Why Detroit’s Italian Food Scene is Worth Exploring
Best Italian Detroit offers an incredible range of dining experiences, from century-old institutions serving classic red-sauce dishes to modern chef-driven restaurants redefining regional Italian cuisine. Whether you’re looking for handmade pasta, Detroit-style pizza, or coastal Italian flavors, the Motor City delivers authentic Italian food rooted in over 300 years of Italian heritage.
Top Italian Restaurants in Detroit:
- Giovanni’s Ristorante – Old World Italian-American fine dining with homemade pastas, ranked #45 in America’s best Italian restaurants
- SheWolf Pastificio & Bar – Modern Roman cuisine with James Beard nominations and contemporary takes on traditional dishes
- Buddy’s Pizza – Nearly 100 years of Detroit’s iconic square Sicilian-style pizza
- Roma Cafe – Detroit’s oldest restaurant (est. 1890), offering historic ambiance and classic Italian fare
- Andiamo – Multiple locations featuring scratch-made Italian with extensive wine lists and event spaces
Detroit’s Italian culinary landscape reflects the city’s rich history. Italian immigrants have been part of Detroit since 1701, establishing the original “Little Italy” in the Eastern Market area. Today, that heritage lives on through both traditional restaurants serving dishes passed down through generations and innovative kitchens exploring regional Italian specialties from Tuscany to Sicily.
The scene spans everything from fine dining establishments where celebrities like Frank Sinatra once dined to casual delis offering imported Italian goods and house-made subs. You’ll find restaurants milling their own flour for pasta, chefs trained in Michelin-starred kitchens, and family-run spots still using recipes from the old country.
Important Best Italian Detroit terms:
The Enduring Classics: Historic Italian-American Charm
Detroit’s Italian culinary journey is deeply rooted in history, with establishments that have stood the test of time, proudly serving generations of diners. These enduring classics represent the heart and soul of Italian-American cuisine, often characterized by hearty portions, rich “red-sauce” dishes, and a warm, familial atmosphere. They’ve maintained authenticity by sticking to time-honored recipes, often passed down through generations, while subtly adapting to changing tastes through seasonal offerings or expanded wine lists. This blend of tradition and subtle evolution ensures their continued relevance and charm.
One of the most historic names in Detroit’s Italian dining scene is Roma Cafe. Established in 1890, it holds the distinguished honor of being Detroit’s oldest restaurant. For over a century, Roma Cafe was a beloved institution, a hub for Italian culture where locals and visitors flocked for its historical ambiance and classic Italian fare. While sadly, Roma Cafe closed its doors in July 2017, its legacy as a cornerstone of Detroit’s Italian heritage remains significant. Its longevity and cultural impact highlight the deep connection between Italian immigration and the city’s culinary identity.
Another integral part of Detroit’s historic Italian-American charm is the unique contribution of Detroit-style pizza, which we’ll explore further. These establishments, whether fine dining or casual, offer a taste of nostalgia and a connection to the city’s rich past. For those seeking an liftd experience, many of these classic spots also fall into the category of Upscale Dining Detroit, providing a refined setting without losing their traditional essence. They remind us that the Best Italian Detroit offers isn’t just about food; it’s about history, community, and soul.
Giovanni’s Ristorante: A Soulful Detroit Institution
When we talk about the most notable establishments in Detroit’s Italian dining scene, Giovanni’s Ristorante inevitably comes up. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s, as one critic put it, “one of a fading breed, an Old World Italian-American fine restaurant — one that’s intricately and emotionally tied to Detroit’s soul.” This sentiment is echoed by many who consider Giovanni’s a classic with an “old-school, red-sauce-infused charm.”
Giovanni’s prides itself on authentic recipes tracing their roots from the San Marino region of Italy. We’re talking about homemade pastas and sauces that carry the distinctive flavors of Italy’s finest regions. While deeply traditional, Giovanni’s also shows a modern culinary approach through its daily specials and seasonal desserts, demonstrating how it adapts to contemporary trends while preserving its heritage.
