Jacksonville has become a culinary hotspot in recent years, boasting a diverse array of restaurants and cuisines. Italian Restaurants have been popping up around the city for a long time now, from charming trattorias to upscale dining destinations. Whether you’re a fan of classic pasta dishes or crave melt-in-your-mouth pizza pies, Jacksonville’s Italian restaurants will satisfy any cravings.
1. Catullo’s Italian
Catullo’s Italian is a hidden gem in the heart of Jacksonville, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and exceptional service. There you can watch as talented bartenders create for you delicious and creative cocktails which pair perfectly with their handmade pasta dishes. It’s perfect for date nights and standout dishes include the creamy chicken pesto and the moreish lasagna with spicy Italian sausage – mouthwatering stuff!
📍1650-2 San Pablo Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32224
2. Enza’s Italian Restaurant
Enza’s Italian Restaurant offers a tempting array of delicious Italian dishes, from the super crispy, tender calamari to the sumptuous meatballs. One fan favorite is lasagna – the ultimate Italian comfort food. If you feel like something different, check out the fresh specials that change regularly and friendly servers will be more than happy to provide recommendations.
📍10601 San Jose Blvd #109, Jacksonville, FL 32257
3. Taverna
Taverna’s menu boasts a mix of traditional and modern Italian dishes that will make you want to come back for more. The flavorful appetizers are a great way to start and the pizza is reminiscent of a charming Italian trattoria. If you’re after something slightly lighter then check out the specials board. This place cooks fish really well and in the past, specials have included things like halibut with saffron risotto.
📍1986 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
4. Primi Piatti
Primi Piatti is a hidden gem that will transport you straight to Italy. There’s something for everyone on the menu, including tasty fare like eggplant parmesan, and of course, meaty lasagna with a creamy sauce. It’s not a flashy place, just a no-frills restaurant that has built itself an incredible reputation.
📍2722 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32205
5. Mama Mia’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria
The moment you walk into Mama Mia’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria, the enchanting aroma of freshly baked pizza and mouth-watering Italian dishes wafts your way. The restaurant is truly a family-owned restaurant and the friendly atmosphere reflects this. Try the thin-crust NY-style pizza for a real treat and the cheesy garlic bread with a tasty dip Make sure to arrive hungry because this place serves generous portions!
📍12220 Atlantic Blvd UNIT 114, Jacksonville, FL 32225
6. Picasso’s
Picasso’s pizza is the only St. Louis-style pie in Jacksonville, created by a native St. Louis Chef. There you’ll find must-try dishes like hearty meatballs and irresistible garlic bread twists that are a work of art – something Picasso’s prides itself on. Everything is made fresh and the open, airy restaurant is the perfect place to wind down after a busy day.
📍10503 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32257
7. Maggiano’s Little Italy
Maggiano’s Little Italy is the perfect place to indulge in hearty Italian dishes, with generous portions that are sure to satisfy. Check out the rigatoni – a dish that customers rave about and leave room for one of the desserts, which includes New York cheesecake and tiramisu. This is part of a chain but they pride themselves on treating everybody like family and it’s definitely one of Jacksonville’s best Italian restaurants.
📍Town Center, 10367 Midtown Pkwy St. Johns, Jacksonville, FL 32246
8. Leci’s Italian
Leci’s Italian’s vintage charm will transport you straight to Italy without the expensive airfare. Everything is made from fresh ingredients and the portions are generous so arrive hungry!
There’s a fantastic variety of pizzas and specialities you must try, like the creamy tortellini.
📍9475 Philips Hwy suite 8, Jacksonville, FL 32256
9. Toscana Little Italy
Toscana Little Italy has quickly become a favorite spot in Jacksonville. The thin-crust pizzas are a standout, loaded with fresh toppings like prosciutto and goat cheese. The Chef and owner, Rebecca, prioritize making every guest feel special, checking in on each table herself which adds an extra special something to the experience.
📍4440 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207
10. Rosalia’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria
Rosalia’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria offers a fantastic menu that will have you drooling from the get-go. From delicious garlic rolls to mussels vino blanco, every dish is prepared with effort and fresh ingredients. The Chicken Francese and Veal Parmesan are highlights of the menu, as well as the garlic cheese bread and meatballs and you can wash it all down with a tasty cocktail.
📍14965 Old St Augustine Rd #101, Jacksonville, FL 32258
So next time you’re looking for a hearty bowl of spaghetti carbonara or a crispy margherita pizza, look no further than Jacksonville’s best Italian restaurants. With so many delicious options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings and transport your tastebuds straight to Italy.
