Best Italian Restaurants in Downtown Cleveland / Playhouse Square

23 restaurants available nearby

1. Casa la Luna

4.7

Exceptional(3677)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • The Flats

Booked 31 times today

Formerly Luca Italian Cuisine, Casa La Luna serves award-winning modern Italian food in a great city, with a great wine list and romantic European atmosphere. Located overlooking the Cuyahoga River, Casa La Luna has one of the most spectacular views of Cleveland.We are excited to announce some significant changes within our restaurant family.Luca Italian Cuisine at 2100 Superior Viaduct will transition to Casa La Luna.Those changes reflect our commitment to offering fresh and elevated dining. All three restaurants will continue operations and ownership by Lola Jacaj (Formerly Sema)For Special Events Contact: a.george@jolaeatglobal.com

2. Il Venetian

4.8

Exceptional(915)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown Cleveland

Booked 9 times today

Il Venetian in Downtown Cleveland offers a sublime slice of Contemporary Italian cuisine, expertly crafted by Venetian-born Chef Alberto Leandri. This upscale gem stands out with its handmade pastas, artisan pastries, and an array of fresh fish and fine meats, capturing the essence of Italy with a modern twist. Diners rave about the “out of this world” lasagna and ravioli, and the “best veal parm we have EVER had anywhere,” underscoring Il Venetian’s commitment to quality and authenticity. The atmosphere is described as “swanky” with “nice jazz music,” making it not only a feast for the palate but also for the senses. Whether it’s for a memorable anniversary, a business dinner, or simply to indulge in “the best Italian food ever,” Il Venetian is a must-visit destination in Cleveland, consistently praised for its excellent service and “amazing food.”

3. Acqua di Dea

4.4

Awesome(940)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Downtown Cleveland

Booked 16 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Cleveland, Acqua di Dea epitomizes the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a menu that dazzles with freshness and authenticity. This culinary gem, part of the award-winning Jola Eat Global Restaurant Group, offers an innovative approach that merges modern flair with classic Mediterranean elements. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked" sea bass and the "flavorful and fresh" carpaccio appetizer, highlighting the quality ingredients and skilled preparation. The ambiance, described as a sleek, rustic warehouse setting, complements the coastal aesthetic, making every dining experience not just a meal, but a delightful escape to the Mediterranean shores. Whether it's the fresh seafood, unique pasta dishes, or the extraordinary steaks, Acqua di Dea consistently delivers an exceptional dining adventure.

4. Oliva Steakhouse

4.7

Exceptional(153)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Downtown Cleveland

Booked 15 times today

Oliva Steakhouse in Downtown Cleveland is a beacon of American culinary excellence, offering an unforgettable dining adventure. Patrons rave about the "best steaks ever," cooked to perfection and paired with a sophisticated wine menu. The ambiance is described as "fantastic," with a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere ideal for any occasion. Reviewers consistently highlight the "excellent service" and the quality of both the classic and innovative dishes. One diner noted, "This is the best steakhouse in downtown Cleveland," encapsulating the high regard locals and visitors alike hold for Oliva. Whether it's the meticulously crafted dishes or the welcoming environment, Oliva Steakhouse stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking top-notch American cuisine.

5. Lago East Bank

4.6

Exceptional(1345)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • The Flats

Booked 11 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Flats of Cleveland, Lago East Bank is a cherished destination for authentic Italian cuisine, frequently celebrated as a "Best Of" winner. The restaurant prides itself on a menu that spans from northern Piedmontese to Sicilian seafood, all crafted with the freshest ingredients and a profound respect for traditional Italian cooking. Diners rave about the "out of this world" dishes and the "incredible service," with one noting, "It was some of the best Italian food we have had in some time." Whether it's the meticulously curated Italian wine list, the handcrafted cocktails, or the comforting ambiance, Lago ensures every visit is more than just a meal—it's an experience of Italian hospitality and gastronomic delight. Perfect for any occasion, Lago East Bank remains a beacon of Italian culinary excellence in Cleveland.

6. DANTE

4.6

Exceptional(3261)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Tremont

Booked 14 times today

Nestled in the historic Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, DANTE stands out as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Dante Boccuzzi. This premier dining spot is celebrated for its authentic and meticulously crafted Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers a diverse and innovative menu, including a highly praised Chef's Tasting Menu where guests can indulge in a series of exquisite dishes right in the kitchen. Reviewers consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the meals, noting the "best pasta in town" and an "amazing" five-course tasting menu that leaves diners in awe. With its vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service, DANTE provides not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience, making it a must-visit for lovers of fine Italian cuisine.

