Toronto offers some of the most memorable Italian food in Canada. From handmade pasta to wood-fired pizza, Italian restaurants in Toronto bring comfort, quality, and tradition to the table. Whether you are planning a weekday dinner or celebrating a special occasion, there is a restaurant ready to serve a meal worth remembering.
Many Italian restaurants in Toronto stay true to classic recipes, using fresh ingredients and time-tested techniques. Others take a more modern approach, offering bold flavors while honoring Italian roots. The city is home to both quiet family-owned trattorias and refined dining rooms that offer polished service and carefully crafted menus.
What makes Italian restaurants in Toronto truly special is their range and personality. Some focus on regional dishes from Southern Italy, while others highlight northern specialties with rich sauces and delicate textures. No two dining experiences are the same, but they all share a passion for tradition and hospitality.
This guide features 25 Italian restaurants in Toronto that stand out for their food, service, and atmosphere. Each restaurant on this list has earned its place by consistently serving meals that keep guests coming back. Whether you are a lifelong fan of Italian cuisine or exploring it for the first time, these restaurants offer a reliable path to a great meal.
1. Morellina’s 🍝
Morellina’s stands out among Italian restaurants in Toronto for its handmade pasta and family roots in the Italian food business. Located near Christie Pits, this small café brings a quiet and personal dining experience. The owner’s family once supplied fresh pasta to top establishments, and that same quality is served in every dish. The atmosphere is calm, warm, and perfect for a slow and thoughtful meal.
The most recommended menu item is the tagliatelle al ragù, which features fresh pasta with a rich meat sauce. Their gnocchi is also a favorite, soft and comforting with light cheese or tomato sauce. Each dish is made fresh with care and attention. Morellina’s is a strong choice for anyone seeking real pasta at Italian restaurants in Toronto.
2. Monte Bianco Italian Cuisine 🍕
Monte Bianco Italian Cuisine offers an excellent experience for those exploring Italian restaurants in Toronto. Located in Bloordale Village, the restaurant is simple, welcoming, and known for generous plates and a good wine list. Its calm interior makes it ideal for both quiet dinners and group meals. The staff is friendly and the food arrives quickly, making it a dependable option.
The best dish to order is the seafood linguine, filled with shrimp, mussels, and fresh herbs in olive oil. Guests also praise the margherita pizza, which comes hot with tomato sauce, soft cheese, and a crispy crust. Every plate is satisfying without being too heavy. Monte Bianco Italian Cuisine is a strong name among local Italian restaurants in Toronto.
3. Zitto Zitto Taverna 🍷
Zitto Zitto Taverna brings the warmth of Southern Italy to the heart of Little Italy and is a must-visit among Italian restaurants in Toronto. This restaurant is stylish yet relaxed, with wood tables and soft lighting. It creates a setting that is both romantic and easygoing. The staff are attentive, and the food reflects careful preparation and strong traditional roots.
The best dish on the menu is the orecchiette with sausage and rapini, a popular meal with deep flavor. Many guests also recommend the grilled octopus appetizer, which comes soft and lightly seasoned. Each plate is balanced and served with simple sides. Zitto Zitto Taverna holds a top spot among Italian restaurants in Toronto for those who enjoy Southern Italian cooking.
4. Bar Vendetta 🍷
Bar Vendetta offers a cool and modern space in Little Italy, earning its place among well-known Italian restaurants in Toronto. The space is relaxed but focused on good food, with soft lighting and an easygoing setting. Many visitors come here with friends, and the meals are ideal for sharing. Service is smooth, and the menu includes trusted pasta classics and wine.
The cacio e pepe is the most recommended item, with a rich and creamy sauce made from cheese and black pepper. Their lasagna is also praised for its many layers and slow-cooked sauce. Both dishes are strong choices for first-time guests. Bar Vendetta remains a solid pick among Italian restaurants in Toronto for casual but thoughtful Italian meals.
5. Cafe Oro Di Napoli 🍕
Cafe Oro Di Napoli is one of the best Italian restaurants in Toronto for wood-fired pizza and classic Neapolitan flavors. Located in Corktown, it offers a bright and open setting with fast and friendly service. The space welcomes both families and couples and is ideal for casual dinners. Their pizzas come out quickly and are always hot from the oven.
The Diavola pizza is the top item on the menu, known for its spicy meat and soft cheese on a thin crust. Their arancini are also popular, served warm with a soft rice center and light breading. The food is priced fairly and tastes fresh in every bite. Cafe Oro Di Napoli earns its reputation as a leader among Italian restaurants in Toronto.