The dining experience at Giovanni’s is truly special. The atmosphere is convivial, warm, and aromatic, making it a place where friends and family gather for more than just a meal. The service is impeccable, often featuring tableside conversations with the ‘padrona,’ Frances Cannarsa Truant, and even Chef Randy Truant visiting tables. This personal touch adds to the restaurant’s unique appeal.
Giovanni’s has also attracted a fair share of celebrity guests over the years, with names like Frank Sinatra, George Clooney, and Celine Dion gracing its tables. Sinatra himself reportedly called it one of the best. Critics and patrons alike recognize its excellence; The Daily Meal ranked Giovanni’s #45 among ‘The Best Italian Restaurants in America,’ and Tripadvisor.com users voted it the No. 2 restaurant in all of Detroit.
Beyond the exquisite food, Giovanni’s offers an extensive wine list, curated to feature accessible and beautiful wines from famous Italian wineries and hidden gems from around the world. They also offer a selection of spirits and Detroit’s best cocktails. For those who want to enjoy the Giovanni’s experience at home, takeout is available, and we recommend calling ahead with your orders. For an unforgettable fine dining experience in the Motor City, Giovanni’s is truly one of the Detroit Fine Dining Restaurants that stands out.
Detroit-Style Pizza: A Unique Local Classic
While pasta and traditional entrees often come to mind when thinking of Italian cuisine, Detroit has made its own iconic contribution to the Italian food landscape: Detroit-style pizza. This isn’t just any pizza; it’s a unique, square Sicilian-style pizza known for its thick, airy, and crispy crust, often baked in rectangular steel pans originally used in the automotive industry. The cheese, typically brick cheese, is spread to the very edges, caramelizing against the hot pan to create a delicious, savory crust. The sauce is often ladled on top of the cheese, creating a distinctive flavor profile.
Buddy’s Pizza is synonymous with Detroit-style pizza. For nearly 100 years, Buddy’s has been crafting what many consider the Best Italian Detroit has to offer in the pizza category. In fact, its square Sicilian-style pizza came to national prominence thanks to Buddy’s, earning recognition in national food competitions and publications. It’s still being voted as a top pizza in the country’s many competitions, solidifying its place as a truly unique Detroit contribution to Italian food. This specific style of pizza is a testament to how Italian culinary traditions can evolve and adapt within a new cultural context, creating something entirely new and beloved.
The Modern Vanguard: Redefining the Best Italian Detroit Scene
While Detroit deeply respects its Italian culinary traditions, the city’s dining scene is far from stagnant. A new wave of innovative Italian chefs and restaurants are redefining what the Best Italian Detroit can be, pushing boundaries while still honoring the essence of Italian cuisine. This modern vanguard is characterized by chef-driven menus, contemporary pasta making, and a focus on specific regional Italian dishes that go beyond the familiar “red-sauce” fare.
These establishments often accept cutting-edge techniques and ingredients, from milling their own flour for pasta to incorporating local produce and international seafood. Wood-fired ovens are a common feature, used not just for pizzas but also for roasting meats and vegetables, imparting a smoky depth of flavor. The aesthetic often shifts from old-world charm to sleek, artful, and sometimes minimalist designs, creating a different kind of dining experience. This evolution reflects a desire to explore the diverse culinary landscapes of Italy, from the coastal flavors of the south to the rich traditions of Rome and beyond. These modern Italian restaurants are a testament to Detroit’s dynamic culinary scene, constantly innovating and attracting new accolades, as we’ve highlighted in our Dining Review: Modern Italian Cuisine in Detroit.
Modern Italian Experiences: Award-Winning Flavors
Leading the charge in Detroit’s modern Italian scene are restaurants that have garnered significant critical acclaim, showcasing how innovation can go hand-in-hand with culinary excellence. SheWolf Pastificio & Bar stands out as a prime example of this trend. This modern Roman restaurant is “upping the stakes for Italian cuisine in Detroit” by focusing on contemporary Italian cuisine inspired by old Rome.
