Hey there, foodies! Have you heard about the mouthwatering Italian cuisine in Cary, North Carolina? Trust me; you’re missing out if you haven’t tried some of the best Italian restaurants in Cary Nc.
As someone who has had the pleasure of visiting Cary, North Carolina, several times, I can confidently say that this lovely town has a lot to offer – including a great food culture. And when it comes to Italian cuisine, Cary is undoubtedly a hidden treasure.
Despite having a diverse culinary scene, it’s clear that Italian cuisine is the real star of the show in Cary.
From homemade pasta to wood-fired pizza, the Italian restaurants in Cary have got it all.
But what sets these restaurants apart is the passion and creativity that goes into each dish. The chefs in Cary know how to cook up a storm and leave your taste buds begging for more.
Let’s be real; who doesn’t love a good plate of pasta? If you’re a pasta lover, you’ll be in heaven in Cary.
The homemade pasta dishes in town are next-level delicious, with various sauces and toppings to choose from.
But wait, there’s more! The Italian restaurants in Cary Nc also offer some of the best wood-fired pizzas ever. The crispy crust, fresh ingredients, and unique toppings will leave you wanting another slice (or two).
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some innovative fusion cuisine? Cary’s Italian restaurants are known for their unique twist on traditional dishes, blending flavors from other culinary traditions to create something exceptional.
What sets Cary’s Italian restaurants apart from the rest is the high quality of ingredients used in their dishes.
Many of the Italian restaurants in Cary source their ingredients locally, ensuring that the dishes are fresh and full of flavor.
As an avid foodie, I love trying new restaurants and exploring different culinary traditions. So, when I found myself in Cary, I knew I had to try some of the Italian restaurants in town. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed!
Visiting other destinations in Cary, NC? Check out our other delicious guides:
Table of Contents
My Top Three Picks of the Best Italian Restaurants in Cary, NC
| Restaurant | Top Pick | Our Rating |
| Enrigo Italian Bistro | Gnocchi | 5/5 |
| La Grassa Pastificio | Pappardelle Pasta | 5/5 |
| Ricci’s Trattoria | Sicilian Pizza | 4.5/5 |
The 8 Best Italian Restaurants in Cary NC
Enrigo Italian Bistro
575 New Waverly Pl. #106, Cary, NC 27518, United States // +19198547731
Let me tell you, Enrigo Italian Bistro is the real deal when it comes to traditional Italian cuisine in Cary. They have a fantastic menu with a wide range of options for both lunch and dinner, as well as catering services. But the real star of the show? Their handmade pasta and pizza dough – it’s simply mouth-watering.
Now, what really impressed me was that they also supply their products to corporate clients in individual catch-and-go containers.
But let’s talk about the restaurant itself. The atmosphere is bright, airy, and contemporary, with both indoor and outdoor seating available.
I opted for outdoor seating, and it was lovely. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, checking on me regularly to ensure everything was to my liking. And boy, was it ever!
I started off with the Tomato Basil Soup, which was cooked to a smooth consistency with a bit of cream thickening to keep it from being watery.
The tomato wasn’t too acidic, making it easy on the palate. I went with the Gnocchi dish for my main course – and boy was it good.
The sauce had a beef and pork base, with a red wine and tomato base. The red wine added a subtle yet noticeable flavor to the dish without overpowering it. The Gnocchi itself was perfectly cooked and had a touch of potato flavor.
And, of course, no Italian meal is complete without dessert. I went for the lightly sweetened custard topped with a sweet strawberry coulis – it was the perfect finish to an incredible meal. But if you prefer less sweet desserts, you can always order the custard without the coulis.
I highly recommend Enrigo Italian Bistro to anyone looking for an authentic taste of traditional Italian cuisine in Cary.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite for lunch or enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends and family, Enrigo Italian Bistro is the place to be.
Lugano Ristorante
1060 Darrington Dr., Cary, NC 27513, United States // +19194687229
Lugano Ristorante is another one of my favorite Italian restaurants in Cary, NC. The first time I went there, I was totally blown away. I mean, the food was just out of this world! And the wine list? It pairs perfectly with every dish. Trust me, I tried.
