Top Italian Eats in Vegas: Where to Dine!

1. Carbone Italian Restaurant
If you’re on the hunt for the Best Italian Restaurant Las Vegas, Carbone at the Aria Resort & Casino should definitely be on your radar. This place isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience. Inspired by the classic Italian-American restaurants of the mid-20th century, Carbone brings a touch of New York City flair right to the heart of the Strip.
What makes Carbone stand out? Well, for starters, the service is top-notch. Captains serve dishes tableside, adding a level of sophistication you don’t find everywhere. And the food? Let’s just say you won’t leave hungry. From the spicy rigatoni vodka (a must-try!) to the complimentary rainbow cookies, every bite is a treat.
They have a pretty extensive menu, but here are some popular choices:
- Lobster fra diavolo
- Chicken scarpariello
- Veal Parmesan
- Octopus pizzaiolo
Just a heads up: reservations are essential, and I mean essential. You’ll want to book about six weeks in advance because this place fills up fast. Also, be prepared to spend a little more; it’s not the cheapest option, but the quality and experience make it worth it. If you’re feeling adventurous, put yourself in your captain’s hands and let them guide you through the menu. You won’t regret it!
2. Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano
Located inside The Venetian, Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano brings a slice of Italy to the Vegas strip. The decor is pretty cool, with a mix of orange, green, reclaimed wood, and Art Deco touches. It’s a nice place to chill and enjoy some good food.
You absolutely have to try the mandilli di seta. It’s basically handkerchief pasta with almond basil pesto. Seriously, you won’t regret it.
They also have some interesting takes on Italian classics, like focaccina calda al formaggio (kind of like a pizza) and some tasty ravioli dishes. I’m talking casonzei with pork sausage and veal, and agnolotti with braised beef short ribs. Oh, and don’t forget the porchetta – it’s divine.
Matteo’s is a great spot if you’re looking to explore different Italian flavors beyond the usual spaghetti and meatballs. It’s a bit more upscale, but the food is worth it. Plus, the atmosphere is perfect for a special night out.
3. Toscana Ristorante & Bar at Eataly
Eataly itself is a destination, and Toscana Ristorante & Bar is a great reason to spend some time there. Located inside Park MGM, this spot focuses on Tuscan-inspired dishes. You can easily make a day of exploring Eataly, grabbing quick bites, and then settling in for a full meal at Toscana.
They have seasonal selections that are worth checking out. Think risotto primavera loaded with fresh vegetables and aged parmigiano reggiano, or maybe some gnocchi with asparagus. If you’re feeling meaty, the grilled veal chop with crispy guanciale and cannellini white beans sounds amazing. They also have pan-seared king salmon if you want something lighter.
It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a relaxed but quality Italian meal right on the Strip. Plus, being in Eataly means you can grab some Italian goodies to take home with you after your meal.
And don’t forget the Wine Bar Las Vegas options! Toscana has a great selection to pair with your meal.
4. Piero’s Italian Cuisine
Piero’s is a classic Vegas spot that’s been around since the ’80s, and it’s still going strong. It’s known for its old-school Northern Italian food and the high probability of spotting a celebrity. I’ve heard the A-Room is the place to be if you’re into that sort of thing.
They’re famous for their osso buco, which I’ve heard is a must-order. But honestly, the short rib pizzaiola and the Sunday gravy pasta sound amazing too. The Sunday gravy comes with rigatoni, meatballs, Italian sausage, and ricotta – basically, everything you could want in a pasta dish. It’s the kind of place that feels like a special occasion, even if it’s just a regular Tuesday.
Piero’s is one of those places that just feels like “Vegas.” It’s got that old-school charm, the kind of place where you can imagine Frank Sinatra hanging out. The food is great, the atmosphere is lively, and you never know who you might see. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a classic Vegas experience.
5. Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Steakhouse
Located inside the D Las Vegas, Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Steakhouse offers a unique blend of Italian and American cuisine. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away from the casino floor, providing a more relaxed dining atmosphere.
They’re known for their homemade pastas and steaks with an Italian twist. If you’re having trouble deciding, some popular choices include the gnocchi gorgonzola con punti, cioppino, or lobster ravioli. It’s a solid choice if you want something a little different from the usual Vegas steakhouse experience.
I went there last year and was surprised by how good the food was. The service was great, and the prices weren’t outrageous, especially considering it’s in Vegas. I’d definitely go back.
Here’s a quick look at what you might expect:
- Homemade pasta dishes
- Steaks with Italian-inspired flavors
- A quieter, more intimate setting
- Located inside the D Las Vegas
6. Bramàre
Bramàre is where you go when you want that late-night Italian fix. Located at 3900 Paradise Road, it’s a great spot after a convention or show. The restaurant comes from the same people who brought us Piero’s Italian Cuisine and Table 34, so you know it’s got a solid pedigree.
They’ve got some interesting dishes. I’ve heard the tagliatelle pasta is really good, and the broccolini with garlic sauce and breadcrumbs is surprisingly tasty. Don’t skip the nitro affogato; it’s fizzy, creamy, and has a kick.
The vibe is chill, with dim lighting that makes everything feel a bit more relaxed. It’s a nice place to unwind and grab a bite without feeling rushed.
