Italian food has a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s the irresistible aroma of simmering tomato sauce or the rich taste of handmade pasta, it’s no surprise that Italian cuisine is a favorite all around the world. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably scoured the web searching for the best Italian restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona, a place that delivers a perfect combination of authentic flavors, inviting ambiance, and stellar service. Luckily, Scottsdale is home to some fantastic Italian restaurants that never disappoint.
While Scottsdale might be famous for its luxury resorts and desert landscapes, its culinary scene is equally impressive, and Italian food plays a leading role. From cozy trattorias to high-end dining spots, there’s something for every palate when it comes to finding the best Italian eats.
Why Scottsdale Is an Italian Food Haven
Scottsdale is an amazing city with a culinary reputation that extends beyond the Southwest. Sure, there are great restaurants serving all kinds of cuisine here, but when it comes to Italian food, the city really stands out. There’s a strong presence of chefs with deep Italian roots, ensuring that authentic flavors shine through, while the laid-back Scottsdale vibe makes dining even more enjoyable.
Italian food holds a special place in our hearts because it’s all about family, love, and simple, fresh ingredients. And the beauty of Scottsdale is that it offers Italian dining experiences for every occasion, whether you’re looking for a casual pizza night or an upscale evening out. It’s no wonder Italian food is one of the most popular cuisines in the area.
What Makes an Italian Restaurant the Best?
Not every Italian restaurant can claim the title of “best.” But what exactly sets the best apart from the rest? Let’s take a look at the key elements that make a great Italian restaurant:
- Fresh Ingredients: Quality ingredients are non-negotiable. The best Italian restaurants use fresh produce, top-quality meats, and traditional Italian staples like olive oil, basil, and ripe tomatoes. You’ll taste the difference in every bite.
- Handmade Pasta: There’s nothing quite like handmade pasta. The texture, the flavor, it’s worlds apart from the store-bought stuff. If an Italian restaurant makes its pasta in-house, you can be sure they’re serious about authenticity.
- Warm Ambiance: Dining in an Italian restaurant is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food. The best places make you feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy, family-run eatery in Italy. Expect welcoming staff, rustic décor, and maybe even an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work.
- An Amazing Wine List: Italy is known for its wine, so a great Italian restaurant should have a stellar wine selection to match its food. A well-curated wine list can take your dining experience to the next level.
With these key elements in mind, let’s dive into some of the best Italian restaurants in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Top Italian Restaurants in Scottsdale, Arizona
Olive & Ivy
If you’re looking for a spot that blends Mediterranean and Italian flavors, Olive & Ivy is a standout. Located in the heart of Scottsdale, this restaurant offers a stylish yet relaxed setting along the waterfront.
Their menu features a range of Italian-inspired dishes with a modern twist. I personally recommend the braised short rib rigatoni, it’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor. And if you have a sweet tooth, their olive oil cake is an absolute must-try. The extensive wine list is also a big draw, offering perfect pairings for every dish.
Don’t just read about it, join the fun! Explore upcoming events, restaurant deals, and nightlife hotspots on Laparizone.
Andreoli Italian Grocer
Stepping into Andreoli Italian Grocer is like being transported to Italy. Located on Via Linda, this family-owned gem doubles as both a restaurant and a grocery store, offering authentic Italian fare alongside imported Italian products. Chef Giovanni Scorzo brings his heritage to life with dishes inspired by his Calabrian roots.
Their handmade pastas and freshly baked pastries are just the beginning. Andreoli’s has an atmosphere that feels like home, and if you’re in the mood for a simple but perfect meal, their sandwich made with imported Italian meats is to die for. It’s a spot you can return to again and again, and each time feels like a little Italian getaway.
Marcellino Ristorante
If you’re in the mood for fine dining, Marcellino Ristorante is one of the best Italian restaurants in Scottsdale for an upscale experience. Chef Marcellino Verzino and his wife Sima run this beautiful restaurant with passion, and it shows in every detail, from the hand-made pastas to the intimate dining atmosphere.
The gnocchi alla sorrentina and fettuccine alla Bolognese are personal favorites. The dishes are made with precision and care, offering you a truly authentic Italian experience. Marcellino Ristorante also boasts an impressive wine list, ensuring your dinner is complemented by the perfect glass of vino.
