The Best Italian Restaurants in Manchester
Manchester’s love for Italian food is undeniable, and the city’s cuisine has been greatly influenced by the Italians. Italians first migrated to Manchester back in the nineteenth century, and there are thousands in numbers now in the city.
These immigrants worked as musicians and street vendors in the start and then introduced rich Italian cuisine to the city, most notably ice cream. Over time, many new Italian restaurants started their journey, and a few of them are worth mentioning.
Today the city has a number of Italian food options, from Northern Quarter to Deansgate, you will find some of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester. Whether you are craving authentic Neapolitan pizza or a delicious plate of spaghetti carbonara, there is an option for you.
This guide is specially designed to take you through the best options and select the best Italian restaurant in Manchester that you absolutely need to try. So, buckle up as we explore the city’s finest Italian cuisine.
The Best Traditional Restaurants in Manchester
Salvi’s Mozzarella Bar
Salvi’s Mozzarella Bar & Restaurant has become a staple in Manchester’s Italian dining scene since it opened in 2011. Owned by Maurizio Cecco, who hails from Naples, this restaurant claims to be the first Neapolitan restaurant and deli.
The restaurant is dedicated to serving the freshest Mozzarella and authentic traditional Italian cuisine. Right after you enter the place, you are welcomed by the scents of fresh ingredients. They source their buffalo mozzarella directly from Italy, ensuring its authenticity.
Guests love their burrata, which is creamy and rich, served with fresh tomatoes and basil that transport you straight to a sun soaked Italian garden. In addition to their Mozzarella, they also serve homemade pasta dishes that are made daily.
The tagliatelle with beef ragu is also fans’ favourite that offers rich flavours that traditional Italian cooking is known for. The authenticity of the ingredients and taste quality makes it one of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester.
Location: Corporation Street, The Corn Exchange, Manchester M4 3 England.
Contact at: 0161 302 4439
Don Giovanni
Don Giovanni has been a beloved fixture in Manchester since it first opened its doors in 1984. This restaurant combines a classic Italian menu with a sophisticated dining experience. The menu at Don Giovani is extensive, with a strong focus on traditional Italian dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients.
Their handmade pasta is a standout, with the linguine vongole (linguine with clams) highly praised for its fresh flavours and perfect seasoning. The restaurant also offers a fantastic selection of pizzas baked in a traditional stone oven that ensures a crispy crust which is simply irresistible.
For meat lovers, the osso buco, a slow-cooked veal shank served with risotto, is a must try that truly represents the classic Italian cuisine. The restaurant is also quite affordable with three dishes only costing twenty pounds. The must try dishes include lobster, lobster risotto, and Tiramisu.
Don Giovanni prides itself on exceptional services provided to every guest. The restaurant has won many awards over the years that support its status as one of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester.
Location: 1-2 Oxford Street, Manchestet M1 5AN
Contact at: +44 161 228 2482
Casa Italia
When it comes to some good Italian restaurants in Manchester, Casa Italia is a hidden gem with locations in Didsbury and Wilmslow. Tucked away in the heart of Manchester city, this charming spot offers a truly authentic Italian dining experience.
When you enter the Casa Italia, it feels like entering a traditional trattoria in Italy, with its rusty décor, cosy ambiance, and welcoming staff. The red-and-white chequered tablecloths and classic Italian music playing softly in the background creates an electric atmosphere that is truly nostalgic.
The menu is packed with dishes that have been perfected over generations, making it a favourite for locals who crave a taste of the old country. The past is handmade daily, ensuring the perfect texture and flavour in every bite. The lasagna is a standout dish that is baked to perfection with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel and fresh pasta sheets.
Their spaghetti carbonara offered with crispy pancetta and a rich egg-based sauce is another must try. In addition to their pasta, Casa Italia also offers a fantastic range of pizzas that are cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven. Some of their best pizzas are, Diavola, Verdura ‘v’, and Francescana.
Location: 688-690 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2DN
Contact at: 0161 445 4252
San Carlo
I often heard people calling it as the best Italian restaurant Manchester has, and they are right to my pov. Run by the Distefano family, San Carlo is a name of luxury and authentic Italian cuisine.
Although San Carlo is a part of a renowned chain, the Manchester branch has carved out its own reputation as a must visit for Italian food lovers. You are welcomed with a stylish décor, elegant lighting, and an atmosphere that oozes sophistication.
