Maybe when you think of Italian food, Charleston isn’t the first place that springs to mind. However, this small Southern city is also home to a number of superb Italian restaurants that will transport you to the very heart of Italy. From hand-made pasta to wood-fired pizzas and delectable desserts, these eateries give diners a true taste of Italy’s culinary delights. These top Italian restaurants in Charleston can satisfy your craving for real Italian cuisine.
1. Lucca’s Trattoria 1 Trattoria
Lucca, a popular dining establishment in the heart of Charleston, is well-known for its simple Italian dishes cooked using ingredients that are grown nearby. It is a favored hangout for both locals and tourists because to the cozy setting, friendly service, and intelligently created menu. Try their handmade pastas for sure and delectable tiramisu.
2. Le Farfalle
Situated on King Street, Le Farfalle offers a contemporary twist on classic Italian cuisine. Their menu showcases inventive dishes made with seasonal ingredients, inspired by various regions of Italy. From house-made pasta to wood-fired pizzas and flavorful seafood, Le Farfalle delivers an exceptional dining experience.
3. Indaco
Situated in the Upper King Street neighborhood, this contemporary Italian osteria delivers the lively flavors of Italy to Charleston. The menu offers a wide variety of creative small plates, homemade pasta dishes, and wood-fired pizzas. Don’t overlook their collection of specialty cocktails and Italian wines.
4. La Pizzeria
If you love pizza, you must go to La Pizzeria on St. Philip Street. Intimate restaurant serving real Neapolitan-style pizza created with imported Italian ingredients. Every pie, from the classic Margherita to the distinctive Capricciosa, is lovingly made and baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
5. Vincent Chicco’s
Situated on Hutson Alley, Vincent Chicco’s is an Italian-American restaurant that offers classic Italian comfort food in a stylish setting. From spaghetti and meatballs to chicken parmesan, their menu is filled with hearty and flavorful dishes that will satisfy any craving. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with their traditional Italian-American cuisine.
6. La Fontana Authentic Italian Restaurant
This West Ashley establishment offers the tastes of Italy to the Charleston suburbs. This family-run restaurant offers hearty, authentic Italian food in a welcoming ambience. La Fontana offers a variety of alternatives to suit every appetite, from pasta meals to seafood specialties.
7. Pane e Vino
Tucked away in the heart of Charleston, Pane e Vino is a quaint trattoria that exudes the warmth of Italy. Their menu offers traditional Italian fare from a variety of areas, including freshly caught seafood, mouthwatering pastries, and homemade pasta. Choose a bottle of wine from their comprehensive wine list to go with your meal.
8. Sermet’s Southernterranean
While not exclusively Italian, Sermet’s Southernterranean offers a fusion of Southern and Mediterranean flavors. Located on King Street, this restaurant combines Italian and Mediterranean influences to create unique and delicious dishes. Try their Mediterranean-style seafood pasta or their wood-fired pizzas with a twist.
9. Bacco
Situated in Mount Pleasant, Bacco is a neighborhood gem that delights diners with its authentic Italian cuisine. From their homemade pasta to their wood-fired pizzas and flavorful antipasti, Bacco delivers a truly memorable dining experience. Don’t forget to save room for their delectable desserts, such as the tiramisu or cannoli.
10. Pane e Vino Trattoria & Wine Bar
Not to be mistaken with the similarly called restaurant above, Pane e Vino Trattoria & Wine Bar is situated in Mount Pleasant’s I’On area. This restaurant features an extensive wine list to go along with your meal and focuses on serving simple yet excellent Italian meals.
These Italian eateries in Charleston’s historic district won’t let you down when you’re wanting Italian cuisine. Every taste from these restaurants will take you to Italy, whether you’re craving classic pasta meals, wood-fired pizzas, or decadent desserts. The best Italian food can be found in the picturesque city of Charleston, so treat yourself to a memorable culinary experience. Buon appetito!