Let’s be honest—sometimes your search for authentic Italian in Urbana can feel like settling for frozen lasagna. From confusing menus to pasta that’s more mush than al dente, it’s best to leave the hunt to those who’ve done the legwork. We’ve scoured the city, and these trattorias, pizzerias, and family-run gems can make all the difference between a forgetful meal and a true taste of Italy.
Pizzeria Antica
$ | (217) 530-4137 | WEBSITE
Weekends don’t have to be spent waiting in line at the mall, debating what movie to stream, and hoping the Illini don’t disappoint us in that game with Purdue (they might). Instead, spend your time at Pizzeria Antica in Urbana eating perfectly crispy pepperoni pizza and drinking something refreshing from their cocktail menu (try the Aperol Spritz).
Nando Milano
$$$ | (217) 954-1439 | WEBSITE
Nando Milano in Urbana isn’t chasing trends or seasonal gimmicks. Their offering to Champaign is simply that this Italian gem’s kitchen is humming. Head here for the standards we adore: the pillowy gnocchi alla Sorrentina, the delicate ravioli di aragosta e granchio, and a perfectly cooked, vibrant grilled asparagus. The atmosphere is calm and elegantly understated, with friendly, helpful servers who make you feel welcomed.
While the prices are considerable, the food is outstanding—each dish executed with care and the finest ingredients. It’s the kind of place where the owner greets you warmly and checks in, ensuring your special occasion feels just that. For a memorable meal that celebrates authentic Italian flavors without pretense, Nando Milano delivers.
Monical’s Pizza
$ | (217) 367-5781 | WEBSITE
Some people dream of fancy dinners or exotic cuisine, and others just crave a hot, crispy pizza with all their favorite toppings. Monical’s Pizza has you covered with the latter. Grab your family or friends, and don’t forget to add the fresh salad and warm breadsticks on the side.
Filippo’s of Mahomet
$ | (217) 586-4657 | WEBSITE
You want Italian food, you just don’t want to sit through a night at your in-laws—and “That’s Amore” on repeat at the dinner table—to get it. Filippo’s of Mahomet has you covered with perfect pizza, exceptional pasta, garlic bread, and a cozy social atmosphere in the dining room.
Rosati’s Pizza
$ | (217) 552-1202 | WEBSITE
Rosati’s Pizza is a cozy, well-organized spot in Urbana that understands that comfort food is all about indulging in cheesy, saucy goodness. Plus, with their signature deep dish pizza and hearty Italian beef (the best thing here), we’re sure the generous portions can go a long way in convincing your friends that no future game night should be without a Rosati’s delivery.
Mia Za’s
$ | (217) 298-3198 | WEBSITE
You can spend your lunch break waiting in line, searching for parking, and wondering if your food will arrive before your next class. Or you can grab a slice of Hawaiian-style pizza with that sweet tangy sauce and a touch of heat, find a table, and eat. Stop by Mia Za’s in Urbana if the second option sounds good. There’s a recently added baked potato soup and a convenient pickup system, just for the busy college crowd.
Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano
$$ | (217) 356-4300 | WEBSITE
Let’s be honest—sometimes you just need a break from the usual pasta and pizza routine. That’s where Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano comes in. The cajun rigatoni with chicken, shrimp, and Italian sausage is consistently excellent, and the rest of the menu holds up nicely. Spend your evening enjoying the sausage and mushroom pizza, the fall apple and gorgonzola salad, or the chicken milanese sandwich, and remember why Italian food feels like a celebration.
Manzella’s Italian Patio
$ | (217) 352-7624 | WEBSITE
Manzella’s Italian Patio has a classic Italian spread that includes their must-try half hamburger pepperoni and half pineapple Canadian bacon pizza, toasted ravioli with top-notch marinara sauce, and spaghetti, penne, or large salads. The meal finishes with their delicious cannoli featuring a crunchy shell and flavorful filling, and a $45 bill per person.
Vinny’s Pizza By the Slice
$ | (217) 485-9600 | WEBSITE
Priced at $4 a slice, Vinny’s Pizza by the Slice offers a generous New York style pizza with a local twist. You can expect slices like classic beef pepperoni and tomato basil, unique combinations like beef ham and pineapple spinach feta, and perfect crunchy crust.
Pastamania
$ | (217) 600-0845 | WEBSITE
This holiday season, if you swing by Pastamania in Urbana, you can leave with spaghetti with meatballs, garlic bread, and shrimp and seafood alfredo, all ready to savor. The $45 meal feeds two comfortably, and you can add the All American Macaroni lunch special for another $15. Call or visit their mobile setup to place your order and enjoy a warm, flavorful feast on the go.
Timpone’s
$$$ | (217) 344-7619 | WEBSITE
We’re always searching for the perfect dining spot for every situation, whether it’s as straightforward as a first date venue or something more specific—like where to celebrate after a big campus event. Timpone’s near the University of Illinois, with its veggie pizza topped with goat cheese and butternut squash ravioli, fits both occasions beautifully.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
$ | (217) 351-6339 | WEBSITE
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant in Urbana will host a $25 per person Family-Style Dinner with servers like Trinity providing attentive service. You can expect unlimited breadsticks and salads, a selection of pasta dishes, including the 5-Cheese Ziti, Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo, and the Mango Margarita, and more.
Jupiter’s Pizzeria & Billiards
$ | (217) 398-5988 | WEBSITE
After a long week of deadlines, we need a good reason to head to one of the liveliest spots in Urbana. And Jupiter’s Pizzeria & Billiards, right in the heart of campus town, gives us a few. They have some of the best thin-crust pizza in the city, pool tables we’re obsessed with, and nicely poured drinks you can order to unwind with the friends who didn’t get you a decent Christmas gift this year.
Jet’s Pizza
$ | (217) 352-9992 | WEBSITE
If you’re the kind of pizza lover who thinks one slice is never enough, stop by Jet’s Pizza—one of our top-rated spots—for a marathon of deep-dish Detroit style with pepperoni, New York style with fresh mozzarella, and piping hot cheese slices, all served fresh and worth the higher price point at around $25 for a large specialty pie.