Many great things came from the invention of the boot—leather, cowboy culture, feeling rugged while stylish, the iconic scene from The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. But maybe the best byproducts are all of the Italian restaurants that have taken root in Pearland. At first, we didn’t know why there are so many trattorias in this town. But seeing as some of them serve fantastic food, we’re very glad they’re here.
Parry’s Pizzeria & Taphouse
$ | (713) 324-2722 | WEBSITE
Parry’s serves incredible foldable pizzas from a lively taphouse in Pearland. They also have delicious spaghetti, buffalo chicken calzones, cannolis, and other things that you maybe craved the last time you were in a classic Italian joint. It might not be located in Little Italy, but if you’re in the mood for a pizza with such perfect crust that you need a plan to finish it, this is the place.
Italiano’s
$ | (281) 812-7662 | WEBSITE
Italiano’s garlic knots hit the spot, especially after a long day or any other kind of celebration, including a quick family dinner. The complimentary bread, marinara, and melted butter make these starters better than the sum of their parts, even though the parts are pretty damn great. Add a lunch special under ten bucks and/or a fresh salad.
Jet’s Pizza
$ | (281) 485-9700 | WEBSITE
Jet’s Pizza is the go-to spot for take-out pizza lovers, so you know that you’re in good hands here with Detroit-style pies, deep dish pizza, or chicken wings piled into boxes. They’re also serving high-quality crust, tasty sauce, and a variety of topping options that feed up to a family if you have a large appetite.
Stefano’s
$ | (281) 992-2233 | WEBSITE
Stefano’s is a great takeout spot that serves Italian classics like vegan pizza with Daiya cheese on a perfect, crunchy hand-tossed crust with flavorful marinara. But if they have the meat ravioli with lots of sauce on the menu, you’re going to want that, especially with a nice side of eggplant parmigiana. And if you’re also looking to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while you wait, they offer quick pickup and delivery with friendly, accommodating service.
Saruzzo’s New York Pizzeria
$ | (281) 332-3191 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving authentic New York-style pizza, head to Saruzzo’s New York Pizzeria. It’s a true brick-oven spot with extra thin, crispy crust pizzas and generous toppings that make you feel at home. You could easily share a supreme pie with its abundant toppings and balanced sauce, perfect for a casual dine-in experience. The pepperoni and ricotta varieties taste amazing and arrive with short wait times.
The califzones and catfish sandwich are large and tasty options too, though the sauce could use a bit more zing. Overall, it’s a reliable place for hot, fresh pizza delivered on time or enjoyed with the BYOB option nearby.
Tommaso’s Italian Grill & Cajun Seafood
$ | (281) 331-6262 | WEBSITE
Tommaso’s Italian Grill & Cajun Seafood is one of our favorite spots in Pearland, especially when it comes to getting some late-night food. This Italian-Cajun place stays open late enough for those Uber orders, and all of the mains here come in the form of pizza, pasta, or seafood. The best thing, though, is the pizza with that incredible sauce. But if you’re trying to mix things up, the crawfish or baked ziti is also a winner.
Sarpino’s Pizzeria Braeswood
$$ | (713) 667-1212 | WEBSITE
The Hawaiian pizza from Sarpino’s Pizzeria Braeswood is one of those things we can’t go a month without, and it’s available (along with lots of terrific Italian dishes) through this Pearland spot’s spacious dining room. They’ve also perfected their cheesy tortellini, which makes us very happy.
Pizza Lounge
$ | (832) 831-2939 | WEBSITE
Pizza Lounge is pretty much just an unsuspecting location, but you can also think of it as a hidden treasure. It’s a great Italian option for thin-crust pizza and delicious pastas, and you can enjoy the cozy atmosphere on the patio. No matter what, always remember to try the Italian Special. From the great beer selection to the reasonable prices, it’s all fantastic.
Birraporetti’s
$$ | (281) 993-8901 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving Italian but don’t want to deal with a stuffy formal dinner, Birraporetti’s has a Sunday buffet where you can show up to enjoy a variety of entrees, pastas, pizzas, and salads. Recent highlights include the lasagna and eggplant parm with fettuccini as very good. The spinach artichoke dip is also recommended. While the tiramisu was good, the key lime pie was delicious—and our absolute favorite thing from Birraporetti’s—the wonderfully cozy atmosphere.
It’s 50% comfortable, 50% intimate, and 100% guaranteed to make your special dinner perfect.
Maggiano’s Little Italy
$$ | (281) 282-9729 | WEBSITE
Even if you’re celebrating a special occasion with a large group, it doesn’t mean you can’t also get consistently good Italian food. That’s where Maggiano’s Little Italy comes in—it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and they serve some delicious meals. Options range from classic pasta dishes to hearty entrees, and you can make reservations for parties if you’d like (their friendly staff, including new waiter-in-training Tokyo, ensures drinks are always topped off).
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
$ | (281) 991-0004 | WEBSITE
Both locations of Olive Garden in Pearland have the unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks, but the main location exclusively has Hayden serving, who you should go out of your way for. It’s perfect for those moments when your schedule is packed and you find yourself throwing your hands up and yelling, “Forget it, I’m eating Italian comfort food tonight.”
Corey’s Kitchen at The Fillin’ Station
$ | (281) 824-4217 | WEBSITE
Corey’s Kitchen at The Fillin’ Station is really more like a family-friendly food hub, but if you ask us (or a kid with an affinity for spaghetti), it definitely delivers. This welcoming spot with great potential serves dishes like chicken spaghetti that’s pure comfort or beef tips with that perfect savory sauce. Not to mention they have some incredible froyo for dessert.
All you have to do is grab a seat in the nice game area, enjoy the clean restrooms, and they will bring your meal with friendly service that makes you feel right at home.
Locals Kitchen + Market
$ | (281) 817-0226 | WEBSITE
In addition to serving classic burgers and salads, Locals Kitchen + Market also offers a variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegar infusions. If choosing between options like the nostalgic smash burger and the generous double chicken salad is the toughest choice you face today, that sounds like a pretty great day to us.