5 Best Italian Restaurants In Chennai That Should Be On Every Foodie’s Bucket List

Italian cuisine includes deeply rooted traditions common to the whole country. It is something about delish Italian fare that offers an abundance of taste, and that’s probably why it is one of the most popular and copied cuisines around the world. Just like every other part of the world, Italian food is quite famous across India as well. Every time we visit a café or bar, a lot of us end up ordering Pizza and Pasta. There are many restaurants serving Italian food but only a few specialize in it. If like us you are also a fan of this popular cuisine, check out the following list of some of the best Italian restaurants in Chennai that are sure to impress you with their stellar curation of authentic offerings.

Little Italy, Besant Nagar, Chennai

Spreading the warmth and love of authentic Italian food for over 30 years, with over 50 outlets in 4 countries, Little Italy is India’s largest Italian food serving brand. From opening its first outlet in Pune in 1989 to owning its own cheese factory in 1996, Little Italy is one of the best Vegetarian Italian restaurant chains in India. Inspired by traditional Italian cooking and techniques, Little Italy offers a menu backed by the finest Italian chefs and quality ingredients. Their outlet located in Besant Nagar has modern, elegant and spacious interiors with stylish furnishings and décor. Famous for its Sunday brunches, this place never compromises on its quality of food.

Must Haves: Spinaci Salsa, Bruschetta Al Pomodoro, Pizza Napoli, Pesto Pizza and Tiramisu

Cost for two: ₹ 1500

Focaccia, Hyatt Regency, Chennai

Focaccia, located in the heart of Chennai at Hyatt Regency explores traditional Italian cuisine from the shores of southern Italy. Known for their not too voluminous menu with rare Italian dishes, Focaccia should definitely be on your list.

Must Haves: Risotto aifunghi e fonduta al tartufo, Tortino caldo al ciccolato cuore al limone and Sedanorapa, funghimisti e polenta fritta

Cost for two: ₹ 2600

Toscano, Nungambakkam, Chennai

Toscano is a fine-dining Italian restaurant chain with branches across Bengaluru, Chennai and recently Pune. With its Chennai outlet opened in 2019, it has become a favorite place for the people of the city to dine at. The restaurant has an alfresco section that recreates a street-side café that opens into a fine-dining space and terminates into a high-energy, snazzy bar. Toscano offers an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere. Fusing the best of old and new world Italian cuisine, Toscano offers an eclectic menu from gourmet pizzas to multi-course dinners. We would recommend you to get a table outdoors and sample some great cocktails and food the restaurant has to offer and you won’t return disappointed.

Must Haves: Mushroom Risotto, Chicken Tonnato, Conchiglie Genovese Pesto, Pumpkin Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce, Chocolate Quinoa Cake, Dolce Vita and Rosemary and Grapefruit Mojito

Cost for two: ₹ 1200

Ottimo Cucina Italiana, ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

Ottimo Cucina Italiana is part of very lovely ITC Grand Chola in Guindy and is considered to be a top choice for Italian food in the city. A traditional Italian kitchen has been recreated with an authentic array of antipasti, pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven, artisanal pastas and much more. The restaurant is beautifully designed by bringing together modern European aspects. The variety is wide and each dish is well detailed so a diner knows what is to come. Besides the conventional fare, their menu also houses a selection of lesser known but simply decadent Italian seafood or meat-based dishes too. It's not just haute cuisine, their grappa bar and Italian wine selection complete a wholesome Italian dining experience.

Must Haves: Di Zucca, Risotto all’aragosta E Camomilla, Ravioli Al Granchio Con La Sua Salsa and Cannoli Siciliani

Cost for two: ₹ 4000

Amelie's, Alwarpet, Chennai

If you are in the mood for budget-friendly and tasty Italian food but with great décor, this is the place for you to be. Amelie’s is housed in a bungalow that offers some of the best and budget-friendly dishes in the city. The restaurant features a light breezy menu exploring the depths of Continental and Italian cuisines. The all-day breakfast section of the menu receives the most attention of the diners. Next time whenever you are in Alwarpet, do not forget to head over to Amelie’s for a nice pocket friendly meal.

Must Haves: Chicken Parmigiano, Spicy Smoken Chicken, Chicken Tortilla Soup, Ice Cream

Cost for two: ₹ 800