The Absolute Best Italian Food in Knoxville [Updated 2024]

Having reviewed a total of twelve Italian restaurants in Knoxville, I am confident in my ability to provide you with a comprehensive list of the absolute best Italian food in the area. Whether you're craving the traditional flavors of a classic margherita pizza, an exquisite plate of homemade pasta, or a mouthwatering tiramisu, this guide will steer you toward the most authentic and delicious options Knoxville has to offer.

With my expertise and passion for Italian cuisine, I am excited to help you navigate the culinary scene of this vibrant city and ensure you have an unforgettable dining experience.

Carrabba's Italian Grill

Highlights
Great food
Great service
Wonderful staff
Good recommendations
Excellent server

Walking into Carrabba's Italian Grill, I was immediately greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The dim lighting and cozy seating instantly made me feel at home. The menu was extensive, offering a wide range of classic Italian dishes.

First and foremost, the food was absolutely fantastic. Each dish was bursting with flavor and made with high-quality ingredients. From the tender chicken marsala to the rich and creamy fettuccine Alfredo, every bite was a delight to the taste buds. The portion sizes were generous, ensuring that I left feeling satisfied and full.

The service was top-notch. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and provided excellent recommendations. Our server went above and beyond to ensure that our dining experience was enjoyable. They were friendly, engaging, and made us feel like valued guests.

What impressed me the most was the wonderful staff who genuinely cared about the customers' satisfaction. They were passionate about the food they served and went out of their way to ensure that everything was perfect. Their dedication and enthusiasm truly enhanced the dining experience.

Overall, my visit to Carrabba's Italian Grill was an absolute delight. The excellent server combined with the great food and service made for an unforgettable experience. If you're looking for the best Italian food in Knoxville, I highly recommend giving Carrabba's Italian Grill a try. You won't be disappointed!

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Pero’s of Rocky Hill

Highlights
Excellent food
Best Caesar Salad
Yummy pizza
Heavenly dessert
Friendly staff

Pero's of Rocky Hill is definitely a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best Italian food in Knoxville. From the moment I walked through the door, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that immediately transported me to the heart of Italy.

Let's start with the food. Oh my goodness, the food! Every dish I tried was absolutely excellent. From their mouthwatering pasta dishes to their delectable seafood options, every bite was a burst of flavor that left me craving more. Their attention to detail and use of fresh ingredients truly made a difference in every dish.

Now, let's talk about the Caesar salad. I can confidently say that Pero's of Rocky Hill serves the best Caesar salad in Knoxville. The combination of crisp romaine lettuce, garlicky dressing, and perfectly toasted croutons was a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.

And let's not forget about their pizza. With a thin, crispy crust and a generous amount of toppings, each slice was a burst of deliciousness. Whether you prefer classic Margherita or something more adventurous like their prosciutto and arugula, you won't be disappointed.

The meal wouldn't be complete without indulging in one of their heavenly desserts. From the rich tiramisu to the velvety panna cotta, each bite was a slice of heaven.

Finally, I must mention the friendly staff. From the moment I entered the restaurant to the moment I left, the staff went above and beyond to ensure that I had an unforgettable dining experience.

Overall, Pero's of Rocky Hill has it all - excellent food, the best Caesar salad, yummy pizza, heavenly desserts, and a friendly staff. It's an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking the best Italian food in Knoxville. Buon appetito!

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Bravo! Italian Kitchen

Highlights
Lunch combos
Reasonable prices
Clean restrooms
Full bar
Beautiful view

Let me start by saying that Bravo! Italian Kitchen truly lives up to its name. This charming establishment offers a delightful combination of delicious food and a warm and inviting atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Bravo! Italian Kitchen is their extensive lunch menu with an array of delectable lunch combos to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pasta dish or a savory pizza, they have something for everyone. The best part? All at reasonable prices, allowing you to indulge without breaking the bank.

When it comes to ambiance, Bravo! Italian Kitchen really knows how to create a welcoming environment. The restaurant boasts clean and well-maintained restrooms, which may seem like a small detail but truly enhances the overall dining experience.

If you're in the mood for a refreshing drink, Bravo! Italian Kitchen has got you covered. Their full bar offers a wide selection of wines and spirits to complement your meal, ensuring a truly enjoyable dining experience.

