Italian Restaurants in Columbus Ohio

Best 20 Italian Restaurants in Columbus Ohio

Columbus, Ohio, is home to one of the best Italian restaurants in Columbus Ohio have made their mark with their delectable cuisine. From traditional trattorias to modern eateries, these Italian restaurants offer a diverse array of dishes that showcase the richness and flavors of Italian gastronomy. 

Whether you’re craving wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, or mouthwatering antipasti, Columbus has a plethora of options to satisfy your Italian food cravings. 

Best 20 Italian Restaurants in Columbus Ohio

Let’s explore some of the best Italian restaurants in Columbus and discover their unique strengths that make them stand out in this thriving food scene.

1. Forno Kitchen and Bar

Forno Kitchen and Bar
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Forno Kitchen and Bar

Forno Kitchen and Bar is a fantastic Italian restaurant located in Columbus Ohio. Known for its modern and trendy atmosphere, Forno offers a unique dining experience.

The restaurant’s strength lies in its wood-fired oven, which imparts a delicious smoky flavor to its dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza or pasta, Forno’s menu has plenty to offer.

Their pizzas are crafted with fresh ingredients and topped with creative combinations that will satisfy any pizza lover. The pasta dishes are equally impressive, with homemade sauces and perfectly cooked noodles.

The staff at Forno is friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. If you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and great service, Forno Kitchen and Bar is a top choice.

2. Marcella’s

Marcella's
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Marcella’s

Marcella’s is a well-known Italian restaurant in Columbus Ohio, and it’s easy to see why it has earned such a reputation. This restaurant offers a charming and cozy ambiance, perfect for a date night or a gathering with friends and family.

The menu at Marcella’s is extensive, featuring a wide range of Italian classics. Their pasta dishes are particularly outstanding, with rich and flavorful sauces that are made in-house. The portions are generous, ensuring you won’t leave hungry.

One of the strengths of Marcella’s is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients, which elevates the flavors of their dishes.

The knowledgeable staff is always ready to make recommendations and provide excellent service. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian cuisine or looking for a new twist on old favorites, Marcella’s is a must-visit.

3. Martini Modern Italian

Martini Modern Italian
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Martini Modern

Martini Modern Italian is a sleek and sophisticated Italian restaurant located in Columbus Ohio. As the name suggests, they specialize in martinis and offer an impressive selection of handcrafted cocktails to complement their delicious food.

The menu at Martini Modern Italian features a fusion of traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist. Their dishes are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, showcasing the chef’s creativity and attention to detail.

From appetizers to desserts, each bite is a delight for the senses. The restaurant’s strength lies in its dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, resulting in dishes that burst with flavor.

The ambiance at Martini Modern Italian is upscale and contemporary, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or a memorable night out.

4. Pelino’s Pasta

Pelino's Pasta
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Pelino’s Pasta

Pelino’s Pasta is a hidden gem in Columbus Ohio, offering authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on homemade pasta. This small, family-owned restaurant is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The star of the show at Pelino’s Pasta is their pasta, which is made fresh daily and cooked to perfection. From classic favorites like spaghetti and meatballs to more unique creations, every dish showcases the chef’s skill and passion.

The sauces are flavorful and well-balanced, complementing the pasta beautifully. The restaurant’s strength lies in its commitment to traditional Italian cooking techniques and using quality ingredients.

The friendly and attentive staff adds to the overall dining experience, making Pelino’s Pasta a must-visit for pasta enthusiasts.

5. The Rossi Kitchen & Bar

The Rossi Kitchen & Bar
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The Rossi Kitchen & Bar

The Rossi Kitchen & Bar is a popular Italian restaurant located in Columbus Ohio, known for its creative dishes and lively atmosphere. The restaurant features a modern and stylish decor, creating a trendy yet comfortable setting.

The menu at The Rossi Kitchen & Bar is diverse, offering a range of Italian-inspired dishes with a contemporary twist. The chefs here are skilled at blending flavors and textures, resulting in dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious.

From small plates to hearty mains, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The Rossi is also known for its excellent cocktail program, with an extensive selection of craft cocktails to complement the meal.

The friendly and attentive staff adds to the overall experience, making The Rossi Kitchen & Bar a top choice for a memorable dining experience.

6. The Wine Bistro

The Wine Bistro
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The Wine Bistro

The Wine Bistro is not only a place to enjoy a wide selection of wines but also a fantastic Italian restaurant in Columbus Ohio. With its cozy and inviting ambiance, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends.

The menu at The Wine Bistro features a variety of Italian dishes, each expertly prepared and beautifully presented. From antipasti to desserts, every dish is made with attention to detail and high-quality ingredients.

The restaurant’s strength lies in its wine-pairing expertise, as the staff can recommend the perfect wine to enhance your dining experience.

