Known for its beautiful coastline and exciting restaurant scene, the beach town of Virginia Beach offers a wide variety of cuisines to satisfy any palate. Among them, Italian cuisine stands out for its unique combination of comforting flavors, rich history, and a touch of romanticism.
From posh bistros to cozy trattorias, Virginia Beach’s Italian dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious.
Join us as we uncover the coolest spots in town serving up delectable pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and wines by the glass.
Whether you’re a native or just passing through, this tour will transport you to the heart of Italy—in this case, Virginia Beach.
Aldo’s Ristorante
This eatery has been there for the neighborhood since 1988. Delicious Italian cuisine with a modern twist is made there. The kitchen team uses fresh, in-season ingredients to make all your favorite Italian dishes.
The crew also does their best to buy these things from local vendors. So, with every meal, you can expect the most recent flavors. Delightful shrimp scampi flavor. Linguine has a distinct seafood flavor thanks to the shrimp and lobster it contains.
The addition of wine, lemon, and butter elevates the dish to the level of the best Italian cuisine in Virginia Beach.
Mannino’s Italian Bistro
This is one of two locations in Virginia serving Mannino’s Italian Bistro. Traditional and innovative Italian supper cuisine is its forte. Great success has followed the 2008 debut of the original Mannino’s Italian Bistro.
Dishes made by the crew using family recipes are full of the comforting tastes of home cooking. On top of that, there is a mountain of authentic flavor in every bite. In Virginia Beach, the Tortellini Rustica is the best pasta.
A touch of acidity comes from the thick tomato sauce that sits atop the dish. The mushrooms and Italian sausage are the true show-stoppers here.
Planet Pizza
The best Italian in Virginia Beach isn’t necessarily at the most posh restaurants. Think about Planet Pizza instead; it has a space theme throughout. Not to mention, the traditional and Italian-inspired dishes are really impressive.
They are made with a combination of classic Italian ingredients and those sourced locally, and that is all thanks to the crew. For something different, try the Margherita pizza with mozzarella and basil. Oh, and the Chicken Parmesan Sub is out of this world good. You should definitely go with the Italian Sub.
The pepperoni, ham, and Genoa salami get their delicious, creamy taste from the Provolone cheese. The tartness of the Italian vinaigrette gives the baked good a little bite.
Isle of Capri
Isle of Capri is housed at the Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach – North Beach, an IHG hotel. In addition to authentic Italian cuisine, it has a large selection of over 260 wines from across the world. Salads, pasta, and antipasti are just a few of the many items offered at this restaurant.
To top it all off, the authentic Italian flavors will transport you to Italy with each mouthful. Thanks to Chef Pasquale Arcese, who expertly blends regional ingredients with classic Italian flavors, this is possible. This restaurant is highly regarded among Virginia Beach’s Italian establishments, thanks to its Penne Positano.
The big shrimp on top of the spaghetti makes the dish smell like seafood heaven. Combine the prosciutto with the sherry cream sauce for a mouth-watering combination of meaty and acidic flavors.
Rigoletto Italian Bakery & Cafe
Customers have been satisfied at Rigoletto Italian Bakery & Cafe since 2006. And rightfully so—it gives them a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. Italian cuisine from the past and present coexist on the menu.
For a taste of the classics, start with Baked Ziti or Chicken Parmigiana. Penne Arrabiata, please have a taste. The pasta gets a little fruity taste from the splash of white wine. The tomato sauce seals the deal on the dish’s signature sour taste.
Conclusion
Everyone may find their perfect Italian restaurant in Virginia Beach, from family-run pizzerias to upscale steakhouses. It has shown you the top spots to satisfy your hunger for Margherita pizza, seafood spaghetti, or classic chicken parmesan, among other foods.
Hence, round up your loved ones and travel to Virginia Beach to go on your very own Italian experience!