Why Handmade Pasta is Worth the Hype
One of the things that makes Italian food so beloved is the dedication to quality, and nothing exemplifies that more than handmade pasta. There’s a reason why pasta made from scratch is a game-changer. It’s softer, more flavorful, and holds onto sauces better than any dried pasta could.
Take a restaurant like Fat Ox, for example. This Scottsdale favorite specializes in classic Italian recipes with a modern twist, but the real star of the show is their fresh, handmade pasta. Whether it’s the silky strands of their tagliatelle or the perfect little pillows of their tortellini, each bite is an experience.
Italian Food is More Than Just Pasta: Let’s Talk Pizza
When thinking of Italian food, we can’t forget about pizza. And Scottsdale has no shortage of incredible pizzerias that craft some of the best wood-fired pizzas outside of Italy.
Pomo Pizzeria
One of the most authentic pizza places in Scottsdale is Pomo Pizzeria. They follow the strict rules of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, ensuring their pizzas are made in the true Neapolitan style. The dough is soft and chewy with just the right amount of char from the wood-fired oven, and the toppings are simple but flavorful.
Their Margherita pizza is a classic, but if you want something more adventurous, try the tartufo pizza. It’s topped with earthy truffle oil and mushrooms, an indulgence worth every bite.
Dining in Scottsdale: An Experience, Not Just a Meal
What makes Italian dining special isn’t just the food. It’s the experience of sitting down for a meal, taking your time, savoring every bite, and enjoying the company of those around you. The best Italian restaurants in Scottsdale embrace this philosophy. They encourage you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and really appreciate the food and the atmosphere.
Whether you’re having a quiet date night or a lively family dinner, Italian restaurants in Scottsdale make it feel like a special occasion every time. They’ve perfected the art of turning a simple meal into an unforgettable experience.
Perfect Spots for Celebrating
Looking for a spot to celebrate a big moment? Scottsdale’s Italian restaurants offer plenty of options for those special occasions. Here’s one of my top picks:
Franco’s Italian Caffe
If you’re celebrating something special, Franco’s Italian Caffe in Old Town Scottsdale is the place to be. The atmosphere is intimate and charming, and the menu is full of Italian classics that are expertly prepared. Their veal piccata and linguine with clams are standouts, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a milestone celebration.
FAQs
What is the best Italian restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona?
The best Italian restaurants in Scottsdale include Marcellino Ristorante, Olive & Ivy, and Andreoli Italian Grocer, each offering their own take on traditional Italian cuisine.
Do any Italian restaurants in Scottsdale offer gluten-free options?
Yes, many Italian restaurants, such as Fat Ox and Olive & Ivy, offer gluten-free pasta and other menu items for those with dietary restrictions.
Are there family-friendly Italian restaurants in Scottsdale?
Absolutely. Places like Mamma Lucy and DeFalco’s Italian Deli are perfect for families, offering hearty, home-style Italian dishes in a welcoming environment.
Do Scottsdale Italian restaurants serve wine?
Yes, most Italian restaurants in Scottsdale have well-curated wine lists that feature Italian and local wines, with selections to pair perfectly with their menu offerings.
What’s the best pizza place in Scottsdale?
For authentic Neapolitan pizza, Pomo Pizzeria is a top pick. Their wood-fired pizzas follow traditional Italian methods, making them a favorite for pizza lovers.
Is handmade pasta common in Scottsdale’s Italian restaurants?
Many top Italian restaurants, like Marcellino Ristorante and Andreoli Italian Grocer, make their pasta from scratch daily, ensuring the freshest and most authentic dining experience.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to finding the best Italian restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona, the choices are incredible. From the authentic, family-run Andreoli Italian Grocer to the upscale dining experience at Marcellino Ristorante, there’s a place for every taste and occasion. If you’re ever in the mood for a memorable Italian meal, Scottsdale is the place to be.
I got what you intend,saved to my bookmarks, very decent web site.
Some genuinely great info , Gladiolus I noticed this.
Good day! I know this is kinda off topic but I was wondering which blog platform are you using for this site? I’m getting fed up of WordPress because I’ve had issues with hackers and I’m looking at alternatives for another platform. I would be great if you could point me in the direction of a good platform.
This is a topic close to my heart cheers, where are your contact details though?
You should take part in a contest for one of the best blogs on the web. I will recommend this site!
