13 Best Italian Food Restaurants in New Orleans | 2024 (Top Eats!)
Welcome to our guide on the best Italian food in New Orleans! This city is known for its amazing cuisine, and Italian food here is no exception. From cozy family-owned spots to fancy restaurants, New Orleans offers a variety of Italian dishes.
Whether you love pizza, pasta, or seafood, there’s something for everyone. In this list, we’ll explore some of the top places to enjoy Italian cuisine in the city. Get ready to discover where you can find delicious, authentic Italian food in New Orleans!
The best Italian food in New Orleans near me!
1. Domenica
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Domenica is like a Sunday in Italy, a time for relaxed and bountiful meals. This fancy and romantic spot, nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, offers an ambiance that feels both local and authentically Italian.
It’s one of those popular restaurants near me where the setting is as delightful as the food. The atmosphere is perfect for those seeking a cool place to eat with a touch of elegance. It’s a top restaurant in New Orleans, ideal for both a casual outing and fine dining.
Chef’s Choice
At Domenica, the food is a blend of pure, local ingredients and traditional Italian techniques, making it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans.
The chef’s choice often includes innovative takes on classic Italian dishes, making it a must-eat place. Their menu features everything from 5-star quality pizzas to exquisite pasta dishes, each prepared with an authentic touch.
For those looking for something familiar yet exciting, their burger French quarter style is a unique blend of Italian flair and local taste. This place is a gem for those who love great restaurants that offer both authentic and affordable dining experiences.
Location and Contact
- 123 Baronne St 123 Baronne St., New Orleans, LA 70112-2303
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-648-6020
- Email:- domenica@chefjohnbesh.com
2. Gianna Restaurant
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Gianna, located at the intersection of Magazine and Girod Streets, is a gem in the New Orleans Warehouse District. This nicest and most famous restaurant blends rustic Italian cuisine with Louisiana’s rich culinary tradition.
Its romantic and fancy ambiance makes it standout among top-rated and popular places to eat in New Orleans. The warm and inviting atmosphere is perfect for anyone seeking a cool place to eat that offers both charm and sophistication.
Chef’s Choice
Gianna’s menu is a celebration of Italian cooking, deeply rooted in Louisiana’s culinary heritage. As one of the best restaurants in New Orleans, it offers dishes that are both good and authentic, making it one of the top restaurants for dining in the city.
Their hamburgers New Orleans style, a fusion of Italian and local flavors, are a must-try. Additionally, Gianna’s pasta and seafood dishes are favorites, reflecting the chef’s commitment to famous and authentic Italian cuisine.
The restaurant is a perfect choice for those searching for affordable yet fancy dining and is definitely on the list of must-eat places in the city.
Location and Contact
- 700 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130-3798
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-399-0816
- Email:- info@giannarestaurant.com
3. Josephine Estelle
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Josephine Estelle stands out as a beacon of culinary innovation in New Orleans, blending classic Italian recipes with the vibrant flavors of the American South.
This popular and romantic destination, led by chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman, is a testimony to their James Beard Award-nominated expertise.
It’s a fancy, yet affordable place, perfect for those seeking a cool place to eat. Whether it’s for breakfast, dinner, or weekend brunch, the atmosphere here is always inviting and authentic, making it one of the top restaurants in the area.
Chef’s Choice
The menu at Josephine Estelle is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and homemade pastas, inspired by recipes passed down from generations. This makes it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans for those looking for good, authentic Italian cuisine.
Among their many delicious offerings, the chefs’ unique take on hamburgers in New Orleans style is a must-try. With a focus on quality and flavor, this restaurant is a must-eat place for those who appreciate great restaurants that are both fancy and affordable.
Location and Contact
- 600 Carondelet St, New Orleans, LA 70130-3511
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-930-3070
- Email:- enquire@josephineestelle.com
4. Osteria Lupo
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Osteria Lupo is a charming spot that showcases the best of Northern Italian cuisine. Its focus on house-made pasta, roasted meats, and seafood cooked in a wood-fired oven makes it a standout among restaurants near me.
The ambiance here is both romantic and fancy, making it a perfect choice for those seeking fine dining in a cool place to eat. As a top-rated restaurant in New Orleans, it offers an experience that is both authentic and nice.
Chef’s Choice
The menu at Osteria Lupo is a testament to Italian culinary traditions, with a variety of shareable plates that are perfect for any occasion. This makes it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans for those looking for good and authentic Italian food.
