This guide covers 19 italian restaurant options in Milwaukee. Guests rate them 4.5 out of 5 on average. Most of them are spread across Bay View, Juneau Town, Lower East Side, so those are the areas to start with.
All Italian restaurant in Milwaukee
Zarletti
Zarletti is a fine dining northern Italian restaurant located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee. Established in 2004, it serves traditional Italian fare inspired by the country cooking of northern regions such as Piemonte, Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, and Les Marches. The restaurant offers a large variety of international wines and a retail section with uniquely crafted, high-quality goods from the small-batch producers of Italy. Zarletti's menu features an ever-changing ravioli, hand made daily, as well as classic northern Italian entrees like fresh seafood, veal, lamb, and its signature Osso Bucco. The restaurant also offers a selection of artisan food products, including extra virgin olive oils, honey, fruit spreads, pasta, wine, and more. Zarletti's executive chef and owner, Brian C. Zarletti, focuses on creating regional Italian cuisine inspired by lessons learned in his grandmother's kitchen and on his extensive travels in Italy. Zarletti is a go-to choice for those exploring new restaurants and bars in the downtown Milwaukee area, offering great food, service, and ambiance. The restaurant has a 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor, with many reviewers praising its attentive service, delicious food, and memorable dining experience. Zarletti's reputation extends to a sister location in Mequon, where diners "love wood-fired pizza," underscoring the group's commitment to quality Italian cuisine crafted with care.
- 741 N Milwaukee St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
- Juneau Town
- (414) 225-0000
- zarletti.net
- Today: Closed
Opening hours
- Monday4:45–8:45 PM
- Tuesday4:45–8:45 PM
- Wednesday4:45–8:45 PM
- Thursday4:45–8:45 PM
- Friday4:45–9:30 PM
- Saturday4:45–9:30 PM
- SundayClosed
Zaffiro’s Pizza The Original
Zaffiro's Pizza is a restaurant that has been serving traditional Italian dishes, including pizza, since 1954. It is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is known for its thin-crust pizza, which is made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. The restaurant offers a variety of menu items, including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and pastas, as well as a selection of beers and non-alcoholic beverages. Zaffiro's Pizza is a family-owned business that has been passed down through generations. The restaurant is owned by Michael Zaffiro, the son of the original owner, Bobby Zaffiro. Bobby Zaffiro immigrated to the United States from Sicily and opened the Rock-a-Bye Tap in Milwaukee's Italian Third Ward district in 1951. He later opened Zaffiro's Restaurant in 1954, which has been serving pizza and other Italian dishes to the community for over 60 years. Zaffiro's Pizza is a popular destination for pizza lovers, and its menu offers a variety of options to suit different tastes. The restaurant's signature pizza is made with a thin crust, fresh sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses. The pizza is cooked in a brick oven and served hot, with a choice of toppings. In addition to its pizza, Zaffiro's Pizza also offers a selection of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches, as well as a variety of beers and non-alcoholic beverages.
- 1724 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
- Lower East Side
- (414) 289-8776
- zaffirospizza.com
- Today: 11 AM–10 PM
Opening hours
- Monday11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday11 AM–10 PM
- WednesdayClosed
- Thursday11 AM–10 PM
- Friday11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday11 AM–10 PM
Tenuta’s Italian Restaurant
Tenuta's Italian Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant located in the Bay View neighborhood of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was founded in 2002 by Cesare and Antonia Tenuta, who brought their knowledge of Italian cuisine and recipes from the southern tip of Italy. The restaurant serves traditional Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and risotto, in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its authentic Italian food, with a focus on using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The menu features a variety of options, including antipasti, pasta dishes, and risotto, as well as a selection of wine and other beverages. Tenuta's Italian Restaurant has received positive reviews from customers and critics alike, with many praising the friendly service, comfortable atmosphere, and generous portions. Tenuta's Italian Restaurant is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and is particularly well-suited for couples, families, and groups looking for a cozy and authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant is open daily and offers takeout and table service, with dinner reservations recommended. With its rich flavors, traditional Italian dishes, and welcoming atmosphere, Tenuta's Italian Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a taste of Italy in Milwaukee.
