The Best Italian Restaurants in Tucson

Caruso's

This family-owned joint has been around since 1938, and has used much of the same recipes and décor since then, giving the place a vintage, lived-in feel. All sauces are homemade in a big copper pot visible from the main dining room, and an outdoor patio provides seating for those warm summer nights. With fountains, checkered tablecloths, and a few black lights, this is one Italian restaurant in Tucson that offers the quality of an expensive restaurant in a comfortable family setting.

Amereno's Little Italy

Amereno's may be one of the least-known but well-loved Italian restaurants in Tucson. Hidden from the main drag, this place is sometimes even unknown to locals, but is always a favorite after it's discovered. The service is prompt and friendly, and the ambience is perfect for a romantic dinner date, with classical music playing and wrought-iron wine holders divvying up the room. And though the bread alone is enough to prove that Amereno's belongs on a list of the best Italian restaurants in Tucson, the veal is what will make you reconsider eating at any other Italian joint in town.

Vero Amore

An upscale yet casual place founded by two brothers in 2006, this pizza joint redefines the criteria for being one of the best Italian restaurants in Tucson. In addition to the pizza, which is baked in a wood-fired stove and made with fresh homemade mozzarella, Vero Amore serves up pastas, paninis, and Italian desserts, including a chocolate chip cookie baked in a skillet. Their selection of wine changes frequently and is marked by wines from small family vineyards, so even the biggest wine aficionado may be in for a surprise.

Caffè Milano

Just woke up and can't wait to eat at one of the best Italian restaurants in Tucson? Luckily Caffè Milano serves Italian breakfast, including such dishes as Uova E Prosciutto (think sunny side up eggs with Prosciutto and ciabatta bread) and a hot croissant. Of course, Italian coffee drinks are plentiful, and the desserts are served all day. And once you sample their breakfast fare, you may end up coming back to try something off of their extensive lunch and dinner menus.

Dolce Vita

For an Italian restaurant with an extensive dinner menu that also features seasonal specials, visit this intimate establishment. With a frequently-changing menu, this restaurant is sure to offer something fresh and exciting for any customer. The only thing wrong with Dolce Vita is that you'll want to sample a portion off each part of their menu—thankfully, each dinner entree comes with sides, so you can do just that. Then finish off the meal right with a slice of their award-winning tiramisu, and see why Dolce Vita is acclaimed by locals and visitors alike as one of the best Italian restaurants in Tucson.

If you're ready to broaden your horizons, try out some of the best Tucson restaurants of all cuisine varieties.