The service is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring a memorable evening. If you appreciate great food and wine, The Wine Bistro is a wonderful choice.

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7. Buca di Beppo

Buca di Beppo
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Buca di Beppo

Buca di Beppo is a popular chain of Italian restaurants, including a location in Columbus Ohio. This family-style restaurant is known for its large portions and lively atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for groups and celebrations.

The menu at Buca di Beppo features classic Italian dishes, such as pasta, pizza, and various meat and seafood options. The portions are generous, and sharing is encouraged.

One of the strengths of Buca di Beppo is its ability to create a fun and festive dining experience. The walls are adorned with quirky decor, and the staff often engages in entertaining interactions with guests.

If you’re looking for a lively and casual Italian dining experience, Buca di Beppo is worth a visit.

8. Z Cucina di Spirito

Z Cucina di Spirito
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Z Cucina di Spirito

Z Cucina di Spirito is a charming Italian restaurant in Columbus Ohio that offers a contemporary take on traditional Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s strength lies in its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and presenting them in creative and flavorful ways.

The menu at Z Cucina di Spirito features a range of Italian dishes, including handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and tender meats. Each dish is expertly prepared, with attention to detail and a balance of flavors.

The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a great choice for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to provide recommendations and ensure a memorable dining experience.

9. Gallo’s on High

Gallo's on High
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Gallo’s on High

Gallo’s on High is a popular Italian restaurant located in Columbus Ohio, known for its rustic charm and delicious food. The restaurant’s strength lies in its authentic Italian flavors and comforting atmosphere.

The menu at Gallo’s on High features classic Italian dishes, such as lasagna, gnocchi, and chicken Parmesan. Each dish is made with care and attention to detail, resulting in flavors that transport you to Italy. The portions are generous, ensuring you won’t leave hungry.

The restaurant also offers a great selection of wines to complement your meal. The cozy and inviting ambiance, along with the friendly and attentive staff, makes Gallo’s on High a top choice for Italian cuisine in Columbus.

10. Lupo on Arlington

Lupo on Arlington
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Lupo on Arlington

Lupo on Arlington is a charming Italian restaurant in Columbus Ohio that offers a delightful dining experience. The restaurant’s strength lies in its focus on simple, yet elegant Italian cuisine.

The menu at Lupo on Arlington features a variety of dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. From homemade pastas to flavorful seafood and meat options, each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail.

The flavors are well-balanced, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine through. The restaurant’s ambiance is cozy and intimate, creating a perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

The knowledgeable staff provides excellent service, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

11. Nicola Restaurant and Bar

Nicola Restaurant and Bar
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Nicola Restaurant and Bar

Nicola Restaurant and Bar is a refined Italian restaurant located in Columbus Ohio, offering a sophisticated dining experience. The restaurant’s strength lies in its commitment to traditional Italian cuisine and its focus on using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

The menu at Nicola Restaurant and Bar features classic Italian dishes with a contemporary twist. From homemade pastas to expertly prepared seafood and meats, every dish is a testament to the chef’s skill and dedication.

The flavors are refined, and the presentation is elegant. The restaurant’s ambiance is upscale and inviting, making it a great choice for special occasions or a memorable night out.

The attentive and knowledgeable staff adds to the overall dining experience, ensuring a top-notch service.

12. Trattoria Roma

Trattoria Roma
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Trattoria Roma

Trattoria Roma is a cozy and charming Italian restaurant in Columbus Ohio, known for its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s strength lies in its traditional Italian recipes, passed down through generations.

The menu at Trattoria Roma features a variety of Italian dishes, including homemade pastas, flavorful sauces, and hearty meat and seafood options. Each dish is made with care and attention to detail, resulting in flavors that transport you to Italy.

The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and inviting, creating a comfortable setting for a relaxed meal. The friendly and attentive staff adds to the overall experience, making Trattoria Roma a top choice for Italian cuisine in Columbus.

13. Bar Cicchetti

Bar Cicchetti
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Bar Cicchetti

Bar Cicchetti is a trendy Italian restaurant located in Columbus Ohio, offering a vibrant and lively dining experience. The restaurant’s strength lies in its focus on small plates and sharing-style dining, inspired by the Italian tradition of Cicchetti.

The menu at Bar Cicchetti features a variety of small dishes packed with flavor, allowing guests to explore different flavors and combinations. From bruschetta to arancini and charcuterie boards, each dish is made with high-quality ingredients and attention to detail.

The restaurant’s ambiance is energetic, with a bustling atmosphere and a well-stocked bar. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to make recommendations and ensure a memorable evening.

14. Tony’s Italian Ristorante

Tony's Italian Ristorante
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Tony’s Italian Ristorante

Tony’s Italian Ristorante is a classic Italian restaurant located in Columbus Ohio, known for its traditional flavors and welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant’s strength lies in its commitment to authentic Italian recipes and its focus on using high-quality ingredients.

