21 of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester

Bursting with culture and known for its vast array of cuisine, there are so many great restaurants in Manchester to sink your teeth into. But sometimes nothing else cuts it quite like some authentic Italian food. If you ask most people in the UK what their favourite foods are, chances are pizza and pasta will feature somewhere around the top spot. They’re the perfect comfort dishes that can’t help but satisfy your cravings and remind you of summers abroad.

For a relatively small country, Italy’s cuisine has been exported far and wide to make it some of the world’s favourite fare, including Manchester, a region that has a significant connection with Italy. They don’t call Ancoats ‘Little Italy’ for nothing. Here, you’ll find people passionate about making the best pasta in the country while others are on a mission to produce the perfect pizza. The nice thing, in fact, about many of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester is that they often specialise in just one thing which means that exemplary crust or the ultimate silky sauce that has taken years to get just right.

Thanks to the thousands of Italians who migrated in the 19th century and have been sharing their food with Mancunians for generations, it’s incredibly easy to get food bursting with authentic flavours. The problem is, there are so many options that it can be hard to know which to choose. With a number of Italian chains dominating the space, it can be easy to overlook those traditional and independent joints that are serving food the way it’s done in Italy. But you can still enjoy fresh Neapolitan pizza and pasta all the way to Sicilian cannolis and creamy gelato - if you know where to look!

From rustic pizza spots through to fine dining pasta specialists, the best Italian restaurants in Manchester are far-reaching and offer something for every occasion. Explore our favourites below.

Bruco, Ancoats

What: Known for a neat menu of Italian small plates, Bruco has built a stellar reputation thanks to its easy service and big, bold flavours. Seasonal dishes, sharing plates, and a well-curated wine list form the core of this modern, all-day Italian, offering clever modern twists on the classics. Expect to see the likes of nduja chicken wings with basil yoghurt and slow-cooked pork cheek with celeriac, alongside pappardelle with minted lamb ragu and butternut squash gnocchi.
Dish to order: Slow-cooked beef short rib lasagne
Where: 5 Murray Street, M4 6HS
Book now: Bruco

Lina Stores, Spinningfields

What: This Manchester location marks Lina Stores’ first regional opening, following its success down in London. The MO remains the same: a delicatessen-cum-restaurant serving antipasti, fresh pasta, secondi and dolci for lunch and dinner. An open kitchen provides guests with a slice of the action and their cocktail bar, Bar Lina, is tucked behind the restaurant for those looking to carry on the night with some Italo disco. If Lina Stores’ impact on London is anything to go by, their Manchester rendition should become a staple in the city in no time.
Dish to order: Tagliolini al Tartufo
Where: St Johns Court, 17 Quay Street, M3 3HN
Book now: Lina Stores

Salvi's Mozzarella Bar, Corn Exchange

What: A family run eatery sharing the produce of Campania with the locals of Manchester. Starting out as a deli, Salvi's is now a treasure trove of Italian favourites featuring two sites across the region. With an alfresco terrace, this is a great spot for outdoor dining during those warmer seasons, while the cosy dining room comes into its own in the evening. Kick things off with antipasti options (calamari, bruschetta and arancini are all favourites here) before moving onto classic pizza, pasta and seafood mains.
Dish to order: Tagliere Famoso Salvi’s
Where: The Corn Exchange, M4 3TR
Book now: Salvi's Mozzarella Bar

Gusto, Deansgate

What: One of 13 locations across the UK, sit back and relax at Gusto with some elegant Italian dining and tuck into fresh food made from scratch. An extensive pizza and pasta menu are available but they’ve not limited themself to just the classics - they also do hearty burgers and excellent chicken dishes. Gusto favourites include carbonara, crab fettuccine and the carnivoro pizza with pepperoni, pork and basil crumb. With a lively atmosphere, relaxed interiors and an excellent cocktail list you’re bound to have a great evening at Gusto.
Dish to order: Gusto Dough Petals
Where: 4 Lloyd Street, M2 5AB
Book now: Gusto

