10 Little-Known Italian Restaurants In Arizona That Deserve A Spot On Your Must-Try List
Arizona might be famous for its Mexican food and Southwestern flavors, but hidden throughout the state are some incredible Italian restaurants that many people have never heard of. I’ve discovered spots where family recipes are passed down through generations and where fresh pasta is made by hand every single day.
These hidden gems offer authentic Italian experiences that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a trattoria in Rome or Florence, all without leaving the desert.
1. Andreoli Italian Grocer – Scottsdale
Walking into this place feels like visiting your Italian grandmother’s kitchen. Giovanni and Paola Scorzo opened this spot to bring real Italian flavors to Arizona, and they’ve nailed it perfectly.
You’ll find imported cheeses, cured meats, and homemade pasta that taste just like they came straight from Italy. The lunch counter serves up incredible sandwiches piled high with prosciutto and fresh mozzarella.
I love how they combine a market with a restaurant so you can grab groceries and enjoy a meal in one visit. Their lasagna is made fresh daily and will absolutely change your life. Don’t skip the tiramisu because it’s honestly the best I’ve ever tasted outside of Italy itself.
2. Christo’s Ristorante – Phoenix
Family-owned since 1986, this restaurant has been serving Phoenix residents incredible Italian meals for decades. The Maggiore family runs the place with so much heart and passion that you can taste it in every bite.
Their menu features Northern Italian classics that aren’t commonly found at chain restaurants around town. I recommend trying their osso buco because the meat falls right off the bone and melts in your mouth.
The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming rather than stuffy or pretentious like some fancy restaurants can be. Their wine list includes both Italian imports and local Arizona wines that pair beautifully with your meal. Service here is attentive without being overbearing, making every visit feel special.
3. L’Amore Ristorante – Paradise Valley
Romance practically drips from the walls of this intimate Paradise Valley hideaway. Chef Angelo Livi brings decades of culinary experience to create dishes that showcase traditional Italian techniques with modern flair.
The menu changes seasonally to highlight the freshest ingredients available at any given time. I’ve been here multiple times and never had the same experience twice, which keeps things exciting and fresh.
Their handmade ravioli stuffed with ricotta and spinach is absolutely divine and perfectly seasoned. The outdoor patio offers stunning desert views that make your dining experience even more memorable. This spot works perfectly for anniversaries, date nights, or any celebration where you want something truly special.
4. Giuseppe’s on 28th – Phoenix
Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, this gem has been quietly serving phenomenal Italian food since 1988. Giuseppe and his wife started this restaurant to share authentic recipes from their hometown in Southern Italy.
The veal parmigiana here is legendary among locals who’ve been coming back for years. Everything gets made from scratch daily, including their marinara sauce that simmers for hours to develop deep flavors.
I appreciate how they’ve kept their menu simple and focused on doing classic dishes exceptionally well. The portions are generous enough to share or take home leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch. Their garlic bread arrives warm and buttery, perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce on your plate.
5. Baci Italian Bistro – Mesa
Mesa residents are lucky to have this neighborhood bistro serving up comfort food with an Italian twist. The owners treat every guest like family, remembering your name and favorite dishes after just one visit.
Their chicken marsala features tender meat in a rich mushroom wine sauce that pairs wonderfully with their creamy polenta. I always start my meal with their bruschetta because the tomatoes taste garden-fresh and the bread has the perfect crunch.
The casual atmosphere makes this spot ideal for weeknight dinners when you don’t want anything too fancy. Their prices are incredibly reasonable considering the quality and portion sizes you receive. Live music on weekends adds a fun, lively energy to the already welcoming space.
6. The Italian Daughter – Scottsdale
Chef Danielle Leoni pours her Italian heritage into every dish at this contemporary Scottsdale restaurant. Her grandmother’s recipes inspire the menu, but she adds creative touches that make each plate feel both familiar and exciting.
The house-made pasta gets rolled out fresh every morning and you can absolutely taste the difference. I’m obsessed with their cacio e pepe because it’s simple yet perfectly executed with just cheese, pepper, and pasta.
The space feels modern and bright without losing that cozy Italian trattoria vibe we all love. Their cocktail menu features Italian spirits and creative twists on classic drinks that complement the food beautifully. Weekend brunch here is becoming popular, offering Italian takes on breakfast favorites.
7. Uncle Sal’s Italian Restaurant + Bar – Scottsdale
This spot brings New York-style Italian American cooking to the Arizona desert with attitude and flavor. The energy here buzzes with conversation and laughter, making you feel like you’re at a big family gathering.
Their pizza comes out of a wood-fired oven with a perfectly charred crust that’s chewy and crispy simultaneously. I can’t get enough of their meatballs, which are huge, tender, and swimming in tangy tomato sauce.
The bar serves creative cocktails alongside an impressive selection of Italian wines and local craft beers. Their Sunday gravy simmers all day long and gets served over whatever pasta shape you prefer. The portions are absolutely massive, so come hungry or plan to share with your dining companions.
8. Spiga Cucina Italiana – Scottsdale
Chef Stefano Fabbri trained in Italy before bringing his exceptional skills to Scottsdale’s dining scene. His attention to detail shows in every element, from the plating to the perfectly balanced flavors in each dish.
The tasting menu here takes you on a culinary journey through different regions of Italy. I recommend surrendering to the chef’s expertise and letting him choose your courses for an unforgettable experience.
Their seafood dishes shine particularly bright, featuring fresh fish prepared with light, flavorful sauces that don’t overpower. The wine pairings are thoughtfully selected to enhance each course rather than compete with the food. This restaurant works best for special occasions when you want to indulge in something truly extraordinary.
9. Tutti Santi – Phoenix
Hidden in a converted house in central Phoenix, this restaurant feels like discovering a secret that you want to share with everyone. The Maggiore family operates this location with the same dedication to quality that made their other restaurants successful.
Regional Italian specialties from various provinces fill the menu with options you won’t find at typical Italian restaurants. Their wild boar ragu is rich and hearty, served over pappardelle pasta that soaks up every bit of sauce.
The converted home setting creates intimate dining spaces that feel cozy and romantic rather than crowded. I love their seasonal specials that showcase ingredients at their peak freshness throughout the year. The staff knows the menu inside and out and can guide you toward dishes that match your preferences.
10. Pizzeria Bianco – Phoenix
Chris Bianco’s pizza has earned national recognition and awards, yet many Arizona visitors still don’t know about this Phoenix institution. His dedication to sourcing the best ingredients and perfecting his craft has created pizzas that people wait hours to taste.
The dough ferments slowly to develop complex flavors and that signature chewy texture everyone raves about. I suggest trying the Wiseguy with wood-roasted onion, house-smoked mozzarella, and fennel sausage for an incredible flavor combination.
The crust achieves that perfect balance between crispy edges and soft, pillowy centers that defines great Neapolitan-style pizza. Lines can get long, but the wait is absolutely worth it for what many consider the best pizza in America. Their salads also deserve attention, featuring fresh local produce dressed simply to let ingredients shine.
