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Best Italian Restaurants in Short North - Arena District

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23 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Forno Kitchen and Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2860)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Short North - Arena District
Booked 72 times today
Nestled in the vibrant Short North - Arena District of Columbus, Forno Kitchen and Bar is a gem celebrated for its authentic Italian cuisine and lively ambiance. Recognized as one of Forbes Top 100 Hottest Restaurants in America, Forno stands out with its custom stone-fire oven that perfectly crisps every pizza, creating flavors that are both unique and deeply rooted in Italian tradition. Patrons rave about the "outstanding food," from the "delicious pizza" to the "perfectly prepared" whipped ricotta and linguine & clams. The atmosphere is equally praised, described as "perfect for an energetic night out" yet "cozy" enough for a memorable dining experience. With an "amazing happy hour" and consistently "excellent service," Forno is a must-visit for anyone craving true Italian flair in Columbus.
A photo of Marcella's - Short North restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5659)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Short North - Arena District
Booked 43 times today
Marcella’s is a bustling, urban burst of Italian flavor & energy. Marcella’s has a lively atmosphere – whether it be for sharing dinner or a late night snack. The dynamic bar provides a vibrant venue for sampling from a selection of 50 Italian wines served by the bottle or quartino (1/4 of the bottle), but don’t forget about the ample offerings of antipasti & pizza. Marcella’s brings an authentic Italian cafe to Columbus’ Short North Arts District.
A photo of The Rossi Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(380)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Short North - Arena District
Booked 11 times today
The Rossi Kitchen & Bar, nestled in the vibrant Short North - Arena District of Columbus, is celebrated for its exceptional Italian cuisine. This gem has been delighting patrons for over a decade with its robust Italian dishes that are both authentic and inventive. Guests rave about the "delicious and filling" homemade pasta and the outstanding Carbonara, described as the "BEST carbonara" diners have ever had. The Rossi not only promises a scrumptious meal but also an atmosphere of warmth and welcoming, with reviewers consistently praising the "amazing service" and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply in search of a great meal, The Rossi offers a memorable dining experience with its quality Italian fare and spirited ambiance.
A photo of Martini Modern Italian restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4940)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Short North - Arena District
Booked 40 times today
Martini Modern Italian, nestled in the Short North - Arena District of Columbus, stands out for its exceptional Italian cuisine that combines timeless techniques with innovative culinary presentations. Diners rave about the "seriously amazing" dishes and "phenomenal" flavors, highlighting the restaurant's ability to deliver consistently high-quality meals, beautifully prepared and presented. The handcrafted cocktails and a well-curated wine list complement the dining experience, creating a "sexy, cosmopolitan atmosphere" that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether it's a business meal or a special family dinner, Martini Modern Italian's vibrant energy and outstanding service make it a top choice for authentic Italian fare in Columbus.
A photo of Cento – German Village restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(897)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • German Village
Booked 33 times today
A tribute to our 100th restaurant opening, Cento is an authentic, chef-driven Italian oasis. Inspired by the intimacy & culinary creativity of the finest restaurants in Italy, Cento is a warm, welcoming, & enchanting addition to German Village. Cento is a place for the entire community – a new, timeless, everyday destination where Great People Deliver Genuine Hospitality.Our Garden Terrazza is available daily, weather permitting, on a first come first serve basis. Reservations booked are for tables inside the restaurant and will only be seated on the terrazza upon availability. If you cannot make your scheduled reservation, we ask that you please cancel by 12PM the day of your reservation. Cancellations outside the allowed window will be charged $25/person. Walk-ins are welcome for bar top and patio seating on a first-come basis.Valet offered daily starting at 5PM, $12 per car.
A photo of Pelino’s Pasta restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1017)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Columbus
Booked 15 times today
Chef Vinny Pelino serves up authentic, handmade pasta dishes using local, organic, and imported Italian ingredients. You won't want to miss our fresh pasta, including our famous Cacio e Pepe served tableside in a 60lb wheel of Pecorino Romano DOP cheese! With a monthly changing chef’s tasting menu, there is always something new to enjoy!
A photo of Buca di Beppo - Columbus restaurant
3.8
Excellent(1730)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Columbus
Booked 26 times today
Buca di Beppo in Columbus is a gem for those seeking an authentic and vibrant dining experience. Known for its family-style servings, this restaurant excels in delivering delicious, heartwarming meals that leave guests raving about the quality. Patrons often highlight the "exceptional service" and the "delicious" food, pointing out favorites like chicken parmesan and a variety of pastas which are consistently praised for their perfect temperature and taste. The atmosphere is described as "lively and inviting," making it an ideal spot for both family dinners and large groups. With glowing testimonials about both food and staff, Buca di Beppo stands out as a top choice in Columbus for a memorable meal.
A photo of Z Cucina di Spirito - Columbus restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2430)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Grandview Heights
Booked 14 times today
Z Cucina di Spirito in Columbus stands as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, charmingly nestled in the heart of Grandview Heights. Since its opening in 2005, this gem has consistently impressed with its "unobtrusively chic" ambiance and a harmonious blend of traditional and modern Italian fare infused with Mediterranean touches. Patrons consistently rave about the "amazing mixture of flavors" in dishes like goat cheese and sun-dried tomato ravioli and the "perfect" eggplant Parmesan. The International Wine List is expertly paired with the menu, elevating the dining experience. Reviewers unanimously celebrate the attentive service and the warm welcome from owner Rick, making Z Cucina a must-visit for an authentic and memorable Italian dining experience.
