Italian Restaurants in the UK and Ireland

When it comes to choosing between the best Italian restaurants UK, there’s a challenge you have to face. You should first know the difference between a real Italian restaurant, and a restaurant named Italian, but it’s actually an Italy-inspired restaurant only, that offers cuisine that’s inspired by Italian cuisine, but it has nothing to do with it. In other words, you should be aware of how traditional Italian dishes are made, what ingredients are used, and the quality they use. If you see dry mozzarella in an “Italian restaurant”, that’s not a real Italian restaurant. Now, in order to find the best Italian restaurant UK, we decided to review the best places in cities and towns. In this article, you’ll find some of the best restaurants for Italian food, divided by cities.

15 best Italian restaurants UK and Ireland

If you haven’t been to Italy and tried how some dishes like the Carbonara, or the Italian pizza are made, we covered the topics of the most famous Italian pasta dishes, and the most famous types of pizza too. Overall saying, Italian cuisine is simple, and for one type of pasta dish, the ingredients specified in the original recipe have to be used as such at all times. A reason why every Italian gets mad when they serve them a Carbonara anywhere around the world is that traditional Carbonara doesn’t have any cream in it. Or ham, onion, or whatever else people around the world make this dish, and they call it Carbonara.

In Italy, traditional dishes are respected. If you change a traditional recipe, fine, but don’t call it anymore by its original name then! So, checking out how different food looks when it’s served in Italy, and how it looks in chain Italian restaurants UK has, well… We really recommend if you are looking for real Italian food, do your research and find in England Italian restaurants that are actually Italian.

There are plenty of places like this, owned by Italians, and they guarantee a real Italian experience. That’s what you want, and not the Italian inspiration! So, below we highlighted for 15 cities across the UK and Ireland a few Italian restaurants that you should definitely put on your radar if you like Italian food, and want to eat just like you’ve been sitting on Piazza Navona in Rome.

1. London

In England, Italian restaurants with either Italian owners or Italian chefs are most common in London. So, if you’re looking for the best Italian restaurant UK, specifically the best Italian restaurants in London, we’ve got quite a few places to choose from, and we’ll be going by neighborhoods, ratings, and prices here.

Don’t forget, there are plenty of great places in London, even those which are not owned by Italians can be really great restaurants! Make sure you check our article to get a list of the top-notch places!

A great Italian restaurant in London is Murano. This place received its first Michelin star only 4 months after opening, and oh boy, it is worth a visit. Other fantastic places to eat traditional Italian meals are Artusi or Marcella, especially if you prefer homemade fresh pasta and finger-licking pizza dishes.

2. Manchester

Manchester also offers some of the best Italian restaurants UK has, and in our article about the best Italian restaurants in Manchester, you can find them! In Manchester, there are plenty of places to choose to go, and since it’s one of the biggest cities in the country, you’ll find some of the best Italian restaurants in England here.

If you want to taste some really good pasta, head to Sugo Pasta Kitchen. The paste they serve here is made by De Leonardis family in Altamula Puglia, so you can be confident that you get the good stuff. Also, if you are vegan or gluten intolerant, no need to worry, as this place offers a wide range of delicious options for everyone!

No one will leave Sugo Pasta Kitchen hungry! Also, if you are in the mood for Sicilian cuisine, Sicilian NQ is the place to go! Here you will find all types of Sicilian dishes, including pasta, mains, homemade sauces, cocktails, and gelato. Check our list of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester!

3. Edinburgh

When it comes to the best Italian restaurants in Edinburgh, the options are amazing! In the city, you will find Italian restaurant chains UK has to offer with various meals on the menu. From delicious pizza to traditional pasta dishes and wines that make you feel like you are dining right in the middle of Emilia Romagna, Edinburgh has got everything you can wish for!

A very popular restaurant chain you will find in Edinburgh, too is Amarone. This restaurant is present in cities like Glasgow or Aberdeen and for a good reason. Not only their menu, but the place itself is breathtaking as well, so get ready for a fancy dining experience in the city!

If you prefer something less extra, head to La Locanda Edinburgh, where you can sit on their terrace and enjoy the fantastic wines from the Veneto and Emilia Romagna regions. Food won’t let you down either! If you want to grab a taste of true and authentic Italian food, La Locanda might be the best Italian restaurant in England you can visit!

4. Birmingham

Are you looking for the best Italian restaurants in Birmingham? Look no further, you have just found them! As you could see above, there are lots of chain Italian restaurants UK wise, and Birmingham is not an exception. Also, at this point, I guess we agree that finding a good Italian restaurant in England won’t be the biggest challenge in your life either.

However, it is key to go to places that are truly Italian that prepare their dishes using fresh, Italian ingredients. After all, what else could make a meal more authentic than the quality of the ingredients and the expertise of an Italian chef? In Birmingham, one of the best Italian restaurants you can visit is Del Villaggio. If you love oven-baked pizza, this place won’t disappoint you for sure!