The menu at Tony’s Italian Ristorante features a range of Italian dishes, including homemade pastas, hearty meat and seafood options, and delicious desserts.

Each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail, resulting in flavors that are reminiscent of home-cooked meals.

The restaurant’s ambiance is cozy and inviting, creating a comfortable setting for a relaxed dinner. The friendly and attentive staff adds to the overall experience, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

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15. Z Cucina di Spirito Dublin

Italian Restaurants in Columbus Ohio
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Z Cucina di

Z Cucina di Spirito Dublin is a sister location of the aforementioned Z Cucina di Spirito, offering the same commitment to contemporary Italian cuisine. Located in Dublin, Ohio, this restaurant continues to impress with its flavorful and inventive dishes.

The menu at Z Cucina di Spirito Dublin features a fusion of Italian and Mediterranean flavors, incorporating fresh ingredients and creative combinations. From seafood to handmade pastas, every dish is beautifully presented and bursting with flavor.

The restaurant’s strength lies in its ability to provide a modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine, satisfying both adventurous and traditional palates. The stylish ambiance and attentive staff contribute to a memorable dining experience.

16. Sono Wood Fired

Sono Wood Fired
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Sono Wood Fired

Sono Wood Fired is an Italian restaurant in Columbus Ohio that specializes in wood-fired pizzas and contemporary Italian dishes.

The restaurant’s strength lies in its use of a wood-fired oven, which imparts a unique and delicious smoky flavor to its pizzas and other menu items. The pizzas at Sono Wood Fired are made with fresh ingredients and expertly crafted.

From classic Margherita to more inventive combinations, each pizza is a delight. The menu also features a selection of small plates, pastas, and desserts, all made with attention to detail and quality ingredients.

The ambiance at Sono Wood Fired is warm and inviting, making it a great choice for casual dining.

17. Urban Meyer’s Pint House

Urban Meyer's Pint House
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Urban Meyer’s

Urban Meyer’s Pint House is an Italian-American sports bar located in Columbus Ohio, offering a lively and casual dining experience. The restaurant’s strength lies in its combination of delicious Italian-inspired dishes and a vibrant sports bar atmosphere.

The menu at Urban Meyer’s Pint House features a range of classic and creative dishes, from wood-fired pizzas to hearty sandwiches and burgers. The flavors are bold, and the portions are generous.

The restaurant is adorned with sports memorabilia, creating a fun and energetic ambiance for sports enthusiasts. The friendly and attentive staff adds to the overall experience, ensuring a great time for both sports fans and food lovers.

18. Carfagna’s Kitchen

Carfagna's Kitchen
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Carfagna’s Kitchen

Carfagna’s Kitchen is a family-owned Italian restaurant in Columbus Ohio, known for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality. The restaurant’s strength lies in its commitment to traditional Italian recipes, passed down through generations.

The menu at Carfagna’s Kitchen features a variety of Italian dishes, including homemade pastas, hearty meat and seafood options, and decadent desserts.

Each dish is made with love and attention to detail, resulting in flavors that evoke memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals. The restaurant’s ambiance is welcoming and cozy, creating a comfortable setting for a relaxed dinner.

The attentive and friendly staff adds to the overall experience, making Carfagna’s Kitchen a beloved spot for Italian cuisine in Columbus.

19. Basi Italia

Basi Italia
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Basi Italia

Basi Italia is a charming Italian restaurant in Columbus that focuses on simple, rustic dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant’s strength lies in its emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients and its commitment to creating seasonal menus.

The menu features a variety of Italian classics prepared with a creative flair, such as homemade pasta dishes, seafood options, and flavorful sauces.

Basi Italia also offers a warm and cozy ambiance, making it an excellent choice for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends.

20. Lola & Guiseppe’s

Lola & Guiseppe's
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Lola & Guiseppe’s

Lola & Guiseppe’s is a charming Italian restaurant located in Columbus Ohio, offering a cozy and intimate dining experience. The restaurant’s strength lies in its focus on classic Italian flavors and its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The menu at Lola & Guiseppe’s features a range of Italian dishes, including handmade pastas, tender meats, and flavorful sauces. Each dish is made with care and attention to detail, resulting in flavors that transport you to Italy.

The restaurant’s ambiance is rustic and inviting, creating a warm and intimate setting for a romantic dinner or a gathering with loved ones. The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensures a memorable dining experience.

Summary

Whether you’re seeking a cozy ambiance, a lively atmosphere, or a refined dining experience, each of these establishments offers something unique. 

Embrace the flavors, indulge in the warmth of Italian hospitality, and embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the timeless allure of Italian cuisine.