25 of the Best Italian Restaurants in Cleveland

The Palazzo Ristorante

10031 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-417-7005
Why we love it: Chef Rafael Zaloshnja brings the culinary skills he acquired in Verona, Italy, to the Cleveland culinary scene, continuing his grandmother’s legacy of home-cooked Italian dishes. Dine in one of the traditional upscale dining areas, with a simple wooden bar and wine racks on display, or the charming black wrought iron enclosed patio.
Try this: There’s more to Italian food than pizza and pasta. Indulge in the carne (meat) to the fullest extent. Enjoy the gambo di agnello ($38), slow braised lamb shank, served with tagliatelle pasta.

Pepper’s Italian Restaurant

21470 Lakeside Ave., 216-417-8588
Why we love it: If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine you don’t have to dress up for, step into the remodeled Lakewood staple offering grandma-style Italian favorites including traditional pizza and pasta. You’ll find basic booths with Italian murals, open windows to Detroit Road and a seasonal outdoor dining area.
Try this: Pepper’s rendition of an “alfredo meets chicken parmesan” dish stands out. The Chicken Romano ($22) features flash-fried breaded chicken covered with a generous helping of alfredo, melted mozzarella and provolone, served with pasta covered in the same creamy concoction.

‘Stino da Napoli

19070 Old Detroit Rd., Rocky River
Why we love it: Tucked away in an unassuming strip in the Old River Shopping Area, you’ll uncover a small eatery that started out with owner and chef Agostino Iacullo’s immigration to America in 1979 with a sum of $300 and a dream to open a restaurant serving the Cleveland community. This longtime favorite is known for its savory rich house-made sauces, sold at local stores. Come for modern decor and traditional dishes inspired by Napoli, made the old-fashioned way.
Try this: For a delicate specialty, try the gnocchi alla Napoletana ($22), handmade potato dumplings baked with a light tomato sauce, mozzarella, ricotta and parmigiano cheeses.

Valerio’s Ristorante

12405 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, 216-421-8049
Why we love it: Born in Southern Italy, Florence-trained chef and owner Valerio Iorio brought his culinary expertise to Cleveland when he immigrated from Florence in 1995 with his wife, Stella, before opening Valerio’s in Little Italy a year later. He credits quality ingredients that bring out the natural flavor, along with high-quality olive oil used in his classic dishes. “I always go out and look for the best product, the freshest and most authentic one,” he says. The cozy spot sports a welcoming wooden bar, rows of wine displayed on the rack and a friendly "Mona Lisa" on the wall, in addition to a banquet hall, all a short walk from nearby Severance Hall.
Try this: Valerio himself says one of the best dishes is the sausage orecchiette ($19.95). The pasta is sauteed in its own tomato cream sauce, starring the restaurant’s proprietary blend of mild Italian sausage made by the same provider for 28 years and counting.

Zappitelli’s

9570 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-352-1185
Why we love it: Whipping up Old World Italian cuisine showcasing all the flavors of Italy through original family recipes for 36 years and counting. The good old-fashioned, colorful mom-and-pop shop prepares traditional dishes, including homemade pizza, pasta and specialty dishes made with the fan-favorite house sauce.
Try this: Scratch-made potato gnocchi ($18.50) is a must.