I really appreciate this post. I have been looking everywhere for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You’ve made my day! Thanks again
Just wish to say your article is as astounding. The clearness in your put up is simply great and that i can assume you’re a professional in this subject. Fine with your permission allow me to grasp your feed to stay updated with approaching post. Thanks a million and please carry on the rewarding work.
I will right away grab your rss as I can’t in finding your email subscription hyperlink or newsletter service. Do you have any? Kindly let me recognize so that I may subscribe. Thanks.
I regard something genuinely special in this internet site.
I think this website has some very wonderful info for everyone. “Glory is fleeting, but obscurity is forever.” by Napoleon.
Joint Genesis is a joint health supplement developed by BioDynamix, a company known for using the latest research in natural health.
I’m still learning from you, as I’m improving myself. I definitely enjoy reading everything that is posted on your website.Keep the posts coming. I enjoyed it!
You have noted very interesting points! ps decent website .
Nerve Calm is a scientifically designed nerve health supplement that targets the root causes of nerve discomfort, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrient deficiencies.
Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as though you relied on the video to make your point. You obviously know what youre talking about, why throw away your intelligence on just posting videos to your site when you could be giving us something enlightening to read?
Hello my friend! I wish to say that this post is amazing, nice written and include almost all significant infos. I’d like to see more posts like this.
I have learn a few excellent stuff here. Certainly value bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how a lot attempt you place to create any such magnificent informative site.
Vigor Long Gummies are a modern male enhancement supplement designed to naturally support testosterone levels, improve blood flow, and increase sexual endurance.
I have been browsing online more than three hours nowadays, yet I by no means found any attention-grabbing article like yours. It is lovely worth sufficient for me. In my opinion, if all site owners and bloggers made excellent content as you probably did, the internet will likely be much more useful than ever before. “Learn to see in another’s calamity the ills which you should avoid.” by Publilius Syrus.
Utterly written written content, Really enjoyed reading through.
Throughout the great scheme of things you secure an A+ with regard to effort. Exactly where you actually lost me was first in the facts. As it is said, details make or break the argument.. And it could not be more accurate in this article. Having said that, allow me inform you precisely what did do the job. Your article (parts of it) is definitely quite engaging and that is most likely why I am taking an effort to opine. I do not really make it a regular habit of doing that. Secondly, although I can see the leaps in reasoning you come up with, I am definitely not certain of exactly how you seem to unite the points which help to make your conclusion. For now I will yield to your issue however hope in the foreseeable future you link your dots much better.
The Pink Salt Trick is a minimalist but effective morning routine: Just drink a glass of lukewarm water mixed with a pinch of Himalayan pink salt as soon as you wake up.
I beloved up to you will obtain carried out proper here. The caricature is tasteful, your authored material stylish. however, you command get bought an nervousness over that you would like be handing over the following. sick surely come more previously once more as exactly the similar nearly a lot regularly within case you shield this increase.
Hi I am so happy I found your weblog, I really found you by mistake, while I was researching on Askjeeve for something else, Regardless I am here now and would just like to say many thanks for a remarkable post and a all round thrilling blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to read it all at the moment but I have book-marked it and also added your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read much more, Please do keep up the great job.
I?¦ve read a few good stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how so much attempt you place to make one of these magnificent informative website.
Your place is valueble for me. Thanks!…
As soon as I detected this web site I went on reddit to share some of the love with them.
Great post, you have pointed out some great details , I as well think this s a very wonderful website.
I believe this internet site has got some real fantastic information for everyone. “I have learned to use the word ‘impossible’ with the greatest caution.” by Wernher von Braun.
I think this site has some very superb information for everyone : D.
You are a very intelligent individual!
Hi there! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that would be okay. I’m absolutely enjoying your blog and look forward to new posts.
An impressive share, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing a little analysis on this. And he in fact bought me breakfast because I found it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the treat! But yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love reading more on this topic. If possible, as you become expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more details? It is highly helpful for me. Big thumb up for this blog post!
Hey! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that would be okay. I’m definitely enjoying your blog and look forward to new updates.
I’ll right away clutch your rss as I can’t to find your e-mail subscription link or newsletter service. Do you have any? Please allow me know in order that I may just subscribe. Thanks.
Great web site. Lots of helpful info here. I?¦m sending it to some friends ans also sharing in delicious. And certainly, thanks to your sweat!
wonderful points altogether, you just gained a brand new reader. What would you suggest in regards to your post that you made some days ago? Any positive?