All pizzas are hand-crafted, and other meals, such as pasta or beef dishes are prepared from the freshest ingredients. This place is heaven on Earth! Also, Tradita is worth a visit, too. This restaurant is one of the most popular (if not the most popular) Italian restaurants in Birmingham. So make sure to take a quick visit here as well.

5. Leeds

If you’re craving the best Italian restaurants UK boasts some of the most amazing England Italian restaurants. There are many cities that you can visit for tourist attractions, but when it comes to enchanting trattorias to fine dining establishments, Leeds is at the top of the list. Among the best Italian restaurants in Leeds, there are fantastic places that offer something for every palate.

In Leeds, food enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with a vibrant Italian culinary scene. Indulge in mouthwatering pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and delectable tiramisu. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these Italian restaurants in Leeds guarantee an unforgettable dining experience that will transport you straight to Italy.

A great place I suggest you try is Gusto Italian. This restaurant offers a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience with its romantic and chic setting. Not to mention the wide range of wonderful dishes you can choose from. In case you are searching for something less pricey, Veeno Leeds is the place to go. This wine bar offers mouthwatering cheese plates and the wines are sourced from Sicilian vineyards. The perfect place to relax at the end of the day!

6. Liverpool

When it comes to the best Italian restaurant UK has to offer, Liverpool boasts a vibrant culinary scene. If you love Italian cuisine, this city surely does not disappoint. There are lots of fantastic places in the city, but obviously, among the many outstanding Italian restaurants in Liverpool, a few stand out for their exceptional preparations.

For those searching for the best Italian restaurant in England, head to San Carlo Liverpool and get ready to be totally amazed. This place welcomes you with a sophisticated dining room and fancy bar. The menu offers the best meals of Italian gastronomy, including delicious seafood appetizers and home made fresh pasta dishes. Another great place you should visit in Liverpool is Aldente Restaurant & Bar. This restaurant with its warm and inviting atmosphere, serves up authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor.

7. Glasgow

Now let’s take a quick look at the best Italian restaurants in Glasgow. When it comes to savoring Italian cuisine, Glasgow presents an impressive array of options. What you can expect from this city is a wonderful culinary experience with delightful preparations.  Whether you crave homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, or exquisite seafood, the best Italian restaurants in Glasgow are sure to leave you satisfied and happy. 

The very first place you should head to is Roma Mediterranean Restaurant. Here you will find the bests of Mediterranean cuisine, alongside diverse menus and a high-quality drink selection. Another amazing place you can visit in Glasgow is La Lanterna, where you will surely be amazed by the charming ambiance of the restaurant and the unique blend of traditional and modern flavors of Italian cuisine. If you are in the mood for a delicious seafood dish of veal, go to Barolo and enjoy yh impeccable service and mouthwatering dishes.

8. Norwich

When it comes to Italian cuisine, Norwich offers a delightful array of options that rival the best England Italian restaurants. If you compare the best Italian restaurant UK wise, Norwich is surely among the best cities you can visit to enjoy traditional Italian food.

This city thrives on a fantastic food scene with a range of establishments showcasing the flavors of Italy. Whether you want to taste classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, or seafood, the best Italian restaurants in Norwich provide an unforgettable culinary experience. 

Among the places, Benoli is a Michelin-star restaurant specializing in authentic hand made pasta prepared with carefully sourced local ingredients. Another amazing place is Bella Italia, where you should grab a bite of their famous pizza with generous topping. Go to Al Dente for fresh homemade pasta and fresh fish, and don’t forget to taste their cocktails too.

9. Cambridge

Even when we take a look at the best Italian restaurant in England, Cambridge is surely on the list. From family-run trattorias to stylish bistros, and elegant diners, Cambridge presents a diverse selection of Italian restaurants. Among the best Italian restaurants in Cambridge, some are truly exceptional and outstanding.

For instance, Limoncello Delicatessen & Bistro is a place that you should definitely visit. Chef Luke carefully selects every ingredient to prepare the amazing dishes. He makes frequent trips to Italy to find new delights to add to the range on offer to Limoncello’s customers. Most ingredients are imported from Italy, including pesto, olives, meats, cheeses, and antipasti. If you want to taste truly authentic Italian food, do not look any further, just head to Limoncello and be amazed! 

10. Oxford

We are slowly getting closer to the end of our best Italian restaurants UK list, but we still got some wonderful options to share with you. As you could see from this collection, finding an Italian restaurant in England is not too challenging, as there is a large selection of bistros, trattorias, restaurants, and diners that serve Italian food.

When it comes to the best Italian restaurants in Oxford, the very first that comes to mind is Mamma Mia Pizzeria. If you love homemade pizza or il forno pasta dishes, this place is for you. You will also find the previously mentioned Bella Italia franchise in Oxford, but La Cucina won’t let you down either.

