
One of our favorite ways to warm up on a frigid winter day is to indulge in a fresh homemade pasta dish. There's something comforting about eating a classic Italian meal, whether in-house or to-go. The smell of fresh Italian herbs, the taste of fine wine, and the sight of a freshly prepared pasta dish create a truly enjoyable dining experience.
Whether you're planning a family dinner or a romantic date night, there are several delicious Italian restaurants in the Northeast Ohio area that offer amazing menus with entrees not to be missed. Below are nine recommendations for local restaurants where you just might discover your favorite new pasta dish.
12113 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Another great choice in Cleveland's Little Italy is Maxi's Bistro. This restaurant is frequently known as one of the best places to visit in Cleveland. Maxi's menu offers several classic Italian dishes, pastas, and gourmet pizzas in a relaxing setting with a welcoming ambiance. You have to try the Lobster Ravioli with cognac cream sauce! The restaurant is currently open for limited dining capacity and delivery, takeout, and curbside pickup. In the summertime, they have a beautiful garden patio for outdoor dining.
12207 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
View this post on Instagram
Located in the heart of Cleveland's Little Italy, Trattoria On The Hill has been serving old-school Italian cuisine since 1984. This family-owned-and-operated restaurant features all the classic Italian dishes like Cavatelli, Ravioli, and Linguine With Clams. Best of all, they actually sell jars of their signature sauce on-site. If you'd prefer to eat your pasta dinner at home, Trattoria On The Hill is currently accepting takeout orders by phone.
18401 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
What could be better than contemporary pasta dishes in a warm, cozy atmosphere? Head on over to Lakewood and check out Molto Bene Italian Eatery. If you love delicious Lasagna, Tortellini, Gnocchi, Fettuccine, and a wide range of savory homemade Italian sauces, Molto Bene is the place for you. Best of all, you can indulge in their award-winning Gelato for dessert. Molto Bene is frequently considered one of Lakewood's best Italian restaurants, and we definitely recommend it. Party sizes are currently limited to five people or less, and reservations are recommended as space is limited. Hard time getting a table? Takeout is also available.
566 White Pond Dr., Akron, OH 44320
View this post on Instagram
For a traditional white-tablecloth dining experience, head on down to Akron and try D'Agnese's Trattoria and Cafe at White Pond. This cozy restaurant serves classic Italian cuisine at a reasonable price. They offer an eloquent dine-in experience, but you can also call in for carryout or curbside pickup. The chef prepares a carefully crafted menu of monthly specials, so there are always various new dishes to try. If you would prefer to stick to the classics, you can't go wrong with the Pan-Seared Salmon over Risotto or one of their delicious gourmet pizzas!
12200 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
A contemporary Italian restaurant with a Mediterranean twist, Cleveland's Mia Bella Restaurant is a family-owned-and-operated establishment serving up some of the best pasta dishes in Northeast Ohio. Add in a large selection of wines from around the world, and Mia Bella's makes for a fantastic date night spot. The chef has more than 20 years of experience cooking in fine-dining establishments, so you know you're going to have a delicious meal. Outdoor dining is available on the patio when weather permits; however, indoor dining capacity is limited. Carryout orders are available by phone.
2100 Superior Viaduct, Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
If upscale Italian is more your style, Luca Italian Cuisine in Cleveland can make for a perfect date night. This award-winning restaurant offers modern high-end Northern Italian dishes with stunning views of Cleveland. Their menu features more than 100 wines from around the world, and upscale pasta dishes are made in an authentic Tuscan style and served in a truly elegant atmosphere. Both dine-in and takeout options are available.
105 N. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
If you like a homestyle casual family atmosphere, Luigi's Restaurant in Akron is an absolute must-try. Established in 1949, Luigi's has been an Akron staple for several decades. The Baked Lasagna with garlic bread is absolutely delicious. The portions are huge, and the prices are reasonable, so it's a good idea to come hungry. For dessert, you have to try one of Luigi's freshly-baked pies! The restaurant is open for limited dine-in seating; however, they do get very busy, so plan your visit accordingly. Takeout orders can be placed by phone if you'd prefer to try Luigi's at home.
2644 W. 41st St., Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
Located just south of downtown Cleveland is Bruno's Ristorante. This classic restaurant offers authentic Italian dining and a variety of delicious pasta dishes designed by Chef Bruno himself. Enjoying some homemade Gnocchi with Bruno's blush sauce in a warm, intimate atmosphere is the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter night. Bruno's menu is designed to delight both the eye and the palette and the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options are all available. Be sure to make a reservation if you're planning to stop by on a weekend.
12309 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
For some truly old-school Italian fare, stop by Cleveland's oldest restaurant. Guarino's, located in Little Italy, was opened by Vincenzo Guarino after he came from Sicily in 1898. The menu features dishes like Gnocchi Pesto, Pasta Primavera, and Linguine With Clam Sauce, along with all the classics. The restaurant also has a beautiful garden area for outdoor dining when weather permits. Guarino's is currently open for dine-in eating, but takeout can also be ordered online. Valet parking is also available on weekends.
What's your favorite Italian restaurant in Northeast Ohio?