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Best Italian Restaurants in University Circle

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25 restaurants available nearby

A photo of La Dolce Vita - Cleveland restaurant
1. La Dolce Vita - Cleveland
4.7
Exceptional(1800)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 30 times today
La Dolce Vita in Cleveland’s Little Italy stands out as a beacon of Mediterranean cuisine, offering a delightful culinary journey reminiscent of the coastal flavors of Italy. Nestled in a vibrant neighborhood, the bistro creates a warm, inviting atmosphere where diners can indulge in an array of authentic dishes that celebrate the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Guests rave about the "exquisite" food and "exceptional" service, with dishes like the Lobster Linguini and Chicken Marsalla receiving special mentions for their perfection. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity shines, with fresh pasta and sauces made from the finest ingredients like imported tomatoes and fresh basil. Reviewers consistently highlight the "amazing atmosphere" and the personal touches from the owner, making La Dolce Vita not just a meal, but a memorable Mediterranean experience.
A photo of Valerio's Ristorante restaurant
2. Valerio's Ristorante
4.9
Exceptional(910)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 11 times today
Delicious Italian cuisine, prepared fresh daily. Outstanding service and food, all at a reasonable price. Come and see what everyone is talking about!
A photo of Il Venetian restaurant
3. Il Venetian
4.8
Exceptional(899)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown Cleveland
Booked 9 times today
Il Venetian in Downtown Cleveland offers a sublime slice of Contemporary Italian cuisine, expertly crafted by Venetian-born Chef Alberto Leandri. This upscale gem stands out with its handmade pastas, artisan pastries, and an array of fresh fish and fine meats, capturing the essence of Italy with a modern twist. Diners rave about the “out of this world” lasagna and ravioli, and the “best veal parm we have EVER had anywhere,” underscoring Il Venetian’s commitment to quality and authenticity. The atmosphere is described as “swanky” with “nice jazz music,” making it not only a feast for the palate but also for the senses. Whether it’s for a memorable anniversary, a business dinner, or simply to indulge in “the best Italian food ever,” Il Venetian is a must-visit destination in Cleveland, consistently praised for its excellent service and “amazing food.”
A photo of Tutto Carne- Cleveland restaurant
4. Tutto Carne- Cleveland
4.8
Exceptional(163)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 5 times today
Tutto Carne in Cleveland’s Little Italy stands out as a pinnacle of fine cuts cuisine, offering an exceptional dining experience that highlights the quality and authenticity of its offerings. Specializing in Ohio farm-raised, hand-selected, and dry-aged beef, Tutto Carne delivers dishes that are both refined and deeply flavorful. Guests rave about the culinary excellence, noting it as "quite possibly the best steak I’ve ever had" and praising the impeccable service and atmosphere. The restaurant's dedication to excellent cuts is evident, making each meal memorable. Whether it's the steak Florentine or the bone-in ribeye, each dish is crafted to showcase the true art of fine cuts, ensuring that Tutto Carne is not just a meal, but a culinary event to be savored.
A photo of Oliva Steakhouse restaurant
5. Oliva Steakhouse
4.7
Exceptional(133)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Downtown Cleveland
Booked 10 times today
Oliva Steakhouse in Downtown Cleveland is a beacon of American culinary excellence, offering an unforgettable dining adventure. Patrons rave about the "best steaks ever," cooked to perfection and paired with a sophisticated wine menu. The ambiance is described as "fantastic," with a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere ideal for any occasion. Reviewers consistently highlight the "excellent service" and the quality of both the classic and innovative dishes. One diner noted, "This is the best steakhouse in downtown Cleveland," encapsulating the high regard locals and visitors alike hold for Oliva. Whether it's the meticulously crafted dishes or the welcoming environment, Oliva Steakhouse stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking top-notch American cuisine.
A photo of Acqua di Dea restaurant
6. Acqua di Dea
4.4
Awesome(932)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Downtown Cleveland
Booked 7 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Cleveland, Acqua di Dea epitomizes the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a menu that dazzles with freshness and authenticity. This culinary gem, part of the award-winning Jola Eat Global Restaurant Group, offers an innovative approach that merges modern flair with classic Mediterranean elements. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked" sea bass and the "flavorful and fresh" carpaccio appetizer, highlighting the quality ingredients and skilled preparation. The ambiance, described as a sleek, rustic warehouse setting, complements the coastal aesthetic, making every dining experience not just a meal, but a delightful escape to the Mediterranean shores. Whether it's the fresh seafood, unique pasta dishes, or the extraordinary steaks, Acqua di Dea consistently delivers an exceptional dining adventure.
A photo of DANTE restaurant
7. DANTE
4.7
Exceptional(3249)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Tremont
Booked 11 times today
Nestled in the historic Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, DANTE stands out as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Dante Boccuzzi. This premier dining spot is celebrated for its authentic and meticulously crafted Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers a diverse and innovative menu, including a highly praised Chef's Tasting Menu where guests can indulge in a series of exquisite dishes right in the kitchen. Reviewers consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the meals, noting the "best pasta in town" and an "amazing" five-course tasting menu that leaves diners in awe. With its vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service, DANTE provides not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience, making it a must-visit for lovers of fine Italian cuisine.
A photo of Literary Tavern restaurant
8. Literary Tavern
4.7
Exceptional(261)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Tremont
Booked 4 times today
Literary Tavern, nestled in the historic Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, is a beloved destination for authentic Italian cuisine. Renowned for its innovative approach to Italian dishes, the restaurant receives consistent praise for its exceptional food and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons rave about the "delicious food and cocktails" and emphasize the quality with remarks like "perfect food every time" and "unbelievable food and unique cocktails." The Literary Tavern not only offers a cozy ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails but also dishes like raviolis with duck and mussels in a savory sauce, which showcase the authentic Italian flavors that make it a must-visit spot in Cleveland. Whether you're looking for a relaxed dinner or a lively happy hour, Literary Tavern promises an unforgettable Italian dining experience.
A photo of Johnny's Downtown restaurant
9. Johnny's Downtown
4.2
Awesome(648)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Cleveland West
Booked 7 times today
Johnny’s Downtown, opened in 1993, is similar to the original Johnny’s Bar on Fulton Road, featuring pasta, veal and fish. The setting, a refurbished 1860’s Warehouse District building, formerly a general store, is the drinking and dining spot of locals and business people alike. Joseph Fall, the executive chef, oversees the food operations and is responsible for our crafting our signature dishes and creating daily specials. There are several wines by the glass to choose from and the wine list has nabbed an Award of Excellence from the Wine Spectator. There is piano music in the bar featuring Mike Petrone Monday-Friday, and Cliff Habian on Saturday evenings.
A photo of Casa la Luna restaurant
10. Casa la Luna
4.7
Exceptional(3651)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • The Flats
Booked 53 times today
Formerly Luca Italian Cuisine, Casa La Luna serves award-winning modern Italian food in a great city, with a great wine list and romantic European atmosphere. Located overlooking the Cuyahoga River, Casa La Luna has one of the most spectacular views of Cleveland.We are excited to announce some significant changes within our restaurant family.Luca Italian Cuisine at 2100 Superior Viaduct will transition to Casa La Luna.Those changes reflect our commitment to offering fresh and elevated dining. All three restaurants will continue operations and ownership by Lola Jacaj (Formerly Sema)For Special Events Contact: a.george@jolaeatglobal.com