The restaurant itself is super cozy and warm, with a welcoming atmosphere that just begs you to come in and stay awhile. And the staff is incredibly friendly, which makes the whole dining experience even better.
Now, I will say that it can get a bit noisy in there, but honestly, that’s part of the fun, right? Embrace the noise, my friends!
Oh, and before I forget, let me give you a little tip – when you go to Lugano, make sure you pull the door hard when you’re walking in. Trust me on this. I made the mistake of not doing that once and got stuck. Thankfully, one of the lovely hostesses helped me out, and I was finally able to walk into the warmth of the restaurant.
Once I was seated by the window in a cozy little booth, I was greeted by a lovely gentleman who took my order.
For just $16, you can get a soup or salad and half a sandwich or one of their delicious pasta meals. The gentleman recommended their lasagna, so of course, I had to try it.
While I waited for my food, I was served some of the nicest bread I’d had in a long time. Really, this bread was wonderful. It was rich, warm, and seasoned with rosemary.
I promised myself I’d only take a couple of nibbles, but let’s be honest, I ended up eating the entire thing. It was just too good to pass up!
And I wasn’t disappointed when my minestrone soup and lasagna arrived. Everything was extremely wonderful and fresh. And it wasn’t too hefty, which was a plus. Every piece of lasagna improved.
Oh, and here’s another tip – if you’re looking to host a large party, Lugano has a beautiful wine room that is just perfect for the occasion. So, definitely make a reservation and enjoy your dining experience there!
Overall, Lugano Ristorante is a fantastic place for authentic Italian cuisine in Cary with excellent service. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed!
La Grassa Pastificio
908 NE Maynard Rd., Cary, NC 27513, United States // +19844650594
Wow, do I have another amazing restaurant recommendation for you! If you’re in the mood for some top-notch Italian cuisine, you must try La Grassa Pastificio in Cary, NC.
Sure, it might be a little on the pricey side, but trust me, it’s worth every penny! Don’t be fooled by its strip mall location; this place is a hidden gem.
As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a chic and cozy interior that just screams, “Sit down and stay awhile.” It’s like a little slice of Italy right here in North Carolina!
We had an excellent dining experience thanks to our waitress’ sweet and attentive service.
I started off with the saffron rice balls, also known as arancini, and they were stuffed with all sorts of goodness – lemon, basil, provolone, and tomato. I think I could have eaten a whole plate of these!
For my main course, I went with the pappardelle pasta with wild boar ragu and porcini mushrooms, which was just bursting with flavor. I also tried a delicious Italian red blend wine that perfectly complemented the dish.
My friend, being the cheese lover that he is, decided to go for the four-cheese gnocchi. When the dish arrived, we were both blown away by how rich and flavorful it was.
It was like a cheesy explosion in your mouth – in the best way possible! To balance out the richness, he ordered a side of broccolini, which was cooked to perfection and complemented the gnocchi perfectly.
And, of course, we couldn’t leave without trying the tiramisu, which was the cherry on top of an already fantastic meal. But what really stood out to us was when the chef himself came out to say hello and chat with us.
It was such a personalized touch and made us feel like VIPs. Honestly, I can’t recommend La Grassa enough if you’re on the hunt for top-notch Italian food in Cary!
Teresa’s Italian Cuisine
941 N. Harrison Ave., Cary, NC 27513, United States // +19193770742
Don’t let the fact that it’s located in a strip mall off of Harrison Avenue deter you from giving this place a chance.
Don’t be fooled by its humble exterior because once you step inside, you’ll be transported to Italy with the bustling open kitchen and friendly staff speaking Italian. I immediately knew I was in for a treat.
And boy, was I right! The complimentary bread was seasoned to perfection. It was so good that I could’ve filled up on it alone.
But I knew I had to save room for the real deal, so I dove into the menu, which was entirely in Italian. Don’t worry if you don’t speak the language, though; the staff is more than happy to help you out.
As a self-proclaimed Italian food aficionado, I’ve been to my fair share of Italian restaurants in and out of state, and I have to say, Teresa’s Italian Cuisine takes the cake when it comes to flavor.
