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Guide to Modern Italian Restaurants in Tucson

Guide to Modern Italian Restaurants in Tucson

by Rita ConnellyJun 19, 2023Updated Jul 14, 20266 min read
Modern Italian food means lighter sauces, freshly made pastas and creative takes on seafood, steaks, and poultry. The wine lists may be from smaller, craft wineries — Tavolino’s is curated from Massimo’s brother’s winery — but, your server will be well-trained to help you find the perfect pairing. Some, like Vivace, offer the best views in Tucson. Don’t let the white tablecloths fool you, comfort and casual still rule. Take your time, order another bottle of wine, and indulge in the good life.
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9 spots

Bottega Michelangelo

420 West Magee RoadOro Valley

Long an Oro Valley go-to for everything Italian, Bottega Michelangelo underwent an update several years ago. Owned by the Damiano Ali family and formerly known as Michelangelo’s, today the food has a decidedly modern spin. All the old faves (including Mama’s meatballs) are still on the big menu. But look further and you’ll see branzino and braciola; arancini and agnolotti; polpo and porchetta. The wine list has been elevated as well, with many choices for any budget. This is a family-run restaurant ideal for families, big parties, or a romantic evening with you honey.
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Also featured inThe Best Upscale Restaurants in TucsonWhat to Eat & Drink in Oro Valley, ArizonaYour Guide to Sonoran Restaurant Week 2024

CERES

77 West Washington StreetDowntown

Ceres, the goddess of grain, is honored at this tiny, downtown eatery. Fresh ingredients and creativity are what make Ceres so special. Choose a pasta and then a sauce from the small but clever menu, or take home a bundle of pasta to enjoy at home. A weekly special is available until sold out. The bread and sweets are meant to be paired with the house espresso. And please don’t forget the gelato, which changes on a biweekly basis.
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Also featured inGuide to Caesar Salads in TucsonWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)What I Order and Eat in Tucson as Editor

Lasagna (Photo courtesy of Locale Neighborhood Italian)

Locale Neighborhood Italian Restaurant

60 North Alvernon WayMidtown

Decades of experience and a passion for great hospitality ring true at this midtown neighborhood restaurant. While you’ll find many traditional plates like Lasagna and Eggplant Parmesan, other more modern options will make you see Italian in a whole new way. Take the Penne all’ arribbiata, for example, with a spicy cream sauce. The Tortelli de Zucca is stuffed with pumpkin and tossed in a sage butter sauce. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Locale also has a yummy bakery. The starters and a bottle of wine from their carefully curated wine list should be enjoyed on the lovely patio, one of the finest in town.
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Also featured inGuide to Caesar Salads in TucsonWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)The Best Brunch In Tucson

Perche' No (Photo by Rita Connelly)

Perche’ No Italian Bistro

46 West Congress StreetDowntown

Located next door the Fox Theater, it might be easy to miss this Italian bistro. Perche’ No means "why not," and that seems to be the philosophy behind many of the dishes here. Why not start your dinner with their Polenta Gorgonzola or the fried oysters? Why not follow that with the Pasta Puttanesca, with capers, olives, garlic, and anchovies in a “zesty” tomato sauce? Why not try the Pork Marsala? Or the Gnocchi allo Zefferano? Chef Bruno Girardi also offers a host of other weekly specials that are not your every day Italian fare. Open for lunch or dinner Tuesdays through Saturdays.
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Also featured inGuide to Caesar Salads in TucsonWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)Where to Eat During the Tucson Gem Show 2026

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Tavolino Ristorante Italiano

2890 East Skyline DriveFoothills

CocktailsItalianSpiritsWine
The vibe sexy; the food sublime. An outstanding starter is the Polipo alla Griglia, grilled octopus, chilled fingerling potatoes, kalamatas, celery all tossed with a bright, lemon dressing. The ravioli di zucca (butternut squash stuffed ravioli in a brown butter and sage sauce) sings. Any of the veal will please. Wines are mostly Italian, some from the owner’s brother’s winery in Italy. Save room for the Bonet, a chocolate lover’s dream.
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Also featured inThe Best Upscale Restaurants in TucsonLove is on the Menu: Tucson’s Most Romantic RestaurantsThe Ultimate Tucson Restaurant Bucket List

