15 Best Italian restaurants in Rochester New York
Italian restaurants in Rochester, NY, offer a wide variety of delicious and authentic Italian cuisine. From classic pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, these restaurants bring the taste of Italy to upstate New York. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner or a family-style meal, the Italian restaurants in Rochester have something for everyone. Come and experience the warm hospitality and incredible food at these local gems.
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- 1. The Pasta Villa
- 2. Rocco
- 3. Lucano
- 4. Pane Vino On The River
- 5. Fiorella
- 6. Tony D's
- 7. Veneto Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta
- 8. Branca Midtown
- 9. Polizzi's
- 10. Bella Pasta Restaurant and Catering
- 11. Amore Italian Restaurant & Lounge
- 12. Mr. Dominic's at the Lake
- 13. Fiamma Centro
- 14. Grappa Italian Nouveau
- 15. Rizzis Restaurant
1. The Pasta Villa
Best homemade Italian food this side of Italy.
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Pasta Villa is known for its exceptional service that consistently impresses customers. Kind and attentive staff members are dedicated to providing a top-notch dining experience, often going above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. This level of service has earned Pasta Villa a strong reputation and numerous accolades from pleased patrons.
Food quality at Pasta Villa is another aspect that has garnered high praise from customers. Many commend the delicious taste and generous portion sizes of the Italian cuisine. From pasta dishes to pizzas, the offerings are considered to be of superior quality, contributing to Pasta Villa's status as a go-to dining destination for many. The positive feedback surrounding both the food and service highlights Pasta Villa's commitment to providing a memorable dining experience for its guests.
Pasta Villa is known for its exceptional service that consistently impresses customers. Kind and attentive staff members are dedicated to providing a top-notch dining experience, often going above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. This level of service has earned Pasta Villa a strong reputation and numerous accolades from pleased patrons.
Food quality at Pasta Villa is another aspect that has garnered high praise from customers. Many commend the delicious taste and generous portion sizes of the Italian cuisine. From pasta dishes to pizzas, the offerings are considered to be of superior quality, contributing to Pasta Villa's status as a go-to dining destination for many. The positive feedback surrounding both the food and service highlights Pasta Villa's commitment to providing a memorable dining experience for its guests.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
2. Rocco
Classic Italian dining experience in the heart of Rochester
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Rocco, a classic Italian restaurant in Rochester, stands out for its delicious and authentic offerings. The menu features a variety of dishes, with some consistent favorites such as grilled octopus and ricotta crostini. These staple items showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition.
The exceptional food at Rocco is complemented by impressive service. One notable dish is the semolina gnocchi, a traditional form of gnocchi dating back to Roman times. This menu item exemplifies the restaurant's dedication to providing guests with an authentic Italian dining experience. Whether enjoying the semolina gnocchi or any other dish, patrons can expect a memorable meal at Rocco.
Rocco, a classic Italian restaurant in Rochester, stands out for its delicious and authentic offerings. The menu features a variety of dishes, with some consistent favorites such as grilled octopus and ricotta crostini. These staple items showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition.
The exceptional food at Rocco is complemented by impressive service. One notable dish is the semolina gnocchi, a traditional form of gnocchi dating back to Roman times. This menu item exemplifies the restaurant's dedication to providing guests with an authentic Italian dining experience. Whether enjoying the semolina gnocchi or any other dish, patrons can expect a memorable meal at Rocco.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
3. Lucano
Authentic Italian recipes with imported ingredients.
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Nestled in Rochester, Chuck and JoAnn Formoso's restaurant provides a dining experience like no other. A recent visit with two friends, all of whom appreciate fine food, left us thoroughly impressed. We commenced our meal with the Lucano house salad, accompanied by Italian bread and an olive oil dip upon request.
The service at this establishment has been praised as exceptional by numerous reviewers. The menu boasts a wide selection of exquisite dishes, such as rack of lamb, steak, Italian specialties, and seafood. The dishes showcase fresh ingredients, and the knowledgeable staff is happy to recommend wine pairings to elevate the dining experience. My selection, the Veal Marsala, proved to be an excellent choice – tender and flavorful. My friends were equally delighted with their choices of gnocchi and lasagna. Overall, it was a highly satisfying and memorable meal.
Nestled in Rochester, Chuck and JoAnn Formoso's restaurant provides a dining experience like no other. A recent visit with two friends, all of whom appreciate fine food, left us thoroughly impressed. We commenced our meal with the Lucano house salad, accompanied by Italian bread and an olive oil dip upon request.