Onda Pasta Bar, Circle Square

What: When it comes to Italian food, often the simpler the better and Onda is simply, a fresh pasta restaurant. Headed up by Michelin-trained chef Sam Astley Dean, Onda’s concise menu puts their fresh pasta centre-stage, with traditional recipes like spaghetti with parsley, chilli, garlic and breadcrumbs. There is also a selection of antipasti and pizzetta as well as tiramisu straight out of their tiramisu drawer, which has become a bit of a viral sensation. For an Italian meal that lets the quality of its ingredients shine, look no further than Onda.
Dish to order: Tiramisu
Where: Circle Square, 3 Symphony Park, M1 7FS
Book now: Onda Pasta Bar

Ciaooo, Ancoats

What: As with many of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester, Ciaooo Pizzeria is found in Ancoats, known as the Italian Quarter of Manchester. There’s a small selection of Italian sharers and starters but after that it’s just pizza, pizza, pizza. Vegan and gluten-free options are available here, so it makes a great spot when dining in a bigger group. Don’t miss trying one of the brand’s signature pizzas con burrata for that cheesy goodness with additional topping options including pancetta, wild boar salami and nduja sausage. With new specials every week, there'll always be something new to try on your next visit.
Dish to order: Deep Fried Lasagne
Where: 62-64 Swan Street, M4 5JU
Book now: Ciaooo

San Carlo, Deansgate

What: Sicily-born Carlo Distefano is at the helm of the San Carlo group, a national chain of Italian restaurants that are famed for their ability to draw a glitzy clientele. While there are a handful of Manchester outposts, we think the original is still the best. Sleek interiors make for ideal social media fodder, while the menu is just as inspiring. Antipasti platters come as perfect sharing starters, a theme which can be carried throughout mains, with huge plates of pasta made for a minimum of two guests to enjoy together. Our favourite is the Spaghetti Frutti di Mare which is a classic shellfish pasta dish with clams, mussels, prawns, garlic and tomato.
Dish to order: Spaghetti Frutti di Mare
Where: 42 King Street West, M3 2WY
Book now: San Carlo

Vero Moderno, Salford

What: Just outside the city centre, Vero Moderno is a great choice for anyone looking for an Italian restaurant near Salford. Combining a warm atmosphere with reassuringly familiar family food, Vero Moderno has made a name for itself thanks to its friendly team and infallible menus. While this isn’t fine dining, its low-key vibe ensures it never feels stuffy, and is ideal for taking the kids to or grabbing a table with a big group of friends. With Italian brunches, Sunday roasts and special lunchtime offers, there are menu options for every day of the week too.
Dish to order: Pappardelle with Slow Cooked Lamb
Where: Chapel Street, M3 5JF
Book now: Vero Moderno

Piccolino, Deansgate

What: Famous Clarence Street is the perfect location for this elegant restaurant, complete with an open kitchen, cocktail bar and an oyster and caviar bar. Leaning into fine dining style, the light and bright interiors and a far-reaching menu keep Piccolino packed most nights of the week. The cold counter is a popular place to start, showcasing some of Italy’s finest cured cuts and cheeses, while the sharing pizza-style breads are a classic choice with the option of rosemary and sea salt; tomato and basil; or mozzarella and smoked cheese. Favourites include rigatoni arrabbiata, a long tubed pasta with slow cooked tomato and chilli sauce, and bistecca alla Fiorentina, an aged t-bone steak served with crisp golden fries.
Dish to order: Rigatoni Arrabbiata
Where: 8 Clarence Street, M2 4DW
Book now: Piccolino

Rudy’s, Ancoats

What: Puffed up dough and charred crusts are the calling cards of Rudy’s - one of Manchester’s best restaurants for pizza. Here the Neapolitan style is king, with a carefully curated run of toppings that allow both the base and the accompaniments to shine. Top shouts include a prosciutto and rocket option as well as the Carni, a meaty pizza topped with wild boar salami, basil and extra virgin olive oil. Pizzas are complemented by a small run of snacky bits like salads and bowls of burrata. Meanwhile, desserts change regularly but you can usually expect classics like tiramisu or gelato.
Dish to order: Romagnola Pizza
Where: 9 Cotton Street, M4 5BF
Book now: Rudy’s Ancoats