Trattoria Pina

5541 North Swan RoadFoothills

Casually elegant is the best way to describe Tratorria Pina. The views of the Catalinas are thrilling and the vibe is top notch. Chefs Pina and Fidele bring together old family recipes in a most creative style. Start with the Calamari Fra Diavolo, shrimp in a spicy tomato sauce. Then order one of many outstanding dishes such as Pollo de Nonna or the Trota Bellagio. Definitely save room for one of the luscious desserts, which come from Cosmo Ali (aka Pina’s father) of the well-loved DaVinci’s. Daily Happy Hour specials are also a treat!
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Also featured inYour guide to 30+ fancy pants date spots in Tucson

Fettucine Alfredo at Vero Amore (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Vero Amore

2920 North Swan RoadMidtown

ItalianPizza
Fortunately for Tucsonans, there are Vero Amore’s in town. One, on Swan Road in Palomino Plaza, and the original in Dove Mountain. The panini are as simple or fancy. Their Pasta Puttanesca is loaded with roasted red peppers and Kalamata olives. The Shrimp Fra Diavolo draws raves. Vero Amore’s pizzas are also winners whether it’s a simple cheese pie or one of the many creative offerings. Save room for the cannoli.
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Also featured inGuide to Caesar Salads in TucsonThe Best Pizza in TucsonLove is on the Menu: Tucson’s Most Romantic Restaurants

Vivace Restaurant

6440 North Campbell AvenueFoothills

Ah, lovely Vivace, with its stunning views, polished service and elegant fare is the epitome of fine dining in Tucson. The Scordato family elevated what Italian food in Tucson. Owner Daniel carries on the tradition by using quality ingredients and kitchen magic. One spoonful of the Seafood Soup will transport you to the Amalfi Coast. The Seafood Lasagnette is made with fresh pasta. The wine list is award-winning and offers choices for all tastes and budgets.
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Also featured inWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)The Best Upscale Restaurants in TucsonLove is on the Menu: Tucson’s Most Romantic Restaurants

Zio Peppe (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Zio Peppe

6502 East Tanque Verde RoadEastside

ItalianPizza
This Eastside eatery blends the flavors of the Southwest with the foods of Italy. A great starter is the Elote Arancini, a mix of street corn and risotto. Tradition is spun on its pizza wheel, with the El Rustico that features Chef Juan Almanza’s birria on a pie. The Ravioli Sonorense are top notch. Dessert has be the Taconnoli.
Website ↗Instagram ↗Reserve on OpenTable ↗
Also featured inGuide to Caesar Salads in TucsonWhere I Eat in Tucson (and What I Order)What I Order and Eat in Tucson as Editor

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This year-round favorite treat and its cool cousins, gelato, and sorbet are widely available in a variety of distinctive styles and flavors. You’ll also find more unusual fare such as Indian golas, a version of shaved ice.” — @ediebjarolim @bellasgelatoshoppetucson @bisouburger @blueicegelato @brooklynpizzaco @azbrucha @cerestucson @chillonsunrise @decibelcoffeeworks @frostgelato @frozendelight520 @hubdowntown @lickscatalina @littleanthonysdiner @noodiestucson @okashi_ice_cream_confections @thescreamery @treat_byciaodown @varietyh2o_icecream @zio_peppe_az See @ediebjarolim’s complete guide on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieIT’S ITALIAN WEEK! 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Executive Chef @Culinarycowboy86d showcased delicious new dishes while guests enjoyed tastings and shared feedback. Thank you to Chef Gabby, @sonoranhouse_samhughes, and everyone who joined us!🥂 Want in on more foodie experiences? Here’s what Tucson Foodie Members get: • $6,000+ in gift cards & perks • Free monthly Foodie Hours • Exclusive R&D dinners • Festival discounts • Help keep Tucson Foodie free #tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieFoodie Dinner at @Sonoranhouse_samhughes! Executive Chef @Culinarycowboy86d showcased delicious new dishes while guests enjoyed tastings and shared feedback. Thank you to Chef Gabby, @sonoranhouse_samhughes, and everyone who joined us!🥂 Want in on more foodie experiences? Here’s what Tucson Foodie Members get: • $6,000+ in gift cards & perks • Free monthly Foodie Hours • Exclusive R&D dinners • Festival discounts • Help keep Tucson Foodie free #tucsonaz #tucsonfoodie

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