The 25 Best Italian Restaurants in Cleveland, According to Yelp Rankings

Molto Bene Italian Eatery

18401 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

“If you're on the hunt for authentic Italian cuisine, but don't want to head over to Little Italy on the East Side, Molto Bene is your place. The pasta is fresh and delicate as if it were just made by your Nonna, and the sauces are flavorful and delicious. The gnocchi is my favorite, and I am lucky that they allow me to slightly alter the dish and serve it with vodka cream sauce, delizioso! My taste buds are in heaven!,” Dana W. on Yelp.

Photo via Molto Bene Italian Eatery/Facebook

The Palazzo

10031 Detroit Ave., Cleveland

“I can't get over what a wonderful place this is! If you are a fan of classic Italian food, this is absolutely a place to check out...The food is wonderful...The pastas are rich and flavorful, the calamari sauteed to perfection, the herbs are just picked fresh, everything is expertly crafted by someone who clearly knows what they are doing. The menu covers all the bases with pastas, pizzas, fresh fish, desserts, steaks, you name it. I will definitely be back for more!” Jared W. on Yelp

Photo by Doug Trattner

Aldo’s

8459 Memphis Ave., Cleveland

“If you are an Italian food fan and haven't been here yet, you are missing something special. The fact Aldo put a little Italian restaurant in a tiny shopping strip mall in a nondescript suburb and it has not only succeeded but THRIVED for 30+ years speaks volumes as to just how special it is. Last night's dinner was a study in seafood/pasta perfection. It's our favorite Italian restaurant in the area, period. There are many that do a fine job but there's just one Aldo's. If you haven't been, GO,” Alan S. on Yelp

Photo via Aldo’s Restaurant/Facebook

Lockkeepers

8001 Rockside Rd., Valley View

“Lockkeepers has been a gem in Cleveland for a long time, and has managed to stay on top and stay popular with great food and great service in a beautiful setting. Their entrees are all reasonably priced, and from the time you are greeted at the hosting stand and throughout your entire experience you feel welcome. Service is prompt without feeling rushed, and attentive without feeling overbearing. It is a great place for a business lunch or a night out. Thank you Lockkeepers for another great experience!” Alex H. on Yelp

Photo via Lockkeepers/Facebook

‘Stino da Napoli

19070 Old Detroit Rd., Rocky River

“This is one of our favorite places to go for a great Italian meal. The food is always good and the service is the best. I am particularly fond of the gnocchi. It melts in your mouth. My husband likes the veal and seafood dishes. I also love the basil martini. Tasty! The ambience of the restaurant is wonderful. This is a date night must,” Judi S. on Yelp

Photo via Stino Da Napoli/Facebook

Lago East Bank

1091 West 10th St., Cleveland

“We loved it all. Environment. Service. Food. Price. This place is amazing. You have got to order the meatballs. Heavenly like being in Italy. I had the shorts ribs. They were cooked to perfection. Mouthwatering. Thanks to Mittens, our server, her suggestions were perfect. The menu has a wide variety of options and portions. Can't wait to go back,” Tom S. on Yelp

Photo via Scene Archives

Flour

34205 Chagrin Blvd., Moreland Hills

“Flour is one of the best Italian restaurants in town, without a doubt. This gem in Moreland Hills serves up delicious Italian cuisine in a chic and trendy atmosphere. The mussels and stuffed peppers are wonderful appetizers. The bolognese is one of the best I’ve ever had. The pizzas are great too and so are the eggplant meatballs. You really can’t go wrong with whatever you get here. It’s phenomenal,” Mitch T. on Yelp

Photo via Scene Archives

Johnny’s Bar

3164 Fulton Rd., Cleveland

“Now, look--this is the most special restaurant in Cleveland. The portions were huge and absolutely delicious. This is hands down the best restaurant in my opinion. I have been eating here for 33 years and it is always special,” David C. on Yelp

Photo via Johnny’s Bar on Fulton/Facebook

Mia Bella

12200 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland

“Mia Bella has become one of my favorite restaurants. I have visited this restaurant many times since moving here and brought newcomers too. Till this day, the only way I can get my Northeast friends and family to visit is by promising to bring them to Mia Bella. I have tried many dishes here but my favorites have been pasta verde, cheese tortellini, shrimp saganaki, and of course, their complimentary pipin' hot bread and herbed butter. I am dreaming about my next visit,” Connie C. on Yelp

Photo via Mia Bella/Facebook

Bruno’s Ristorante

2644 West 41st St., Cleveland

“The best Italian spot in Cleveland! The food, service, and atmosphere are amazing. We celebrated our 6 year anniversary here and our server was exceptional. We got fried calamari, scallops, and chicken Marsala. They were also so kind to include a complimentary dessert, which was delicious. Definitely recommend Bruno's for any special event!” Rachel R. on Yelp

Photo via Bruno’s Ristorante/Facebook