Ohio’s vibrant Italian dining scene spans from century-old Little Italy landmarks to modern pasta innovators and beloved local favorites. Whether you’re looking for the most famous Italian restaurant in Ohio, tracking down a popular Italian restaurant in Ohio, or hoping to discover the #1 Italian restaurant in Ohio, this curated list of the best Italian restaurants in Ohio delivers unforgettable flavors and settings. Each description highlights most popular dishes in Italian restaurants to enjoy.

List of Top 10 Italian Restaurants in Ohio

1. Mia Bella (Cleveland) – Statewide Acclaim & Handcrafted Pasta

Named Ohio’s best Italian restaurant by 5 Reasons to Visit, Mia Bella is understandably called the most famous Italian restaurant in Ohio. It draws crowds for lobster ravioli, cheese tortellini, and frutti di mare—most popular dishes in Italian restaurants—served in a charming, laid-back Little Italy setting. With fresh, locally sourced ingredients, a curated wine list, and a cozy vibe, Mia Bella shines as both a popular Italian restaurant in Ohio and the #1 Italian restaurant in Ohio for many Italian food lovers.

2. Guarino’s (Cleveland) – Little Italy’s Centennial Jewel

Opened in 1918, Guarino’s is one of the oldest Italian restaurants in Ohio and a Little Italy institution. Known for garlic-packed pasta, veal, and red-sauce classics, it stands out among the best Italian restaurants in Ohio for authenticity. Frequented by legends like Dean Martin and Sinatra, its hearty, home-style cooking features most popular dishes in Italian restaurants and retains that village charm. Guarino’s is a living answer to the most famous Italian restaurant in Ohio, beloved for generations.

3. Speck (Columbus) – Downtown’s Fresh‑Pasta Powerhouse

Opened in 2023, Speck quickly made waves as a standout popular Italian restaurant in Ohio. In a lively downtown setting, they handcraft pasta daily and plate inventive dishes like mussels in spicy broth with house-made scacciata. As one of the best Italian restaurants in Ohio, Speck feels fresh and modern, elevating traditional flavors with bold flair. For those asking what’s the #1 Italian restaurant in Ohio right now, Speck is a top contender among Columbus diners.

4. Piazza Pelino (Columbus) – Short North Focaccia & Gelato Star

Voted Yelp’s #1 Italian in Columbus, Piazza Pelino shines with memorable focaccia, gelato, and vibrant pasta dishes. Its spicy-sauce gnocchi and seasonal lasagnas are among the most popular dishes in Italian restaurants locally. Known for its upbeat energy and fresh ingredients, it ranks among the best Italian restaurants in Ohio—especially popular in the Short North. Piazza Pelino’s friendly vibe and consistent Italian comfort food make it a beloved go-to.

5. Martini Modern Italian (Columbus) – Contemporary Craft & Vodka Pennette

Martini Modern Italian was named Ohio’s best Italian restaurant by 24/7 Tempo. Its stylish Short North space features house-made mozzarella and standout dishes like pennette alla vodka, lobster risotto, and gorgonzola arancini—most popular dishes in Italian restaurants. A go-to for date nights and upscale casual dining, Martini ranks high among the top Italian restaurants in Ohio and remains a local favorite.

6. Lola & Giuseppe’s Trattoria (Columbus) – Mom‑and‑Pop Italian Classic

Operating since the ’90s, Lola & Giuseppe’s is a popular Italian restaurant in Ohio appreciated for its warm atmosphere and traditional dishes. Crowd favorites include lobster ravioli, chicken parmigiana, homemade meatballs, and cannoli—most popular dishes in Italian restaurants—served in an intimate, cozy setting. Frequently suggested by locals, it’s a reliable choice among the best Italian restaurants in Ohio for those craving comforting, authentic Italian-Family meals.

7. Marcella’s (Columbus) – Group-Pleasing Pasta and Pizza

Marcella’s, with locations in Short North and Polaris, is ideal for groups and events. Its wine list and menu—featuring pesto shrimp pizza, chicken parm, braised meatballs—are among the most popular dishes in Italian restaurants. Known for gluten-free options and convivial atmosphere, it’s listed among best Italian restaurants in Ohio as a casual, crowd‑pleasing destination.

8. Cento (Columbus) – German Village’s Elegant Chef‑Driven Dining

Cento, in German Village, is praised for its elegant service, seasonal pastas, and wine selection. Known for orecchiette alla zozzona and linguine with clams—most popular dishes in Italian restaurants—it’s been ranked one of the best Italian restaurants in Ohio by Yelp. A go-to for romantic dinners or business meals, Cento delivers refined Italian cuisine off-the-beaten path.

9. Claudiana (Columbus) – Strip‑Mall Gem with Upscale Feel

Claudiana may be hidden in a strip mall, but its dimly lit, white‑tablecloth interior and robust pasta menu make it one of the best Italian restaurants in Ohio. With braised lamb ragu, red pepper ravioli, and elegant desserts among the most popular dishes in Italian restaurants, it’s a stylish surprise and a popular Italian restaurant in Ohio for those craving high-quality food without the fuss.

10. Giammarco’s (Westerville/Columbus) – Home‑Style Italian with Crowd Appeal

Giammarco’s family-style trattoria in Westerville stands out as a popular Italian restaurant in Ohio for its comforting fare—flame-broiled steaks, lasagna, chicken marsala—scoring big on most popular dishes in Italian restaurants . With private event space and “order-of-the-heart” reviews, it’s beloved locally and regularly considered among the best Italian restaurants in Ohio for family gatherings.

🍝 Conclusion: Ohio’s Italian Table

From Cleveland icons like Mia Bella and Guarino’s to modern gems like Speck and Cento, Ohio’s Italian dining scene offers something for every palate. Whether you’re seeking the most famous Italian restaurant in Ohio, craving most popular dishes in Italian restaurants, or searching for the #1 Italian restaurant in Ohio, this top 10 Italian restaurants in Ohio list has you covered. Buon appetito!