No one does Italian food quite like Philly. We’ve stuffed ourselves with stuffed shells, unbuttoned our jeans after plates of pastas, and toured the city tasting every last tortellini to bring you UNATION’s ultimate guide to Italian restaurants in Philly.
? Ambrosia
You already know we had to include a BYOB restaurant on our list. Not only is Ambrosia one of the most charming Italian dining options in Philadelphia, but you can also save a few bucks by brining in your favorite wine from home. No more guessing what drink you might like from a long and confusing wine list. Make some room in your purse because BYOB at Ambrosia is the best way to have a night out on a budget. Located on the corner of 24th and Locust street, a quaint, casual dining experience awaits. And possibly a few Instagram stories too.
? Pietro’s
Don’t let the name fool you, Pietro’s Pizzeria is far from your average, everyday pizza joint. With locations on both Walnut street AND South street, Pietro’s is an absolute MUST for Italian food fanatics across the city. Pietro’s menu is packed with fresh and classic Italian dishes, but we recommended getting a little adventurous and ordering off their create your own pizza menu. Though we are partial to their mouth-watering Margherita pizza, we recommend adding spinach, ricotta, and roasted zucchini for the ultimate upgrade. Pietro’s also has vegan cheese substitutes so everyone can leave full and happy!
Philly’s Positano Coast is THE restaurant for those who have been searching for a relaxing evening while enjoying authentic Italian flavors. Positano Coast will take you on a fabulous culinary tour of the Amalfi Coast, all without leaving the city. This restaurant is the place to be if you are a lover of Italian seafood dishes. The gorgeous atmosphere, colorful plates, and romantic lighting make Positano Coast a must-try Italian restaurant for date nights or special occasions.
Rittenhouse Square is home to some of our favorite places in Philly to eat and La Fontana Della Citta is certainly no exception. The name of this corner restaurant on 17th and Spruce directly translates to, “The Fountain of the city”. Now THATS authentic Italian. Did we mention its also BYOB? Can’t beat it. But, it isn’t the location or the BYOB that brings La Fontana Della Citta to our must-try Italian restaurants in Philly list. Its the desserts. For all of our readers out there with an unwavering sweet tooth, the Torata Calabrese is our favorite recommendation. This delicious dessert consists of homemade chocolate cake, yum, off to a great start, soaked in milk and topped with mascarpone cheese. We have DREAMS about this cake. Totally worth it for your next cheat day.
Karleigh is an intern for the Stuff to Do in Philly City Guide. For more insight on the best events and things to do in the Philadelphia area, download the UNATION app and follow @StufftoDoinPhilly on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and TikTok.

