Ah, Kentucky! Known for its bourbon and bluegrass, but did you know it’s a hidden gem for Italian cuisine? Join me on a flavorful journey through the Bluegrass State, where pasta is as beloved as a Derby winner. Here are the top ten Italian spots locals can’t stop raving about.
1. Silvio’s Italian Restaurant – Louisville
Nestled in Louisville’s heart, Silvio’s Italian Restaurant invites you in with the aroma of garlic and fresh basil. Trust me, walking by without stopping is like passing a gelato stand on a hot day!
The family-owned charm is as authentic as it gets, with Mama Silvio overseeing the kitchen herself. Picture this: a plate of spaghetti marinara that tastes like it was made by Nonna back in Italy. Warm, familiar, and full of love.
Locals swear by the lasagna, a cheesy, layered marvel that could win a culinary Oscar. Don’t miss the tiramisu; it’s like a sweet, caffeinated hug. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Silvio’s makes everyone feel like family.
2. Grassa Gramma – Louisville
Step into Grassa Gramma and you’re instantly transported to a lavish Italian villa, right in Louisville! It’s like stepping into a film set, complete with chandeliers and murals that could make Michelangelo jealous.
The menu is a melodious opera of flavors. The gnocchi, as soft as a cloud, will make you sing ‘That’s Amore.’ Try the pollo parmigiana, a dish so popular it might have its own fan club.
Their dessert menu is a sweet symphony: limoncello cake, anyone? Every bite at Grassa Gramma is a journey through Italy, without leaving Kentucky. Grab a fork and be prepared to indulge!
3. Paisano’s Italian Restaurant – Lexington
In Lexington, Paisano’s Italian Restaurant has the kind of charm that makes you want to linger. With candlelit tables and rustic decor, it’s the perfect spot for a cozy family dinner.
Their fettuccine alfredo is a creamy dream that whispers ‘comfort’ with every twirl. If seafood is your siren call, the shrimp scampi will sweep you off your feet with its garlicky goodness.
End your meal with their famous cannoli: crunchy, creamy, and utterly irresistible. Each visit to Paisano’s feels like a warm embrace from a beloved friend. It’s home away from home, with a hint of oregano.
4. Sutton’s Family Italian – Lexington
Sutton’s Family Italian in Lexington is where community and cuisine collide in the most delicious way possible. The vibe here is vibrant, filled with laughter and clinking silverware.
Their pizza, with a crust that crackles just right, is the talk of the town. Try the ‘Sutton Special’; a delightful concoction of toppings that dance on your taste buds.
Save room for the house-made gelato, a creamy tribute to Italian decadence. Sutton’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of food and family, wrapped in a warm, doughy embrace. Come hungry, leave happy!
5. Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano – Lexington
Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano offers a touch of elegance in Lexington, where dining feels like an art form. The ambiance whispers sophistication, with candlelit tables and classic decor.
Their risotto is a creamy masterpiece, rich and decadent, like a symphony in your mouth. The osso buco is another fan favorite, tender meat basking in a flavorful sauce.
For dessert, indulge in panna cotta; a silky, sweet finale to your meal. Giuseppe’s transforms dining into an unforgettable experience, where each bite is a brushstroke on the canvas of Italian cuisine.
6. Danny’s Italian – Bowling Green
Danny’s Italian in Bowling Green feels like stepping into an Italian grandma’s kitchen. The aroma of simmering sauces is enough to make any heart sing.
The meatballs are legendary, crafted with love and a secret blend of herbs. Their signature ‘Bowling Green Special’ pizza is a crispy, cheesy marvel that keeps locals coming back for more.
For a sweet finish, the chocolate lava cake is a molten delight. Danny’s isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place to make memories, one delectable bite at a time.
7. TRA DI NOI Ristorante – Bowling Green
TRA DI NOI Ristorante brings a slice of modern Italian flair to Bowling Green. With elegant interiors and stylish lighting, it’s a feast for the senses.
Their seafood risotto is a treasure trove of flavors, each bite a journey to the Mediterranean coast. The veal marsala is a tender triumph, perfect for an indulgent treat.
Finish off with a slice of their ricotta cheesecake: light, fluffy, and utterly divine. TRA DI NOI is more than a meal; it’s a culinary escapade that leaves you wanting more.
8. Bella Notte – Lexington
Bella Notte in Lexington is the epitome of romance. With twinkling lights and lush greenery, it’s a setting that would make Cupid swoon.
Their homemade pasta is worth writing home about, especially the spinach ravioli. Dive into the eggplant parmesan, a dish that’s both hearty and heavenly.
The tiramisu, with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, is the perfect ending to a dreamy meal. Bella Notte is a place for lovers of food and ambiance alike, where every dinner feels like a special occasion.
9. Joe Bologna’s Restaurant – Lexington
Joe Bologna’s Restaurant in Lexington is where quirky meets tasty. Known for its eclectic vibe and colorful decor, it’s a place that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Their stuffed breadsticks are the stuff of legend, cheesy and bursting with flavor. The ‘Joe B’s Special’ is a pizza that’s as whimsical as it is delicious.
Round off your meal with the zeppole, delightful little doughnuts dusted with sugar. Joe Bologna’s is a riot of fun, where food and laughter go hand in hand.
10. Carrabba’s Italian Grill – Lexington
Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Lexington offers a lively atmosphere where the fragrance of grilling meats fills the air. Here, the open kitchen invites you to witness the culinary magic unfold.
Their chicken marsala is a flavorful triumph, tender and swimming in a rich sauce. The pasta carbonara is creamy perfection, each bite a comforting embrace.
Don’t skip the dessert; the vanilla bean panna cotta is a smooth, sweet delight. Carrabba’s is where tradition meets excitement, a place that promises satisfaction with every dish.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