Don Giovanni, Oxford Street 

What: For special occasions, Don Giovanni in Manchester offers a more upmarket option with a menu replete with luxurious dishes. You’ll find the likes of British seafood, including fresh mussels and clams served in a creamy sauce with toasted bread, as well as lobster thermidor cooked with onion, parsley, cream and English mustard. Steaks are cooked over a josper grill if you fancy a decent red meat hit with that signature smoky flavour, while there is a whole selection of pizzas too, to ensure everyone’s catered for.
Dish to order: Steak Fillet
Where: 1 Peter House, M1 5AN
Book now: Don Giovanni

Cibo, Deansgate

What: Cibo’s central Manchester location is housed in a grade-II listed building, boasting high ceilings, hanging chandeliers and glamorous decor. Aside from its impressive architecture, it also has an extensive a la carte menu which follows a traditional format, with primi, secondi, pizza and pasta as well as antipasti, sharing platters and desserts. If you’re looking for a special venue with a menu to suit all, Cibo is a top choice for celebrations, group dinners and private events.
Dish to order: Spaghetti Vongole
Where: 43 Spring Gardens, M2 2BG
Book now: Cibo

Giorgio, Oxford Street

What: Located at the crossroad of Oxford Street and Portland Street, Giorgio Restorante Italiano is a bright and vibrant option complete with those classic Italian touches. A Neapolitan-inspired menu full of classic dishes like tagliatelle marinara, for the seafood fanatics, and cannelloni di pollo, a pancake field with chicken, spinach and ricotta. They also do a pizza tropicale with ham and pineapple, if you’re wanting to spark a debate over dinner about this untraditional addition to the menu! Heavenly Italian desserts like panna cotta and affogato make for a delightful way to end your meal.
Dish to order: Pizza Tropicale
Where: 131 Portland Street, M1 4PY
Book now: Giorgio

Italiana Fiftyfive, Deansgate

What: Italiana Fiftyfive’s iconic yellow booths and standout service are a recipe for a decadent evening. With two locations in the heart of Manchester’s city centre and one in Didsbury Village, these restaurants blend modern design with timeless charm making it perfect for a special occasion or romantic date night. Their menu has something for everybody, including children and vegans, with a wide range of antipasti, classic pasta dishes, fresh fish, a selection of steaks and varied pizza toppings.
Dish to order: Linguine Pecorino
Where: Unit 4 Great Northern Warehouse, M3 4EN
Book now: Italiana Fiftyfive

Riva Blu, Corn Exchange

What: An Italian food lover's paradise, Riva Blu sits in the heart of the Corn Exchange, welcoming you to the south of Italy for an evening of classic and stylish dining. With plush, teal seating inside, as well as an alfresco terrace outside, there are dining options for all year round. Riva Blue specialises in rustic, no-frills dishes such as bruschetta with king prawns, beef carpaccio, and authentic Neapolitan pizzas with thick crusts. The dessert menu offers up a number of sweet treats including a lemon and berry panna cotta, and a chocolate and hazelnut cheesecake.
Dish to order: Pizza Napoletana Diavola
Where: 11 Corn Exchange, M4 3TR
Book now: Riva Blu

Noi Quattro, Northern Quarter

What: Forget family run restaurants, Noi Quattro is an Italian restaurant in the Northern Quarter run by a group of four friends. This is a more modern take on the classic dining experience, complete with an open plan kitchen that’ll allow you to watch on as the chefs prepare your dishes. With fun additions to the menu that you won’t see elsewhere on this list, Noi Quattro serves ‘cuoppos’ - a paper cone stuffed full of delicacies such as potato croquettes, courgette flowers flavoured dough balls. Tuck into these, alongside an extensive pizza menu and a long list of regional wines.
Dish to order: Cuoppo Misto
Where: 120 High Street, M4 1HQ
Book now: Noi Quattro

