St. Petersburg, Florida, has become a haven for Italian food lovers. Over the last 15 years, the city has seen an incredible boom in Italian eateries, with new restaurants opening constantly. If you’re searching for the perfect “Italian Restaurant St Pete”, you’re in luck! This guide, crafted by local St. Pete food experts, will take you through the must-visit Italian spots in town, from long-standing favorites to exciting new arrivals.
Our team of five dedicated foodies at pets.edu.vn has personally visited and rigorously assessed over 20 Italian restaurants in St. Petersburg and nearby areas like St. Pete Beach and Gulfport. We’re passionate about providing genuine recommendations, and this list features only the establishments that truly impressed us. Forget those generic online lists – we’ve actually tasted the food and experienced the atmosphere at every place we recommend.
Before diving into our top picks, it’s important to understand what you’ll find here in St. Pete. While we have many “italian restaurants st pete” that are excellent, they primarily offer Italian-American cuisine. If you’re seeking strictly authentic Italian food, like you might find in Italy, be aware that the style here is often Americanized. This means richer sauces, sometimes overcooked pasta, and dishes like Chicken Parmesan that aren’t traditionally Italian. Even Spaghetti & Meatballs, a staple here, is served as two separate dishes in Italy.
However, if you’re looking for delicious, comforting, and expertly prepared Italian-American food in St. Pete, you’ve come to the right place. This list celebrates the best “italian restaurants st pete” has to offer, focusing on quality, experience, and that local St. Pete flavor. We’ve organized our recommendations from the oldest to the newest establishments, showcasing the rich history and vibrant present of the Italian culinary scene in our city.
Gratzzi Italian Grille – A St. Pete Institution for Fine Italian Dining
Address: 211 2nd St. South, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727-579-1570
Website: Gratzzi Website
Gratzzi Italian Grille consistently ranks as a top choice among “italian restaurants st pete”, and for good reason. With Chef Tony Mangiafico and co-owner Domenic D’Angelo, both hailing from Italy, Gratzzi brings a genuine Southern Italian touch to both its cuisine and ambiance. Many recipes are time-honored, some even centuries old, offering a taste of authentic Italian heritage in a welcoming, family-friendly setting. They perfectly balance “fine dining with a family atmosphere”.
One of our personal favorites is the Rigatonacci alla Vodka, a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s always a hit. And we can’t resist ordering the Shrimp Arrabbiata every time we visit, a spicy and savory seafood delight.
Gratzzi’s enduring popularity as an “italian restaurant st pete” stems from its ability to cater to diverse tastes. While they excel in classic Italian dishes, their steaks and seafood options are equally impressive, rivaling even specialized steakhouses and seafood restaurants.
A must-try signature dish is the Cavatelli Bada Bing, a tableside culinary spectacle. This involves handmade ricotta cavatelli flambéed in vodka within a giant Padano parmesan wheel, combined with San Daniele prosciutto, tomatoes, and basil. The cheese melts into the pasta as it’s stirred, creating a truly unforgettable dish and dining experience.
Pia’s Trattoria – The Heart and Soul of Italian Food in Gulfport near St. Pete
Address: 3054 Beach Blvd South, Gulfport, FL 33707
Phone: (727) 327-2190
Website: Pia’s Trattoria Website
Just a short drive from St. Pete, Pia’s Trattoria in Gulfport provides a charming and romantic Italian escape. As an “italian restaurant st pete” area gem, Pia’s embodies the true meaning of “Trattoria” – a simple, fresh “eating house”. You’ll find no pretense here, just exceptionally prepared Italian food in a cozy atmosphere.
Our team highly recommends the hearty and rustic Lasagna, a comforting and flavorful classic. Another favorite is the Spaghetti Bolognese, especially when enhanced with a veal meatball and sausage for an extra layer of richness.
Pia-Maria and Tom Goff opened Pia’s Trattoria in 2005, driven by Pia’s longing for the scratch-made Italian food of her childhood after moving from Europe to Gulfport. Starting as a small pasta-panini-salad bar, Pia’s passion and culinary talent quickly transformed it into a beloved “italian restaurant st pete” area destination.
Word-of-mouth has been key to Pia’s success. This family-owned and operated establishment has expanded over the years and now features a candlelit wine dining room, a covered garden patio, a full liquor bar, and private dining rooms. The adjacent Pia’s Veranda offers a similar menu in a more casual setting with live music and a dog-friendly patio.
Pia’s beautiful courtyard, with its barn roof, is also a popular venue for weddings and celebrations. Pia remains dedicated to serving authentic Italian food in a warm and welcoming environment, treating customers like friends.
