10 Florida Restaurants That Serve Pasta Like Italy Would Approve

Florida might be famous for Cuban sandwiches and fresh seafood, but some restaurants here cook pasta so authentically that even Italian grandmothers would nod in approval. From Miami’s bustling streets to Tampa’s trendy neighborhoods, chefs are rolling fresh dough, simmering perfect sauces, and plating dishes that taste like they came straight from Rome or Bologna.

Whether you want a cozy neighborhood spot or an elegant evening out, these ten restaurants prove you don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy world-class Italian pasta.

1. Il Pastaiolo — Miami Beach, FL

With thousands of glowing reviews and a rating that rarely dips, Il Pastaiolo has earned its reputation as a Miami Beach institution. Locals and tourists alike crowd the tables here for a reason: the pasta tastes like someone’s nonna made it with love and zero shortcuts.

Classic Italian comfort is the name of the game. Think rich carbonara, tangy puttanesca, and silky cacio e pepe that hit all the right notes. The vibe is energetic but unpretentious, making it perfect for a casual night out with big flavors and even bigger portions that won’t disappoint.

2. Trattoria Bella — Palm Bay, FL

Tucked into Palm Bay, Trattoria Bella is the kind of place where regulars know the staff by name and the menu by heart. It’s a neighborhood gem that delivers hearty, no-nonsense Italian food with the kind of consistency that builds loyalty.

Old-school flavors shine here. Whether you order lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo, or a simple marinara, everything tastes homemade and generously portioned. The cozy setting makes it ideal for family dinners or low-key dates where the focus stays on the food, not the fuss.

3. Pane e Vino — Miami Beach, FL

Pane e Vino brings a polished, elevated approach to Italian dining without losing its soul. This Miami Beach favorite has a reputation for top-tier service and a menu that leans classic but feels refined, making every meal feel a little more special.

Quality ingredients and careful preparation show up in every bite. From delicate agnolotti to perfectly al dente rigatoni, the pasta here is treated with respect and skill. It’s the kind of spot you choose when you want your carbs served with a side of elegance and ambiance that matches the plate.

4. OLIVIA — Tampa, FL

OLIVIA is one of Tampa’s hottest Italian destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The space feels chic and contemporary, with an atmosphere that’s as carefully curated as the menu itself.

Refined pasta plates take center stage here. Each dish balances creativity with tradition, offering flavors that feel both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want your dinner to feel like an event, OLIVIA delivers style, substance, and carbs worth dressing up for in every single forkful.

5. Danino’s Trattoria — Orlando, FL

Danino’s Trattoria has quietly become one of Orlando’s top-rated Italian spots, and it’s not hard to understand the appeal. The prices are reasonable, the vibe is welcoming, and the food tastes genuinely authentic without trying too hard.

Comfort is king at Danino’s. Whether you order a classic Bolognese or a creamy seafood linguine, you’ll get a plate that feels homemade and satisfying. It’s the kind of place that works for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal where good pasta and good company are all you really need.

6. Maggiano’s Little Italy — Orlando, FL

Maggiano’s Little Italy is a name most people recognize, and for good reason. With thousands of reviews and a track record of satisfied diners, this Orlando location delivers exactly what you’d expect: generous portions, familiar favorites, and a classic Italian-American experience.

The menu is packed with crowd-pleasers. From spaghetti and meatballs to baked ziti, everything comes in portions big enough to share or take home for tomorrow’s lunch. It’s reliable, it’s comforting, and it’s perfect when you want pasta that feels like a warm hug.

7. Adriatico Trattoria Italiana — Orlando, FL

Adriatico Trattoria Italiana offers something a little quieter and more traditional than Orlando’s busier Italian spots. This smaller trattoria feels intimate and genuine, with a menu that leans heavily on homemade-style preparations and old-world techniques.

Pasta here tastes like it was rolled by hand that morning. The sauces are rich, the flavors are balanced, and the atmosphere invites you to slow down and savor every bite.

8. Turci Pasta — Orlando, FL

Turci Pasta takes things up a notch in Orlando’s Italian dining scene. This is where foodies go when they want pasta that’s not just good, but thoughtfully crafted with fresh ingredients and serious attention to detail.

Every dish feels carefully considered. The pasta is made fresh, the sauces are balanced, and the presentations are beautiful without being fussy. It’s a spot that rewards adventurous eaters and anyone who appreciates the craft behind a perfect plate of noodles done right with finesse.

9. Rocca — Tampa, FL

Rocca isn’t just another Italian restaurant—it’s a Michelin-starred experience that’s put Tampa on the map for serious pasta lovers. The pasta program here is what dreams are made of: handmade noodles, impeccable technique, and flavors that linger long after the last bite.

This is special-occasion dining at its finest. Every detail, from the presentation to the service, feels polished and intentional. If you’re celebrating something big or just want to treat yourself to pasta that’s truly next-level, Rocca delivers an unforgettable meal.

10. Pasta And… — Margate, FL

Pasta And… is Broward County’s hidden treasure for pasta enthusiasts. With a modern, elevated approach and a price point that reflects the quality, this Margate spot has quietly built a loyal following among South Florida diners who crave something more refined.

The menu is pasta-forward and inventive. Each dish balances tradition with a fresh perspective, offering flavors that feel both comforting and exciting. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon and immediately want to keep to yourself, but also can’t help telling everyone about.