The menu at San Carlo is extensive and showcases a wide range of traditional Italian flavours. One of their best seller menu dishes is Linguine All’Aragosta. It is a creamy rich and flavorful lobster pasta that exemplifies the restaurant’s commitment to fine dining.
For those who love Italian seafood, the Gamberoni Piccanti (king prawns with garlic and chilli) offers a delicious balance of spice and freshness. Other menu items such as brandy cream and lobster pasta or scallops with white wine, garlic, and lemon are other best options at San Carlo.
The dessert menu is just tempting, with flavours like Tiramisu and Panna Cotta rounding off the meal in true Italian style.
Location: King Street West, Manchester, UK.
Contact at: 0161 834 6226
Valentino’s
Valentino’s is a name that cannot be overlooked when mentioning the best Italian restaurant in Manchester. Established in 1989 and located in the Northern Quarter, this family-run restaurant has mastered the balance between traditional Italian dishes and a modern, contemporary dining experience.
The restaurant is famous for attracting food enthusiasts who appreciate classic Italian recipes with a modern flair. Each dish is crafted with care and precision. Their most loved dish is Pappardelle al Ragu, which is a combination of slow-cooked beef and pork ragu served over wide ribbons of homemade pasta.
Other must-try menu items include Risotto ai Funghi and the Prosciutto e Funghi pizza. The restaurant also offers a wide range of wine selection with a focus on Italian vintages. Whether you are in the mood for a bold Barbera or a light Prosecco, their wine list beautifully complements the flavour of each dish.
Location: 121 Heaton Moor Road, Heaton Moor, Stockport SK4 4HY
Contact at: 0161 443 1843
The best modern Italian restaurants in Manchester
Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza
If you are in search of the best pizza in town, look no further than Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza. This beloved establishment in Ancoats has made a name for itself by serving up some of the most authentic Neapolitan pizzas outside of Italy.
Rudy’s dedication to sticking to traditional methods, including the use of a wood-fired oven and high-quality ingredients, sets it apart from the typical pizzeria. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, making it an ideal spot for a quick meal or a relaxed evening with friends.
The menu is simple and primarily focuses on pizzas made with fresh ingredients. The Margherita pizza, with its charred crust, creamy Mozzarella, and fragrant basil, is a fan favourite and showcases the essence of Neapolitan pizza. Other popular options include Calabrese and the Salsiccia e Friarielli.
Rudy’s is one of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester city centre specifically dealing with pizzas. Their commitment and adherence to quality has made them win many awards too, including accolades from Pizza critics.
Location: Petersfield House, Peter Street, Manchester, UK
Contact at: 0161 660 8040
The Burbs
The Burbs has become known for its innovative take on classic Italian cuisine. It combines traditional Italian flavours with modern techniques. The sleek and minimalist décor creates a unique atmosphere that is perfect for a casual evening out or a special celebration.
Its open kitchen concept has been highly praised by the visitors and allows them to witness the art of Italian cooking in front of their eyes. It adds to the restaurant’s vibrant and modern feel.
One of their signature offerings is the Truffle Tagliatelle which is a rich, creamy pasta dish that offers a flavour of black truffle and fresh parmesan. Other standout dishes include Octopus Carpaccio and the Squid Ink Risotto.
The Burbs also specialises in their Pizza offerings with Burrata and Prosciutto Pizza as their best seller and a must try option if you have not tried it yet. For desserts, their Pistachio Gelato is another crowd-pleaser. Combining these attributes of the Burbs it stands firm in the list of best Italian restaurants in Manchester.
Location: 346 Wellington Road North, Heaton Chapel, Stockport, SK 4 5DA
Contact at: 0161 637 1151
Vincenzo trattoria
Vincenzo Trattoria combines a family-friendly atmosphere with authentic modern Italian flavours. Tucked away in a cosy corner of Deansgate, this charming trattoria has been serving traditional Italian dishes to Manchester’s locals and visitors for years.
The décor inside is simple yet elegant, with rustic wooden tables, walls adorned with vintage Italian posters, and aroma of freshly cooked pasta filling the air nicely. It is kind of a family place where you feel at home the moment you walk through the door.
