50 Best Italian Restaurants near Amherst

“The chef is #SoGood the food is #SoFresh it’s all #SoYummy! 👍🏻😋“

“I wanted to go someplace different for my "Belated" Birthday Dinner and I was in the mood for Italian. I needed Pasta . So, I looked on YELP & decided on "Carrabba's". I am so glad I did !!! My son & I got there around 6pm and had about a 10-15 minute wait. There was a bar to the right & most of the dining was to the left. It was clean & had a comfortable feel inside. We were seated & I had already planned what I wanted to eat the night before, so I wouldn't take forever deciding once I got there. But first, we were served delicious, soft, warm Italian bread . It was so good. We ended up getting it 3x I believe. Our waitress's name was Ashlie S. She was great !!! Very nice, friendly, helpful, funny & very easy to talk to. I order the LINGUINE POSITANO WITH CHICKEN, I got the MAMA MANDOLA'S SICILIAN CHICKEN SOUP & the CANNOLI CAKE FOR 2 for dessert. Everything was phenomenal !! The pasta was so light but with a burst of amazing flavors ! The soup was so good & with huge pieces of chicken in it. Yummmmmmy !! The Cannoli Cake was very good & because my birthday was yesterday, Ashlie gave me a few scoops of vanilla ice cream with syrup & a little birthday candle in it. She was so sweet. Everything was just perfect ! I had an amazing experience here tonight . I found the prices to be reasonable , at least for what I got. We had quite a Long waiting time to get our food, but it was soooo worth it ! They have a special deal going on. I don't know if it's temporary or always going on, but it is a great deal. Whatever the price of something you order for in the restaurant, you take home ANYTHING for less for $10.00. No matter what the regular price. I took home another Linguine Positano,but without the chicken. So now I have an amazing lunch & dinner for tomorrow, since I didn't even finish my pasta there. We also received extra fresh bread to take home. 100% satisfaction on the trip. Also, the ladies room was very clean & smelled good. (That never happens ) I will most definitely be returning to this Carrabba's & I hope I get the wonderful Ashlie S. as my server again. She was full of life, unlike a couple others I saw that looked like they were ready for bed. lol“

“We crossed the border to visit Buffalo and we had to try Olive Garden for the first time. We were jot disappointed when we arrived. We had such great service from our server and everything came out so fast. The food was super delicious and they even gave a slice of cake for my son’s bday. Would highly recommend coming here!“

“Delicious Eggplant Parm but for 20 bucks or so it really should come with a salad or veggie side. Comes with an Olive Garden style bread stick. It also comes with a LOT of spaghetti!! 🍝 I got extra sauce for $3 because sauce!! I love their sauce. Sometimes I order a quart for $8 because it's delish and have it a couple of nights with my own pasta for dinner.“

“I ordered from them for the first time, and I am very impressed. They delivered on time, and the spicy wantons and stinger sandwich were delicious! The prices are good, and the menu selection is vast, so I am curious to keep trying more items, I strongly recommend them, and the delivery hours are unbeatable.“

“Culinary Perfection in Buffalo Buffalo is truly privileged to have a dining establishment as exceptional as Lombardo’s. Much like the gridiron perfection we are witnessing from the Buffalo Bills, led by Josh Allen, Lombardo’s delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the realm of fine dining. Everything about this restaurant exudes excellence—from the impeccably crafted dishes to the warm and inviting atmosphere, from the attentive service to the dedication of its ownership. Watching Tom Lombardo and his son Tommy work together this holiday season is a heartwarming sight that reflects the family values and passion behind this establishment. Simply put, Lombardo’s is a place you shouldn’t miss. It’s more than a meal—it’s an experience that defines culinary perfection.“

“Delicious and fresh no sugar amazing quality“

“Had dinner this evening for my wife's birthday. Her filet mignon was awesome and my veal ossobuco was even better. Food, atmosphere, service, Amici's has it all covered.“

“A friend and I had an after church lunch at the Barrel this past Sunday The food as always was great Our server was patient and gracious. We who are older appreciate that kindness greatly.“

“Chef’s is a true Buffalo gem for authentic Italian comfort food. From the moment we walked in, it felt like stepping back in time—in the best way. The atmosphere is rich with history, and the food absolutely delivers.