About the food. First up, the complimentary bread. Oh my goodness, the bread! It was seasoned with spices, oils, and fresh rosemary, and it was absolutely amazing. I could have made a meal out of the bread alone.
But of course, I didn’t stop there. We started with the Calamari appetizer with shrimp, and let me tell you, the batter was light and crispy, and the seafood was cooked to perfection.
For our main courses, we opted for the trofie salsiccia e friarielli, farfalle alfredo, and linguini alla scoglio, and each dish was a masterpiece.
The noodles were cooked to perfection with just the right amount of chew, and the flavors were out of this world. I was especially impressed with how smooth and delicious the alfredo was without being too heavy.
And the desserts, oh the desserts! We tried both the Tiramisu and the Affogato al Caffe, and let me just say, nothing disappointed.
The tiramisu was perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness and espresso flavor, and the affogato was a delightful mix of vanilla gelato and espresso.
I must warn you, though, the restaurant can get busy, and when it does, the wait times can get a bit long. But trust me; it’s worth the wait. And if you’re patient, you’ll be rewarded with the most delicious Italian cuisine in town.
I’ve been to my fair share of Italian restaurants, but Teresa’s Italian Cuisine has definitely stolen my heart.
So if you’re in the area and looking for an authentic Italian dining experience, make sure to check this place out!
Bocci Trattoria & Pizzeria
2425 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary, NC 27518, United States // +19198035358
If you’re a fan of Italian food, you definitely need to check out Bocci Trattoria & Pizzeria in Cary. Trust me; it’s one of the best Italian spots around.
From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a warm and friendly staff eager to make your dining experience special, whether on a date, having a business lunch, or dining with your family.
The decor, both inside and outside the restaurant, is beautiful and inviting, perfect for a romantic night out or a group celebration.
Their food is simply amazing. While I would normally go for their pizza and homemade marinara sauce, I decided to try something different: the arugula and farro salad with sherry Dijon vinaigrette.
I have to say, the arugula and farro salad I tried at Bocci Trattoria & Pizzeria was simply amazing!
The freshness and crispness of the arugula paired perfectly with the heartiness and chewiness of the farro. And the sherry vinaigrette that dressed the salad was a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
But that’s not all – the freshly baked Italian bread on the side was so delicious, I could have eaten it all day!
I highly recommend checking out this hidden gem of an Italian restaurant in Cary because it’s truly worth a visit if you’re in the mood for some delicious Italian fare. Your taste buds will thank you!
Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café
211 E. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511, United States // +19193771788
Listen up, foodies! When it comes to gourmet prepared foods in a high-end setting, Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café in Cary, NC, is the place to be.
The place offers some of the best gourmet prepared foods to go in town, and the ambiance is high-end, making it a perfect spot for a fancy meal.
The service was simply excellent, and the food was to die for! I couldn’t get enough of their limoncello cake, which was sweet and tangy, just like me (wink, wink).
Plus, parking was never an issue, as there is a lot in front of the restaurant and more nearby.
The restaurant itself was an adorable little nook, and the food was nothing short of top-notch! From the starters to the soups to the salads to the entrees, everything was so delicious; it was hard to pick a favorite.
And, to make the experience even better, I got the chance to meet the lovely owners of the place, who were such wonderful people with great taste in food.
It’s no wonder everything we tried was simply delicious, from the appetizers to the soups to the salads to the entrees. It was hard to decide what to order because everything on the menu looked so good!
Everything on the menu looked so good that I couldn’t help but order everything. I started with the pate, which was just yummy! But the real showstopper was the escargot, which was even better than the pate.
My friend tried the lamb chops and couldn’t stop raving about how divine they were. As for me, I had to go for the classic chicken parm, and it was delicious! The red sauce was the real MVP here.
And to finish off our meal, we indulged in some raspberry cheesecake just because we could. I mean, who can resist dessert, right?
Overall, I must say that Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café is doing an excellent job, and I cannot wait to go back and try out more items on their menu.
