Philadelphia is a city with a thriving food scene, and one of the most beloved dishes is pasta. Whether you're in the mood for classic spaghetti and meatballs or something more adventurous like squid ink linguine, this city has something to offer.
With so many Italian restaurants to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That's why we've put together a list of the best pasta restaurants in Philadelphia.
From casual trattorias to upscale dining experiences, these restaurants all have one thing in common: a passion for pasta. Each one offers a unique take on this classic dish, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques to create unforgettable meals.
Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor hoping to experience the best of Philly's food scene, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So, what makes a great pasta restaurant? For us, it's all about the quality of the ingredients, the creativity of the menu, and the overall dining experience. We've scoured the city to find the restaurants that excel in all of these areas.
Whether you're in the mood for a romantic date night or a casual family dinner, there's a restaurant on this list that will fit the bill. So grab a fork and get ready to dig in – these are the best pasta restaurants in Philadelphia.
1. Dante & Luigi's
Dante & Luigi's is a historic Italian restaurant that has been serving up classic Southern Italian dishes since 1899. Located in the heart of a bustling neighborhood, this restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a touch of old-world charm.
The menu features an array of delicious pasta dishes, including the mouth-watering lasagna and rigatoni alla vodka with shrimp.
The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making it an excellent choice for an authentic Italian dining experience.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the ambiance is perfect for a romantic night out or a dinner with friends. If you're looking for delicious pasta and a taste of history, Dante & Luigi's is the perfect destination.
2. Fiorella Pasta
Fiorella Pasta is a cozy restaurant that serves up creative and flavorful pasta dishes using seasonal ingredients.
The intimate setting, with a maximum seating capacity of 15 indoors, adds to the charm of this restaurant, which is housed in a restored historic space.
While reservations are a must, the homemade pasta dishes served in small but flavorful portions are worth the effort.
The staff provides exceptional service, and the extensive wine menu perfectly matches your meal.
3. Burrata
Burrata is a must-visit Italian restaurant that offers homemade pasta, meat, and seafood dishes.
The food is always fresh and delicious, and the chefs really know their way around food.
The servers and owner are all lovely people who take their jobs seriously and do them well.
The restaurant itself has a cozy and inviting atmosphere whether you are eating inside or outside. Burrata is a top BYOB spot, so bring your favorite wine and enjoy an amazing meal.
4. Villa di Roma
Villa di Roma is an authentic Italian restaurant that serves up delicious pasta dishes and other Italian favorites.
With a vast menu of meat, seafood, and pasta dishes, there's something for everyone.
The restaurant has a cozy, old-school vibe that adds to the overall experience. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.
If you're looking for a classic Italian meal, Villa di Roma is definitely worth a visit.
5. Ambrosia Ristorante BYOB
Ambrosia Ristorante BYOB is a fantastic Italian restaurant that serves excellent homemade pasta and classic dishes. The service is attentive, quick, and thoughtful, and the staff makes sure that every guest feels taken care of.
The cozy ambiance and friendly greeting make for an inviting dining experience. The food is flavorful and creative, and the menu offers a variety of options that cater to different dietary needs.
The outdoor seating is warm enough during the winter if you'd like to sit outside. The restaurant is BYOB, which is a plus for those who want to bring their own wine.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. If you're looking for a top-tier fine dining experience, Ambrosia Ristorante BYOB is the place to go.
6. Talluto's – Philadelphia
Talluto's – Philadelphia is a must-visit for Italian food lovers. Their fresh cuts of pasta, including linguine and fettuccini, are made each morning and are lighter than air.
The ravioli selection is incredible, and their cheese selection is a must-try.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about their products, and their prices are reasonable.
The store also sells pre-made meals, sauces, and meatballs, making it a one-stop-shop for Italian cuisine. Don't miss out on Talluto's – Philadelphia's authentic Italian specialties.
7. Trattoria Carina
Trattoria Carina is a popular Italian restaurant that serves great pasta dishes. The menu changes regularly, so there's always something new to try.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is top-notch.
The outdoor seating area is lovely and perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends. The cocktails are delicious, and the BYOB option is a nice touch.
