50 Best Italian Restaurants near Lackawanna

“Last night was our first time visiting the restaurant and it definitely will not be the last! My husband and I had heard about the meatballs on The Food Network and we had to try it as an appetizer. It was fantastic! My eggplant panino was out of this world delicious, absolutely the best I have ever eaten!! Large portions, delicious from start to finish! Definitely recommend!“

“Always such a great time!!“

“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“

“Amazing food! little pricey but so worth it.“

“Just like the days when I was a kid. The family or management checks on you to make sure your experience is excellent. The food is amazing and the atmosphere is perfect.“

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

“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.“

“Mario is so welcoming! The food is just amazing! The best meatball bomber I have ever had .“

“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“

“My wife and I had one of the best dining experiences ever last night. We’ve been to Lucia’s previously and if you’re not aware, it’s best to make reservations well in advance when you want to go. Anticipating our 32nd wedding anniversary, we tried to make reservations weeks in advance but nothing was available on Open Table however the stars aligned yesterday afternoon! Thankfully, we selected the notify me option and a spot opened last night!! When we checked in, we were warmly greeted by Jill with Happy Anniversary”! We arrived early to enjoy a cocktail at the outside bar. My wife had a lemon martini followed by a French 75. I had an Eagle Rare Old Fashioned. All perfectly crafted by highly attentive bar tenders. When we went to our table, not only did the person who seated us but the busser & server all acknowledged it was our anniversary! For dinner, we had crab risotto and lobster ravioli, both topped with an 8 oz perfectly grilled filet. An abundance of crab and lobster meat on both dishes. Thomas, our server, was extremely articulate, highly knowledgeable of each dish, their preparation and made excellent suggestions. He made the evening a delight! Lastly, we had creme brûlée for dessert! I can’t say enough, Lucia’s is a first class dining experience, top to bottom!! Kudos to the entire staff!!“

“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!!“

“We had a quick stop over in Buffalo, and a Google search lead us to Angeline. What a great find that was. Starting with a creative cocktail, and finishing with Affogto, the meal was perfect. The restaurant is in a restored home with many if the original architecture still evident. The service was top notch, and seemed very well orchestrated. We shared a meal of mussels, buccatini cacio e pepe, and Utica greens.“

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

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

“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.“

“Went in for first time last night. Was incredible. Best short rib I’ve ever had! Great place. Ten out of ten!!“

“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!“

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

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

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

“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!“

“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 best ever“

“We hosted a happy hour party for our mom’s birthday on Friday night and it was the perfect ambiance! The staff was super friendly, the food was delicious especially the meatballs and peppers, and the string lights make it the most perfect Friday night on Hertel!“

“Our server Jackson was a very nice guy.Great service great food great atmosphere all in all, you have to try it.Chicken parm is out of this world“

“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!!“

“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)“

“What a great evening (10/26/24) even being short staffed this team put on an awesome night…thank you to all..“

“Awesome food! You pick everything you want by Sharpie on the menu and hand it back to them. It's the best, actually! We had the pizza boat that is new. So good! Also, great big salad and pasta that was to die for. Can't go wrong has something for everyone. Great place for take-out, also.“

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

“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.“

“🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Mangia Ristorante & Caffé is an absolute gem!
From the moment you walk in, you feel that cozy, authentic Italian vibe – like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home 🇮🇹🍝

The food? Absolutely delicious!
Fresh pasta, rich sauces, and every bite bursting with real Italian flavor. You can tell it’s made with love. Definitely a place that lives up to its name — Mangia! (Eat!)

The service was warm and attentive, and the place is clean and inviting.
If you’re in the area and craving genuine Italian food, this is the spot.
I’ll 100% be coming back again!“

“Always great food and the service is awesome. Keep up the good work!“

“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.“

“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!“

“Outstanding - everything from the drinks to the service and of course the food is perfection! Hannah and Stephanie always greet us with a smile and provide the best service. The food is truly exquisite and so incredibly authentic and innovative. Our family has been several times and every dish is better than the next!“

“This place was my favorite restaurant in the 90’s and in 2024, it’s STILL a favorite! You can’t go wrong with any item you order. It’s all delicious!“

“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!“

“Pizza was pretty good. Would be cool if the owner would pay me back the money hes owed me for 2 years“

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

“Was very delicious and savory. staff is very friendly“

“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.“

“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!!“

“🧂 🧶👨‍🎤🧚‍♀️ Molto vabene 🦵🦿 🥳🚨🥳“

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