Lastly, I must mention the beautiful view that adds an extra touch of elegance to the already delightful experience. Whether you're seated indoors or on their outdoor patio, you'll be treated to a scenic backdrop that perfectly complements your authentic Italian meal.

In conclusion, Bravo! Italian Kitchen is a hidden gem in Knoxville that offers a delightful dining experience. With their delicious food, lunch combos, reasonable prices, clean restrooms, and full bar, they truly stand out among the other Italian restaurants in the area. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this culinary delight for yourself.

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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant

I have to say, Olive Garden Italian Restaurant in Knoxville truly surprised me with their delicious and authentic Italian dishes. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere. The menu offered an impressive variety of options, and the prices were quite reasonable. I started off with their heavenly breadsticks and creamy marinara sauce, which set the tone for a delightful meal. For the main course, I tried their homemade lasagna, which was melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese were harmoniously balanced, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. To top it off, I indulged in their delectable tiramisu, which left me craving more. The service was attentive and friendly, making my dining experience even more enjoyable. Olive Garden Italian Restaurant in Knoxville exceeded my expectations, making it a definite contender for the title of the best italian food in town.

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The Original Louis Drive in Restaurant

Hey there, foodies! Just had the pleasure of dining at The Original Louis Drive in Restaurant in Knoxville. Holy cannoli, their Italian fare is the real deal! From mouthwatering pizzas to creamy pastas, every bite was an explosion of flavors. A must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts!

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Mama Mia Mediterranean food

Mama Mia Mediterranean Food in Knoxville is a delightful twist on Italian cuisine. Their dishes showcase a playful yet professional approach to Italian flavors. With a diverse menu and exceptional service, this spot is definitely a standout in the quest for the best Italian food in town.

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Gondolier Italian Restaurant & Pizza

Gondolier Italian Restaurant & Pizza in Knoxville is a delightful surprise! The authentic Italian flavors they offer are a treat for your taste buds. From the crispy thin crust pizza to the hearty pasta dishes, every bite is a culinary adventure. Don't miss their sumptuous tiramisu for dessert. Bellissimo!

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Fazoli's

Let's just say, Fazoli's is an interesting addition to Knoxville's italian food scene. With its fast-casual vibe, you would expect a lackluster meal, but boy were we pleasantly surprised! The garlic breadsticks were a definite highlight, oozing with buttery goodness. Plus, the pasta dishes were flavorful and satisfying. While it may not be the most authentic Italian spot in town, Fazoli's brings its own unique twist to the table. So if you're in the mood for some quick and tasty italian fare, give it a try!

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Oscar's Restaurant

Oscar's Restaurant in Knoxville exceeded my expectations with its authentic Italian cuisine. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by friendly staff who made me feel like family. The menu offered a delightful selection of pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and indulgent desserts. The aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh basil filled the air, enticing my taste buds. Each bite of their handmade pasta was like a culinary symphony, with flavors that danced on my tongue. The perfectly balanced pizza had a thin, crispy crust and was topped with fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. I highly recommend trying their decadent tiramisu for dessert – it was a delightful way to end my meal. The warm and inviting atmosphere at Oscar's Restaurant made me feel like I was dining in a cozy Italian trattoria. Whether you're looking for a romantic date night or a delightful family dinner, Oscar's is the place to be.

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Gondolier of Halls - Italian Restaurant & Pizza

Gondolier of Halls - Italian Restaurant & Pizza in Knoxville is a delightful hidden gem, serving up mouthwatering Italian dishes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. From their perfectly crispy pizza crusts to their creamy pasta dishes, every bite is a culinary adventure in Italian deliciousness. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner. Don't miss this must-try Italian eatery in Knoxville's vibrant food scene.

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Savelli's Italian Restaurant

Savelli's Italian Restaurant in Knoxville is a delightful culinary treasure! Their menu is bursting with bold and authentic flavors that transport you straight to Italy. From their heavenly pasta dishes to their mouthwatering pizzas, each bite is a gastronomic adventure. Don't miss out on their luscious tiramisu for dessert, it's a slice of paradise.

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Emilia

Emilia in Knoxville: A burst of Italian delights awaits at Emilia. From the rich flavors of their pasta dishes to the mouthwatering texture of their pizza crust, every bite is a culinary rollercoaster of joy. The ambiance is cozy yet chic, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date night or a fun family gathering. Emilia is definitely a must-try for Italian food lovers in Knoxville.