The service at this establishment has been praised as exceptional by numerous reviewers. The menu boasts a wide selection of exquisite dishes, such as rack of lamb, steak, Italian specialties, and seafood. The dishes showcase fresh ingredients, and the knowledgeable staff is happy to recommend wine pairings to elevate the dining experience. My selection, the Veal Marsala, proved to be an excellent choice – tender and flavorful. My friends were equally delighted with their choices of gnocchi and lasagna. Overall, it was a highly satisfying and memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
4. Pane Vino On The River
Experience the charm of Italy by the river
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The restaurant under review offers a wonderful atmosphere, featuring large windows that provide a stunning view of the Genesee River. Guests can enjoy their meal while taking in the sights of the river, creating a memorable dining experience.
The food served at this establishment is excellent, with a focus on Italian cuisine that is widely regarded as some of the best in town. The service is top-notch, with attentive and friendly staff who make sure every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Whether you're in the mood for pasta, pizza, or something else entirely, this restaurant is sure to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal.
The restaurant under review offers a wonderful atmosphere, featuring large windows that provide a stunning view of the Genesee River. Guests can enjoy their meal while taking in the sights of the river, creating a memorable dining experience.
The food served at this establishment is excellent, with a focus on Italian cuisine that is widely regarded as some of the best in town. The service is top-notch, with attentive and friendly staff who make sure every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Whether you're in the mood for pasta, pizza, or something else entirely, this restaurant is sure to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Mid-Range
5. Fiorella
Farm-to-table Italian cuisine in the heart of Rochester Public Market.
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A $20 corkage fee is charged for wine and beer at this establishment, providing patrons the freedom to savor their preferred libations alongside the venue's offerings. The service team is commendable, known for their friendly and obliging disposition, contributing to a delightful dining experience.
Customer reviews consistently highlight the quality of service, lauding the staff's promptness and helpfulness. The service experience is frequently characterized as superior, consistent, and uncomplicated, enhancing the overall satisfaction of diners at the establishment.
A $20 corkage fee is charged for wine and beer at this establishment, providing patrons the freedom to savor their preferred libations alongside the venue's offerings. The service team is commendable, known for their friendly and obliging disposition, contributing to a delightful dining experience.
Customer reviews consistently highlight the quality of service, lauding the staff's promptness and helpfulness. The service experience is frequently characterized as superior, consistent, and uncomplicated, enhancing the overall satisfaction of diners at the establishment.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
6. Tony D's
Real. Italian. Tradition.
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Tony D's, a restaurant located in Rochester, NY, specializes in both classic pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere for its patrons. Its friendly service and relaxed setting make it a popular destination for those seeking comforting Italian meals.
In addition to its delicious pizzas, Tony D's also boasts a modern and vibrant ambiance with a trendy atmosphere that appeals to a younger crowd. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes, appealing to a wide range of palates while maintaining a high standard of quality in its food and service.
Tony D's, a restaurant located in Rochester, NY, specializes in both classic pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere for its patrons. Its friendly service and relaxed setting make it a popular destination for those seeking comforting Italian meals.
In addition to its delicious pizzas, Tony D's also boasts a modern and vibrant ambiance with a trendy atmosphere that appeals to a younger crowd. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes, appealing to a wide range of palates while maintaining a high standard of quality in its food and service.
7. Veneto Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta
Experience authentic Italian flavors in a warm, inviting setting.
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The white sauce at this establishment is widely acclaimed for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Diners are also impressed with the crispy pizza crust, which provides a satisfying crunch with every bite. The salads have also received high praise for their freshness and variety, making them a popular choice for those seeking something lighter.
In addition to the delicious food, the restaurant is lauded for its vintage atmosphere. The interior design features a warm and inviting aesthetic, creating a comfortable dining experience for guests. The service at the restaurant is also commendable, with staff providing excellent hospitality and prompt attention to customers' needs. The Margherita pizza, in particular, is a favorite among guests, who appreciate the added touch of chopped basil as a garnish. The pasta offerings are also diverse and well-regarded, providing a range of options for diners to choose from.
The white sauce at this establishment is widely acclaimed for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Diners are also impressed with the crispy pizza crust, which provides a satisfying crunch with every bite. The salads have also received high praise for their freshness and variety, making them a popular choice for those seeking something lighter.
In addition to the delicious food, the restaurant is lauded for its vintage atmosphere. The interior design features a warm and inviting aesthetic, creating a comfortable dining experience for guests. The service at the restaurant is also commendable, with staff providing excellent hospitality and prompt attention to customers' needs. The Margherita pizza, in particular, is a favorite among guests, who appreciate the added touch of chopped basil as a garnish. The pasta offerings are also diverse and well-regarded, providing a range of options for diners to choose from.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
8. Branca Midtown
A love letter to traditional Italian flavors.
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Gnocchi, a classic Italian dish, is consistently prepared to a high standard. The texture of the gnocchi is exceptional, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. Smooth and almost melting, yet possessing a delicate firmness that adds to the overall experience. The accompanying sauce is a harmonious blend of richness and creaminess, elevating the dish without overwhelming it.
