Craving a hearty dose of Italian cuisine? Detroit has plenty to offer, whether you’re in the mood for a hole-in-the-wall eatery or an elegant restaurant. When you’re ready to dig into the most mouthwatering pasta the Motor City has to offer, check out these nine options. Your taste buds will soon be swept away on a delicious Italian adventure.
1. Giovanni’s Ristorante (330 Oakwood)
This family-operated restaurant has attracted plenty of well-deserved attention throughout the decades, even serving celebrities like Frank Sinatra. It’s easy to see why diners flock to Giovanni’s for authentic cuisine, as the fare here is out-of-this-world good. With homemade pasta options ranging from linguine to ravioli, it’s impossible to go wrong.
2. La Lanterna (1224 Griswold St)
La Lanterna is an ideal option when you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe that still delivers on taste. The decor here is modern yet relaxed, so you’ll feel right at home as soon you set foot inside. For more than 40 years, diners have flocked to La Lanterna for great conversation and amazing food, including all sorts of delicious pasta, pizza, and paninis.
3. Mario’s Restaurant (4222 2nd Ave)
Step back into a simpler era when you check out Mario’s, an old-fashioned supper club that offers plenty of awesome cuisine for lunch and dinner. Since 1948, visitors have raved about the tasty pasta entrees cooked up at Mario’s, and you’ll be a fan with just one bite. Favorites include eggplant parmesan, classic cannelloni, and seafood alfredo. Is your mouth watering yet?
4. Ottava Via (1400 Michigan Ave)
Old world elegance and modern convenience meet at Ottava Via, one of Detroit’s most beloved Italian eateries. If you’re looking for the perfect place to enjoy a date night meal, this spot fits the bill. After taking a few moments to bask in the ambiance, choose from menu options like truffle butter pasta and carbonara. Gluten-free pasta options are also available upon request.
5. SheWolf Pastificio & Bar (438 Selden St)
For a trendy dining experience that combines fantastic service with culinary creativity, look no further than SheWolf. The restaurant prides itself on serving food that’s inspired by Rome itself, from the city’s ancient traditions to more modern innovations. The pasta here is to die for - and most of it is produced using Michigan-sourced grains. Does it get much better than this?
6. Amore da Roma (3401 Riopelle St)
History and deliciousness meet at Amore da Roma, which proudly boasts the title of Detroit’s oldest eatery. Built in 1890, this unforgettable locale will take you on an unforgettable Italian journey. Pasta favorites include everything from traditional spaghetti and ravioli to house-made fettuccine and baked lasagna. Arrive hungry and leave with happy taste buds.
7. La Dolce Vita (17546 Woodward Ave)
Whether you dine inside or appreciate your meal on La Dolce Vita’s outdoor patio during warming months, you’ll quickly fall in love with this locale. Since 1995, diners have stopped in for a magical restaurant-going experience at this Italian gem, which serves everything from fresh salads to intricate pasta dishes like penne del mezzogiorno. Whatever you're craving, you’ll find it here.
8. San Morello (1400 Woodward Ave)
This well-loved eatery in Detroit draws culinary inspiration from Sicily and Southern Italy. Many of its dishes are prepared using locally sourced ingredients, so you can feel extra positive about choosing to dine at San Morello. So, what’s on the menu here? In addition to some of the tastiest pasta in the Motor City, you’ll find wood-fired pizza and carefully crafted side dishes galore.
9. La Noria Bistro (5517 Michigan Ave)
With moody lighting, attentive service, fantastic drinks, and a variety of Italian dishes to select from, La Noria Bistro rounds out our list in style. The restaurant uniquely combines Italian and Mexican dishes to craft a fascinating menu that will satisfy your every craving. From tacos to incredible pasta, there’s truly something here for everyone to appreciate.
Have we left any of your favorite pasta restaurants in the Motor City off our list? Which eateries should have been included? We would love to hear your recommendations, so share your thoughts with us in the comment section below! Happy dining, Detroiters!
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