The food is flavorful and cooked to perfection. Trattoria Carina is definitely worth a visit if you're in the mood for some delicious Italian food.
8. Cucina Maria South Philly
Cucina Maria South Philly is a must-visit for pasta lovers. The homemade pasta is made with fresh ingredients and care, resulting in some of the best pasta dishes you'll find.
The owner, Juana, is friendly and welcoming, adding to the family restaurant atmosphere.
The tricolore salad, veal with lemon-caper sauce, and spinach gnocchi with blush sauce are all top-notch dishes.
The restaurant is BYO and reasonably priced for the quality of the food. Don't miss out on this Italian home cooking gem.
9. DaMo Pasta Lab
DaMo Pasta Lab is a must-visit for pasta lovers. This Italian restaurant offers fresh, homemade pasta made to order.
The menu offers a wide range of pasta dishes, including the option to add truffles. Although the restaurant does not serve alcohol, it is BYOB, which is a plus.
The staff is friendly and efficient, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of the food.
The ambiance is casual and perfect for a quick lunch. If you're looking for a new pasta experience, DaMo Pasta Lab is definitely worth a try.
10. Little Nonna's
Little Nonna's is a homestyle Italian trattoria that offers traditional Italian dishes in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Their homemade pasta and gnocchi are highly recommended, and the steak Tagliata is perfectly cooked and seasoned.
The restaurant has a dreamy interior and a lovely courtyard, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The service is attentive and the portions are generous. If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, Little Nonna's is definitely worth a visit.
11. A Mano
A Mano is a refined Italian BYO restaurant that specializes in house-made pastas and salumi. The menu is limited to a 3 or 4 course tasting menu, but the dishes are outstanding.
The burrata and pork belly starters are highly recommended, and the pasta dishes are solid.
The service is friendly and accommodating, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate.
While a bit expensive, A Mano is worth every penny for its high-end menu items and fresh ingredients. It's a must-visit for anyone looking for an upscale Italian dining experience.
12. Cicala
Cicala is an elegant Italian restaurant that serves imaginative and traditional dishes.
The charcuterie platter is a must-try, and the pastas are ridiculously good.
The staff is friendly and professional, and the ambiance is cozy and intimate.
While it is expensive, the dining experience is worth it. Cicala is highly recommended for those looking for a taste of Italy in the city.
13. Mangia Macaroni
Mangia Macaroni is a must-visit restaurant for anyone who loves authentic Southern Italian cuisine. From the homemade pasta to the perfectly cooked proteins and sauces, every dish is a delight for the taste buds.
The Caesar salad and chicken Alfredo are highly recommended, as are the baked macaroni dish and cannelloni squash.
The restaurant has two levels, with the first floor offering take-out Italian food and frozen meals. The second floor has a cozy and romantic atmosphere, making it perfect for date night.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food served. Mangia Macaroni is a great addition to the city's dining scene, and a place that should not be missed by food lovers.
14. Via Locusta
Via Locusta delivers exceptional pasta in a sophisticated and unpretentious setting.
The restaurant focuses on modern Italian cooking, using homemade pasta and locally sourced ingredients. The service is delightful and the prices are reasonable.
The Classic Focaccia with Honey Butter is a must-try, as is the black truffle agnolotti.
The cocktails are fantastic, especially the Papagallo Fumante. Highly recommended for a chic Italian dining experience.
15. Giuseppe & Sons
Giuseppe & Sons is a moody Italian restaurant that specializes in handmade pasta and red-sauce classics.
The ambiance is inviting and intimate, with sunken and raised seating areas lined with suede couches.
The wait staff is friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent service. The food is delicious and reasonably priced.
The restaurant also has an extensive wine selection, delivered with table-side service. It's the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
16. Osteria
Osteria is a rustic Italian restaurant that serves homemade pastas, thin-crust pizzas, and wood-grilled meats.
The menu changes seasonally, and every dish is made with high-quality ingredients. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, and the ambiance is cozy and inviting.
The restaurant offers a great happy hour menu with amazing deals on food and drinks. The patio outside is perfect for enjoying a few cocktails and pasta dishes before a concert at the nearby venue.
Osteria is a must-visit for anyone who loves authentic Italian cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
