Looking for some great Italian food in Santa Rosa, CA? You’re in luck! The city has a fantastic Italian restaurant scene, ranging from cozy, family-owned spots serving up traditional favorites to trendy, modern eateries putting a creative spin on classic dishes.
This guide will take you on a tour of some of the best Italian restaurants Santa Rosa has to offer, highlighting what makes each one special. Whether you’re craving a casual pizza night or a fancy fine-dining experience, there’s something for everyone.
LoCoco’s Cucina Rustica: A Santa Rosa Staple
If you’re looking for a top-notch Italian restaurant in Santa Rosa, LoCoco’s Cucina Rustica is definitely worth checking out.
Awards and Recognition
LoCoco’s has been voted North Bay’s Best Italian Restaurant for 12 years running, and it took home the Bohemian Best of 2024 award for “BEST ITALIAN,” a sign of its excellent reputation in the area.
Authentic Italian Dining Experience
LoCoco’s emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and a gourmet approach to Italian cooking, which means you’ll get a true taste of Italy in an authentic and traditional atmosphere.
The restaurant’s menu features a wide range of dishes, from classic favorites to unique chef’s specials.
Parties and Events
Located in Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square, LoCoco’s can accommodate parties and events for all sorts of occasions, including banquets, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, and corporate events.
CIBO Rustico Pizzeria: Wood-Fired Pizza and More
CIBO Rustico Pizzeria is an Italian restaurant in Santa Rosa that specializes in wood-fired pizzas made with local ingredients and ingredients imported from Italy. You can also order pasta and meatballs here, and gluten-free pizza crust is available.
With its outdoor seating and relaxed vibe, CIBO Rustico is a family-friendly restaurant that also operates as a wine bar, offering imported and locally produced Italian wines. In fact, it’s considered one of the best wine bars in Santa Rosa if you’re looking for Italian varietals.
CIBO Rustico also offers indoor and outdoor private party venues for large groups. You can find it in Santa Rosa Vintners Square, close to micro-wineries, breweries, and an organic juice bar.
Reader’s Choice: Local Favorite Italian Restaurants
When I asked around about people’s favorite Italian restaurants in and around Santa Rosa, here are some of the places people mentioned most:
- Riviera Ristorante: This family-run restaurant is a favorite for its authentic and varied menu. People rave about the lamb ravioli and the fresh bread served with olive tapenade. Plus, the service is top-notch.
- Baci Cafe & Wine Bar: This spot gets high marks for its food, vibe, friendly owners and staff, and impressive wine list.
- Della Santina: While technically in Sonoma, this restaurant is highly regarded by many.
- Dinucci’s Restaurant: Known for its delicious homemade minestrone soup.
Here are some other notable mentions from local foodies:
- Caffe Giostra (Petaluma)
- Risibisi Restaurant (Petaluma)
- Mamma Taninos (Sonoma)
- Negri’s Italian Dinners & Joe’s Bar (Occidental)
- Piacére Ristorante Italiano
- Art’s Place
- Volpi’s
The many flavors of Italy, right here in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa’s Italian restaurants offer something for everyone. You can find old-fashioned, family-run places alongside restaurants with a modern take on Italian dishes.
Many restaurants use fresh, local ingredients, because Sonoma County is one of the best places in the world for agriculture. And many chefs emphasize old-world techniques and family recipes.
With so many regional specialties, you can try different aspects of Italian food culture without leaving town.
Putting It All Together
Santa Rosa’s Italian restaurants provide a delicious culinary adventure. With so many options, there’s something for everyone who loves Italian food.
From spots that have won awards to local restaurants that are popular with Santa Rosa residents, you can find a rich variety of flavors and experiences that capture the essence of Italian dining right here in Sonoma County.