Here’s a small sample of their wine list, focusing on a few regions:
Tuscany
- Castello di Ama, “Ama”, 2022 (Bin 2506): $116
- Isole e Olena, 2021 (Bin 2560): $129
- Volpaia, 2022 (Bin 2500): $91
Campania
- Taurasi, Mastroberardino, “Radici”, 2019 (Bin 3218): $216
- Piedirosso, Cantine Olivella, “VIPT” (Bin 3206): $79
Piedmont
- Bricco Boschis, Roccheviberti, 2019 (Bin 2103): $306
- Bricco delle Viole, G.D. Vajra, 2020 (Bin 2113): $283
- Brunate, Ceretto, 2015 (Bin 2119): $341
7. Bottiglia Enoteca
Bottiglia Enoteca is a great option if you’re looking for something a little different. It’s got a relaxed vibe, perfect for a casual night out. The wine list is extensive, with a focus on Italian selections, of course.
They have a pretty good selection of wines by the glass, which is nice if you want to try a few different things without committing to a whole bottle. The staff is usually pretty knowledgeable and can help you pick something you’ll like. They also have a food menu with small plates and appetizers that pair well with the wines. It’s a solid choice for a chill evening.
I remember going there last year with some friends. We ended up staying for hours, just chatting and trying different wines. The atmosphere was really comfortable, and the food was surprisingly good. Definitely a place I’d recommend if you’re in the mood for something low-key.
8. Osso Bucco
Okay, so Osso Bucco. It’s one of those dishes that just screams “fancy Italian,” right? But honestly, it’s way more approachable than it sounds. It’s basically braised veal shanks, and when it’s done right, the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender. I mean, who doesn’t love that?
The key to great Osso Bucco is the slow cooking process. It takes time, but it’s so worth it. The long braise breaks down the tough connective tissues in the veal, making it incredibly tender and flavorful. Plus, all those delicious braising liquids get infused into the meat. Yum!
I’ve had some pretty amazing Osso Bucco experiences in Vegas. Some places serve it with a classic gremolata (lemon zest, parsley, and garlic), which adds a bright, fresh counterpoint to the richness of the meat. Others go a bit more modern with their accompaniments, but the core of the dish remains the same: tender, flavorful veal shanks.
Honestly, if you’re looking for a dish that’s both impressive and comforting, Osso Bucco is a solid choice. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Italian trattoria, even if you’re actually in the middle of the Vegas strip.
Here are a few things that make Osso Bucco stand out:
- The marrow. Don’t be afraid to dig in and scoop out that delicious bone marrow. It’s rich, decadent, and adds a whole other dimension to the dish.
- The braising liquid. Make sure to soak up all that flavorful sauce with some crusty bread or creamy polenta.
- The presentation. A well-presented Osso Bucco is a work of art. The tender veal shank, glistening with sauce, is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
9. Risotto Primavera
Risotto Primavera. It just sounds like spring, right? This dish is all about fresh, seasonal veggies, and when it’s done right, it’s a total flavor explosion. I’ve had some amazing versions in Vegas, and some… not so much. The key is using really good ingredients and not overcooking the rice. Nobody wants mushy risotto!
I think the best Risotto Primavera I ever had was at a small place downtown. It was loaded with asparagus, peas, zucchini, and a hint of lemon. So good!
Here’s what I look for in a good Risotto Primavera:
- Freshness: The veggies should be crisp-tender, not soggy.
- Creaminess: The risotto itself should be creamy, but not heavy.
- Balance: The flavors should be balanced, with no one ingredient overpowering the others.
Risotto is one of those dishes that seems simple, but it’s actually quite tricky to make well. It requires constant attention and a good feel for the ingredients. But when it all comes together, it’s pure magic.
I’ve also seen some places get creative with their Risotto Primavera, adding things like shrimp or scallops. While that can be tasty, I personally prefer the classic vegetarian version. It’s just so clean and bright!
10. Gnocchi with Asparagus and more
Okay, so gnocchi. It’s basically potato pasta, right? But when it’s done right, it’s like little pillows of heaven. I had some amazing gnocchi recently, and it got me thinking about where to find the best versions in Vegas. It’s not just about the potato, it’s about the sauce, the texture, and what they pair it with. Asparagus is a classic, but I’ve seen some places get really creative.
Finding the perfect gnocchi is a quest. It’s about that melt-in-your-mouth feeling, the right balance of flavors, and a dish that leaves you completely satisfied. It’s a simple dish, but when it’s executed well, it’s unforgettable.
Here’s what I look for in a great gnocchi dish:
- Texture: Light and fluffy, not dense or gummy.
- Sauce: Rich and flavorful, complementing the gnocchi without overpowering it.
- Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients that enhance the overall taste.
I’ve seen gnocchi served with everything from brown butter and sage to creamy pesto and even seafood. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes it so exciting to try different versions. I’m always on the lookout for new and interesting gnocchi creations, so if you have any recommendations, let me know!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Italian restaurants in Las Vegas?
Some of the top Italian restaurants include Carbone, Matteo’s, and Piero’s.
Where can I find authentic Italian pizza in Vegas?
You can enjoy authentic Italian pizza at places like Carbone and Bottiglia Enoteca.
Do these restaurants offer vegetarian options?
Yes, many of these restaurants have vegetarian dishes on their menus.
Is it necessary to make a reservation?
It’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially for popular spots like Carbone.
What is osso bucco?
Osso bucco is a traditional Italian dish made with braised veal shanks.
Can I find gluten-free pasta at these restaurants?
Yes, many Italian restaurants in Vegas offer gluten-free pasta options.