- 2995 S Clement Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
- Bay View
- (414) 431-1014
- tenutasitalian.com
- Today: 4–10 PM
Opening hours
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday4–10 PM
- Wednesday4–10 PM
- Thursday4–10 PM
- Friday4–10 PM
- Saturday4–10 PM
- Sunday4–10 PM
Sorella
Sorelle business is an Italian restaurant in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that offers elevated casual dining with a blend of New Jersey flavors and a Midwest twist. The restaurant provides a variety of services, including online ordering, exceptional catering, and exclusive private events. Their menu features wood-fired Italian comfort food, including pizzas, pastas, and parms, which can be enjoyed through dine-in, carry out, or delivery. Sorelle also offers a private event space for up to 50 guests, making it an ideal location for weddings, baby showers, and other celebrations. The business is suitable for individuals and groups looking for a unique dining experience in Milwaukee. With a focus on exceptional service and high-quality food, Sorelle is a popular choice for foodies and those seeking a memorable experience.
- 2535 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
- Bay View
- (414) 301-6255
- sorellamke.com
- Today: 4–9 PM
Opening hours
- Monday5–9 PM
- Tuesday5–9 PM
- Wednesday5–9 PM
- Thursday5–9 PM
- Friday5–10 PM
- Saturday4–10 PM
- Sunday4–9 PM
Santino’s Little Italy
Santino's Little Italy is a casual Italian restaurant located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It is a standalone restaurant that offers a wide variety of traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, pasta, salads, and other Italian dishes. The restaurant is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, using only the freshest ingredients and locally sourced products. The restaurant's menu features a range of options, including wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas made with Caputo 00 flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella cheese. The pizzas are cooked in a 6,000-pound Italian wood-fired oven, giving them a unique and authentic flavor. In addition to pizzas, Santino's also offers a variety of pasta dishes, salads, and appetizers, as well as a selection of Italian wines and cocktails. Santino's is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering a welcoming and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant is located in a historic building and features a cozy, rustic decor, with classic Italian movies playing in the background. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, and the owners are passionate about providing exceptional service and creating a memorable dining experience.
- 352 E Stewart St, Milwaukee, WI 53207
- Bay View
- (414) 897-7367
- santinoslittleitaly.com
- Today: 4–8 PM
Opening hours
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday4–8 PM
- Wednesday4–8 PM
- Thursday4–8 PM
- Friday4–9 PM
- Saturday4–9 PM
- Sunday4–8 PM
San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana
San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana is a pizzeria that serves authentic Neapolitan pizza straight from Naples, Italy. It offers a variety of pizzas made with traditional preparations and local ingredients, as well as local and international beer, wine, and spirits. The pizzeria is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is known for its excellent service and ambiance. San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana has received numerous positive reviews from customers, who praise its delicious food and attentive staff. Customers have described the pizzas as "fantastic" and "the best Neapolitan pizza" they have had. The pizzeria's service has also been praised for being "attentive and kind" and "ninja fast." Customers have also appreciated the pizzeria's commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana is a great destination for pizza lovers who want to experience authentic Neapolitan cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The pizzeria's menu features a variety of pizzas, including classics like the Margherita and Prosciutto e Funghi, as well as more unique options like the Arancini and Genovese. With its excellent service and delicious food, San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to try authentic Neapolitan pizza.
- 838 N Old World 3rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53203
- Westown
- (414) 276-2876
- sangiorgiopizza.com
- Today: Closed
Opening hours
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday5–9 PM
- Wednesday5–9 PM
- Thursday5–9 PM
- Friday4:30–10 PM
- Saturday4:30–10 PM
- SundayClosed
SALA – Modern Sicilian Dining
Sala is an Italian restaurant that offers a refined dining experience with a focus on regional Italian flavors and exceptional fresh produce. Sala's menu features a variety of dishes, including pasta, entrees, and desserts, all made with high-quality ingredients and presented in a fun and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is suitable for a range of occasions, from intimate dinners to corporate events and celebrations. Sala is located in the heart of Sydney's CBD, but it also has a location in Milwaukee, where it has been serving delicious Italian food since 2001. The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service, making it a popular choice for special occasions and everyday dining.
