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There’s nothing more comforting than a family-style Italian feast paired with good red wine and loved ones! A tradition around the family table is where favorite Italian dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, chicken parmesan, and more were born. That tradition continues here in Asheville with a variety of authentic Italian restaurants offering Old World Italian cuisine, as well as fresh takes on classic Italian dishes. Feature photo by Soprana Rooftop Cucina.

Italian Restaurants in Asheville
Photo: Cucina 24

Many of the best places to eat Italian food in Asheville offer exemplary, scratch-made pastas like linguine, bigoli, penne, gnocchi, rigatoni, ravioli, and fettuccine. Enjoy authentic, deep flavored sauces like bolognese, carbonara, pesto, marinara, alfredo and ragus. Iconic dishes include fiorentina steak, calamari, bottarga, polenta, risotto, pizza, and more. 

Don’t forget Italian sweets like panna cotta, cannoli, gelato, and tiramisu! For more sweets in Asheville, see Desserts, Donuts & Ice Cream.

Best Places to Eat Italian in Asheville

Cucina 24

This Italian-inspired eatery in the center of downtown Asheville fuses the traditions and philosophies of Italian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The seasonal menu serves family-style,… read more

This Italian-inspired eatery in the center of downtown Asheville fuses the traditions and philosophies of Italian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The seasonal menu serves family-style, hearty traditional dishes and new Italian dishes. Fantastic wine selection. Reservations are strongly recommended. 24 Wall Street.

Strada Italiano

This favorite downtown Italian restaurant is filled with the aromas of house baked artisan bread and mouth watering cuisine. Focuses on fresh ingredients, biodynamic and organically-produced wine… read more

This favorite downtown Italian restaurant is filled with the aromas of house baked artisan bread and mouth watering cuisine. Focuses on fresh ingredients, biodynamic and organically-produced wine selections. Offers traditional recipes from Italy, featuring hand-tossed pizzas, savory pastas, housemade desserts, gluten-free and vegetarian options. 27 Broadway.

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