The restaurant also boasts a stellar wine program, complementing their exquisite dishes. Whether you’re craving pasta, seafood, or a unique take on burger places, Osteria Lupo offers an affordable yet luxurious dining experience, securing its place on the list of must-eat places in the city.
Location and Contact
- 4609 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA 70115
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-273-1268
- Email:- info@osterialupo.com
5. The Italian Barrel
Why It Is a Must-Visit
The Italian Barrel, nestled in the quaint corner of New Orleans’ French Quarter, offers an exquisite Northern Italian dining experience.
Led by award-winning chef Samantha Castagnetti, this famous and romantic restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking fine dining in a fancy setting. Its cozy ambiance makes it a top restaurant for both locals and visitors, perfect for those searching for cool places to eat.
Chef’s Choice
Chef Samantha’s dynamic menu at The Italian Barrel features everything from prosciutto to pasta and veal osso bucco, making it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans. For those looking for a twist on burger French Quarter style, this restaurant offers an authentic Italian take on familiar favorites.
Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine, The Italian Barrel is an affordable, great restaurant that is definitely on the list of must-eat places in New Orleans, perfect for those seeking an authentic and good dining experience.
Location and Contact
- 430 Barracks St French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116-2602
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-569-0198
- Email:- theitalianbarrelrestaurant@gmail.com
6. Irene’s
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Since 1993, Irene’s has been a beacon of upscale Italian cuisine in the heart of the French Quarter. Located at 529 Bienville Street, this elegant dining room, complete with a piano bar, offers a romantic and fancy atmosphere.
It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists, making it one of the top restaurants in New Orleans. The ambiance here is perfect for anyone looking for fine dining in an authentic Italian setting.
Chef’s Choice
Irene’s menu is a celebration of Italian classics, prepared with an expert touch that has drawn crowds for decades. This makes it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans for those seeking good, authentic Italian food.
Their offerings range from exquisite pasta dishes to luxurious seafood, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. The restaurant also features a unique twist on the burger French Quarter style, offering a gourmet experience.
It’s an affordable choice for those in search of great restaurants and is definitely on the list of must-eat places in the city.
Location and Contact
- 529 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70130-2206
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-529-8811
- Email:- info@irenesnola.com
7. Sofia
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Sofia, an Italian-inspired restaurant in New Orleans’ Warehouse District, offers an elevated take on traditional cuisine in a fun, funky setting. Paying homage to Sophia Loren, Sofia is a blend of charm and sophistication, making it a famous and romantic spot for dining in.
Named “Restaurant of the Year” by New Orleans Magazine and “Best New Restaurant” by Gambit and Where Y’at magazines, it’s one of the top-rated places to eat in New Orleans.
Chef’s Choice
At Sofia, the menu features pasta made fresh daily and an array of seasonal flavors from throughout Italy. This makes it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans for those seeking good, authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers small plates and family-style servings, perfect for tasting various dishes.
From their innovative take on hamburgers in New Orleans style to their craft cocktails, Sofia is an affordable yet luxurious dining choice, firmly on the list of must-eat places in the city.
Location and Contact
- 516 Julia Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-322-3216
- Email:- info@sofianola.com
8. Pascal’s Manale
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Pascal’s Manale, established in 1913, is a family-owned gem specializing in Creole Italian cuisine. It’s a historic part of New Orleans’ dining scene, located uptown, and perfect for both casual and business lunches.
The restaurant features a full bar with happy hour specials and a renowned Oyster Bar. It’s a popular and authentic spot, embodying the spirit of local New Orleans dining and making it one of the nicest places to eat in the city.
Chef’s Choice
The menu at Pascal’s Manale is a delightful mix of the finest and freshest seafood and classic Italian dishes. Known for the ORIGINAL BBQ SHRIMP, the restaurant offers a range of exquisite dishes that have made it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans.
Their unique take on hamburgers New Orleans style and other Creole Italian specialties make it a must-eat place for those in search of good food in an affordable yet fancy setting. Pascal’s Manale stands out as a great restaurant for those looking to experience the rich culinary history of New Orleans.
Location and Contact
- 1838 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115-5540
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-895-4877
9. Avo
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Avo, led by New Orleans-born chef Nick Lama, is a celebration of regional Italian cuisine with a third-generation Sicilian touch. The name, meaning grandfather or ancestor in Italian, reflects the restaurant’s dedication to family traditions while introducing a fresh perspective.
This famous and authentic spot in the French Quarter is perfect for those seeking a blend of Italian and Southern flavors in a romantic and fancy setting.
