13 Best Italian Restaurants in Gainesville

“I love Italian food—especially mom-and-pop restaurants. My mom and I tried Pomodoro Café for the first time, and wow… hidden gem. The calamari was perfectly cooked—light, crisp, not greasy at all. The spaghetti Bolognese was rich, smooth, and perfectly al dente… the kind of dish that makes you pause and enjoy every bite. The atmosphere was cozy and comfortable. And Virginia—our server—was amazing. Attentive, friendly, and made the whole experience even better. Highly recommend!“

“Went here with a party of 11 for a graduation dinner. Reservations for 6:15. Got sat at 6:35. Seats were mixed but decent. Server was Anari. She was kind and helpful, but she could have used some help. Ordered 3 appetizers and drinks. Drinks and one app came out on time. The two other apps came out halfway through dinner. Calamari, spinach artichoke dip, and something else. The artichoke dip was tasty. Had to ask for bread a few times.

The calamari tasted burnt, probably from the cooking oil. You might want to change the oil now and then.

I had the chicken parm and was the last person to get my meal after most everyone else was done eating. Most folks like their food. Some had pizza, which they said was good.

I've give it a 6 out of 10. My chicken parm also tasted burnt. The pasta had little to no flavor or maybe it was lack of salt.
Plenty of parking. Drinks were decent. Nothing to write home about.“

“Food is great. Service is very good. Totally recommend.“

“During peak times;
Super fresh and very tasty!!! That dessert we had...oh my!!!!! Those Italian donuts were out of this world!!💞
Now beware:
1:45 pm....Not so good.....not enough servers, stale tuff bread sticks...scarce sauce...“

“First visit tonight. Best pizza I have ever had! And the wings were amazing also! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“The food was absolutely fantastic.“

“Ate at Leonardos last night and ordered a Big Leo. Thought something was missing in the toppings. Couldn’t determine at restaurant. Had a piece for lunch today and found out not a spec of sausage on the pizza. Come on guys, you’re not giving them away.“

“I have been to Sandy’s place twice now, each time a a different but absolutely amazing experience. The food is great and staff is very friendly and welcoming. The new owner and chef is amazing too! I highly recommend.“

“Highly recommend this pizzeria! Very kind staff, food is the highest quality and they are very consistent! My goto every time I’m in the area!“

“Shout out to hungry howie's!!!
We had a last minute cancelation by the company catering our event, and the employees at this location stepped up to the plate, literally, and made us 16 large pizzas!! All in 30 minutes!
Thank you, thank you!“

“Good food good customer service“

“First time here and we loved it!! Sarah was awesome! All 4 of us loved our dinner! Great wine! A Must stop in Gainesville!!“

“I give them 5 stars even though there was a set back due to something that was out of their control and DoorDash took an 1 1/2 to deliver my food and my that time I just asked them to let me pick it up! Nicole was so willing to help and even took some things off due to the wait and was so kind to even remake the pizza for me great atmosphere!“