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Carlavip
    Dallas - Fort Worth •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent service and fantastic food. Always looking for upscale Italian restaurants that are truly high quality. We will be back the next trip to Cleveland. Thank you for a great meal
    More info
    Il VenetianPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown Cleveland
    •
    4.8
  • Jimvip
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The food, ambiance, and service was exceptional. There was only one item that was sub par and needs to be addressed to have a remarkable experience. By arriving to a virtually nonexistent valet, the evening started off on the wrong foot. Fortunately, the rest of the evening made up for this. Because of the parking situation, I'd be hesitant to return on a busy night.
    More info
    Valerio's RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.9
  • Janevip
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •109 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Very very nice restaurant The service was excellent…friendly efficient and server knowledgeable. Food delicious! The only comment I have is (and the server warned us) they are a steakhouse but my son ordered pasta and the serving was extremely small and not inexpensive. Would like to see larger portioned non-meat entrees on the menu.
    More info
    Oliva SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown Cleveland
    •
    4.7
  • Joycevip
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Amazing restaurant with thoughtful details and energy food was a 5 star! Great ambiance and can’t wait to tell all my family and friends!
    More info
    Tutto Carne- ClevelandPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Little Italy
    •
    4.8
  • Robin
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Absolutely wonderful dining experience. The service was incredible, food delicious, and ambience perfect. We had a lovely evening entertaining our European colleagues and couldn’t have asked for a more perfect experience. Thank you!
    More info
    La Dolce Vita - ClevelandPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7

Discover best Italian restaurants in University Circle

Discover the vibrant Italian dining scene in University Circle, Cleveland, a hub that offers a rich array of Italian culinary delights. Nestled within this dynamic area, you'll find a selection of Italian restaurants each offering a unique interpretation of classic Italian cuisine. From traditional dishes like pasta and risotto to innovative takes on regional specialties, these eateries provide a comprehensive taste of Italy's diverse gastronomy. The restaurants pride themselves on using authentic ingredients, often imported directly from Italy, ensuring that each dish bursts with genuine flavors. The ambiance of these establishments ranges from cozy and intimate to lively and family-friendly, catering to a variety of dining preferences and occasions. Patrons often highlight the warm hospitality and knowledgeable staff, which enhance the dining experience, making each meal memorable. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring Italian cuisine in University Circle is a culinary journey worth taking. Each restaurant strives to offer not only a meal but an experience that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Italy, making it a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Italian fare in Cleveland.

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