Indulge in mouthwatering pasta, freshly baked pizza and decadent pastries at Orange County's 10 best Italian restaurants.
Angelina Pizzeria Napoletana's prosciutto pizza; PHOTO BY PALM & OCEAN
It’s no surprise that this Newport Beach restaurant is Michelin-recognized under the guidance of renowned chef Sandro Nardone. You can’t go wrong with any of Nardone's curated dishes, but the Norcia pasta—featuring rigatoni, pork sausage, roasted porcini and crimini mushrooms, parsley and black truffles—is popular among Bello's loyal patrons for a reason.
A taste of Sicily awaits at this popular Costa Mesa eatery. Beloved by the community for its stringlit ambiance and all-around delicious Italian food, this restaurant is always packed with patrons ordering fresh pies, crisp salads and decadent tiramisu.
This waterfront Italian steakhouse in Newport Beach boasts an extensive menu of meat-forward favorites to pair with its charming harbor views. Whether you’re craving prosciutto-wrapped chicken marsala or crispy lasagna with filet and veal bolognese, the dishes at Louie's always leave a lasting impression.
The waterfront dining room at Louie’s by the Bay; PHOTO BY ANNE WATSON
Something about Angelina’s blue-tiled interiors and fresh, flavorful plates instantly transports us to the Italian Riviera. We can’t get enough of the grilled lemon calamari fritti, penne al Pomodoro and the simple yet unforgettable Margherita pizza.
From the freshest pasta to wood-fired pizzas, this Irvine hot spot delivers an authentic taste of Italy with its elegant ambiance and expertly crafted dishes. For a taste of fall, opt for the fan-favorite butternut squash ravioli.
In the Laguna Canyon, this Michelin Guide-recommended osteria pays homage to the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, a nod to chef-owner Erik De Marchi's roots. Here, a wide range of antipasti, pasta and Italian-made wine impress even the most discerning Italian cuisine connoisseurs.
Unveiled in 2024, Oliver's Trattoria is chef Erik De Marchi's second love letter to Italy. Located in Irvine's Quail Hill, the sister restaurant of Oliver's Osteria expands upon its award-winning cuisine with an emphasis on handmade pizza. Don't miss the Speck e Funghi made with mozzarella fior di latte, smoked prosciutto, gorgonzola, mixed mushrooms, fresh basil, Parmigiano and extra virgin olive oil.
Panna cotta with hot chocolate, coconut flakes and fresh berries from Oliver’s Osteria; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
This Newport Beach newcomer is the kind of place that makes guests feel like family. The menu even has a Local’s Favorites section featuring saffron-forward arancini, a sizzling sausage platter and cheese-stuffed tortellini.
Thanks to the four friends who founded it, this Dana Point favorite is dedicated to building community through great food. Dine beneath lemon trees to discover Truly's two types of pies—hearth-baked artisanal American pizzas and light and airy square pizzas produced in limited quantities due to a unique fermentation process. Don't miss the award-winning Champion Cheese or the savory umami mushroom.
The classic cheese pizza at Truly Pizza; PHOTO BY EMILY JACKSON
Apart from its beloved baked goods, the full-service dining restaurant at Dana Point's Giana Bakery & Provisions serves thoughtfully prepared dishes. Sample shareable whipped burrata, colorful salads, pizzas featuring crust fermented in-house, or savory plates from the land and sea.
Photography by: PALM & OCEAN