We started with the stuffed peppers, which were spicy, flavorful, and the perfect way to kick things off. For our mains, we had both the chicken parm and the eggplant parm—each one was generously portioned and packed with flavor. I tried the “double parm” with both chicken and spaghetti smothered in sauce and cheese. It was delicious, though next time I’d skip the parm on the pasta just for easier eating. Still, no complaints!

The house red wine was smooth and paired beautifully with the meal. And dessert? The cannoli was spot-on—crispy shell, creamy filling, just sweet enough.

Jayme, our server, was fantastic—friendly, attentive, and even packed up our leftovers with care. Portions are hearty, so next time we’ll likely split a dinner if we’re ordering apps again.

If you’re looking for a place that serves up generous portions of classic Italian fare with a side of Buffalo nostalgia, Chef’s is it. We’ll definitely be back!.“

“Service was excellent (thank you David) Food and excellent, the bartenders were excellent. 10 out of 10“

“Outstanding Experience!
Sinatras’s is truly first class. The decor is beautiful & clean with soft music. Our server Dan and the rest of the staff were outstanding. All food was perfectly prepared and presented in a timely fashion.
Highly Recommended!!“

“Frankie Primos is our favorite. Authentic cuisine just like you’d find in grandma’s kitchen. Everything is perfect every time we come.“

“me and my wife just got some slices from there and they were the best slices we ever had. we will be back for food“

“The patio is amazing! The food is always fresh and the servers are spot on.“

“What a great restaurant!! The food was phenomenal! I had my birthday dinner at Bella Ciao and I was very impressed. The Lobster Mafalde was loaded with lobster and so delicious. The Rice Balls were out of this world. The Peanut Butter pie was the best I ever had. Also, Casey, the Manager was so accommodating and personable. She just couldn't do enough for us. I just can't wait to go back!! (I am still thinking about the Three Cheese Garlic Bread) The BEST!“

“The food was incredible. Our service was impeccable! Highly recommend this lovely place that offers fresh & unique food pairings that completely satisfy!“

“The restaurant is new. In lewiston and we all know there's quite a few italian restaurant but each one is different and Unique. I enjoy every visit they make you feel like family and the food is amazing. getting to know the owner's Mario & Pamela had been a total joy. see you soo“

“The food was The bomb, the drinks was the bomb, the waitress was the bomb !!“

“Angeline's Bucatini Cacio e Pepe was delightfully peppery with a mix of ground peppercorns visible in the sauce- which as a result had a spicier taste than is the dish's norm. If you are looking for underseasoned pasta, stay home. This dish (and my partner's duck also) was quite an ample portion and if I were less of a glutton, I'd say an entree plus a dessert could be potentially enough food for folks coming out on a smaller budget.

The Tuna Carpaccio was so much better than just the sum of its parts, which were: a plate of cool pressed tuna, thinly sliced fennel, fennel fronds, supremed grapefruit and orange segments, capers, and a particularly grassy olive oil. The toppings were few rather than heaped, and the effect of each differently combined bite was subtle and perfect.

We also thoroughly enjoyed the oysters, gem salad (anchovy-forward dressing with a lovely herbal note- dill, chives), rich cheesecake and apple tart (that browned butter!) I loved their mocktail twist on a Cosmopolitan, which used spiced cranberry jam for a mulled effect.

For folks complaining about the prices... it's nice to have restaurants that are reserved for a real treat. The prices are easily accessible online ahead of time, so you know what you're getting into. If a Special is listed at market price, it is your responsibility to ask the waiter how much that would be before ordering.

Some people were wearing nicer casual outfits, but several patrons were more dressed up, which was honestly really cool. I've found restaurant patrons in Buffalo rarely dress up, but it can be fun, adding to the occasion's sense of specialness and adventure!

What I loved just as much as the food was that the dishes come out at a leisurely pace. In America, we've become accustomed to dining at break-neck speed, with wait staff constantly hovering nearby ready to whisk away plates or refill glasses at a moment's notice. Is that really reflective of a luxurious dinner?

