Italian
When it comes to Italian food, New Yorkers know their stuff, and Rochester, NY is no exception. Diners on the hunt for plates of food from antipasto to ziti will be delighted with the array of options. So whether you’re searching for a classic restaurant featuring hearty bowls of pasta, refined menus with pasta “fatto in casa”, or unique pizzas accompanied by a glass of wine, Rochester’s restaurants are ready and waiting with their take on some of America’s favorite cuisine.
Pasta or a Slice or Two with a View
With generous portions and a fantastic view, it’s easy to see why Pane Vino on the River gets consistently high marks from reviewers of all kinds. Try dishes like linguine and clams or Scallop Risotto and sides like Ricotta Mashed Potatoes.
For a romantic evening or a slick business dinner, slide into one of the sleek booths at Branca Midtown for sweeping city views and plates of charred broccolini, house-made ricotta with crostini, and pasta specials.
Old School Haunts And Modern Menus
Begin your dining journey at one of Rochester’s many traditional Italian restaurants. These establishments have been serving up pasta dinners to Rochester families for decades. Local favorites include the Brook House, Agatina’s, Rocky’s, Pasta Villa, Mr. Dominic’s, Papa Joe’s, Joey’s Pasta House, Ristorante Lucano, Perlo’s, the Northside Inn, and Proietti's. These restaurants offer up traditional Italian-American pasta, meat, and seafood dishes, as well as old-school comfort and flavors. Many of these “old school” spots are family-owned, and guests will feel like they have pulled up a seat at the table for Sunday dinner from the moment they arrive.
If you’re looking for updates on classics, Grappa Italian Nouveau is your place. Start with the Polenta Frita or Seasonal Arancini before the Calabrian Stuffed Eggplant. This restaurant, which is tucked inside the Hilton Garden Inn, also offers a terrific happy hour.
Veneto Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta offers tasty pasta, pizza, and more from two locations - one in the heart of downtown Rochester’s East End and the other in the West Side suburb of Gates.
For those in search of genuine Italian flavors, Fiorella has you covered. By using local produce and market-fresh ingredients, the chefs at Fiorella create authentic, flavorful plates like Pork Ziti, Funghi Pizza, and Sicilian Sausages.
Something Sweet After You Eat
Established in 1929, Savoia Pastry Shoppe has been for almost 100 years, providing Rochester residents with classic Italian treats. So settle in for cannolis, fig cookies, and Neapolitans. Dolce Italy Bakery offers both sweet and savory treats, including gelato. Other places to pick up Italian sweets and treats include Leo’s Bakery & Deli, Orien’s Cafe, and Rubino’s Italian Foods, which offers baked goods, cold cuts, cheeses, and much more.