So, if you’re a foodie looking for some fine gourmet prepared foods to go, do yourself a favor and head on over to one of our favorite Italian restaurants in cary NC, you won’t be disappointed!
Ricci’s Trattoria
10110 Green Level Church Road, Cary, NC 27519, United States // +19193808410
Ah, Ricci’s Trattoria, where do I even begin? It was a pleasure to be greeted with the most friendly welcome and service the second we walked in.
Our hostess was so sweet and detail-oriented that she made our experience truly unforgettable.
We knew we were in for a treat as soon as we sat down. The restaurant is family-owned and operated, and it shows in every aspect of the place.
The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, perfect for a romantic night out or a fun family dinner.
Their garlic knots were out of this world, with fresh garlic on top and reheated to perfection.
We also ordered a Pizza Bianca and a Sicilian, which were absolutely divine. A rich, flavorful sauce covered the crust, and the crispness of the crust offset the richness of the sauce.
Speaking of the Sicilian, let me tell you, it was huge! We had enough leftovers to last us the entire week.
And their lasagna, don’t even get me started. Amongst all the Italian restaurants in Cary NC, I can honestly say that this was the most delicious lasagna I have ever had. Taking a bite of this delicious food was like taking a bite out of heaven.
Overall, I can confidently say that Ricci’s Trattoria is one of the best Italian restaurants in the entire triangle area.
The food, the service, the atmosphere, everything is just top-notch. If you’re in Cary, NC, and craving some authentic Italian cuisine, this is the place to be.
Don’t believe me? Take a chance on it; you’ll be glad you did!
Pizzeria Faulisi
215 E. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511, United States // +19193778244
Pizzeria Faulisi in downtown Cary is an absolute find that has stolen my heart with its wood-fired pizzas.
The crust is perfectly crispy on the outside, and the cheese is all oozy and melty on the inside – I mean, how could you go wrong?
The restaurant itself is modern and cozy, with warm lighting that just adds to the ambiance. My friend and I were lucky enough to snag seats at the bar, where we could watch the pizza being made right in front of us. It was like dinner and a show!
Of course, we couldn’t just stick to pizza (although it was tempting!). We also ordered the gnocchi, and I got a burrata pizza which was absolutely delicious.
And for dessert? Tiramisu, of course! While it was good, I will say that it could have had a bit more coffee flavor to really send it over the top.
Overall, I would highly recommend Pizzeria Faulisi to anyone in the mood for something artisanal and outside of the usual New York-style or American takeout pizza in Cary.
This is a small, family-owned spot that really knows how to do pizza right. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs Italian restaurants in Cary NC
What types of Italian food can I find in Cary, NC?
Cary, NC, has many Italian food options, including classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, delicious risottos, and tasty antipasti.
Can I find vegetarian or gluten-free options at Italian restaurants in Cary, NC?
Absolutely! Many Italian restaurants in Cary, NC, offer vegetarian and gluten-free options on their menu. Don’t hesitate to ask the server about these options when placing your order.
Are Italian restaurants in Cary, NC, open for lunch and dinner?
Yes! Many Italian restaurants in Cary are open for both lunch and dinner. Some even serve brunch on weekends.
Can I hire an Italian restaurant in Cary, NC, for catering?
Many Italian restaurants in Cary, NC, offer catering services for events and parties. Contact the restaurant directly or ask about catering options when making a reservation.
Conclusion of the Best Italian Restaurants in Cary, NC
As a foodie who has visited many Italian restaurants, I have to say that these ones in Cary truly exceeded my expectations.
From the delicious wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeria Faulisi to the melt-in-your-mouth pasta at Salvio’s Pizzeria, each restaurant had its unique charm and flavor.
I still dream about the heavenly lasagna at Ricci’s Trattoria and the cozy atmosphere at Enrigo Italian Bistro. And who can forget the fantastic service and limoncello cake at Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café?
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these Italian restaurants in Cary, NC, are a must-visit for any food lover. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it.
Visiting other destinations in North Carolina? Check out our other delicious guides:
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Which one of these Italian Restaurants in Cary, NC, do you most want to try? Let me know in the comments section below!
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