Wow! This can be one particular of the most useful blogs We’ve ever arrive across on this subject. Basically Great. I am also an expert in this topic therefore I can understand your hard work.
It is appropriate time to make some plans for the future and it’s time to be happy. I’ve read this post and if I could I wish to suggest you few interesting things or suggestions. Perhaps you could write next articles referring to this article. I desire to read more things about it!
I have been browsing online more than three hours today, but I never found any attention-grabbing article like yours. It’s pretty value sufficient for me. In my opinion, if all website owners and bloggers made just right content material as you probably did, the internet can be much more useful than ever before. “Truth is not determined by majority vote.” by Doug Gwyn.
Hi would you mind stating which blog platform you’re working with? I’m planning to start my own blog in the near future but I’m having a tough time deciding between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal. The reason I ask is because your design seems different then most blogs and I’m looking for something completely unique. P.S My apologies for being off-topic but I had to ask!
Hi there! I know this is kinda off topic but I was wondering which blog platform are you using for this website? I’m getting fed up of WordPress because I’ve had issues with hackers and I’m looking at options for another platform. I would be awesome if you could point me in the direction of a good platform.
Well I sincerely liked reading it. This post offered by you is very constructive for correct planning.
I?¦m not positive where you are getting your information, but great topic. I must spend a while finding out more or figuring out more. Thanks for fantastic information I was on the lookout for this info for my mission.
I’m not sure exactly why but this website is loading very slow for me. Is anyone else having this problem or is it a issue on my end? I’ll check back later on and see if the problem still exists.
After all, what a great site and informative posts, I will upload inbound link – bookmark this web site? Regards, Reader.
wonderful points altogether, you simply gained a brand new reader. What would you suggest in regards to your post that you made some days ago? Any positive?
whoah this blog is wonderful i like studying your articles. Keep up the great paintings! You already know, a lot of persons are looking around for this info, you could help them greatly.
Your home is valueble for me. Thanks!…
I have been browsing online more than 3 hours today, yet I never found any interesting article like yours. It is pretty worth enough for me. In my opinion, if all website owners and bloggers made good content as you did, the internet will be much more useful than ever before.
I went over this website and I believe you have a lot of excellent information, saved to my bookmarks (:.
Howdy very cool website!! Guy .. Excellent .. Superb .. I’ll bookmark your site and take the feeds additionally…I’m happy to seek out numerous useful information here in the publish, we’d like work out more strategies on this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .
I envy your piece of work, thanks for all the useful blog posts.
laparizone.com
laparizone.com
Great web site. Lots of useful information here. I am sending it to a few buddies ans additionally sharing in delicious. And certainly, thank you for your sweat!
Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for!
Hello! I could have sworn I’ve been to this blog before but after browsing through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Anyways, I’m definitely happy I found it and I’ll be book-marking and checking back frequently!
WONDERFUL Post.thanks for share..extra wait .. …
laparizone.com
Great write-up, I?¦m regular visitor of one?¦s website, maintain up the nice operate, and It is going to be a regular visitor for a long time.
I’d perpetually want to be update on new articles on this internet site, saved to favorites! .
I’ve recently started a site, the information you provide on this website has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work.
I?¦m now not sure the place you’re getting your information, but good topic. I must spend some time finding out more or figuring out more. Thank you for fantastic information I used to be in search of this information for my mission.
It¦s actually a nice and helpful piece of info. I¦m satisfied that you simply shared this helpful information with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.
Woah! I’m really loving the template/theme of this blog. It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s hard to get that “perfect balance” between user friendliness and appearance. I must say you have done a amazing job with this. Additionally, the blog loads very quick for me on Firefox. Excellent Blog!
I like this blog its a master peace ! Glad I noticed this on google .
I am continually browsing online for tips that can benefit me. Thank you!
When I initially commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox and now each time a comment is added I get several emails with the same comment. Is there any way you can remove people from that service? Cheers!
An impressive share, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing a little analysis on this. And he in fact bought me breakfast because I found it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the treat! But yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love reading more on this topic. If possible, as you become expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more details? It is highly helpful for me. Big thumb up for this blog post!
Its like you read my mind! You seem to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you could do with some pics to drive the message home a bit, but other than that, this is magnificent blog. An excellent read. I will certainly be back.
I’ve been absent for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this web site. Thank you, I’ll try and check back more often. How frequently you update your website?