6. Sugo 🍝
Sugo is a casual and high-energy choice among Italian restaurants in Toronto. Located in Bloordale Village, this restaurant is known for generous servings of pasta in bold red sauces. The space is compact but full of character, with friendly staff and a loyal customer base. It offers the kind of Italian dining that feels both fast and satisfying.
The rigatoni in red sauce is the top recommendation, served in a large bowl with fresh tomato and garlic. The meatball sandwich is also well-loved, full of flavor and served on soft bread. Portions are large, and prices are fair for the amount of food. Sugo is a popular name among Italian restaurants in Toronto for good reason—it delivers every time.
7. Famiglia Baldassarre 🍝
Famiglia Baldassarre is a special lunch-only spot that ranks highly among Italian restaurants in Toronto. It serves pasta made fresh each morning and only opens a few days a week. This limited schedule adds to its popularity, with guests lining up before doors open. The dining space is simple, and the focus is entirely on the quality of the food.
The agnolotti dal plin is the most praised item, filled with meat and topped with brown butter and sage. Other top choices include the tagliatelle with ragù and the ricotta-stuffed ravioli. Every plate is made to order and served quickly. Famiglia Baldassarre remains one of the most respected Italian restaurants in Toronto for hand-crafted pasta made with care.
8. Napoli Centrale 🍕
Napoli Centrale brings the flavor of Naples to Seaton Village and is a reliable pick among Italian restaurants in Toronto. It has a calm and welcoming setting, making it a good place for both quick meals and slow evenings. Service is fast, and the menu is built around pizza and fresh salads. The experience is simple, clean, and satisfying.
The prosciutto arugula pizza is the most recommended, with a crispy crust and a balance of salty and fresh toppings. The prosciutto salad also stands out for its fresh ingredients and generous size. The food arrives quickly and is served hot from the oven. Napoli Centrale is a smart option for anyone exploring pizza-focused Italian restaurants in Toronto.
9. CANO Restaurant 🍝
CANO Restaurant blends Italian and Mediterranean flavors and is a stylish choice among Italian restaurants in Toronto. Its small and carefully designed interior creates a calm and polished dining space. The service is thoughtful, and the kitchen produces meals with both flavor and presentation in mind. Each visit feels personal and well-paced.
The most recommended item is the truffle mushroom risotto, known for its smooth texture and deep flavor. Other popular plates include the burrata with heirloom tomatoes and the squid ink pasta. The menu changes with the season, offering fresh choices throughout the year. CANO Restaurant is a refined option for guests looking for modern dishes at Italian restaurants in Toronto.
10. Public Gardens 🍝
Public Gardens combines the energy of a bar with the heart of a classic Italian kitchen, earning its place among standout Italian restaurants in Toronto. The space is often busy, but service remains steady and attentive. The atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming, making it a comfortable place to relax with friends. It is a strong option for a late dinner with reliable dishes and good drinks.
Guests often recommend the rigatoni with spicy tomato sauce, which arrives hot and full of flavor. Their roasted vegetable antipasto also receives praise for its freshness and bold seasoning. Every plate is prepared with speed and attention to detail. Public Gardens is a popular pick among Italian restaurants in Toronto for a night out with dependable food.
11. Atelier Pasta 🍝
Atelier Pasta on Queen Street West is a cozy and honest name in the list of Italian restaurants in Toronto. It feels like stepping into a home kitchen, with warm service and dishes made fresh to order. The setting is quiet and suited for casual lunches or light evening meals. Guests appreciate the effort and love that goes into every bowl of pasta.
The top recommendation is the pappardelle with slow-cooked meat sauce, which balances soft noodles with a savory base. Their pesto gnocchi is another favorite, made fresh and served in generous portions. The menu is simple and highlights traditional flavors. Atelier Pasta is a smart choice for guests who prefer relaxed settings at Italian restaurants in Toronto.
12. Osteria Giulia 🍷
Osteria Giulia, located in The Annex, brings elegance and fine dining to the world of Italian restaurants in Toronto. With a modern space and polished service, this restaurant offers a quiet and upscale escape. It is often booked in advance, which adds to its exclusivity and strong reputation. The kitchen focuses on clean flavors, fresh ingredients, and detailed presentation.
One of the most recommended dishes is the handmade agnolotti, which is served with light sauce and seasonal fillings. The grilled branzino is another favorite, prepared simply to highlight its freshness. Wine pairings are carefully suggested to enhance each dish. Osteria Giulia remains one of the top Italian restaurants in Toronto for those looking for a refined meal in a quiet space.