One of their most beloved dishes is the Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, a true Italian staple. Other must try options include Veal Saltimbocca, pollo Milanese, lasagna, Calamari, Pork rib, French green beans and potatoes. For pizza lovers, their Quattro Stagioni pizza is a classic choice with artichokes, mushrooms, ham, and olives.
For desserts, I would suggest trying their Tiramisu with layers of creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. Also give their Panna Cotta a try for a satisfying way to end your meal.
Location: 34 Street Ann St, Manchester M2 7LE, UK
Contact at: +44 161 833
Vero Moderno
Situated in the bustling neighbourhood of Salford, this is the best Italian restaurant Manchester has, with a modern age. It combines the heart of traditional Italian cuisine with innovation. From the moment you enter the restaurant, Vero Moderno impresses you with its sleek, industrial-chic décor.
Exposed brick walls, ambient lighting and modern art, all create a stylish space for an Italian meal. It is a popular choice for casual dinner, business lunches, and special occasions alike.
The restaurant prides itself for sourcing the ingredient directly from Italy to ensure the authenticity of Italian cuisine. Their Bucatini Amatriciana is one of the fan favourites, a cooked pasta toasted in tomato sauce, spiced with chilli, and topped with crispy pancetta.
Other must try options include Beef Ragu Pappardelle, the Popo alla Griglia, spicy or cheek meatballs, pappardelle with lamb ragu, swordfish steak with grapefruit, and a selection of slow-proved pizzas. Their best seller pizza is Pizza Diavolo features spicy Italian salami, fresh Mozzarella, and fiery tomato base.
The restaurant also excels at providing some of the best Italian wines. Their signature Aperol Spritz is a refreshing way to start the evening, while Negroni makes for a perfect post-dinner drink.
On weekends, you can also enjoy bottomless brunch on Saturdays and special Italian slow roast on Sundays. Vero Moderno’s attention to details, from the food to the drinks and ambiance, makes it top contender for the Manchester best Italian restaurant.
Location: Unit 4, Vimto Gardens, Chapel Street, Salford M3 5JF
Contact at: 0161 637 1160
Ortica
If you are looking for a 100% plant based Italian restaurant in Manchester city centre, Ortica is the place for you. It stands out with its commitment to provide 100% vegan Italian cuisine. Situated in the heart of Manchester’s bustling Northern Quarter, Ortica is redefining Italian food by offering a fully plant-based menu without compromising on the quality and authenticity of the ingredients.
In addition to the meat-minus strategy, their stylish, earthy décor, with warm wooden accents and cosy lighting, provides the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing meal.
One of their standout dishes is the Vegan Lasagna that is made with homemade pasta, a rich tomato and lentil ragu, and creamy cashew sauce. Other recommended options to try include Mushroom Risotto and Marinara Pizza for vegan pizza lovers.
But Ortica does not stop at just green food. Their selection of vegan wine options and cocktails is equally impressive. You can simply start your meal with a glass of organic Italian wine or try one of their handcrafted cocktails, such as the refreshing Limoncello Spritz. Ortica proves that plant-based Italian cuisine can be flavorful!
Location: 70 Flixton Road, Urmston, Manchester M41 5AB, UK
Contact at: 0161 3000 989
The Best Italian Cafes and Casual Spots
The Pasta Factory
Italy is known for its best pastas, and The pasta factory is the place for authentic food full of flavour. The journey of the Pasta Factory originated with a group of four friends from Turin. For those who love pasta and appreciate the art of handmade pasta, the pasta factory is worth discovering.
It is located in the heart of Turin near Shudehill. The Pasta factory does not compromise on its quality because this restaurant focuses on making pasta daily fresh and tasty.
Different pasta dough is made freshly with natural colourant like green spinach, red wine and pink beetroot ensuring the quality and taste of pasta. They have a wide range of filled pasta including square ravioli and three sided triangoli. In addition to pasta, they offer potato gnocchi and porcini mushrooms with authentic Italian ingredients imported.
The environment of this place is relaxed and casual, making it an ideal spot for friend’s meetup dinners or quick lunch. They prepare pasta in an open kitchen with live cooking. It adds to the charm of this place and allows diners to watch the chef at work as they cook delicious pasta dishes. The air is infused with the aroma of freshly made pasta, reflecting the quality of this place.