Buona Ristorante – A Hidden Gem of Italian Cuisine on St. Pete Beach
Address: 4705 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
Phone: (727) 360-7970
Website: Buona Ristorante Website
For 14 years, Buona Ristorante has been a favorite “italian restaurant st pete beach” destination for both locals and visitors. Tucked away in the Dolphin Village plaza on Gulf Blvd, this hidden gem might not be visible from the main road, but its loyal following speaks volumes about its quality.
Don’t miss the waterfront patio overlooking Boca Ciega Bay for a delightful dining experience with a view. Buona Ristorante offers classic Italian dishes in a relaxed and inviting setting.
Their Antipasto Salad is a visually stunning and flavorful starter, packed with fresh ingredients. The Rigatoni Marinara with Sausage is another solid choice, showcasing their commitment to simple, delicious Italian flavors. Buona Ristorante truly is a “italian restaurant st pete beach” local favorite.
Il Ritorno – Modern Northern Italian Elegance in Downtown St. Pete
Address: 449 Central Ave #101, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: 727-897-5900
Website: IL Ritorno Website
Il Ritorno, meaning “The Return” in Italian, has been a standout “italian restaurant st pete downtown” since its grand opening in 2014. Chef David Benstock, a St. Pete native who honed his skills in culinary hotspots across the US and Italy, and his wife Erica, have created a destination for modern Northern Italian cuisine.
For a special experience, try the Chef’s Bar for an intimate and interactive dining adventure. The menu constantly evolves, but recent standouts include the Lobster Tortellini, Oxtail Malfade, and Ramp Agnolotti, each showcasing Chef Benstock’s creativity and skill.
Chef Benstock gained national recognition by defeating Bobby Flay on Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay” with his Short Rib Mezzaluna, a dish you absolutely must try. All pasta is made in-house, and Chef Benstock prioritizes locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, while also importing high-quality cheeses and other items to ensure top-notch flavor.
Il Ritorno offers an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere with rustic brick walls, reminiscent of dining in Manhattan. The service is impeccable, and the food is truly exceptional. Favorites include the Octopus, Smoked Meatballs, Short Rib Mezzaluna, Cappelini Nero, Bucatini Pomodoro, and Diver Scallops. Reservations are highly recommended at this consistently busy “italian restaurant st pete downtown”.
Noble Crust – Seasonal Italian with Southern Charm in St. Pete
Address: 8300 4th St North, Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Phone: (727) 329-6041
Website: Noble Crust Website
Noble Crust brings a unique concept to the “italian restaurant st pete” scene, blending “Seasonal Italian with Southern Soul”. Founded in 2014 by restaurant veterans TJ Thielbar and John Mays, Noble Crust is known for its creative weekend brunch, inventive pizzas, and delicious fried chicken. Their menu changes with the seasons, highlighting locally grown ingredients.
Must-try starters include the famous Brussels Sprouts with goat cheese fonduta and the F.G.B.L.T (fried green tomatoes with pork belly). Their Meatballs are also a great way to begin your meal.
For pasta, the Ricotta Gnocchi appetizer, Rigatoni & Short Rib Ragu, and Eggplant Parmesan are all highly recommended. The Eggplant Parmesan, in particular, is a standout, described as the best we’ve ever had.
Pizza lovers should try “The Noble Pig” or “The Works” pizza for a taste of Noble Crust’s inventive pizza creations. Noble Crust offers a lively and flavorful “italian restaurant st pete” experience.
Tuttorosso Restaurant & Pizzeria – Casual Italian Comfort Food on St. Pete Beach
Address: 7863 Blind Pass Rd, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Phone: (727) 800-9864
Website: Tuttorosso Website
Tuttorosso Restaurant & Pizzeria on St. Pete Beach is your go-to “italian restaurant st pete beach” for casual, family-friendly Italian dining. The aroma of hand-tossed pizzas and pasta fills the air, creating a welcoming and comforting atmosphere. This family-owned spot boasts a massive menu packed with Italian classics, from pizzas and calzones to pasta, salads, and desserts.
Everything we tried at Tuttorosso was flavorful and satisfying, with generous portions and a focus on classic Italian comfort food. It’s a true neighborhood “italian restaurant st pete beach” where pizza boxes fly out the door and families gather for a delicious meal.
Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria – Wine and Exceptional Italian Cuisine in Downtown St. Pete
Address: 241 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: (727) 827-7896
Website: Sauvignon Website
Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria, a relatively newer “italian restaurant st pete downtown”, has quickly made a name for itself. With an impressive international wine list and exceptional cuisine, Sauvignon offers a sophisticated and delightful dining experience. They also have a unique membership club with climate-controlled wine lockers for wine enthusiasts.