Chef’s Choice
The menu at Avo boasts classics like meatballs and lasagna, alongside inventive dishes such as grilled octopus. This blend of Italian focus and Southern-grown ingredients makes it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans.
Their creative take on the burger French Quarter style is a must-try for those looking for good, authentic Italian cuisine. Avo is an affordable yet luxurious dining choice, making it a standout among great restaurants and a must-eat place in the city.
Location and Contact
- 5908 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115-3221
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-509-6550
- Email:- info@restaurantavo.com
10. Rizzuto’s Ristorante & Chop House
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Rizzuto’s Ristorante & Chop House is a unique blend of Sicilian roots and New Orleans charm. The restaurant showcases a variety of flavors and colors from the Rizzutos’ Sicilian heritage, making it a popular and romantic destination for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. Located in a cool place to eat, it’s perfect for those seeking an authentic and fancy dining experience.
Chef’s Choice
The menu proudly features classic Italian entrees like Shrimp Fra Diavolo and Crab and lobster Ravioli, alongside Prime steaks and chops. This mix of old-world and new-world cooking makes Rizzuto’s one of the best restaurants in New Orleans for good, authentic Italian food.
Their unique take on hamburgers in New Orleans style offers a delightful culinary experience, making it an affordable and must-eat place in the city.
Location and Contact
- 6262 Fleur de Lis Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124-1356
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-300-1804
- Email:- rizzutosocialmedia@rizzuto-group.com
11. San Lorenzo at Hotel Saint Vincent
Why It Is a Must-Visit
San Lorenzo at Hotel Saint Vincent is an elegant restaurant named for the patron saint of cooks. It’s an ode to coastal Italian cooking, infused with regional New Orleans influences.
The timeless design, featuring lush modern touches and outdoor seating, makes it a famous and romantic spot, ideal for those looking for fine dining in a fancy and cool place to eat.
Chef’s Choice
The menu highlights include seafood and handmade pasta dishes like Scampi Risotto, Lobster Bucatini, Gulf Flounder Piccata, and Grilled Creole Oysters. This blend of Italian and New Orleans cuisine makes it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans.
Their creative interpretation of the burger French Quarter style is a testament to their culinary expertise, making it a must-eat place for those in search of good and authentic Italian cuisine in an affordable yet luxurious setting.
Location and Contact
- 1507 Magazine St Hotel Saint Vincent, New Orleans, LA 70130-4723
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-350-2430
- Email:- marketing@mmlhospitality.com
12. Cafe Roma
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Cafe Roma, located in the Uptown area, is a delightful spot for fresh, handmade Italian cuisine. Known for its pizza, sandwiches, salads, and pasta, this local gem stands out for its commitment to freshness.
The pizza dough is made from scratch on-site, ensuring a unique and authentic taste. This popular and affordable spot is perfect for those seeking good food near me in a casual, yet cool place to eat.
Chef’s Choice
Cafe Roma’s menu is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients. Their range of salads, sandwiches, and pasta is made to order, offering a good and authentic Italian-American dining experience.
For those in search of a unique take on the burger French Quarter style, Cafe Roma offers an Italian twist. It’s an affordable choice for those looking for great restaurants and is certainly on the list of must-eat places in New Orleans.
Location and Contact
- 1800 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70113-1409
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-524-2419
- Email:- sanlorenzo@saintvincentnola.com
13. Cibo
Why It Is a Must-Visit
Cibo prides itself on being the best locally-owned independent Italian-American restaurant in New Orleans. The restaurant is committed to serving real, authentic recipes using only the freshest ingredients.
This dedication to quality and authenticity makes it a popular and romantic destination for those seeking fine dining. The atmosphere at Cibo is perfect for anyone looking for a fancy, yet cool place to eat.
Chef’s Choice
Every dish at Cibo is made with love and care, offering a great tasting and unique experience each time. This makes it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans for those seeking good, authentic Italian-American cuisine.
The restaurant’s take on classic dishes, including a creative twist on hamburgers in New Orleans style, is a testament to their culinary expertise. Cibo is an affordable yet luxurious dining choice, making it a must-eat place for those in search of great restaurants in the city.
Location and Contact
- 1114 S Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-592-7797
- Email:- Cibonola@myyahoo.com
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our journey through the best Italian food spots in New Orleans. From traditional family recipes to creative culinary twists, each restaurant we explored offers something special.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these places promise a memorable Italian dining experience. Next time you’re in New Orleans, be sure to check out these amazing spots for an authentic taste of Italy. Buon appetito!