The pasta factory offers Vegan-friendly dishes such as reginette with mushrooms, truffle, white wine and parsley. For a comforting option, you can try fettuccine alfredo or pair your meal with refreshing Italian wine for a complete experience. What makes
The pasta factory special is its commitment to simplicity and quality. Their main focus is to celebrate Italian culinary traditions and to lift up their pasta experience.
Location: 77 Shudehill Manchester M4 4 AN, next to Shudehill bus station
Contact at: 0161 222 9250
Cibo
If you are finding a good place to mark a special occasion, then try Cibo and create a memorable atmosphere. It is located just off Deansgate in Manchester, Italy. This modern Italian restaurant combines traditional Italian recipes with modern style.
Cibo offers a wide selection of Italian dishes from fresh pasta to wood-fired pizza prepared with high quality ingredients. One specialty of their menu is its pizza, which is baked in a wood-fired oven using traditional techniques. The classic margherita is one of favourite dishes liked by all with its fragrant basil leaves and gooey mozzarella cheese.
A perfect spot to enjoy crab meat starters, grill menu full of quality cuts and squid spaghetti. For an extra punch, try the spicy Nduja Pizza which is full of flavours. Other recipes including linguine alle vongole and spaghetti carbonara are equally special featuring their commitment to authentic Italian cuisine.
Their impressive roof garden, marble tables and Gothic windows added a King street spot to their empire. Their staff is friendly and the visually appealing atmosphere is an ideal location for both special occasions and casual meals.
In addition to their Italian cuisine, they offer a wide range of sweet treats like panna, Tiramisu and desserts for a complete experience. It captures the essence of modern Italy and a delightful Italian dining experience, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely dinner with your friends and family.
Location: 43 Spring Gardens , Manchester M2 2BG
Contact: 0161 821 0000
Gusto Manchester
Gusto Manchester is a place of lively Italian dining. Situated on Deansgate and elevating your Italian cuisine experience with its unique recipes. Gusto is a house of modernity and traditional Italian food, which makes it a popular choice for get-togethers.
The interior of this restaurant is decorated elegantly with modern tables and chic lights. Gusto creates an elegant environment, perfect for celebrations, is family-friendly and makes a very good Sunday lunch.
Gusto is one of the best Italians and has won the favour of many diners with its modern dining and attentive services. In terms of dishes, it offers a diverse range of Italian classics like pasta, lobster ravioli and, butternut squash gnocchi, wood-fired pizza with options from classic
Margherita to different toppings like arugula and prosciutto. They make their dishes with fresh ingredients that feature their dedication towards the quality of their restaurant.
They offer some specialties such as duck, pasta with tomato and fillet mignon are impressive and must try. For those who love meat dishes, chicken Milanese and grilled lamb chops are recommended.
Gusto is popular because of its glam setting, chic cocktails and top notch services. The food served here is fresh and enjoyable which adds to the experience of diners. Their food is well presented and their interior creates a sophisticated atmosphere for a romantic dinner. Some diners prefer Gusto and visit often twice or thrice which proves the quality, taste and their liking for the restaurant.
Location: 4 Lloyd Street Manchester M2 5AB
Contact at: 0161 832 2866
Final Thoughts
Manchester is truly a heaven for Italian food lovers. It offers a wide range of restaurants that cater to almost every craving. Does not matter if you are a vegan or carnivore, there are a number of places that offer both of them with authentic Italian ingredients.
What makes this city’s Italian cuisine a special one is the blend of old-world authenticity and fresh, innovative cooking. You will find the perfect plate of pasta, a mouthwatering pizza, or even something adventurous to satisfy your taste buds.
With so many good Italian restaurants in Manchester, your next Italian meal is just waiting to be discovered! So, dive into the flavours of Italy right here in Manchester and find the best Italian restaurant in Manchester for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Italian restaurants in Manchester city centre?
There can be many based on different choices but I found Vincenzo Trattoria and San Carlo along with a plat based option, Ortica, as the best Italian restaurants in Manchester city centre.
Which Italian restaurant in Manchester is best for pizza?
For an unforgettable experience, Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza is a local favourite and known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas with a perfectly soft, chewy crust.
What is the best Italian restaurant in Manchester?
It depends on your preferences. However, for a traditional experience, San Carlo is a popular choice, offering classic Italian dishes with an upscale twist. If you prefer modern Italian cuisine, The Burbs is known for its creative take on traditional recipes.