What makes SheWolf particularly notable is its commitment to authenticity and quality, which includes milling its own flour for its pasta and focaccia. This dedication results in incredibly fresh and flavorful dishes. Chef Anthony Lombardo’s menu features pasta essentials like cacio e pepe and carbonara, alongside intriguing seasonal creations. His chef-driven approach and focus on authentic, yet modern, Roman flavors have earned SheWolf widespread recognition.
SheWolf’s accolades are impressive: it was nominated for multiple James Beard Awards in 2019, recognized as ‘Best New Restaurant No. 3’ by the Detroit Free Press in 2019, and named ‘Restaurant of the Year’ by Hour Detroit in 2020. Chef Lombardo himself was a James Beard 2022 Semifinalist for Best Chef Great Lakes. These awards underscore SheWolf’s role in representing modern Italian cuisine in Detroit and its ability to adapt to changing culinary trends while maintaining a deep respect for Italian culinary traditions. It’s truly one of the 11 Best New Restaurants in Detroit: Must-Try Eats.
Coastal & Contemporary: Fresh Flavors in the City
Beyond the Roman-inspired focus of SheWolf, Detroit’s modern Italian scene also accepts the vibrant, fresh flavors of coastal Italy and a broader contemporary approach. This trend is characterized by lighter, often seafood-centric dishes, naturally leavened pizzas, and a relaxed yet stylish ambiance that sometimes incorporates “California vibes.”
Mad Nice, for instance, perfectly embodies this coastal Italian aesthetic. It serves up “coastal Italian flavors and California vibes,” offering naturally leavened pizza that diners can playfully cut with giant scissors brought to the table. Beyond pizza, expect wood-fired specialties like rotisserie Amish chicken, showcasing a blend of Italian technique with local ingredients. Similarly, San Morello, located in downtown Detroit, specializes in southern Italian cuisine. Its menu features wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta, and dishes like roasted cabbage with Caesar flavors, all known for their “bright, clean, and bold flavors.”
Oak & Reel, led by Chef Jared Gadbaw, brings a passion for seafood-centric Italian cuisine to the city. Its contemporary Italian menu expertly combines local ingredients with seafood sourced from waters around the world. Expect fresh snapper, octopus, and unique pasta dishes like tuna bolognese. Aurora Italiana also presents a modern aesthetic, with a menu influenced by the island of Capri. Here, you’ll find fresh takes on classics, such as a caprese salad made with burrata, cacio e pepe, and whole fish flown in daily. These restaurants demonstrate how Detroit’s Italian dining scene is expanding to offer diverse regional specialties and modern interpretations, providing exciting options for those seeking a fresh and flavorful experience. For those looking for modern Italian dining in downtown Detroit, Adelina Detroit: Modern Italian Dining in Downtown Detroit is another excellent example.
From Casual Delis to Neighborhood Gems
The vibrant Italian food landscape in Detroit isn’t solely defined by its acclaimed fine dining establishments. It also thrives on a network of casual delis and beloved neighborhood gems that cater to every taste and occasion. These spots play a crucial role in providing accessible, delicious Italian food, often becoming staples in their communities. They offer everything from quick, hearty lunches to relaxed family dinners, showcasing the broad spectrum of what the Best Italian Detroit has to offer.
Take, for instance, the classic Italian delis that have been serving Metro Detroit for decades. Gonellas Foods, a mainstay for over 75 years in the Oakwood area, offers hearty “eight to 18 layered submarine sandwiches,” a variety of cold salads, and an impressive olive bar. Rocco’s Italian Deli on Cass Ave presents a modern, minimalist take on the deli, providing a wide selection of deli sandwiches, take-and-bake meals, groceries, cured meats, and specialty cheeses. In Sterling Heights, Ventimiglia Italian Foods has been a community fixture for over 60 years, known for its fresh homemade pasta and ravioli, prepared foods, imported Italian groceries, and catering services. These delis are perfect for picking up an authentic Italian meal on the go, or for stocking up your pantry with quality ingredients. They represent an essential part of Best Metro Detroit Takeout Food Delivery.