A photo of Trattoria Roma restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1591)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Grandview Heights
Booked 9 times today
Trattoria Roma, nestled in the charming Grandview Heights neighborhood of Columbus, has been a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine for over three decades. Patrons consistently praise the restaurant for its "out-of-this-world" food and exceptional service, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors. Highlights include the Tortellini with vodka sauce, described as "great," and unique offerings like whipped goat cheese with pistachios. Customers rave about the "amazing food and great ambiance," with one noting, “The food at Trattoria is always delicious.” Such glowing testimonials underscore Trattoria Roma’s commitment to delivering a memorable dining experience with each visit.
A photo of Spaghetti Warehouse - Columbus restaurant
3.6
Very Good(1154)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Columbus
Booked 36 times today
Spaghetti Warehouse in Columbus is a haven for lovers of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a delightful array of dishes that resonate with both authenticity and innovative flavors. Guests rave about the "delicious" meals, particularly praising the Spaghetti and Meatballs and the "incredible" 15-Layer Lasagna. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as a blend of warmth and fun, perfect for a meal shared among friends. Several reviews highlight the excellent service, with one guest noting, "the food was excellent. Our server was amazing!" Located near the scenic Columbus Commons, this spot is celebrated for maintaining the "same great flavor" despite its new location, ensuring a dining experience that is both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Barbara
    Columbus •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    From the valet, through the softly lit entranceway and view of the patio, to the hostess stand and into the bar to wait for our family, the experience was pleasant and everyone was professional and welcoming. We were seated in a room off the kitchen for our dinner. It was beautiful with fresh hydrangeas, nice lighting and our amazing server, Zach. As he described the menu items, we knew we were in for an authentic Italian dinner. The entire meal was delicious and filled with new tastes and new ingredients that we had not had before. We look forward to visiting their patio in the summer.
    More info
    Cento – German VillagePrice: Expensive• Italian• German Village
    4.8
  • Sarahvip
    Columbus •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food was amazing as always, and the happy hour deals are the best! The server was kind and the kitchen staff were very careful and conscious of food allergies in our party. We’ll be back!
    More info
    Forno Kitchen and BarPrice: Moderate• American• Short North - Arena District
    4.7
  • Cynthia
    Columbus •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    My partner & I came in for dinner before a show. We were seated next to a family & asked to move a table down to a more isolated table which wasn’t a problem. My cocktail was the Venetian Sunset (perfectly fruity and delicious). I ordered Branzino which was phenomenal. Seasoned perfectly and the potatoes on it were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Delicious. My Partner got the Lamb Pappardelle, which she enjoyed but said was well seasoned (a teeny tiny bit too salty, wishes she had more noodles to balance out the sauce but I just gave her some of my potatoes instead which worked out nicely. For dessert we ordered the Lemon Cassata which was elevated and delicious. It reminded me of lemon bars but even better with the layers of cake and lemon. We loved it and left full. Our server (Our Server, Eric, burned his hand serving the Pappardelle from the hot pot & we thanked him for his sacrifice of comfort.) Eric was an amazing server, wasn’t overbearing and allowed us to enjoy our meal in peace. Would definitely return!
    More info
    Martini Modern ItalianPrice: Expensive• Italian• Short North - Arena District
    4.8
  • Dan
    Cincinnati / Dayton •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This is our first time eating at this restaurant. It is a beautiful place. The location is good but I think you have to do street parking. The seating are comfortable, some tables are small and we were seated close to the kitchen so there was a lot of traffic. The food was very good. Our server was excellent. The salmon was very good and so the pasta. The drinks were OK. I am very particular about my Old Fashion. I do not like small ice cubes in my drinks and this is what my Old Fashion came in. No cherry either,
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    Marcella's - Short NorthPrice: Moderate• Italian• Short North - Arena District
    4.8
  • OpenTable Diner
    Cincinnati / Dayton •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    This is my second time coming for Happy Hour, and again, lived up to my expectations!!! The service is amazing and the food took a lot shorter than expected, especially since we ordered two pizzas and salads, along with our drinks. The pizzas were phenomenal and I cannot recommend them both, the truffle and seasonal butternut squash, enough! The restaurant itself is very pretty on the inside and the lighting is light just enough, without being too bright. The manager is also very lovely and you can tell they really care about the restaurant and customers. Will definitely be coming back!!
    More info
    The Rossi Kitchen & BarPrice: Expensive• American• Short North - Arena District
    4.6

Discover best Italian restaurants in Short North - Arena District

Discover the charm of Italian cuisine in Columbus's vibrant Short North - Arena District, a hot spot for food enthusiasts seeking authentic and innovative dining experiences. This area is celebrated for its diverse array of Italian eateries, each offering a unique blend of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques. Guests can expect a variety of Italian specialties, from classic pizzas and pastas to sophisticated handcrafted cocktails and desserts, all served in atmospheres that range from the lively and contemporary to the intimate and cozy. The dining scene in Columbus's Short North - Arena District is a dynamic culinary canvas, bustling with energy and brimming with gastronomic delights. The Italian restaurants here are particularly noted for their commitment to quality and authenticity, often featuring menu items that rival those found in Italy itself. Each establishment prides itself on delivering not only exquisite food but also exceptional service and a memorable ambiance. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the Italian dining options in this district promises a satisfying and delicious adventure.

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