Finding great Italian in Shreveport isn’t just about red-checkered tablecloths and endless breadsticks. LA’s northern hub offers everything from cozy trattorias perfect for a weeknight pasta fix to special-occasion spots where the wine flows as freely as the conversation. Whether you’re craving handmade gnocchi or a lively BYOB atmosphere, these restaurants deliver the goods—though a couple take the ‘authentic’ theme a bit too literally.
Smitty’s Pizza
$ | (318) 687-3030 | WEBSITE
When Smitty’s Pizza first opened, we had never heard the words “phenomenal pizza crust” before. Once we’d figured that one out—it’s a standout feature, praised for its exceptional quality—we then discovered it’s also got a clean, well-maintained salad bar. A night at this south Shreveport spot typically involves pizza boxes sitting out on the tables, and groups of friends competing to see how many slices of delicious, fresh pizza and Hick Chick they can put down.
Despite all that, the pizza is actually pretty good, with toppings that are generous and well-balanced. The staff, including the hostess and waitstaff, receive compliments for their attentiveness.
Mama’s Italian House
$ | (318) 869-8929 | WEBSITE
Mama’s Italian House isn’t the only Italian restaurant in Shreveport, but it is the only one with a non-traditional decor, a cozy charm, and an owner who personally shares samples of pizza sauce. Based on the warmth and care of a family kitchen, the place feels like a very genuine neighborhood spot, but the $18 blackened chicken alfredo pasta is no joke. Expect fresh, delicious bread, with around three phenomenal pasta dishes made with whatever ingredients are prepared to order.
A second highlight, the fried ravioli, focuses on being out of this world.
Giuseppe’s Pastacaffe
$ | (318) 946-8698 | WEBSITE
Walking into Giuseppe’s Pastacaffe feels like stepping into a cozy, unpretentious neighborhood spot, with simple wooden tables and soft lighting that make you want to settle in for a long meal. Even the shared parking lot feels like part of the local charm. Giuseppe’s ambiance might be understated, but the attention to detail in their handmade pasta is truly impressive up close. Plus, the food here is pretty good.
In addition to their amazing pasta bowls, paninis, and salads, Giuseppe’s offers generous portions and fantastic specials all the time. Bring your gluten-free friend and do the fettuccine alfredo for $18.
Roma Italian Bistro – Shreveport, Louisiana
$ | (318) 666-6810 | WEBSITE
One of the classics of the affordable Italian scene, this Shreveport spot has checkered tablecloths on the tables, framed Italian landscapes on the walls, and a neon sign that says “Authentic Pizza.” Packed into one satisfying, garlic-bread-fueled meal, the $14 margherita pizza is a perfectly executed tradition.
From the “That’s Amore” Dean Martin tunes that play as you bite into your first slice, to the “crispy” wings that you’ll devour as the staff hum along to “Volare,” your plate will never be empty—and your appetite never disappointed. There are fancier Italian places in town, but we prefer this one (and it costs a lot less).
Johnny’s Pizza House
$ | (318) 868-4471 | WEBSITE
Do we recommend Johnny’s Pizza House? Yes. And if you give us a moment, we might be able to think of a few more nice things to say about the pleasant Preston location. It’s very clean, for one. And it must’ve taken a lot of time and effort to maintain the fresh salad bar and arrange all the arcade games, making it genuinely kid-friendly. The place commits to the welcoming atmosphere, and it might’ve been perfect if the parking were slightly more abundant.
If you absolutely must visit, stick to just the Sweep The Kitchen pizza.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
$$ | (318) 798-6504 | WEBSITE
Carrabba’s literally means “family” in Italian, but what that actually translates to at this Shreveport restaurant is just a warmer, friendlier, more personal-feeling dining experience—with no compromise on quality. The attentive service, with staff like Hannah and Sam making guests feel welcome, definitely helps fuel the comfortable atmosphere in Carrabba’s cozy dining room. So do standout dishes, like the indulgent short ribs, with rich flavor and perfect tenderness.
The entrees are around $25, and you can add on appetizers a la carte too. If it’s your birthday, you’ll get a special celebration with staff like Michelle, Sam, and Ashley going above and beyond to create memorable moments.
Frank’s Pizza Napoletana
$ | (318) 230-7130 | WEBSITE
364 days of the year, Frank’s Pizza Napoletana is a pretty standard Italian joint in Shreveport. But every Friday night, it transforms into a showcase for a wood-fired pizza oven. Watch the kitchen team stretch dough and slide pies into the flames, then eat as many slices as you possibly can. (We tapped out at 8.) If that much pizza sounds repetitive to you, you must be a sensible person.
But against all odds, Frank’s keeps it interesting with various toppings and combinations—including the show-stopping pot roast pasta with homemade noodles. The Friday Night Special is $28, and includes a glass of red wine and a cannoli. Sure the house red is definitely more medium-bodied, but we’re not really complaining.
Monjunis Italian Cafe & Grocery
$ | (318) 227-0847 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in a Shreveport neighborhood, this Italian cafe and grocery feels like a family gathering, in a space that also happens to serve a standout lasagna for around $18. In one section of the dining room, servers deliver classic dishes like curry chicken salad and muffuletta sandwiches with obvious warmth. Other guests enjoy Italian favorites a la carte, sitting at cozy tables or in spacious booths. But the most charming touch?
Retro tunes that help transition the evening from eating hearty pasta to lingering over many, many after-dinner conversations.
Rotolo’s Craft & Crust
$ | (318) 220-8392 | WEBSITE
We can’t comment on the regular pizza at Rotolo’s Craft & Crust in Shreveport. But here’s what happens at the weekly “family night experience.” Sitting at a sticky table, you watch a series of arcade games that take place, variously, in the corner, near the window, by the restrooms, and the prize counter. There is no discernible cleanliness.
Every few minutes, a child instructs you to pick up a generic, paper-wrapped slice and shovel a new piece of pizza into your mouth, likely something involving the Big Apple specialty. There is no proprietary napkin dispenser. You will leave feeling full, a little sticky, and hopefully aware that there were many more satisfying things you could have done with $25 and an hour of your time.
Ernest’s Orleans Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge
$$$ | (318) 226-1325 | WEBSITE
If you’ve spent any time in Shreveport, you’ve probably heard of Ernest’s, the New York Steakhouse-inspired spot with a pianist playing 70’s and 80’s hits and a reputation for making every guest feel cared for. That kind of place can sometimes feel a bit stuffy. But Ernest’s isn’t like that. It’s still the same concept—top-notch steaks, excellent service, a warm and friendly environment—but it’s slightly more relaxed. The Filet Mignon shouldn’t be overanalyzed.
It should be paired with a baked potato topped with homemade sour cream, followed by the bread pudding, and enjoyed with a cocktail from the lounge. Sit back, listen to the music, and don’t overthink it, and you’ll have a great meal. Things do get lively, especially when the live music starts and the place fills up, but it’s not all entirely special occasions. A small note: the bar area is a little dark, but it doesn’t ruin the vibe. Just be aware there’s a 3.5% credit card fee.