13. Gianni’s 🍕
Gianni’s in East York offers a generous and welcoming approach to Italian food, standing strong among trusted Italian restaurants in Toronto. The setting is no-frills but full of charm, where diners enjoy large plates and friendly service. The experience is centered around value, flavor, and comfort. Guests often leave full and eager to return.
The most praised dish is the penne alla vodka, made with a rich tomato cream sauce and sprinkled with herbs. Their classic margherita pizza is another strong option, served hot with soft cheese and a crisp crust. Prices are affordable and portions are large. Gianni’s is a dependable choice for families visiting Italian restaurants in Toronto.
14. Giulietta 🍷
Giulietta in Dufferin Grove offers modern Italian cooking with classic foundations, earning praise as one of the most respected Italian restaurants in Toronto. The restaurant is stylish, with soft lighting and well-spaced tables that provide a calm and focused dining setting. The menu is short, but each item is prepared with precision. The staff is professional and helps guide first-time guests.
Their top menu item is the grilled octopus with chickpeas and chili oil, which combines texture and taste perfectly. The cacio e pepe pasta is another strong choice, simple but full of flavor. Each dish is plated cleanly and served with care. Giulietta is a reliable name among Italian restaurants in Toronto for quality and consistency.
15. Piccolo Caffe E Vino 🍷
Piccolo Caffe E Vino in the Entertainment District is a relaxed and inviting space that combines Italian food with a café and wine bar atmosphere. It stays open late, offering a warm and casual option among Italian restaurants in Toronto. The interior is modern but comfortable, with dim lights and soft music in the background. It is a solid spot for light meals or evening drinks with snacks.
The most recommended item is the burrata with roasted tomatoes and bread, served fresh and full of flavor. Their pasta with pesto sauce is also a crowd favorite, light but satisfying. Wines are offered by the glass and pair well with every dish. Piccolo Caffe E Vino is a trusted name for casual nights out at Italian restaurants in Toronto.
16. Nodo Restaurant 🍝
Nodo Restaurant in the St. Clair area delivers straightforward Italian cooking in a clean and family-friendly setting. It has become a local favorite among Italian restaurants in Toronto thanks to its balanced menu and fair pricing. The space is open and easy to navigate, and staff are friendly and helpful. The menu includes traditional pasta, pizza, and small plates, offering something for everyone.
Guests often recommend the wild mushroom risotto, which comes creamy and full of fresh herbs. The ricotta-stuffed ravioli is also a strong choice, served with brown butter and crisp sage. Each dish is presented with care but without unnecessary extras. Nodo Restaurant is a steady option among Italian restaurants in Toronto for guests looking for comfort and flavor.
17. Amano Trattoria 🍝
Amano Trattoria in St. Lawrence offers a stylish take on classic Italian dining and earns its place among quality Italian restaurants in Toronto. The interior features bold artwork, soft lighting, and a layout designed for both couples and small groups. The service is steady, and the menu is well-organized with clear Italian influences. It is a good option for a casual but tasteful evening out.
Their most recommended dish is the spaghetti carbonara, made with fresh pasta, egg yolk, pancetta, and black pepper. The beef short rib with polenta is also a favorite, offering soft textures and deep flavors. Each plate is both filling and carefully prepared. Amano Trattoria is a strong choice among Italian restaurants in Toronto for those looking for flavor and style in equal measure.
18. Lardo 🍷
Lardo in Dufferin Grove is a small wine bar with a strong Italian focus, making it one of the most interesting Italian restaurants in Toronto. The setting is quiet and refined, with attention to detail in both service and décor. It is not flashy, but every part of the experience feels thoughtful. The kitchen keeps the menu focused and fresh, with seasonal ingredients used often.
The top recommendation is the duck ragù pappardelle, made with fresh pasta and a rich, slow-cooked sauce. The ricotta crostini, served with honey and herbs, is another popular item. Wines are carefully selected to match each meal. Lardo is a standout among Italian restaurants in Toronto for guests looking for quiet elegance and memorable meals.
19. Levetto 🍕
Levetto offers casual and modern Italian food at an affordable price, placing it among accessible Italian restaurants in Toronto. With multiple locations and a fast-casual style, it appeals to students, families, and workers alike. The design is clean and functional, and the service is quick and friendly. It is a strong choice for guests who want comfort food without a long wait.
