Guests appreciate the portion sizes and flexible menu.
The spaghetti Bolognese is hearty and satisfying, made with ground beef and slow-simmered sauce. Their pepperoni pizza is another reliable option, served hot with crisp edges and soft cheese. The garlic bread is often praised as the perfect starter. The Place Steakhouse delivers dependable Italian dishes while offering more variety than most Italian restaurants in Calgary.
26. Sorella Trattoria 🍤
Sorella Trattoria is a quiet restaurant with a small but focused menu that places it among intimate Italian restaurants in Calgary. The space is minimal and comfortable, ideal for relaxed meals. Guests enjoy the laid-back pace and calm environment.
Their linguine with seafood includes shrimp and mussels in a light garlic butter sauce. The risotto, though understated, is prepared with care and served with seasonal vegetables. House-made desserts such as tiramisu and panna cotta end the meal on a high note. Sorella Trattoria is a modest but thoughtful choice among neighborhood Italian restaurants in Calgary.
27. IL Forno Fusion 🥗
IL Forno Fusion adds something different to the list of Italian restaurants in Calgary, blending diner-style comfort food with classic Italian recipes. The restaurant is open early and offers a wide range of breakfast and brunch options in addition to pasta and risotto. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is simple but pleasant.
Their risotto is a strong menu item, often served with mushrooms or grilled vegetables and seasoned with fresh herbs. Steak specials are also available and complement the pasta-focused dishes well. Guests find the portions generous and satisfying. IL Forno Fusion provides a fresh take on the growing number of diverse Italian restaurants in Calgary.
28. Lina’s Italian Market 🍕
Lina’s Italian Market is one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in Calgary tucked within its food court. The dining space is casual, but the food is prepared with the same passion found in more formal venues. Guests appreciate the quick service and vibrant Italian flavors.
Try the margherita pizza, cooked in a stone oven and topped with fresh mozzarella and basil. Their meatball sandwich is another favorite, packed with flavor and served on crusty bread. Espresso drinks and gelato complete the meal with an Italian finish. Lina’s Italian Market is a smart stop for quick, high-quality meals from trusted Italian restaurants in Calgary.
29. Mercato Italian Gourmet 🍲
Mercato Italian Gourmet is one of the more established names among upscale Italian restaurants in Calgary, known for its open kitchen and high-end ingredients. The setting is bright and modern, with a menu focused on premium Italian fare. Guests enjoy watching the chefs at work while savoring refined and flavorful meals.
The lamb ravioli is a standout, offering a rich and balanced filling paired with butter sage sauce. Their grilled seafood platter is also popular for its freshness and simple seasoning. A curated wine selection complements every dish. Mercato continues to be a top destination for fine dining at Italian restaurants in Calgary.
30. Villa Firenze 🥘
Villa Firenze is a longstanding favorite among romantic Italian restaurants in Calgary, tucked away in the neighborhood of Bridgeland. The restaurant is known for warm service, quiet ambiance, and traditional Italian recipes that have stood the test of time. Guests return for the relaxed pace and refined dishes.
Top choices include the veal piccata, served in a lemon butter sauce with tender vegetables. The house lasagna, baked to a golden top, is another trusted selection. For dessert, the flourless chocolate cake pairs well with a strong espresso. Villa Firenze offers a calm, classic setting among the city’s most seasoned Italian restaurants in Calgary.
31. De Minico’s 🍕
De Minico’s is a small but impressive name among authentic Italian restaurants in Calgary, delivering homemade quality in every bite. The restaurant operates quietly with a focus on flavor and traditional recipes. Visitors often discover it through word-of-mouth and are rarely disappointed. The space is cozy and ideal for relaxed meals without distractions.
The pizza is a top highlight, baked with fresh toppings and a perfectly crisp crust. The spaghetti with meatballs is another favorite, seasoned carefully and served with a rich tomato sauce. Guests also enjoy the garlic bread, soft inside and toasted just right. De Minico’s stands out as one of the most personal and honest Italian restaurants in Calgary.
32. Vintage Chophouse and Tavern 🦐
Vintage Chophouse and Tavern is best known as a steakhouse, but it also offers standout pasta dishes that place it among notable Italian restaurants in Calgary. The interior is elegant and spacious, creating a relaxed yet upscale dining experience. Guests praise both the food and the professional service. The kitchen consistently delivers bold and satisfying meals.
Their tagliatelle Bolognese is a clear favorite, made with a slow-cooked meat sauce that is both hearty and flavorful. The prawn linguine is another strong dish, balanced with garlic and white wine. The wine list is deep and thoughtfully paired. Vintage Chophouse earns its spot on the list of versatile Italian restaurants in Calgary with dishes that surprise and impress.
33. Pigeonhole 🍝
Pigeonhole may not look like a typical Italian eatery, but it earns recognition among creative Italian restaurants in Calgary for its house-made pasta and elegant service. The setting is modern and stylish, ideal for a casual but elevated meal. Guests appreciate the seasonal menu and unexpected flavor combinations.
The hand-rolled pasta is a must-try, especially when paired with seafood like tuna or prawns. Small plates like the charred cabbage or grilled sourdough offer contrast and texture. Desserts are light and carefully crafted, rounding out the experience well. Pigeonhole brings innovation and freshness to the evolving scene of Italian restaurants in Calgary.
34. PZA Parlour 🧆
PZA Parlour is a family-owned business that shines among casual Italian restaurants in Calgary, delivering fresh pizza and pasta in a welcoming setting. The atmosphere is friendly and informal, making it a comfortable choice for weeknight dinners or quick lunches. Guests regularly praise the quality of the ingredients and generous portions.
The PZA special pizza includes fresh tomato, prosciutto, and basil on a chewy crust that holds its texture. The fettuccine Alfredo is creamy and simple, with just enough garlic to bring the dish together. Desserts include classics like tiramisu and cannoli. PZA Parlour continues to earn its place among dependable and enjoyable Italian restaurants in Calgary.
35. Niko’s Bistro 🍝
Niko’s Bistro is a well-established Italian restaurant in Calgary that has earned its place through consistent food and welcoming service. Located in a neighborhood setting, it offers a warm, casual atmosphere that feels inviting to both new and returning guests. The menu focuses on comforting Italian classics made with fresh ingredients and careful preparation. Diners often return for the simple pleasure of good food served without pretense.
A popular dish is the spaghetti carbonara, made with creamy sauce and pancetta for a balanced and filling meal. The gnocchi, soft and satisfying, is also a strong choice for pasta lovers. Tiramisu is a recommended dessert, offering a light but flavorful end to the meal. Niko’s Bistro remains a solid option for those looking for a dependable Italian restaurant in Calgary.