11. Bristol

Bristol, a city known for its vibrant food scene,  so when it comes to the best Italian restaurants UK wise, you cannot go wrong with this city. Bristol is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in the region. From charming trattorias to trendy eateries, Bristol offers a diverse range of options for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.

Step into these culinary havens and savor the authentic flavors of Italy. Feast on homemade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas with mouthwatering toppings, and exquisite desserts that will transport you to the streets of Rome. The best Italian restaurants in Bristol are renowned for their attention to detail, warm hospitality, and commitment to using the freshest ingredients. 

Start your gastronomic adventure at Don Giovanni’s Restaurant, where you can try amazing starters such as the Calamari Fritti and Calamari Piccante. On the menu, you will find the bests of the Mediterranean and Sicilian cuisines. Another amazing place that is worth your time is Moltobueno, where the oven baked traditional Italian pizza is hard to compare to anything else!

12. Sheffield

Once in Sheffield, you’ll discover a haven of culinary excellence with some of the best Italian restaurants in town. From cozy trattorias to chic Italian restaurant chains UK has to offer, Sheffield offers a delightful array of Italian dining experiences. Indulge yourself in the best England Italian restaurants and let them transport you directly to the home of fresh and tasty pasta.

Some of the best Italian restaurants in Sheffield are located right in the heart of the city, so make sure to look around for the ones you like the most. Obviously, we have got some to recommend. If you listen to us, Grazie is the first you should visit. This family-run Italian pasta bar was inspired by the Apulia region and you will find it in the heart of Sheffield.

For pizza, a great place to visit is Napoli Centro Pizzeria, but if you are in the mood for some Mediterranean cuisine, don’t hesitate to check out a real gem, VeroGusto, where the Italian chef will amaze you with beautiful and delicious Italian dishes.

13. Cardiff

Some of the best Italian restaurants UK wise are located in Cardiff, so if you are in search of an amazing Italian restaurant in England, head to this vibrant city. From family-run trattorias to stylish modern eateries, the best Italian restaurants in Cardiff offer a diverse range of options for food lovers.

Delight in homemade pasta dishes crafted with love, wood-fired pizzas topped with the finest ingredients, and mouthwatering desserts that put your dining experience to the next level. Whether you’re craving traditional classics or innovative creations, the best Italian restaurants in Cardiff deliver authentic flavors and warm hospitality.

Among the options, one of the most popular restaurants is Ciliegino Restaurant, which will welcome you with authentic Italian vibes and flavors. All ingredients they use to create their heavenly dishes come from Italy. If you decide to eat here, try their sourdough pizza, as it takes 48 hours to prepare! Also, the toppings are selected with care and passion, so you can enjoy the best pizza of your life!

14. Colchester

When it comes to finding the best Italian restaurant in England, look no further than the charming town of Colchester. With its rich culinary heritage, Colchester is home to some of the finest Italian eateries in the country. From traditional trattorias to modern bistros, these establishments serve up mouthwatering dishes that will take your taste buds right back to Italy.

Whether you’re craving handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, or exquisite seafood, the best Italian restaurants in Colchester are sure to satisfy even the most discerning food lovers. To make sure you won’t miss out on this culinary delight in the heart of England, head to Ristorante Favoloso. Favoloso is located in the historic center on a small hidden street, which will give you the vibes of a small Italian restaurant, especially when it comes to their delicious pizza. If you ask me, order their famous Penne pollo ala Diavola.

15. Best Italian Restaurants in Ireland: Dublin

Now that we covered many England Italian restaurants, last, but not least, let’s take a look at the best Italian restaurants in Dublin. If you are looking for the best Italian restaurants in the UK, Dublin is the place to go. In this city, you’ll find a treasure trove of culinary delights. Dublin boasts a plethora of top-notch Italian eateries. From classic pasta dishes to tantalizing pizzas, Dublin has got the best Italian restaurants UK has to offer.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Italian dining experience in Dublin, visit I Monelli. Located in Portobello, I Monelli offers a wide range of delicious traditional meals. The best proof that this restaurant is worth your time is that the chef is Italian, and also, we are talking about a Michelin-star restaurant. The menu includes the best dishes of rustic Southern Italian cuisine, including homemade fresh pasta, veal, and tiramisu.

Wrapping up on the best Italian restaurants UK

This was our collection of the best Italian restaurants in the UK. As you could see, among the options you can find popular Italian restaurant chains UK has to offer, there are all types of places, including casual pizza places and elegant dining rooms serving sophisticated meals. It really depends on what you prefer. One thing is sure though: after reading this article, finding the best Italian restaurant in England or anywhere else in the UK will be easier! Now you have lots of ideas and inspiration to find the best Italian restaurants in the most popular cities of the UK.

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