Their best-known dish is the baked maccheroni with béchamel, tomato, and Parmesan, which is filling and full of flavor. Their Roman-style pizza is also popular, served on a crisp crust with bold toppings. Each dish is delivered quickly and priced fairly. Levetto is a solid pick among Italian restaurants in Toronto for everyday meals that satisfy.
20. Don Alfonso 1890 🍷
Don Alfonso 1890 offers a luxurious dining experience high above the city, solidifying its reputation among top Italian restaurants in Toronto. Located on the 38th floor of the Westin Harbour Castle, the restaurant provides panoramic views alongside its refined Italian cuisine. The ambiance is elegant, with attentive service that enhances the overall experience. It is an ideal choice for special occasions or a memorable night out.
The tasting menu is highly recommended, featuring dishes like the rose-scented tagliatelle and the bison in rustic bread crust. Each course is thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the chef’s commitment to quality and presentation. The wine pairings complement the menu perfectly, offering a well-rounded dining experience. Don Alfonso 1890 stands out among Italian restaurants in Toronto for its exceptional cuisine and stunning setting.
21. DaNico 🍝
DaNico brings a modern twist to traditional Italian cuisine, earning its place among notable Italian restaurants in Toronto. The restaurant’s interior is sleek and contemporary, providing a comfortable yet upscale atmosphere. The service is professional, ensuring a pleasant dining experience from start to finish. It is a suitable venue for both business dinners and intimate gatherings.
The eight-course tasting menu is a highlight, featuring innovative dishes that blend Italian flavors with global influences. The seafood risotto and the house-made pastas are particularly noteworthy, offering rich flavors and impeccable textures. The wine list is extensive, providing excellent options to accompany each course. DaNico is a commendable choice among Italian restaurants in Toronto for those seeking a modern culinary journey.
22. Enoteca Sociale 🍷
Enoteca Sociale offers a cozy and authentic Roman dining experience, distinguishing itself among Italian restaurants in Toronto. The restaurant’s warm interior and friendly staff create an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Italian trattoria. It is a favored spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. The focus on quality ingredients and classic recipes is evident in every dish.
The cacio e pepe is a standout, delivering a perfect balance of pecorino cheese and black pepper on freshly made pasta. The agnolotti with mushrooms and truffle also receives high praise for its rich flavors. The wine selection is thoughtfully curated, enhancing the overall dining experience. Enoteca Sociale remains a top choice among Italian restaurants in Toronto for those seeking genuine Roman cuisine.
23. Terroni 🍕
Terroni is a well-established name among Italian restaurants in Toronto, known for its commitment to traditional Southern Italian cooking. The restaurant’s atmosphere is lively and bustling, reflecting the vibrant nature of Italian dining culture. With multiple locations across the city, it offers accessibility without compromising on quality. The service is efficient, catering to both quick lunches and leisurely dinners.
The tagliatelle alla Bolognese is a customer favorite, featuring a hearty meat sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. The wood-fired Margherita pizza also stands out, boasting a crispy crust and fresh toppings. The menu offers a wide range of options, ensuring something for every palate. Terroni continues to be a reliable choice among Italian restaurants in Toronto for authentic and satisfying meals.
24. Gusto 101 🍝
Gusto 101 combines industrial chic design with classic Italian flavors, securing its spot among trendy Italian restaurants in Toronto. The restaurant’s open-concept space and rooftop patio create a dynamic dining environment. It is popular among young professionals and food enthusiasts alike. The staff is attentive, contributing to a consistently enjoyable experience.
The mafalde ai funghi, featuring ribbon-shaped pasta in a creamy mushroom sauce, is a must-try dish. The grilled octopus appetizer also garners acclaim for its tender texture and smoky flavor. The wine-on-tap system offers quality selections at reasonable prices, enhancing the meal without breaking the bank. Gusto 101 stands out among Italian restaurants in Toronto for its stylish ambiance and flavorful offerings.
25. Trattoria Fieramosca 🍝
Trattoria Fieramosca, nestled in Yorkville, offers a classic Italian dining experience, making it a notable choice among Italian restaurants in Toronto. The restaurant exudes old-world charm with its cozy interior and attentive service. It’s a preferred spot for both romantic dinners and business lunches. The ambiance reflects a traditional Italian trattoria, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Spaghetti di Mare Alla Mario is a standout dish, featuring a generous mix of seafood in a rich tomato sauce. Another popular choice is the Calamari Alla Griglia, grilled to perfection and served with a zesty lemon dressing. Each dish is prepared with authenticity and care. Trattoria Fieramosca remains a reliable option among Italian restaurants in Toronto for those seeking traditional flavors.