Casa Italia, Didsbury

What: With a gourmet deli and takeaway service, Casa Italia’s sites are a one-stop shop to curb your Italian cravings. With locations in Didsbury and Wilmslow, you have the option of taking some of their quality ingredients home with you or dining in with friends and family. The menu is simple and authentic, with fresh antipasti from the deli, traditional focaccia paninis and Roman-style pizza by the slice. It’s the sort of place that could be picked up and dropped in the heart of Rome and the Italian locals wouldn’t bat an eyelid.
Dish to order: Casa Italia Panini with mortadella, pistacchio and burrata
Where: 688-690 Wilmslow Road, M20 2DN
Book now: Casa Italia

Sicilian NQ, Northern Quarter

What: Coupled with an on-site patisserie, enjoy traditional Sicilian food and drink as well as cocktails and gelato at Sicilian NQ, a neighbourhood bistro in the heart of the Northern Quarter. With exposed brickwork and utilitarian wooden tables there's a rustic vibe that brings an authentic slice of Italy to its little corner of Manchester. Not to be missed is the famous arancini, a real favourite amongst locals, as well as a wide variety of cannolis, also available in a cannolicchio version as well (for a bite size after dinner treat). There's also an option to add bottomless prosecco, aperol spritz or limoncello to your plate.
Dish to order: Arancino Pistacchio
Where: 14 Turner Street, M4 1DZ
Book now: Sicilian NQ

Little Scarfs, Stockport

What: Little Scarfs is a culinary studio which offers unique events, pasta making workshops and dinner parties. Run by a husband-and-wife duo, the space is dynamic and community-focused, with opportunities to visit their venue often advertised on Instagram and via their website. From tasting menus to natural wine pairings, you’ll never tire of the opportunities this place has to offer. Their bread-and-butter is fresh pasta but they also experiment with fresh nibbles and seasonal desserts. For self-professed foodies that love finding a hidden gem, Little Scarfs is Manchester's best kept secret.
Dish to order: Fresh Pasta
Where: 17a Lower Hillgate, SK1 1JQ
Book now: Little Scarfs

Vincenzo Trattoria, Deansgate

What: Cosy and low-lit, the arched, brick walled dining room at Vincenzo Trattoria makes for the ideal date night venue or gathering spot for friends. Here you’ll find pizzas, pastas, mains and sides on the a la carte menu, an offering which is pleasingly varied. Start perhaps with sauteed king prawns in a lemon, garlic, chilli, white wine, and cream sauce, before moving on to something like a classic veal Milanese. This is a northern city after all, so spud lovers need not despair – chips and sauteed potatoes are both optional sides, and there’s a tasty selection of desserts on offer each day too.
Dish to order: Spaghetti Con Polpette
Where: 34 St. Ann Street, M2 7LE
Book now: Vincenzo Trattoria

Tre Ciccio, Ramsbottom

What: Inspired by the flavours of Southern Italy, Tre Ciccio offers warm service, authentic cookery and a rustic atmosphere. Founded by three friends, the name translates to ‘three chubby Italians’ which reflects the carefree, lively ambience of the restaurant. They’re best known for their pollo menu, which showcases Southern Italian style roast chicken and potatoes. It’s one of the few places in the country where you can try this dish so it’s well worth a go, but they also have a selection of delicious wood-fired pizzas, refined antipasti and enticing sides.
Dish to order: Pollo Parmo
Where: 16-18 Market Place, BL0 9HT
Book now: Tre Ciccio Ramsbottom

From vast, glamourous restaurants to traditional, neighbourhood delis, Manchester's Italian food scene has a venue to suit every occasion. For more Manchester dining inspiration, take a look at our roundup of the best restaurants in Manchester, which includes everything from relaxed modern British bistros to curry houses and cafes. Or for something extra special browse some of Manchester's best private dining rooms for hire.