Too much of our modern lives is speed-focused and comprised of a million little things and moments all competing for our fleeting attention. It's stressful.

Angeline is the place to sink into the moment. This is a luxury experience, revel in it- embrace the slower European pace of dishes and drinks coming out rather than expecting a new dish minutes after finishing your first. The wait staff are gracious and attentive enough, but retreat to let you own your space. Come to this restaurant with someone with whom you love to talk. Or someone with whom you can relax in companionable, peaceful silence, while other diners clink and chat around you, in the gorgeous ambience of this shining golden room.“

“Osteria 166!! Absolutely the best food in Buffalo and our favorite hands down Italian restaurant with the best meatballs I ever had besides my grandma's, that I haven't had since she passed, so these are now the best I can get. The menu is great with something for everyone and whatever you're in the mood for from flatbread pizza to homemade pasta with the most amazing sauces, delicious salads, fantastic steak and the freshest Italian desserts. if you can save room. We have to get them to go home. It's so hard to decide that we get several things and go family style sharing and going around the menu. bravo Nani in the meatballs! they are a must! great friendly service and beautiful atmosphere. sometimes the acoustic music in the bar. what a gem we love walking distance to the theater district, we try to go before shows and park and enjoy the evening starting with the best meal and drinks before a show downtown. Don't think twice about trying this place! make reservations.“

“Excellent food and service . Highly recommend.“

“Great food (I won't shut up about their pizza), great service (everyone is so nice and just want you to eat well)! The prices are so friendly to one's wallet, especially when factoring in how GOOD the food is! Each bite of the various food I'd gotten here had me thinking "This would be $x more somewhere else." Highly recommended. Definitely taking my little family here next time we're in Buffalo!“

“Amazing experience and great customer service, will definitely go back when I’m in Buffalo“

“We always have a great experience here. The place is cozy and comfortable, everyone is welcoming and the food is excellent. Had New Year’s Eve dinner and the specials were amazing, especially the grouper dish. One of our go to places!“

“The BEST Italian food ever. I've been many, many time in the restaurant as well as caterer food for the Christmas Holidays for years and years. I wouldn't choose anywhere else. Thanks for such great service and being so friendly. Lorenzo gets an A+++“

“We were recommended to stop in on our way to Niagara Falls and the food did not disappoint! It was delicious!“

“Highly recommended. Food was excellent , staff was nice“

“What’s wonderful find! Food is delicious! The wait staff was very nice and helpful. It is so cozy and quiet atmosphere. Loved the location as it reminded me of a wonderful place in Paris. We will definitely be going back!!“

“Delicious pasta sauce, very good service!“

“the good we had for dinner which was delicious.“

“Gina and the Chow team were quick to accommodate a surprising engagement party for my dear friend from college after a Bills Sunday home game no less! From the moment we walked in the Bartender was very friendly. She helped us with a small set up snafu when we forgot to bring tape and scissors. She also was very attentive and even let us put on her own playlist for the surprise vibes! As per usual, the cocktails were amazing and we got to see some of the first Christmas decorations being set up, which is a staple at the holiday season! What 100% host there again and definitely plan to!! Thank you to Gina and the entire staff!“

“My daughter and I had a wonderful post Christmas lunch. Our server was very polite and helpful. The food was delicious. Tables are a bit close together and the cold air came in when the door was opened. But otherwise, highly recommended D'Avolio on Main St., Wmsv🙂“

“Food was delicious. Nice menu with some different options. The dining room was not busy so we did not have a wait. The bus boy was very nice and polite and helpful. The waitress was friendly and knowledgeable. The only negative was the noise from the bar permeated through the dining room.“

“Ate dinner for the first time here yesterday and the food was excellent. Ordered the calamari appetizer and it was light and flaky, honestly probably the best I’ve ever had. The bolognese was very tasty as well and our server Jennifer was great. We will be back.“

“I LOVE IT HERE! ❤️ One of my favorite restaurants - hands down. Staff are SO nice and friendly and everything I’ve tried is very good. Please come try it! (I ask for extra parm and they DELIVER)“