7. Literary Tavern

4.8

Exceptional(265)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Tremont

Booked 8 times today

Literary Tavern, nestled in the historic Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, is a beloved destination for authentic Italian cuisine. Renowned for its innovative approach to Italian dishes, the restaurant receives consistent praise for its exceptional food and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons rave about the "delicious food and cocktails" and emphasize the quality with remarks like "perfect food every time" and "unbelievable food and unique cocktails." The Literary Tavern not only offers a cozy ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails but also dishes like raviolis with duck and mussels in a savory sauce, which showcase the authentic Italian flavors that make it a must-visit spot in Cleveland. Whether you're looking for a relaxed dinner or a lively happy hour, Literary Tavern promises an unforgettable Italian dining experience.

8. Johnny's Downtown

4.1

Excellent(660)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Cleveland West

Booked 11 times today

Johnny’s Downtown, opened in 1993, is similar to the original Johnny’s Bar on Fulton Road, featuring pasta, veal and fish. The setting, a refurbished 1860’s Warehouse District building, formerly a general store, is the drinking and dining spot of locals and business people alike. Joseph Fall, the executive chef, oversees the food operations and is responsible for our crafting our signature dishes and creating daily specials. There are several wines by the glass to choose from and the wine list has nabbed an Award of Excellence from the Wine Spectator. There is piano music in the bar featuring Mike Petrone Monday-Friday, and Cliff Habian on Saturday evenings.

A photo of La Dolce Vita - Cleveland restaurant

9. La Dolce Vita - Cleveland

4.7

Exceptional(1814)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 21 times today

La Dolce Vita in Cleveland’s Little Italy stands out as a beacon of Mediterranean cuisine, offering a delightful culinary journey reminiscent of the coastal flavors of Italy. Nestled in a vibrant neighborhood, the bistro creates a warm, inviting atmosphere where diners can indulge in an array of authentic dishes that celebrate the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Guests rave about the "exquisite" food and "exceptional" service, with dishes like the Lobster Linguini and Chicken Marsalla receiving special mentions for their perfection. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity shines, with fresh pasta and sauces made from the finest ingredients like imported tomatoes and fresh basil. Reviewers consistently highlight the "amazing atmosphere" and the personal touches from the owner, making La Dolce Vita not just a meal, but a memorable Mediterranean experience.

10. Johnny's Bar

4.9

Exceptional(832)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Cleveland West

Booked 4 times today

At Johnny's Bar on Fulton Road in Cleveland West, the authentic Continental cuisine transports diners to the very heart of Italy with every bite. Renowned for its rich history and traditional charm, Johnny’s Bar offers an array of exquisite dishes that promise more than just a meal, but an experience. Guests rave about the "soft shell crab & escargot" and the "potato crusted grouper," highlighting both the quality and creativity of the menu. The ambiance, whether on the cozy patio or inside the quaint dining room, is consistently praised as "perfect." A long-standing favorite in Cleveland, Johnny's is celebrated for making diners feel like part of the family, as one reviewer noted, "It’s like being in your Italian aunt and uncle’s Sunday dinner." Johnny's Bar is not just a meal; it's a delightful culinary journey through the timeless flavors of Italy.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

W
WilliamVIP
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
One note: 7pm reservation. Arrived 5 minutes early. Went to bar to wait for table as instructed. No contact of any kind from front desk until 8:05pm. That lack of communication is inexcusable. We ate at the bar and were served an excellent meal promptly by a friendly bartender.
More info
Casa la LunaPrice: Expensive• Italian• The Flats
•
4.7
J
JohnVIP
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Server, Dawn, outstanding. Helped us choose entree. Happy to split porterhouse steak cooked perfectly. Paired a great Italian red. Super unusual salad. There is a chefs table (bar seat) overlooking kitchen. We will try that next time. Manager attentive as well. Was a great Christmas Eve dinner.
More info
Oliva SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown Cleveland
•
4.7
O
Omar
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •1 review
4.0
Dined 6 days ago
Overall great experience, menu variety and quality was top tier . Presentation of food was outstanding but taste was a killer bland had to use salt and pepper..we were there along side I big party so our wait time on food was longer then expected but management was very nice about the matter and acknowledged this on there own and accommodated us with free dessert.. other then that service was great and the ambiance was 10/10
More info
Lago East BankPrice: Expensive• Italian• The Flats
•
4.6
M
Mark
Southwest Florida •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
One of the fine dining experiences in Cleveland. The Marriott hotel is very nice, but I stay at the Marriott when I come to Cleveland because of this restaurant.
More info
Il VenetianPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown Cleveland
•
4.8
AP
AdamP
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 18 Dec 2024
Had a great lunch, all the food was terrific and great service
More info
Acqua di DeaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Downtown Cleveland
•
4.4

Explore OpenTable

Downtown Cleveland / Playhouse Square

Italian

Best Italian Restaurants in Downtown Cleveland / Playhouse Square

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Accessibility

23 restaurants available nearby

1. Casa la Luna

2. Il Venetian

3. Acqua di Dea

4. Oliva Steakhouse

5. Lago East Bank

6. DANTE

7. Literary Tavern

8. Johnny's Downtown

9. La Dolce Vita - Cleveland

10. Johnny's Bar

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable