Best Italian Restaurants in University Circle

24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of La Dolce Vita - Cleveland restaurant

1. La Dolce Vita - Cleveland

4.7

Exceptional(1823)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 27 times today

La Dolce Vita - Cleveland, nestled in the heart of Little Italy, offers an authentic Mediterranean culinary journey that captivates the senses. Praised as a “Cleveland Classic” and described as a “Cleveland treasure,” this bistro delivers an extraordinary dining experience with its exquisite Italian dishes. The menu features fresh, made-to-order pasta and meticulously prepared sauces, utilizing only the finest ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and fresh basil. Diners rave about the “amazing food” and “fabulous service,” creating a warm, familial atmosphere. Terry Tanratino, the owner, enhances each visit with personal touches, ensuring every meal feels like a home-cooked celebration.

A photo of Valerio's Ristorante restaurant

2. Valerio's Ristorante

4.9

Exceptional(926)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 14 times today

Delicious Italian cuisine, prepared fresh daily. Outstanding service and food, all at a reasonable price. Come and see what everyone is talking about!

3. Il Venetian

4.8

Exceptional(927)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown Cleveland

Booked 30 times today

Il Venetian in Downtown Cleveland offers an exquisite journey into Contemporary Italian cuisine, masterfully curated by Venetian-born Chef Alberto Leandri. Known for its handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and fine meats, this upscale establishment delivers "some of the best Italian food" diners have ever experienced. Reviews rave about its perfectly seasoned calamari and the unforgettable Rigatoni Bolognese, described as "INCREDIBLE!" The ambiance complements the culinary experience, creating a refined yet comfortable atmosphere. Patrons frequently highlight the exceptional service, noting it as "outstanding" and "unmatched." Whether for a special occasion or a casual night out, Il Venetian promises an "amazing dining experience" that keeps guests returning.

4. Oliva Steakhouse

4.7

Exceptional(165)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Downtown Cleveland

Booked 34 times today

At Oliva Steakhouse, located in the heart of Downtown Cleveland, savor the epitome of authentic American cuisine with a touch of Italian flair. Praised as a “gem” by diners, Oliva’s expertly crafted dishes like the bone-in ribeye and New York strip steak are consistently described as “cooked to perfection.” The vibrant ambiance, highlighted by an open kitchen and modern decor, complements a menu that stands out with unique offerings like rabbit pasta and fennel salad. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, Oliva Steakhouse promises an unforgettable dining experience with its exceptional service and delectable fare.

5. DANTE

4.7

Exceptional(3265)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Tremont

Booked 37 times today

DANTE, nestled in the vibrant Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, offers a truly authentic Italian dining experience that stands out in the city. Under the masterful direction of Michelin-starred chef Dante Boccuzzi, the restaurant combines culinary artistry with local flair in a historic setting. Guests rave about the "unbelievably delicious" food, particularly highlighting the exceptional pasta as "the best in town." The Chef's Tasting Menu is a must-try, offering a creative journey through Italian cuisine with meticulously prepared courses. With impeccable service and a welcoming atmosphere, DANTE promises a memorable evening where "creative and delicious" dishes shine.

6. Acqua di Dea

4.3

Awesome(945)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Downtown Cleveland

Booked 18 times today

Acqua di Dea, nestled in the heart of Downtown Cleveland's Historic Warehouse District, offers an exceptional seafood dining experience that is both fresh and authentic. Known for its innovative Italian menu, the restaurant has quickly become a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. Diners rave about the "spectacular Mare appetizer" and "phenomenal salmon with lobster ravioli," highlighting the expertise in crafting flavorful and memorable dishes. The seafood, described as "super fresh and flavorful," consistently delights patrons. With an ambiance that is both trendy and welcoming, Acqua di Dea is a must-visit for anyone seeking top-tier seafood and a truly remarkable dining experience.

7. Lago East Bank

4.5

Awesome(1356)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • The Flats

Booked 16 times today

Lago East Bank in the vibrant Flats neighborhood of Cleveland is a delightful fusion of Italian and American-Italian cuisine that stands out for its quality and authenticity. With over 30 years of Italian cooking expertise, the restaurant offers a unique blend of northern Piedmontese and Sicilian seafood dishes alongside popular American-Italian classics. Reviewers rave about their "absolutely amazing" food and the "unbeatable" service, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The atmosphere is described as "warm and inviting," ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a fan of homemade pasta or handcrafted cocktails, Lago promises a gastronomic journey worth savoring!