The service at this establishment is widely commended by patrons. Many customers have praised the staff for their exceptional service. The team demonstrates a commitment to providing a welcoming and comfortable dining experience, attending to customers' needs in a prompt and friendly manner. The collective efforts of the kitchen and service staff result in a memorable dining experience.
Gnocchi, a classic Italian dish, is consistently prepared to a high standard. The texture of the gnocchi is exceptional, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. Smooth and almost melting, yet possessing a delicate firmness that adds to the overall experience. The accompanying sauce is a harmonious blend of richness and creaminess, elevating the dish without overwhelming it.
The service at this establishment is widely commended by patrons. Many customers have praised the staff for their exceptional service. The team demonstrates a commitment to providing a welcoming and comfortable dining experience, attending to customers' needs in a prompt and friendly manner. The collective efforts of the kitchen and service staff result in a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Breakfast
9. Polizzi's
A delightful fusion of Italian, Greek, and Mediterranean flavors
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High acclaim surrounds the service quality, with numerous users praising its professionalism and excellence. This establishment has established a reputation for delivering impressive experiences to its guests.
The culinary offerings have received consistent compliments, with a diverse menu that includes Italian bread, cod in a creamy mushroom sauce, braised beef short ribs, and truffle butter mashed potatoes. Diners have raved about not only the delicious flavors but also the generous portion sizes, making it a great value for their dining experience. Paired with the top-tier service, the delicious food makes for an exceptional culinary journey.
High acclaim surrounds the service quality, with numerous users praising its professionalism and excellence. This establishment has established a reputation for delivering impressive experiences to its guests.
The culinary offerings have received consistent compliments, with a diverse menu that includes Italian bread, cod in a creamy mushroom sauce, braised beef short ribs, and truffle butter mashed potatoes. Diners have raved about not only the delicious flavors but also the generous portion sizes, making it a great value for their dining experience. Paired with the top-tier service, the delicious food makes for an exceptional culinary journey.
10. Bella Pasta Restaurant and Catering
A taste of Italy in every bite!
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This Italian restaurant in Rochester offers an exceptional dining experience, with a cozy atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home. The meatballs are a standout dish - cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. They are hands down some of the best meatballs you will ever try.
If you're looking for Italian cuisine in Rochester, this restaurant should be at the top of your list. The Chicken French is a particularly noteworthy dish - tender and juicy with a delicious sauce that complements it perfectly. I would highly recommend giving it a try on your next visit. Overall, the food and ambiance make this a must-visit destination for any Italian food lover.
This Italian restaurant in Rochester offers an exceptional dining experience, with a cozy atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home. The meatballs are a standout dish - cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. They are hands down some of the best meatballs you will ever try.
If you're looking for Italian cuisine in Rochester, this restaurant should be at the top of your list. The Chicken French is a particularly noteworthy dish - tender and juicy with a delicious sauce that complements it perfectly. I would highly recommend giving it a try on your next visit. Overall, the food and ambiance make this a must-visit destination for any Italian food lover.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
11. Amore Italian Restaurant & Lounge
Authentic Italian dining experience with a Mediterranean twist.
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A delightful dining experience awaits those who step into this Italian restaurant, known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious dishes. The staff are not only friendly but also knowledgeable, providing excellent service and making guests feel welcome.
The food offerings here are consistently excellent, with a focus on traditional Italian cuisine. A standout feature is the homemade pasta, which is simply mouthwatering. Whether you're a fan of classic dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or more adventurous options, this restaurant is sure to please your palate. The exceptional service and delicious food make it a must-visit destination for Italian food lovers.
A delightful dining experience awaits those who step into this Italian restaurant, known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious dishes. The staff are not only friendly but also knowledgeable, providing excellent service and making guests feel welcome.
The food offerings here are consistently excellent, with a focus on traditional Italian cuisine. A standout feature is the homemade pasta, which is simply mouthwatering. Whether you're a fan of classic dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or more adventurous options, this restaurant is sure to please your palate. The exceptional service and delicious food make it a must-visit destination for Italian food lovers.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
12. Mr. Dominic's at the Lake
Experience authentic Italian dining with a view of Lake Ontario.
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Mr. Dominic’s By The Lake offers a variety of classic Italian-American dishes with generously sized portions that are sure to satisfy. Reviews frequently mention the delicious red sauce, which complements dishes such as the popular eggplant parmigiana and blackened Haddock. For those craving something hearty, the gnocchi with sausage or meatball is a standout option.
On a recent visit, the plan was to dine by the water, but after discovering the chosen restaurant was closed, Mr. Dominic’s By The Lake became the unexpected, yet delightful, alternative. The evening began with a refreshing garden salad and a delectable pasta soup, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
Mr. Dominic’s By The Lake offers a variety of classic Italian-American dishes with generously sized portions that are sure to satisfy. Reviews frequently mention the delicious red sauce, which complements dishes such as the popular eggplant parmigiana and blackened Haddock. For those craving something hearty, the gnocchi with sausage or meatball is a standout option.
