Attention, Bloomington – the pasta patrol is out in full force, and we’ve got the inside scoop on where to find the real deal. From hidden trattorias to bustling osterias, these eight Italian spots are serving up more than just dinner – they’re delivering la dolce vita right to your table.
Da vinci pizza and pasta
$$ | (812) 822-0143 | WEBSITE
It’s time to accept that all eight of you probably aren’t getting a reservation at that trendy new Italian spot tonight. The good news is that you can live out all of your pizza-fueled dreams at Da Vinci Pizza and Pasta. It’s not the flashiest place, but Bloomington is a great town for dining out, the Neapolitan-style pizzas are fantastic, and they serve that pistachio with hot honey combo.
They mean that combination seriously – these pies come to the table with that sweet-spicy balance, which is delightful no matter how particular you are about toppings.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
$ | (812) 333-1350 | WEBSITE
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant is a reliably classic Bloomington spot that always has a lot of family appeal. It’s bright, the booths are spacious and comfortable, and the menu is full of generally hearty things for those cozy nights that are about to be our reality (welcome). Get comfortable and plan to share some fettuccine Alfredo over unlimited breadsticks with your loved ones.
Mother Bear’s Pizza West
$ | (812) 287-7366 | WEBSITE
Your family group chat is debating dinner plans, but there’s no agreement on what to get. Half the crew wants pizza and the other already had frozen pizza at home. Solve the dilemma by suggesting Mother Bear’s Pizza West—the name promises great pizza, and there’s a solid variety of options too. The convenient Bloomington location makes it easy for a casual meal, and it earns bonus points for a welcoming atmosphere and a family-friendly vibe without being overwhelming.
Che Bello
$$ | (812) 964-4035 | WEBSITE
Think of everything you want in a cozy Italian spot – warm lighting, comforting classics, and a really good Caesar salad. Now add attentive service and some of the best spaghetti and meatballs in Bloomington, and it’s easy to understand why Che Bello is so good for a date night. Come here for the lobster ravioli or the chicken parmesan, but either way, stay for the pleasant atmosphere. It’s a generally great experience, and easily one of the most reliable Italian restaurants in town.
Fazoli’s
$ | (812) 332-3566 | WEBSITE
Families instinctively flock to Fazoli’s like the breadsticks to Alfredo. It’s clean, brightly lit, and the inside feels like a welcoming family dinner year round in a town that appreciates good value. The menu is rich with kid-friendly staples like pizza, pasta, and – obviously – those refillable breadsticks.
DeAngelo’s Italian Creole Restaurant
$ | (812) 961-0008 | WEBSITE
DeAngelo’s Italian Creole Restaurant is a vibrant and welcoming spot serving a delightful mix of Italian and Creole dishes. That makes it the perfect choice because not only is it a refreshing change from typical chains, but there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Once you’re done savoring dinner in the cozy dining area, you’ll appreciate the attentive staff who ensure a wonderful experience with their friendly and accommodating service.
Osteria RAGO
$$ | (812) 822-0694 | WEBSITE
Osteria RAGO hits all the right notes for a memorable Italian meal. It serves delicious and beautifully presented dishes, a must-try Neapolitan-style brick oven pizza, and it’s all in an inviting Bloomington setting. Factor in the attentive service from servers like Lauren and Emma and it’s as if Osteria RAGO was designed for this exact dining experience. Parking might be a challenge, but you’ll still want to make the trip.
Bucceto’s Pizza Pasta
$$ | (812) 331-1234 | WEBSITE
The best comfort food night is spent diving into a mountain of gluten-free pasta. Good gluten-free options are rare, but Bucceto’s is serving fantastic gluten-free pasta. Pasta you can enjoy without worrying about dietary restrictions. Order all the vodka pasta, devour all the gourmet pizza, and forget about saving room for dessert. You’ve eaten generous portions of amazing food — we give you permission to just take the leftovers home.