Fancy a taste of Italy in the heart of Northern Ireland? No problem. These are the ten best Italian restaurants in Belfast, ranked.
When it comes to the best Italian restaurants in Belfast, you will no doubt be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re a fan of pizza or pasta, gelato or tiramisu, Belfast’s Italian food scene has it all.
From laid back dining experiences perfect for a night out with friends to high-end cuisine to impress a first date, there is an Italian restaurant in Belfast to suit every occasion.
So, if you’re in the mood for a taste of Italy in the heart of Belfast, read on.
10. Tony Macaroni – perfect for a bite to eat after a day of shopping
Tony Macaroni is a great place to stop for a delicious bite to eat after a day spent shopping in Belfast’s premier shopping centre, Victoria Square.
With a long and affordable menu offering traditional and more experimental Italian dishes, this is definitely one of the best Italian restaurants in Belfast.
Address: Victoria Square, Belfast BT1 4QG
9. Castello Italia – pizza by the coast
Just a short drive out of Belfast along the coast road lining Belfast Lough, you will find Castello Italia.
This fantastic Italian restaurant offers diners views out over Carrickfergus Castle and Harbour while serving up some of the most delicious Italian dishes in town.
Address: 28 Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus BT38 7DP
8. Villa Italia – step inside a tiny Italian town
Located on University Road beside Queen’s University, Villa Italia is a family-run restaurant that has operated in the city since 1988.
Adorned with terracotta tiles, vines, and Italian-style murals, you’ll feel like you’ve set foot inside a mini Tuscan town as you indulge in one of their many pizza or pasta dishes.
Address: 39-41 University Rd, Belfast BT7 1ND
7. Goodfellas – a Belfast institution
This Irish-Italian restaurant is a staple on the food scene in West Belfast.
This popular restaurant has a retro feel and is often touted as having some of the best pizza in the city. With a laid back vibe, this is a must-visit for families or a meal out with friends.
When you pay a visit to Goodfellas, be sure to check out some of the bars on our list of best bars in West Belfast while you’re there.
Address: 11 Kennedy Way, Belfast BT11 9AP
6. Fratelli – perfect for a pre-theatre meal
An upscale addition to our list of Belfast’s best Italian restaurants is Fratelli on Great Victoria Street.
The ideal spot for pre-theatre dinner, this trendy spot oozes rustic Italian charm and serves a range of gourmet pizzas, risottos, and more.
Address: 60 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BB
5. Bella Vita – a hidden gem
Situated on the Dublin Road, you would easily miss this hidden gem if you were passing by. However, it’s up there among the best Italian restaurants in Belfast.
With a casual atmosphere and a plethora of dine-in and takeaway options, you’ll be spoilt for choice at Bella Vita.
Address: 33 Dublin Rd, Belfast BT2 7HD
4. Scalini – perfect for all the family
Scalini, located on Botanic Avenue close to Queen’s University, is a local favourite for Italian food.
This family-run restaurant has been operating in the city for years and is well-known for its Italian-style décor, tasty dishes, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Address: 85 Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1JL
3. Il Pirata – for rustic Italian cuisine
This trendy spot is located just on the outskirts of Belfast city in the Ballyhackamore area.
Serving rustic Italian inspired dishes created from the finest local produce, the menu here will have you wanting to try one of everything. The laid back atmosphere makes it perfect for a meal out with friends.
Address: 279-281 Upper Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 3JF
2. The Chubby Cherub – be transported to an Italian dreamland
This upscale Italian restaurant will make you feel like you’ve been magically transported to Renaissance Italy.
As the name suggests, the interiors are fittingly decorated with chubby cherubs painted along the roof among a pillow of clouds and fairy lights. Not to mention, the food here is absolutely to die for.
Address: 11 Chichester St, Belfast BT1 4JQ
1. Coppi – a must-visit in the city centre
Topping our list of best Italian restaurants in Belfast is the fantastic Coppi in St Anne’s Square.
Serving up modern Italian dishes and catering for a range of dietary requirements, the inventive menu at this chic restaurant leaves nothing to be desired.
From tasty lite bites, including polenta chips and arancini, to a vast array of pasta, risotto, and pizza dishes, all accompanied by incredible cocktails, you can’t go wrong with a meal at Coppi.
As a bonus for any vegans out there, Coppi is one of the best spots for vegan ice cream in Belfast.
Address: Belfast BT1 2LR