Further out in the suburbs, places like Deluca’s Restaurant in Westland offer a classic Italian diner experience, complete with checkered tablecloths and Italian-American favorites like large pizzas and antipasto salads, perfect for the whole family. These establishments are deeply embedded in their neighborhoods, often serving generations of loyal customers.
Neighborhood Favorites: A Taste of Community
Beyond the dedicated delis, many neighborhood restaurants offer a unique blend of traditional and modern Italian flavors, often becoming local gathering spots. These “gems” are crucial to the fabric of Detroit’s Italian food scene, each with its own character and specialties.
In Corktown, Ottava Via offers a modern spin on Italian favorites. It’s a versatile spot known for its charcuterie, cocktails, and hearty dinner feasts complemented by a good wine selection. You’ll find traditional pastas and pizzas, alongside hot plates, all enjoyed in a rustic setting that also boasts bocce ball lanes and an outdoor fireplace, making it a popular destination during patio season.
Southwest Detroit is home to El Barzon, a unique establishment offering two distinct menus: one Mexican and one Italian. This fusion of flavors has earned it a loyal following, with dishes like the fresh homemade Linguini El Barzon (linguini with fresh little neck clams in the shell, shrimp in olive oil, white wine, garlic, and fresh herbs) being a standout.
La Dolce Vita, nestled in Detroit’s Palmer Park, lives up to its name, translating to “the sweet life.” This old-world Italian eatery boasts a lively brunch with delicious cocktails, a cozy space with arched windows, regional Italian specialties, and a charming garden patio. Patrons claim the food is some of the best in the city, with a staff known for both traditional and eclectic offerings.
In Allen Park, Moro’s Dining, founded in 1980, is old-school all the way. Expect waiters in tuxedos, tableside service, and multi-course meals in a dimly lit setting. Their clam chowder is legendary, a unique offering for an Italian restaurant, and their flaming desserts like cherries jubilee provide a theatrical finish.
Suburban spots like Cantoro Trattoria in Plymouth combine a high-quality Italian market with a fantastic restaurant. Here, you can go grocery shopping and then enjoy a meal like their tagliatelle alla bolognese, prepared with scratch-made pasta and a traditional meat sauce. Pop’s For Italian in Ferndale serves Neapolitan certified pizza, homemade pastas, and fresh bread. Their U-shaped bar boasts an impressive wine system and a large bottle display, and dishes like their chicken parmesan and Italian chopped salad are perfect for sharing.
Gaudino’s in St. Clair Shores blends a traditional Italian market with a modern, casual vibe. Run by a third generation, their house-made bolognese, five-spice ribs, and takeaway entrees like pans of lasagna are cherished by the community. These neighborhood favorites truly offer a taste of community and the diverse flavors of the Best Italian Detroit has to offer.
Evolving with Style: Italian Dining for Every Occasion
The Italian dining scene in Detroit is a dynamic mix, constantly evolving to meet contemporary tastes while honoring its rich past. This means that whether you’re seeking a sophisticated fine dining experience or a casual meal, you’ll find options that impress with their culinary prowess and thoughtful offerings. We see restaurants adapting to changing culinary trends by updating menus with seasonal ingredients, exploring new regional Italian specialties, and even incorporating modern twists on classic cocktails, all while maintaining authenticity through fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
A prime example of this adaptability is Andiamo, with its multiple locations across Metro Detroit. For over 35 years, Andiamo has been committed to “scratch-made, simple fine Italian dining with the freshest seasonal ingredients.” Their extensive menu is available online, including Grab and Go meals, making quality Italian food accessible. Andiamo also boasts a notable beverage program, with wine lists curated by resident Sommeliers featuring selections from the finest wine regions globally, alongside scratch-made craft cocktails and liftd classic drinks.
Andiamo’s offerings extend beyond regular dining with a dedicated pastry shop that creates “sweet and innovative confections for all types of events,” as highlighted by Sweet Events. They also provide comprehensive catering services, both on-premise for private events in stunning settings and off-premise throughout Southeast Michigan. Special events like their 35th Anniversary Celebration, Father’s Day promotions, and exclusive Detroit Fireworks viewing parties further showcase their evolving style and commitment to memorable experiences.
