Exploring The 10 Best Italian Restaurants in Houston (2024)

Houston is a city known for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene, and its Italian restaurants are no exception. I recently embarked on a delightful journey to explore the best Italian restaurants in Houston. Here’s a detailed account of my experiences at the top 10 Italian restaurants in the city. 

1. Triola’s Kitchen

Address: 4606 N Main St, Houston, TX 77009, United States
Phone: +1 832-390-4745
Star Rating: 4.8 rated on Google
Opening Times:
Wednesday – Friday:11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Saturday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sunday – Tuesday: Closed
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Family-style Italian food – Serves vegan dishes 

Triola’s Kitchen is one of the best Italian restaurants in Houston, Although Triola’s Kitchen is a relatively new addition to the city’s Italian dining scene, it carries a deep-seated heritage. Owner Frank Triola continues the legacy of his grandfather, Frank Azzarelli, who is said to have opened Houston’s first Italian restaurant back in the 1940s. During my visit, I was delighted by the rich, flavorful pasta dishes, particularly the indulgent seafood lasagna and the perfectly crispy calamari. The classic spaghetti and meatballs were just as impressive. A unique perk of dining at Triola’s is its BYOB policy, so don’t forget to bring along your favorite bottle of wine to complete the experience. 

2. Giacomo’s Cibo e Vino

Address: 3215 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098, United States
Star Rating: 4.6 rated on Google
Phone: +1 713-522-1934
Opening Times:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Saturday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Venetian-style small plates 

Giacomo’s Cibo e Vino offers a unique dining experience with its Venetian-style small plates. The intimate setting is perfect for a quiet evening out. The Cicchetti, or small plates, was delightful. I recommend the polpette (meatballs) and the sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). Their extensive wine list features excellent Italian selections. 

3. Potente

Address: 1515 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002, United States
Phone: +1 713-237-1515
Star Rating: 4.6 rated on Google
Opening Times:
Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Modern Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients 

Potente offers a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes. The ambiance is sophisticated, perfect for a special night out. The Risotto ai Frutti di Mare, with its rich seafood flavors, was outstanding. The truffle pasta, another highlight, was rich and aromatic. The service was impeccable, making the dining experience truly memorable. 

4. Maggiano’s Little Italy

Address: 2019 Post Oak Blvd, Houston, TX 77056, United States
Phone: +1 713-961-2700
Star Rating: 4.5 rated on Google 
Opening Times:
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Family-style Italian food 

Maggiano’s Little Italy offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home. The family-style dining concept allows for generous portions perfect for sharing. The lasagna, rich with layers of cheese and meat sauce, is a must-try, and the tiramisu, with its perfect balance of coffee and cream, is the ideal way to end your meal. 

5. North Italia

Address: 1700 Post Oak Blvd Ste 190, Houston, TX 77056, United States
Phone: +1 281-605-4030
Star Rating: 4.5 rated on Google
Opening Times:
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Features a private dining room and provides vegan options. 

At North Italia, the emphasis is on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s modern decor complements its innovative menu. I savored the wood-fired Margherita pizza, which featured a perfectly charred crust and fresh basil. Their handmade pasta, particularly the Bolognese, was cooked to perfection and had a rich, flavorful sauce. 

6. Roma

Address: 2347 University Blvd, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Phone: +1 713-664-7581
Star Rating: 4.4
Opening Times:
Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Friday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Offers fresh dishes in a rustic ambiance. 

Roma brings a touch of Italy to Houston with its authentic flavors and intimate setting. I was particularly impressed by the Pollo alla Parmigiana, which was crispy yet juicy, and the homemade gnocchi, which melted in my mouth. The rustic decor added to the authentic Italian dining experience. 

7. Fiori Restaurant Houston

Address: 4315 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006, United States
Phone: +1 832-904-5522
Star Rating: 4.2
Opening Times:
Monday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: N/A 

Fiori Restaurant Houston offers an elegant dining experience. The ambiance is cozy, and the service is impeccable. I enjoyed their signature dish, the Osso Buco, which was tender and flavorful. The wine list is extensive, offering perfect pairings for every meal.  

8. Tavola

Address: 1800 Post Oak Blvd Suite 100, Houston, TX 77056, United States
Phone: +1 713-840-1111
Star Rating: 4.4 rated on Google
Opening Times:
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Authentic Italian cuisine 

During my recent visit to Tavola, a collaboration between Berg Hospitality and the Bastion Collection, I was thoroughly impressed by the elegant take on Italian cuisine. The restaurant features a brasserie-style bar, an enclosed patio, and a beautifully decorated dining room with blush tones. The culinary creations of Milan-born chef Luca Di Benedetto are exceptional, particularly the pappardelle with Texas wild boar ragu, which adds a delightful southern twist. After indulging in a delicious meal and drinks, I highly recommend selecting an after-dinner digestif from the restaurant’s unique amaro cart for the perfect finishing touch. 

9. Pappasito’s Cantina

Address: 2515 S Loop W, Houston, TX 77054, United States
Phone: +1 713-668-5756
Opening Times:
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Tex-Mex and Italian fusion cuisine 

Pappasito’s Cantina offers a unique fusion of Tex-Mex and Italian cuisine. The lively atmosphere is perfect for a fun night out. I tried the Tex-Mex lasagna, which was a delightful blend of flavors, and the margaritas were some of the bests in town. The festive décor and energetic vibe make it a great spot for casual dining. 

10. La Griglia

Address: 2817 W Dallas St, Houston, TX 77019, United States
Phone: +1 713-526-4700
Star Rating: 4.3 rated on Google
Opening Times:
Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Specialty Dishes/Unique Features: Classic Italian dishes made with ingredients sourced directly from Italy. 

La Griglia offers a vibrant, upscale dining experience with a menu featuring classic Italian dishes. The ambiance is lively, making it perfect for a night out. I savored the veal piccata, which was tender and flavorful, and the spaghetti Bolognese, which was rich and hearty. The restaurant’s colorful decor adds to its charm. 

Each of these top 10 Italian restaurants in Houston offers a unique and delightful dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian comfort food, modern takes on traditional dishes, or a fun fusion of flavors, Houston’s Italian dining scene has something for everyone.

Conclusion:

Houston, known as the Space City, is a hub for culinary enthusiasts from around the world. When exploring the best Italian restaurants the city has to offer, a comfortable stay is essential. Elevate your Houston dining experience by booking a stay with OYO Hotel USA. Our accommodations provide everything you need—convenience, affordability, and quality.

At OYO, we pride ourselves on offering clean and secure rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and hospitable staff to make your stay exceptional. Don’t miss the chance to enhance your Houston visit by choosing OYO Hotel for your accommodation. For booking and reservations, feel free to contact us at +1 6282027586. Enjoy the perfect blend of delicious Italian cuisine and a comfortable stay with OYO Hotels in Houston.