10 Top Italian Restaurants in Madison (2023)

If you’re craving the taste of Italy, Madison has a thriving Italian restaurant scene that will transport you to the charming streets of Rome or the romantic canals of Venice. This article explores the ten top Italian restaurants in Madison. From cozy trattorias to elegant eateries, prepare to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine that will leave you craving more.

Italian Restaurants in Madison

1. Osteria Papavero

Step into Osteria Papavero, a quaint Italian gem nestled in the heart of Madison. With its rustic charm and intimate ambiance, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors. Also, Osteria Papavero is the most popular of the top Italian restaurants in Madison.

Osteria Papavero’s menu showcases traditional Italian dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients. Don’t miss their homemade pasta dishes, such as the delicate tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 5 pm-9 pm; Sunday-Monday: Closed
• Address: 128 E Wilson St, Madison, WI 53703
• Phone: (608) 255-8376

2. Cento

Cento, a sophisticated Italian eatery, offers a modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine. Located in downtown Madison, Cento features an open kitchen where you can witness skilled chefs preparing each dish precisely. You can indulge in Cento’s signature wood-fired pizzas, like the mouthwatering Margherita topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and fragrant basil.

• Opening hours: Monday-Thursday: 4:30 pm-9 pm; Friday-Saturday: 4:30 pm-10 pm; Sunday: Closed
• Address: 122 W Mifflin St, Madison, WI 53703
• Phone: (608) 284-9378

3. Lombardino’s

Lombardino’s is a beloved Madison institution, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere and traditional Italian fare. This family-owned restaurant specializes in Northern Italian cuisine, with a menu that showcases handmade kinds of pasta and flavorful sauces.

Lombardino’s ranks third on the list of the ten top Italian restaurants in Madison. You can treat yourself to Lombardino’s mouthwatering fettuccine Alfredo, perfectly cooked pasta coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 4:30 pm-9 pm; Sunday-Monday: Closed
• Address: 2500 University Ave, Madison, WI 53705
• Phone: (608) 238-1922

4. Paisan’s Restaurant

Head to Paisan’s Restaurant for a taste of Italy in a casual setting. This neighborhood spot is known for its friendly service and hearty Italian dishes. Paisan’s Restaurant’s pizza, cooked in a brick oven, is a must-try. The Paisan’s Special is a crowd-pleaser topped with various fresh vegetables, savory sausage, and gooey mozzarella.

• Opening hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 am-9 pm; Friday-Saturday: 11 am-10 pm; Sunday: 4 pm-9 pm
• Address: 131 W Wilson St, Madison, WI 53703
• Phone: (608) 257-3832

5. Porta Bella Restaurant

Porta Bella Restaurant combines a charming atmosphere with a diverse Italian and Mediterranean menu. This family-owned restaurant offers an extensive wine list, ensuring the perfect pairing for your meal.

Try out Porta Bella Restaurant’s classic chicken Parmesan, tender breaded chicken breast smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese. Porta Bella Restaurant appears fifth on the list of the ten top Italian restaurants in Madison.

• Opening hours: Monday-Friday: 11:30 am-9 pm; Saturday: 4 pm-9 pm; Sunday: Closed
• Address: 425 N Frances St, Madison, WI 53703
• Phone: (608) 256-3186

6. Cafe Porta Alba

Cafe Porta Alba brings a slice of Naples to Madison with its authentic Neapolitan pizza. They create thin-crust pizzas using imported ingredients and traditional techniques with a perfectly charred crust. Try Café Porta Alba’s signature Margherita D.O.C., a classic combination of San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil.

• Opening hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 am-9 pm; Friday-Saturday: 11 am-10 pm; Sunday: 4 pm-9 pm
• Address: 558 N Midvale Blvd, Madison, WI 53705
• Phone: (608) 441-0202

7. Naples 15

Naples 15 is a trendy Italian restaurant blends traditional flavors with a modern twist. Its stylish decor and lively atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a night out with friends. Naples 15’s menu features innovative dishes like the risotto al Nero di Seppia, a rich black squid ink risotto with tender scallops and shrimp. Naples 15 is also one of the ten top Italian restaurants in Madison.

• Opening hours: Monday-Thursday: 4:30 pm-9 pm; Friday-Saturday: 4:30 pm-10 pm; Sunday: Closed
• Address: 15 N Butler St, Madison, WI 53703
• Phone: (608) 250-6330

8. Tutto Pasta State Street

Tutto Pasta State Street is a cozy Italian eatery offering a wide selection of pasta dishes. From creamy fettuccine Alfredo to hearty spaghetti Bolognese, their menu has something to please every palate. Don’t forget to try Tutto’s signature tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

• Opening hours: Monday-Friday: 11 am-9 pm; Saturday: 12 pm-9 pm; Sunday: Closed
• Address: 305 State St, Madison, WI 53703
• Phone: (608) 294-1000

9. Greenbush Bar

Greenbush Bar is a hidden gem known for its mouthwatering Italian-American dishes. This casual eatery has served the Madison community for over 70 years, offering a nostalgic dining experience. Indulge in their legendary lasagna, a hearty combination of layers of pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese. Greenbush Bar ranks ninth among the ten top Italian restaurants in Madison.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 5 pm-9 pm; Friday-Saturday: 5 pm-10 pm; Sunday-Monday: Closed
• Address: 914 Regent St, Madison, WI 53715
• Phone: (608) 257-2874

10. Villa Dolce Ristorante

Villa Dolce Ristorante is a family-friendly Italian restaurant focusing on fresh ingredients. Their menu offers a range of Italian classics, from wood-fired pizzas to homemade pasta. Treat yourself to their gnocchi alla Sorrentina, pillowy potato dumplings baked in a flavorful tomato sauce with melted mozzarella.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 4 pm-9 pm; Friday-Saturday: 4 pm-10 pm; Sunday: 4 pm-9 pm; Monday: Closed
• Address: 1828 Parmenter St, Middleton, WI 53562
• Phone: (608) 833-0033

Conclusion

You can satisfy your taste buds in the exquisite flavors of Italy right here in Madison. Whether you’re craving classic pasta dishes, authentic Neapolitan pizzas, or contemporary Italian creations, these ten Italian restaurants in Madison have you covered. So, venture out and savor the culinary delights that await you in the vibrant and diverse Italian restaurant scene of Madison, WI.