Other establishments also exemplify this blend of tradition and modernity. Bacco Ristorante, for instance, a decades-old dining destination, continually evolves its menu to reflect the latest trends in Italian dining, never cutting corners on preparation or fresh ingredients. La Dolce Vita, known for its old-world charm, also offers a lively brunch with delicious cocktails, catering to diverse preferences. Pop’s For Italian features an impressive wine system and a large bottle display, underscoring the importance of a strong beverage program in today’s dining landscape. And, of course, Giovanni’s Ristorante, while classic, keeps its menu fresh with daily specials and seasonal desserts, ensuring it remains a relevant and beloved choice for exceptional Italian wines and spirits. For those interested in exploring Detroit’s beverage scene further, our guide to Detroit Wine Tasting: 10 Must-Do Tours & Experiences offers more insights.
Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Dining in Detroit
What defines Italian food in Detroit?
Detroit’s Italian cuisine is a tale of two styles. It features both historic, “red-sauce” Italian-American restaurants with deep family roots and a new wave of modern eateries focusing on specific regional Italian dishes and innovative techniques. The defining characteristics include a strong emphasis on homemade pasta, fresh ingredients, and a blend of traditional comfort food with contemporary culinary exploration. You’ll find everything from hearty, classic dishes to lighter, seafood-centric coastal Italian flavors and unique Detroit-style pizza.
What is the most famous Italian dish with roots in Detroit?
The most famous Italian-inspired dish from Detroit is undoubtedly the Detroit-style pizza. This unique, square Sicilian-style pizza is known for its thick, crispy crust, often baked in rectangular steel pans, with cheese spread to the edges to create a caramelized crust, and sauce typically ladled on top. Buddy’s Pizza is credited with bringing this style to national prominence, and it remains a beloved local classic.
Which Italian restaurants in Detroit have won awards?
Several Detroit Italian restaurants have earned significant acclaim. Giovanni’s Ristorante was ranked #45 in ‘The Best Italian Restaurants in America’ by The Daily Meal and voted the No. 2 restaurant in all of Detroit by Tripadvisor users. SheWolf Pastificio & Bar has received multiple James Beard Award nominations, was named ‘Best New Restaurant No. 3’ by the Detroit Free Press, and ‘Restaurant of the Year’ by Hour Detroit, with its chef also being a James Beard Semifinalist. Buddy’s Pizza has also won national food competitions for its Detroit-style pizza. These awards highlight the quality and innovation present in Detroit’s Italian dining scene.
Conclusion: Your Culinary Tour of Italy in the Motor City
Detroit’s Italian food scene is as rich and diverse as the city itself, offering a culinary journey through centuries of tradition and modern innovation. Whether you’re craving the comforting accept of old-world red-sauce Italian, the refined elegance of contemporary fine dining, or the unique local flavor of Detroit-style pizza, the Motor City truly has it all. We’ve explored the enduring classics like Giovanni’s Ristorante, with its deep ties to Detroit’s soul and celebrity patrons, and celebrated the modern vanguard led by award-winning establishments like SheWolf Pastificio & Bar, pushing the boundaries of regional Italian cuisine. From casual neighborhood delis offering hearty subs and homemade pastas to vibrant spots with coastal Italian vibes and extensive wine programs, the options are plentiful and delicious.
For those visiting or living in Detroit, exploring these Italian eateries is an essential part of experiencing the city’s vibrant culture. And if you’re looking for comfortable, centrally located accommodations during your culinary adventure, Detroit Furnished Rentals offers fully equipped, pet-friendly apartments that put you right in the heart of the action, close to many of these fantastic dining destinations. Our goal is to make your stay in Detroit as enjoyable and convenient as possible, ensuring you can savor every moment of the city’s incredible food scene.
To dive deeper into the city’s gastronomic offerings, explore our Detroit Culinary Scene guide, or simply Explore Detroit’s Best Restaurants to find your next favorite meal. Buon appetito!