“Fast take out service and friendly employees. Excellent Fish Fry, Fries, side of Pasta, and other co-side items plus the Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken and Shrimp was excellent and two meals for meal which includes 2 pieces of bread and butter. Will come back again and recommended!“

“Will the bistro be open on Sundays this season?? Such a mistake being closed on sheas Sundays!!“

“This place is a gem! Food cooked and served by a lady just like my Nonna. There are usually 3 selections on the menu. By the way there is no menu. Lol. Rosie asks what you want to drink tells you the specials of the day and you sit back and Mangia. Cash only! ATM available.“

“Osteria 166!! Absolutely the best food in Buffalo and our favorite hands down Italian restaurant with the best meatballs I ever had besides my grandma's, that I haven't had since she passed, so these are now the best I can get. The menu is great with something for everyone and whatever you're in the mood for from flatbread pizza to homemade pasta with the most amazing sauces, delicious salads, fantastic steak and the freshest Italian desserts. if you can save room. We have to get them to go home. It's so hard to decide that we get several things and go family style sharing and going around the menu. bravo Nani in the meatballs! they are a must! great friendly service and beautiful atmosphere. sometimes the acoustic music in the bar. what a gem we love walking distance to the theater district, we try to go before shows and park and enjoy the evening starting with the best meal and drinks before a show downtown. Don't think twice about trying this place! make reservations.“

“Another awesome experience, our server was Lexi and she was amazing, knew how to joke around and took our antics in stride. Extremely courteous, attentive, friendly and made our dining experience a great one. We we’re at the Transit location a month prior for a club dinner and had a great time then too. If you go and have either Lexi or Lydia as your server - just know you’re going to have a great time! They both went above and beyond. Food was good, service was incredible. Our visit was only disappointing in the fact that we had to leave. I don’t eat out often but the last 2 times I’ve chosen Olive Garden on Transit and do not regret it at all. Hopefully those servers are there the next time we go!“

“GREAT Italian Food, so many options and the fish fry is HUUUUUGE!“

“What a blast. Good food, good fun and good conversations.“

“Great food. Good portions“

“Fantastic find. Closer than I expected from my house which was great. Food was delicious, service and ambiance were fantastic. Groupon deal was well worth the price. Francesca was our waitress and was very pleasant. I'll eat here again just to try other things on the menu. The artichoke dip was the creamiest I've ever had. Absolutely delicious. Quality ingredients. Lasagna was HUGE!!“

“I used to live near there and ate there regularly. Moved away 10 years ago, but was back in the area and had to stop in. The food is as good as it always was. Hubby had to have the fried chicken, his favorite! The food was good, the service friendly and attentive...we'll have to go back again!“

“love your pizza wish I could have gotten a whole slice“

“Due to Covid restrictions Jovi's hadn't been opened for awhile. Went on a Friday night. The restaurant was at 50% capacity and every table was full. They have changed their menu, which I found very interesting. I ordered the special of shrimp and lemon ricotta pasta with tomatoes and red peppers $23. I asked for it to be served without tomatoes. When the server brought my food which seemed to take awhile, she said "oh, I forgot no tomatoes." There weren't any red peppers but a boat load of tomatoes. I didn't want to wait for my food while the other guests were eating so as to why I didn't send it back. The 4 pieces of shrimp still had the tails on which I thought was odd in a pasta dish, but the pasta was very good. It seems that Jovi's is working out some issues after being closed due to the covid restrictions. I'll probably give them another chance, hope they're able to get their flow going again.“

“What a great place! Friendly staff , great food. They go above and beyond.“

“My family and I love heading to Sweet Emilia's for delicious ice cream! And when I'm in the mood for Italian takeout, Andiamo is right next door. The other day, I ordered takeout from Andiamo, and there was a little mix-up with my order, but the manager, Dave, was fantastic! He went above and beyond to make things right and even treated us to some ice cream as a kind gesture. Big shoutout to Dave! If you find yourself in the East Amherst area, check out Andiamo for takeout, and don’t forget to stop by Sweet Emilia's for dessert! You won’t regret it!“