- 2613 E Hampshire St, Milwaukee, WI 53211
- Downer Woods
- (414) 964-2611
- saladining.com
- Today: Closed
Opening hours
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday3–9 PM
- Wednesday3–9 PM
- Thursday3–10 PM
- Friday3–10 PM
- Saturday3–10 PM
- SundayClosed
Safina
Safina is a family-owned Italian restaurant located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It offers exclusive group dining experiences for corporate events and celebrations. The restaurant's goal is to provide a unique and comfortable atmosphere with excellent service, consistent products, and high-quality ingredients at affordable prices. Safina's menu is designed to cater to a variety of tastes, and its private dining options can accommodate small and large groups. The restaurant's private events team can help plan and execute customized events, including catering, decorations, and entertainment. Safina's menu features traditional Italian dishes, as well as seasonal specials and chef's creations. The restaurant's private dining spaces can be reserved for corporate events, birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations. Safina's team can also provide customized menus, event planning, and coordination to ensure a successful and stress-free event experience.
- 785 N Jefferson St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
- Juneau Town
- (414) 677-8518
- safinamke.com
- Today: Closed
Opening hours
- MondayClosed
- TuesdayClosed
- Wednesday4–9 PM
- Thursday4–9 PM
- Friday4–9 PM
- Saturday4–9 PM
- SundayClosed
Rosati’s Pizza – Milwaukee Bay View
Rosati's is a private American fast food and restaurant chain business that specializes in serving authentic Chicago-style pizza and Italian classics made with high-quality ingredients. The company was founded by the Rosati brothers, who opened the first Rosati's in Mt. Prospect, Illinois in 1964. Rosati's commitment to serving authentic Chicago pizza and Italian classics has remained unchanged since its inception. Rosati's menu includes a variety of options, including traditional thin crust, double dough, Chicago deep-dish, and stuffed pizzas, as well as sandwiches, pasta dishes, and other Italian favorites. The company's commitment to quality is reflected in its use of 100% real Wisconsin mozzarella cheese, fresh dough made daily, and a family recipe for pizza sauce that has been passed down through generations. Rosati's also offers catering and pizza party packages for large groups, making it a popular choice for events and gatherings. Rosati's has grown to over 200 locations across the United States, with a strong presence in the Chicago area. The company has been recognized for its quality and success, including being listed as one of the top 100 pizzerias in the country by Pizza Today. Rosati's franchise opportunities are available to individuals who want to open their own Rosati's location, and the company offers training and support to help franchisees succeed.
- 145 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
- Bay View
- (414) 489-7191
- rosatispizza.com
- Today: 11 AM–10 PM
Opening hours
- Monday11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday11 AM–10 PM
- Friday11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday11 AM–10 PM
Nadi Plates
Nadi Plates is a woman-owned Italian food truck, caterer, and soon-to-be restaurant based in Milwaukee. They specialize in authentic, homemade Italian cuisine using fresh ingredients and traditional family recipes. Nadi Plates offers a variety of catering services, including plated dinners, family-style meals, and stations, to accommodate different tastes and preferences. Their menu features a range of options, including pasta bars, grilled veggie stations, and Italian-inspired bowls. They also offer late-night options and can accommodate dietary needs, such as vegan and gluten-free options. Nadi Plates' team is dedicated to personalized service and going above and beyond to ensure every event is a success. Nadi Plates is highly recommended for weddings and events, with a 5-star rating on various review platforms. Reviewers praise their exceptional food quality, service, and attention to detail. They are known for their ability to accommodate special requests and dietary needs, making every guest feel welcome and included. Nadi Plates' passion for food and hospitality shines through in their exceptional catering services.
- 2163 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
- Lower East Side
- (414) 364-7919
- nadiplates.com