On a recent visit, the plan was to dine by the water, but after discovering the chosen restaurant was closed, Mr. Dominic’s By The Lake became the unexpected, yet delightful, alternative. The evening began with a refreshing garden salad and a delectable pasta soup, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
13. Fiamma Centro
Experience Italy in Rochester with our unique wood-fired pizzas!
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Fiamma Centro offers a genuine Italian dining experience, with a menu that showcases authentic Neapolitan wood-burning pizza and traditional Southern Italian dishes from the Campania region. The restaurant takes pride in being the first to introduce a true Neapolitan wood-burning oven to Monroe County.
The pizzas, baked in the wood-fired oven, are consistently delicious, although the recipes have seen slight modifications since the restaurant's move from its original location. The rest of the menu, which includes a variety of dishes that feature unique spices and flavors, is also worthy of exploration.(Note: This reviews's character count is 183, taking into account spaces, leaving ample room for additional text.)
Fiamma Centro offers a genuine Italian dining experience, with a menu that showcases authentic Neapolitan wood-burning pizza and traditional Southern Italian dishes from the Campania region. The restaurant takes pride in being the first to introduce a true Neapolitan wood-burning oven to Monroe County.
The pizzas, baked in the wood-fired oven, are consistently delicious, although the recipes have seen slight modifications since the restaurant's move from its original location. The rest of the menu, which includes a variety of dishes that feature unique spices and flavors, is also worthy of exploration.(Note: This reviews's character count is 183, taking into account spaces, leaving ample room for additional text.)
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
14. Grappa Italian Nouveau
Where nostalgia meets nouveau in Italian dining.
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The salad's presentation was a visual delight, boasting a vibrant and colorful array of fresh ingredients. However, the dressing seemed to be missing, leaving the salad somewhat lacking in flavor. On the other hand, the veal parmesan had a dry and tough texture, but it was easily salvaged with an extra serving of sauce.
The pasta dishes were the standout items of the meal, earning high praise from customers. The gemelli pasta with tomato ragu sauce was a hit with its perfect texture and rich, tangy flavor. Similarly, the fettuccine carbonara with pancetta and peas was a crowd favorite, with its creamy sauce and delicious mix of savory and sweet flavors. Overall, while there were some shortcomings in the salad and veal parmesan, the pasta dishes made up for it with their exceptional quality and taste.
The salad's presentation was a visual delight, boasting a vibrant and colorful array of fresh ingredients. However, the dressing seemed to be missing, leaving the salad somewhat lacking in flavor. On the other hand, the veal parmesan had a dry and tough texture, but it was easily salvaged with an extra serving of sauce.
The pasta dishes were the standout items of the meal, earning high praise from customers. The gemelli pasta with tomato ragu sauce was a hit with its perfect texture and rich, tangy flavor. Similarly, the fettuccine carbonara with pancetta and peas was a crowd favorite, with its creamy sauce and delicious mix of savory and sweet flavors. Overall, while there were some shortcomings in the salad and veal parmesan, the pasta dishes made up for it with their exceptional quality and taste.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
15. Rizzis Restaurant
Authentic Italian meals made fresh daily.
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The Italian dishes, made to order, showcased the authenticity and attention to detail that can only come from a truly passionate Italian kitchen. The pasta was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of bite, while the sauces were rich, bold, and packed with flavor. The quality of the ingredients was evident in every bite, making for a truly exceptional dining experience.
For the main course, the Shrimp Rizzi were a standout. Four large shrimp were generously stuffed with feta cheese and wrapped in bacon, resulting in a dish that was both delicious and satisfying. The combination of the savory bacon with the tangy feta was a delight for the taste buds, making for a memorable meal that was truly worthy of a special occasion. Overall, the menu offered an extensive selection of Italian specialty items, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. The knowledgeable and attentive staff were also a highlight, capping off a truly exceptional dining experience.
The Italian dishes, made to order, showcased the authenticity and attention to detail that can only come from a truly passionate Italian kitchen. The pasta was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of bite, while the sauces were rich, bold, and packed with flavor. The quality of the ingredients was evident in every bite, making for a truly exceptional dining experience.
For the main course, the Shrimp Rizzi were a standout. Four large shrimp were generously stuffed with feta cheese and wrapped in bacon, resulting in a dish that was both delicious and satisfying. The combination of the savory bacon with the tangy feta was a delight for the taste buds, making for a memorable meal that was truly worthy of a special occasion. Overall, the menu offered an extensive selection of Italian specialty items, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. The knowledgeable and attentive staff were also a highlight, capping off a truly exceptional dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings