The Best Italian Food In Amarillo, TX

Ah, Amarillo, Texas. Known for its iconic Cadillac Ranch, sweeping plains, and, of course, its growing culinary scene that could make a foodie feel like a kid in a candy store.

But let’s forget barbecue and Tex-Mex for a moment—did you know Amarillo has some of the best Italian food this side of the Mississippi? Yeah, you read that right! We’re talking authentic pasta dishes that transport you straight to Rome, pizza that would make a Neapolitan proud, and desserts—oh, the desserts—that could make even your Italian grandma nod in approval.

Now, you might be wondering, “Amarillo? Really? For Italian food?” Trust me, I was skeptical, too, until I delved into the local food scene.

Let’s face it: Amarillo is a city of surprises. Among those surprises is a cluster of Italian restaurants that stand as culinary oases in this Texan desert.

So, grab your fork and put on your stretchy pants because we’re embarking on a delectable journey through the Amarillo streets.

I’m going to give you the inside scoop on six must-try Italian restaurants that will leave you craving for more.

Whether you’re a local, just passing through, or planning a gastronomic road trip, this list is your treasure map to Italian food heaven. Ready to dig in?

Table of Contents

My Top Three Picks of The Best Italian Food In Amarillo

Restaurant	Top Pick	Our Rating
Valore Italian Restaurant and Grill	Cannelloni	5/5
Vince’s Italian Pizza	Pepperoni and Italian Sausage Pizza	5/5
Toscana Italian Steakhouse	Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo.	5/5

The 6 Best Italian Food Restaurants In Amarillo, Texas

Napoli’s

700 S Taylor St, Amarillo, TX 79101, United States // +18062202588

Nestled in the heart of Amarillo, this family-owned gem offers so much more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that sticks with you. The moment I stepped into this rustic, earth-toned haven, I knew I was in for a treat.

Opting to sit outside, my taste buds were already dancing in anticipation. Before we even dive into the entrées, let’s talk appetizers.

Have you ever had garlic knots that made you close your eyes and savor each bite? Because that’s precisely what happened here. The garlic knots, paired with their house-made marinara sauce, were out-of-this-world good.

But let’s not forget the main course: Eggplant Parmigiana and Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. The eggplant was tender, flavorful, and layered with cheesy goodness that only elevated its richness.

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. Where To Find The Best Italian Food In Amarillo

As for the fettuccine? Creamy Alfredo sauce clung to perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish that was pure comfort food. Even the breadsticks on the side felt like they were made to spoil you, warm and soft, right out of the oven.

Oh, and wine aficionados, you’re in for a treat too. A great glass of wine here just rounds out an already spectacular meal.

Top it off with service that makes you feel like part of the family, and you’ve got yourself a dining experience to remember.

Napoli’s doesn’t just serve food; it serves moments, each plate a lovingly crafted work of art. So, make sure to put Napoli’s high on your must-visit list!

Pescaraz Italian Restaurant

3415 S Bell St, Amarillo, TX 79109, United States // +18063505430

Tucked away in Amarillo, this casual spot has been serving up authentic Italian vibes and flavors for over a decade. And let me tell you, one visit was all it took for me to see why it’s got such a stellar reputation.

First off, let’s talk atmosphere. Walking into Pescaraz is like stepping into a charming Italian villa, complete with an old-world ambiance that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

And the live music? Just the cherry on top. Nothing complements a plate of pasta like the strum of a guitar in the background.

Now, onto the real star of the show: the food. I went with the chicken piccata, which was nothing short of divine. Tangy, buttery, and exquisitely cooked—it was the sort of dish you’d happily daydream about long after you’ve left the restaurant.

One more thing that won me over was their thoughtful gluten-free options. A place that’s not only delicious but also inclusive—what more could you ask for? Just ask for their gluten-free menu and prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the variety.

Pescaraz is a local treasure doing everything right, from the food to the atmosphere to the live tunes. If you’re ever in Amarillo, make sure Pescaraz is on your culinary bucket list!

Valore Italian Restaurant and Grill

900 S Tyler St, Amarillo, TX 79101, United States // +18065457372

If there’s one word that encapsulates the essence of Valore Italian Restaurant and Grill, it’s “intimate.” But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; this Amarillo gem deserves a proper introduction.

Valore Italian Restaurant is an experience steeped in Italian tradition and local charm.

Once you’re in, you’ll realize it’s not just the lighting; the entire atmosphere is deliberately crafted to make you feel like you’re sitting down for dinner at a friend’s home—assuming your friend is an Italian chef extraordinaire.

Speaking of dinner, I can’t recommend enough that you scour the menu before you visit. Trust me, you’ll need some time to decide; the options are plentiful and utterly tempting.

But if the menu overwhelms you, don’t sweat it. Our server was both friendly and a walking encyclopedia of Italian cuisine, effortlessly guiding us through our food journey. Her recommendations? Spot on.

Take the seafood-stuffed mushrooms I kicked off my meal with, for instance. Every bite was a flavorful burst, heightened by the sauce that was clearly crafted with love and expertise. And the breadsticks? Let’s just say they didn’t last long on the table.

As for my main course—the cannelloni—each mouthful felt like a comforting hug, tasting as fresh and well-made as they come.

Oh, and let’s not forget the drinks. Equally as excellent, they paired wonderfully with the food and only amplified the overall dining experience.

But what really ties it all together is the owner, who’s often around and very much hands-on. You can genuinely feel the love and care that go into not just the food but also the entire operation.

Vince’s Italian Pizza

2413 S Western St, Amarillo, TX 79109, United States // +18063522656

Vince’s Italian Pizza in Amarillo is the kind of place where you walk in and instantly feel like you’ve discovered the city’s best-kept secret.

Let’s break it down: this counter-serve spot is unpretentious to its core, zeroing in on what matters most—utterly scrumptious, heartwarming food. The vibes are old-school Italian pizzeria all the way, a rare find in this Texan town.

So, about the pizza. Guys, it’s incredible. I went for the Pepperoni and Italian Sausage Pizza, and let me just spill the beans: it was a masterpiece. The crust hit that elusive balance between thin and soft.

But what really made it a showstopper was the real tomato sauce—yes, actual tomatoes, not the canned paste variety. Topped off with gooey, slightly greasy (in the best way possible) cheese and a sprinkle of Italian herbs, this pizza was everything you’d hope for and more!

Now, if pizza isn’t your thing (although, after trying Vince’s, it just might become your thing), their menu doesn’t stop there. They’ve got some ridiculously tasty gyros that could easily give any specialty gyro spot a run for its money.

That’s the beauty of Vince’s: whether it’s a hearty sub, mouthwatering pasta, or those to-die-for gyros, everything is generous in portion and rich in flavor.

I mean, what’s not to love? The place practically screams “good times and full bellies ahead.” So, if you’re cruising through Amarillo, carve out some time to stop by Vince’s Italian Pizza.

Macaroni Joe’s

1619 S Kentucky St, Amarillo, TX 79109, United States // +18063588990

Stepping into Macaroni Joe’s is like crossing an invisible threshold into a charming Tuscan village. And no, that’s not hyperbole; it’s precisely how this Amarillo haven makes you feel.

Designed to resemble an Italian villa, the atmosphere here effortlessly blends refined with relaxation, setting the stage for a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Now, can we talk about their wine list? Because, my goodness, it’s extensive. With over 600 award-winning selections, you’d be hard-pressed to find a wine they don’t have.

Whether you’re a casual sipper or a seasoned connoisseur, Macaroni Joe’s has got you covered. And the best part? Their wine prowess translates into the food pairing.

As for the menu, it’s equally impressive. Think pasta, fish, steak, and a dinner salad lineup that could stand on its own. My culinary journey began with a tuna appetizer that boasted just the right amount of black pepper kick.

For the main course, I opted for the Lemon Butter Shrimp, and yes, it lived up to every syllable of its tantalizing name. Also, a nod to my dining companion’s steak—it was cooked to a flawless medium.

But it’s not just the food and wine that steal the show; it’s the whole atmosphere. If romance were a place, it would be this dining area. The decor is as enchanting as a moonlit gondola ride in Venice.

So whether you’re in for date night or just want to unwind in an Italian paradise, Macaroni Joe’s is your Amarillo sanctuary.

Next time, I’m saving room for dessert, but for now, I’m happily savoring the lingering flavors of a meal that felt like a mini-vacation.

Toscana Italian Steakhouse

600 S Polk St, Amarillo, TX 79101, United States // +18064142200

Imagine combining Italy’s bold, iconic flavors with the robust spirit of West Texas—Toscana delivers this fusion in spades.

Before I even dive into the menu, let’s give a shout-out to the locally sourced ingredients. We’re talking beef so magnificent it could make even the most discerning Panhandle rancher tip his hat in approval. Pair that with an inspired selection of local and international wines and spirits, and you’re set for a grand feast.

My experience kicked off with Skillet al Formaggio. If you’re a cheese lover, this is your heaven. Melted to perfection and gloriously rich, it was the ideal precursor to what lay ahead. For the main event, I opted for the beef short rib over polenta.

Guys, this dish was like a flavor firework show! The rib was tender and succulent, and the polenta served as its dreamy sidekick. And let’s not forget the veggies—brussel sprouts and carrots, cooked to absolute perfection.

Just when I thought I was delighted, dessert arrived. Cannolis and Italian doughnuts danced their way into my culinary heart, and it was nothing short of sensational.

As for the ambiance, it was just the cherry on top. Cozy yet sophisticated, it adds another layer of allure to an already magnetic dining experience.

So, if you’re on the hunt for something extraordinary in Amarillo, Toscana Italian Steakhouse should be at the top of your must-try list. Trust me, it’s worth every bite!

Questions Foodies Ask About The Best Italian Food in Amarillo

Are there Italian restaurants in Amarillo suitable for a romantic date night?

Absolutely! Places like Macaroni Joe’s and Toscana Italian Steakhouse offer a romantic ambiance that’s perfect for a date night. Soft lighting, elegant decor, and an impressive wine list can easily set the mood for a memorable evening.

I’m a vegetarian. Do Italian restaurants in Amarillo offer plant-based options?

You’re in luck! Most Italian restaurants in Amarillo have vegetarian-friendly options like pasta primavera, Margherita pizzas, and various salads. Just be sure to ask the server about customizing dishes to fit your dietary needs.

Can I find gluten-free Italian dishes in Amarillo?

Yes, many Italian restaurants in Amarillo offer gluten-free pasta and pizza options. Pescaraz Italian Restaurant, for example, even provides a separate gluten-free menu. However, it’s always best to call ahead to confirm.

Wrapping Up: Where to Find The Best Italian Food In Amarillo

The joyous journey through the Italian food scene in Amarillo comes to an end, but let’s be real—the exploration of flavors, aromas, and culinary delights never truly ceases, does it?

Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or someone who appreciates a good meal, Amarillo offers a medley of Italian experiences that can satisfy any palate.

And hey, let’s not forget the power of a stellar Italian meal to turn any ordinary day into a mini-vacation to Italy—right here in the heart of Texas!

What strikes me the most is how Amarillo masterfully merges the old with the new. The city has an incredible way of maintaining the classic, comfort-food aura of Italian cuisine, all while introducing modern twists that surprise and delight.

We’re talking about menus that boast time-honored staples and imaginative fusions, presented in settings ranging from rustic Italian countryside vibes to stylish, contemporary atmospheres.

Italian culture is woven into these establishments’ very fabric, from the servers’ warmth to the carefully curated wine lists. And let’s not underestimate the universal appeal of Italian cuisine; it’s as perfect for a family feast as it is for a romantic night out. Factor in the local ingredients and Texas hospitality, and you’ve got yourself a winner!

So, if you’re yearning for a journey through the hills of Tuscany, the bustling streets of Rome, or the serene coasts of Amalfi without leaving Amarillo, you know where to go. Keep this Italian adventure alive, and until next time, buon appetito!

Check out some of my other guides for this foodie haven:

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Igor Jovanovsky

Igor Jovanovski is an aspiring digital nomad, travel blogger and graphic designer who really loves food. He also has a creative side, and he works as a freelance graphic designer in his spare time. He has traveled across Europe quite a few times since he was young and recently started his mission to visit every country in the world! Igor’s favorite thing about traveling is the way he gets to know new people, food, places and cultures.
This exciting experience helps him create his own stories and make memories that will last forever