My Favourite Italian Restaurants in Houston 2024
Houston might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of top-tier Italian food, but let me tell you—I was blown away by what I found here. The variety, the quality, the attention to detail—this city takes Italian food seriously, and I am so here for it.
From elegant fine dining spots serving dishes straight out of northern Italy to cozy, wine-filled trattorias and fresh pasta joints, Houston delivers the full spectrum of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re craving authentic Italian, Italian-American comfort food, or something in between, you’ll find it here.
During my time in Houston this past January, I made it a mission to seek out the best Italian spots in town. And let’s just say—I ate very, very well. Here are four of my absolute favorites.
1) Alba Houston
Located inside the luxurious Hotel Granduca, Alba is the kind of restaurant that makes you feel like you should’ve dressed up just a little bit more. Everything about this place - from the ambiance to the service to the food - exudes class.
Chef Maurizio Ferrarese is the mastermind behind the menu, and his roots in northwestern Italy shine through in every dish. The flavors are rich but refined, the ingredients top-notch, and the execution flawless. I went for the Branzino, and let me tell you - it was next level. Light, buttery, and so perfectly cooked that I could’ve eaten two. Their pasta dishes are just as impressive, especially the agnolotti del plin with shaved truffle. And if you’re a risotto fan? This is your spot. Ferrarese is from Vercelli, Europe’s rice capital, so you know his risotto game is strong. The wine selection is outstanding, featuring some of the best Italian bottles you can find in Houston. Whether you’re a red or white fan, there’s something here that’ll complement your meal perfectly. Service is impeccable, valet parking is available, and the entire experience is just… effortless. If you’re looking for an elegant, romantic dinner spot or just want to treat yourself to a truly special meal, Alba is the place to be.
Would you go for the risotto or the pasta with truffle? Tough call, right?
2) Vinoteca Poscol
Now, if you’re in the mood for a more laid-back, intimate vibe, Vinoteca Poscol is where you want to be. It’s a small plates and wine kind of place, inspired by the lively wine bars of Venice, perfect for sipping, snacking, and lingering over conversation. The restaurant gets its name from Via Poscolle, a main street in Udine, Chef Marco Wiles’ hometown in northeastern Italy. And that’s exactly the kind of food you’ll find here - authentic, simple, and packed with flavor.
Some highlights from my visit:
* Shrimp with prosciutto, garlic, and capers – A perfect balance of salty, briny, and fresh flavors.
* Pizza – Not their main focus, but honestly? One of the best I’ve had in Houston.
* Wines on wines on wines – They have an all-Italian wine list, and the staff is more than happy to let you sample before you commit.
The place is cozy, the tables are small, and the atmosphere is perfect for a casual yet intimate night out. It’s also one of the more affordable options on this list, making it an excellent spot for a high-quality meal without breaking the bank.
Pro tip: Make a reservation! It fills up fast.
3) Davanti
If you’re like me and believe that fresh pasta is one of life’s greatest joys, then you need to check out Davanti. This spot is run by Chef Roberto Crescini, a pasta master straight from Brescia, northern Italy. He’s cooked professionally in Italy for years, and you can taste that expertise in every bite.
One of the coolest things about Davanti? You can customize your own pasta dish:
* Pick your pasta shape – Options include bucatini, pappardelle, fusilli, cavatappi, tagliatelle, and more.
* Pick your sauce – Choices range from classic ragù Bolognese to braised lamb sauce (my personal favorite).
* Add protein – Because sometimes you just need that extra touch.
If you’re in the mood for pizza instead, their Roman-style pizza al taglio is a must-try. And since Chef Crescini is a certified Norcino (butcher), keep an eye out for any salumi specials. The vibe here is relaxed and casual, but the food is anything but ordinary. Affordable, delicious, and a pasta lover’s dream. Which pasta + sauce combo would you go for? I need recommendations for my next visit!
4) Da Marco
Last but certainly not least, we have Da Marco- an absolute Houston institution when it comes to Italian fine dining. This restaurant has been serving incredible northern Italian cuisine since 2000, and it has only gotten better with time. It’s the kind of place where you want to order a full Italian meal - antipasti, pasta, a meat or fish entrée, and a side.
I went for their classic pasta with tomatoes and mozzarella, but they recently upgraded it by making it with house-made arugula fettuccine, a small change, but one that took the dish to a whole new level. Their pizza? Surprisingly amazing. You wouldn’t expect a fine dining spot to excel in pizza, but they do. If you go, order one you won’t regret it. The ambiance is warm and intimate, with dim lighting that makes every meal feel like a special occasion. The service is top-tier, the wine list is strictly Italian, and while it’s on the pricier side, it’s worth every penny. Ever been to a fancy restaurant that low-key has some of the best pizza ever? Da Marco totally caught me off guard with that one.
