Italian cuisine, we’re told, is the heart of comfort food. And nowhere does that saying feel more authentic than in Manchester, NH. So whether you’re craving handmade pasta, celebrating a special occasion, or just seeking a cozy neighborhood trattoria, use this guide to the best Italian dining in the city. Looking for wood-fired pizza, fresh seafood, homemade gnocchi, or tiramisu? We’ve got recommendations for those, too.
Mangia Italian Restaurant
$$ | (603) 647-0788 | WEBSITE
In true Italian fashion, the dishes at this Manchester gem are scratch-made, and they’re the most satisfying version with a New England zip code. The wonderfully quiet atmosphere features softly playing Italian music, and can be enjoyed with plentiful antipasto, superb Vitello Popolo, or the chef’s homemade Ricotta Pie. It’s the ideal evening destination for families accommodating large groups, or any time you want to end your day with exceptional service and healthy-sized portions.
Giorgio’s Ristorante & Bar
$$ | (603) 232-3323 | WEBSITE
Giorgio’s Ristorante & Bar is an Italian spot in Manchester that serves up pasta, oysters, pizza, and flat steak frites. This place has a nice, quiet atmosphere with tall ceilings and period art, and will probably make you want to pull up a chair, order a drink from the top-notch bartender, and completely ignore everything else you have going on tonight—or, at least, finally savor that novel-worthy tiramisu you’ve been craving.
However long you end up staying at this casual spot, don’t pass on the excellent truffle fries.
Jerome’s Deli
$ | (603) 623-5388 | WEBSITE
Our perfect lunch break always includes grabbing a quick bite before heading back to the office, and if you’re looking for something better than fast food, there’s no better place to fuel up. Jerome’s Deli makes incredible sandwiches, like their popular loaded smothered chicken wrap or classic Reuben, which come with potato chips and a pickle. It’s fantastic, and even better with a coffee or one of their many drink options.
The friendly staff delivers quick service, and with plenty of open seats at lunchtime on weekdays, you can enjoy your meal in their welcoming, no-frills atmosphere while catching entertaining videos on the TV.
Campo Enoteca
$$ | (603) 625-0256 | WEBSITE
Campo Enoteca serves one incredible lasagna. Full stop. And the best part about them is you can explore everything from the fresh, homemade pasta to unique sauces to cocktails, right down to the vegan crispy broccoli pizza itself. This authentic spot also has other amazing Italian options, like osso bucco and hummus with homemade falafel.
Pizza by Rocco Manchester
$ | (603) 232-0981 | WEBSITE
There’s always something satisfying to enjoy at Pizza by Rocco Manchester, the family-owned spot in Manchester where New York-style pizza delivers consistently. Generous and flavorful slices will tempt you, like the Valeria pizza loaded with pesto chicken, tomatoes, and basil, and a crisp crust that holds up perfectly. You can order anything here and never leave disappointed.
One must-try is their catering for special events—an assortment of pizzas that makes any gathering feel like a celebration.
Villaggio Ristorante
$$ | (603) 627-2424 | WEBSITE
There are several reasons why this bustling Italian restaurant in Manchester always has a full dining room—the portions are huge, and most of the made-in-house pasta options are excellent, from the hot and fresh Fettuccine to the delicious sauces and crunchy bread. Everything here comes hot and delicious (the takeout and delivery are praised), but the quieter bar area is just a few steps away from the lively main room.
Piccola Ristorante Bar
$$ | (603) 606-5100 | WEBSITE
If you’re not at Piccola Ristorante Bar when they open for dinner, you’ll be waiting for a table for a while. But this is one of the best Italian spots in town, so the wait is worth it. The menu at this Mediterranean restaurant is all about classic dishes, so think of things that come with fresh flavors, creamy sauces, and seafood.
Go for the Carbonara Di Mare with scallops, which includes perfectly cooked pasta, their amazing vodka sauce, a Greek salad with crumbled feta, and a required return visit afterward.
Luisa’s Italian Pizzeria
$ | (603) 625-1331 | WEBSITE
The buffalo chicken calzone from this Italian pizzeria in Manchester is what dreams are made of—if those dreams included the Godmother. The hand-held creation comes stuffed with tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and melted mozzarella. Words that come to mind when we think about it: flavorful, satisfying, order this. The other calzones on the menu are also worthwhile, like the Popeye’s Revenge with spinach and ricotta in a golden-brown crust.
Moe’s Italian Sandwiches
$ | (603) 669-6637 | WEBSITE
This spot has become a Manchester favorite for Italian sandwiches, with a clean dining room and reliably delicious food. We’re partial to the Original sandwich, but you can’t go wrong with any choice. Moe’s is all about perfectly balanced subs, with thinly sliced veggies and cheese creating complex flavors. Always get a large pickle on the side. The friendly staff accommodates dietary needs, and the large, satisfying sandwiches make it a great choice for quick meals before events.
While prices run a bit high for the value, the overall experience is consistently enjoyable.
Fratello’s Italian Grille
$$ | (603) 624-2022 | WEBSITE
Fratello’s Italian Grille is a temple of pasta, seafood, and in-your-face Italian comfort in Manchester. The very family-friendly spot is where we go when the overwhelming urge to eat perfect sauces and tender seafood strikes. Once you’re sitting in the massive bar area or in one of the retro-renovated dining spaces along the river, be prepared to savor simmering sherry sauce from one of their well-presented, generous plates, and drench a piece of baked stuffed haddock in lemon.
Another reason to get here: you’ll spend less on a full entrée than you would on a single cocktail at other Italian spots around town, and you’ll also be in and out within an hour max.
900 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria
$$ | (603) 641-0900 | WEBSITE
The pizza menu at 900 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria is like any other in the city, but it’s the unique toppings that set it apart. It may take a moment for your brain to process the combination of eggs on pizza, or the Granny Smith pizza with apples, bacon, and maple syrup. And, unlike many other spots on this guide, there’s a short wait here, but it’s worth it for the light and crispy pies, excellent service, and great weeknight deals like Tuesday’s special pricing.