Highlights from the menu include the Homemade Pappardelle with Oyster Mushrooms and the PEI Mussels with Pancetta. We also loved the unique Squash Capellini Carbonara, a sweet and savory pasta dish made with in-house pasta. Don’t miss their half-off pasta special on Thursdays.
The knowledgeable staff at Sauvignon enhances the dining experience, offering insightful conversations about food, wine, and travel. With dinner service during the week, lunch and dinner on Saturday, and brunch and dinner on Sunday, Sauvignon is a versatile and high-quality “italian restaurant st pete downtown” option.
Matteo Trattoria & Pizzeria St Pete – Authentic Flavors with a NYC Vibe in St. Pete
Address: 2363 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Phone: (727) 851-9114
Website: Matteo Website
Named after owner Nando Silvestri’s son, Matteo Trattoria & Pizzeria brings a taste of authentic Italian flavors to St. Pete with a quality reminiscent of great NYC restaurants. Silvestri, a seasoned restaurateur with roots in Los Angeles, opened this “italian restaurant st pete central ave” location in July 2021 to rave reviews.
The Lasagne is a standout dish, earning an A+ from our team. Other favorites include the Polpette Della Casa (meatballs), Cozze Tarantina (mussels), and pasta dishes like Amatriciana and Bolognese. Their wood-fired pizzas, made in the traditional Naples style, are also exceptional. Try the Regina Margherita for a classic or the spicy Messicana for a kick. Matteo is a must-visit “italian restaurant st pete central ave”.
Taverna Costale – Celebrity Chef Italian with Roman Pizzas in Downtown St. Pete
Address: 200 Central Ave Ste 165, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: (727) 954-3863
Website: Taverna Costale Website
Created by celebrity chef Fabio Viviani, Taverna Costale brings a touch of star power to the “italian restaurant st pete downtown” scene. Opened in 2022, Taverna Costale features exceptional pastas, pizzas, and seafood dishes in a lively downtown location perfect for people-watching and bar hopping.
Standout dishes include the comforting Rigatoni Tartufo, the flavorful Chicken Thigh Marsala, and the unique Grilled Bone Marrow appetizer. Taverna Costale is also notable for being one of the few “italian restaurants st pete downtown” serving Roman-style pizzas, offering a different pizza experience.
Jay Luigi – Authentic Italian with a Modern Twist and Roman-Style Pizza in St. Pete
Address: 3201 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704
Phone: (727) 390-8883
Website: Jay Luigi Website
Jay Luigi offers an “attentive counter service” experience, blending casual ordering with full table service for a unique “italian restaurant st pete 4th st” experience. Serving authentic Italian cuisine, including pasta and Roman-style pizza, Jay Luigi focuses on quality ingredients and innovative techniques.
The Drunken Mushroom pasta, a vegetarian dish with blistered tomatoes and chili flakes, is a flavorful and well-balanced option. For pizza, the Stella Romana, a simple Roman-style pizza, allows you to appreciate the quality of the ingredients and the crispy, fluffy crust made with imported wild yeast and 80% hydration dough. Jay Luigi is a must-try “italian restaurant st pete 4th st” for pizza lovers.
Bonu’ Taverna Italiana – Family Hospitality and Roman Pinsa Pizza in Downtown St. Pete
Address: 601 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: (727) 623-4505
Website: Bonu’ Taverna Website
Bonu’ Taverna Italiana stands out for its warm, family-like hospitality and unique Roman Pinsa pizzas in the heart of downtown St. Pete. This “italian restaurant st pete downtown” offers a stylish and welcoming interior with a boho vibe, local art, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Polpetta meatballs are a highlight, rivaling homemade versions with their tenderness and flavorful tomato sauce. The Fettuccine with mushrooms and truffle oil is a transcendental pasta dish, rich and creamy. Their Pinsa pizzas, a Roman-style hand-pressed dough, are also unique and delicious. The Regina Pinsa is a simple yet glorious example of their pizza craftsmanship. Bonu’ Taverna is a delightful “italian restaurant st pete downtown” experience.
Your Italian Restaurant St. Pete Adventure Awaits
St. Petersburg’s “italian restaurant st pete” scene is thriving, offering a diverse range of Italian-American culinary experiences. From fine dining to casual pizzerias, from traditional recipes to modern interpretations, there’s an Italian restaurant in St. Pete to satisfy every craving. We encourage you to explore these top picks and discover your own favorite Italian spot in our vibrant city.
Let us know in the comments below, what is your favorite “italian restaurant st pete”? We’d love to hear your recommendations!
