Pastas, pizzas, risotto and a fail proof tiramisu. Italian cuisine has gone mainstream in Chennai just like it has in most Indian cities. There’s a whole bunch of home grown pizzerias like Fat Boy, Lola’s and Ciro that have aced the thin crust pizza. And then there are the all-day diners like 601 at The Park Chennai and dining destinations like Flying Elephant at the Park Hyatt Chennai that offer a wide selection of Italian cuisine. Chennai’s wide array of specialty Italian restaurants goes beyond just pasta and pizzas. From Italian brunches, to Neapolitan pizzas to scrumptious antipasti, there’s a lot in the mix. Let’s take you through.
Also Read: 8 Of The Best Dining Spots In Vibrant T Nagar, Chennai
Here’re 7 Italian Restaurants In Chennai You Must Try:
1. Lazy Leopard:
This place has the spots on the corner of your pizza ever reminded you of a leopard’s spots. The lazy in the Lazy leopard refers to the five day fermentation process for their pizza dough that gives it a light and airy texture. Positioned as a Neapolitan Pizzeria and Trattoria, this casual space dishes out some of the best pizzas in Chennai from its busy, wood-fired oven. But there’s more than just pizza on the menu. We also dig their parmesan crusted wings and silky smooth mushroom soup.
Where: Peters Road, Royapettah
2. Ottimo – Cucina Italiana, ITC Grand Chola:
We love the contemporary, almost chic vibe at this fine Italian dining destination. It might be a popular dinner venue but we like coming back for the restaurant’s elaborate Sunday brunch that showcases the sheer depth of the menu. From crunchy salads to a well curated antipasti menu, there’s a lot on offer. It’s not just haute cuisine, regulars also swear by their grappa and Italian wine selection.
Where: ITC Grand Chola, Anna Salai, Guindy
Also Read: 8 Must-Try Restaurants And Cafes In Chennai’s East Coast Road
3. Focaccia:
The Big Italian Saturday Brunch at Focaccia is one of the biggest draws at the speciality Italian restaurant at the Hyatt Regency Chennai. Focaccia explores traditional Italian cuisine from the shores of southern Italy. The interiors add to its laidback, almost casual vibe. It’s a good example of how Italian dining in Indian luxury hotels has transitioned from stuffy, fine-dining restaurants to a more contemporary, relaxed setting. Pranzo, the Saturday Brunch features live stations of handmade pasta and an exclusive dessert studio
Where: Hyatt Regency Chennai, Anna Salai, Teynampet
Photo Credit: Focaccia
4. Nolita:
The place takes its name from the NYC neighbourhood of Nolita that’s well known for its Neapolitan style pizza. Located in the heart of one of Chennai’s most trendy retail and dining districts, Nolita has carved a niche with its sourdough pizzas. We’d also go back here for their antipasti. The chicken wings and cheese, jalapeno & olive croquettes are both bestsellers.
Where: Khader Nawaz Khan Road
5. Toscano:
It is one of Bengaluru’s best known Italian restaurant brands and first made it’s Chennai debut at Khader Nawaz Khan Road. Toscano has expanded its Chennai footprint but we’re partial to this location in the CBD. Located among the city’s high-end retail destinations, Toscano hits the right notes with its warm interiors and attentive service. The easy vibe makes it a great weekend lunch destination or a weekday business lunch. The lamb chops are a popular option and so is their signature Kahlua mousse.
Where: Khader Nawaz Khan Road
Photo Credit: Toscano
6. Amalfi Italiana:
One of the most recent additions to Chennai’s Italian culinary scape, Amalfi is also one of the only vegetarian specialty Italian restaurants in the city. This compact dining space features quite a few charming elements including the patterned flooring and the white brick walls. The elaborate menu also includes a special menu without onion and garlic. Their home made pesto and tagliatelle with herb butter sauce are popular options while the lemon cheesecake is the pick of their dessert section
Where: Millers Road, Purasawalkam
Also Read: 7 Of The New Cafes And Lounges In Chennai You Must Try
7. Basil with a Twist:
A European diner that leans more towards it’s Italian specialties. This cosy restaurant hits the right spot with an uncomplicated menu that is full of comfort food. The interiors are friendly, making it a perfect spot for family meals or an impromptu catch up with your buddies. Their pizzas and pastas stay in the comfort zone, and their panna cotta is a house favourite.
Where: Habibullah Road, T Nagar