A photo of Tutto Carne- Cleveland restaurant

8. Tutto Carne- Cleveland

4.8

Exceptional(173)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 5 times today

Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Little Italy, Cleveland, Tutto Carne is a true gem for aficionados of Fine cuts cuisine. This chef-inspired Italian steakhouse showcases Ohio farm-raised, hand-selected, and dry-aged beef, ensuring each bite is a testament to quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the perfectly cooked steaks, describing them as “quite possibly the best steak I’ve ever had.” The Florentine bisteca and bone-in ribeye are standout dishes, expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. This intimate setting, combined with an elegant yet welcoming ambiance, creates a dining experience that is exceptional in every way. Highly recommended for steak lovers!

9. Literary Tavern

4.7

Exceptional(269)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Tremont

Booked 19 times today

Nestled in Cleveland's vibrant Tremont neighborhood, Literary Tavern offers a quintessential Gastro Pub experience, seamlessly blending local charm with culinary excellence. Praised as "a hidden gem in Tremont," it boasts a cozy and intimate setting within one of the area's oldest buildings, preserving its historic character. The inventive cocktails and a diverse selection of wines and beers complement a menu filled with chef-crafted entrees and appetizers that shine with fresh, hearty flavors. Rave reviews highlight the "unbelievable food and unique cocktails," while the attentive service makes every visit memorable. For a delightful dining adventure, Literary Tavern is a must-visit!

10. Johnny's Downtown

4.2

Awesome(665)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Cleveland West

Booked 12 times today

Johnny's Downtown is a cornerstone of American cuisine in the heart of Cleveland, renowned for its "classic dining experience" and historic charm. Nestled in a beautifully refurbished 1860s Warehouse District building, this restaurant combines elegance with authentic American flavors. Diners rave about the "exquisite food" and "iconic historic building," creating a memorable atmosphere that transports you back in time. Executive Chef Joseph Fall crafts signature dishes and daily specials that showcase the best of American culinary tradition. The piano music adds a delightful touch, making Johnny's Downtown a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly authentic and refined American dining experience.

‘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

B
bill
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The food was outstanding AND the service was exceptional! Authentic Italian recipes, excellent Manhattan, and good wine choices. It's a little cozy, so a little noisy but not bad.
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Valerio's RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.9
J
John
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
The food was awesome, the best calamari me and my wife ever had, our dinner was fabulous, the rigatoni was the best and my wife loved her ravioli and the lemon cheese cake was to die for.
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Il VenetianPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown Cleveland
•
4.8
L
LauraVIP
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •37 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Lovely space. Service (Destiny) on point, available when needed, out of the way when not. Eclectic and delightful menu. Well curated wine list, with a few surprises that I was admittedly THRILLED to find in Cleveland. Cocktails and dishes all well thought out, balanced and served with grace and elegance.
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Oliva SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown Cleveland
•
4.7
T
TinaVIP
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on 2 Jan 2025
Amazing food and service! We will definitely be going back. Best restaurant we have been to in Little Italy. Reminded me of all the delicious food we had on our last trip to Italy.
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La Dolce Vita - ClevelandPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.7
J
Justin
Denver / Colorado •1 review
4.0
Dined on 30 Dec 2024
Unfortunately, they did not see our reservation when we arrived and the hostess seemed very annoyed. She didn’t take us to the table. She just pointed. It was also the waiter’s first official day and he had not learned any of the specials or the desserts. So he just to out the book and read to us. Food was tasty though and the atmosphere is very nice.
More info
Acqua di DeaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Downtown Cleveland
•
4.3

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University Circle

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Best Italian Restaurants in University Circle

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24 restaurants available nearby

1. La Dolce Vita - Cleveland

2. Valerio's Ristorante

3. Il Venetian

4. Oliva Steakhouse

5. DANTE

6. Acqua di Dea

7. Lago East Bank

8. Tutto Carne- Cleveland

9. Literary Tavern

10. Johnny's Downtown

See what locals rave about

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