In Memphis, one of the city’s longest-running Italian kitchens puts barbecue on pizza. Yes, smoky Memphis barbecue, sitting right on top of melted cheese.
I love that detail because it shows how Italian cooking made itself at home in Tennessee and picked up a Southern accent. One spot here has been feeding the city for more than 80 years. Another brings the know-how of four generations to the table.
That kind of staying power makes me curious. Recipes like these get handed down, tweaked, argued over, and handed down again. Older kitchens stick to red sauce and checkered tablecloths. Newer ones fold in local cornbread and wood-fired ovens.
So which one should you try first? The grandparent-approved classic with candlelight, or the bold newcomer mixing Sicily with the South? I can’t decide either, so let’s look at a dozen places and let your appetite vote.
1. Coletta’s Italian Restaurant, Memphis, TN
Barbecue on a pizza sounds like a dare, but this South Parkway kitchen treats it like family business. The BBQ Pizza is the star here, and it’s a mashup only Memphis could pull off.
Coletta’s is family owned, with roots that reach back to the early 1920s. That’s a century of keeping recipes safe, which is more than most of us can say about our car keys.
Inside, red-checked tablecloths and candlelight set an old-fashioned mood. It’s relaxed and unhurried, the kind of room that suits a quick lunch or a long family dinner.
Not sold on barbecue toppings? Try the sausage, pepperoni, and mushroom pie or the Round the World Pizza instead.
A full vegetarian menu and a kids’ menu give picky eaters options, and you can reserve a table ahead. Catering is available too, in case your next family reunion needs some Memphis-style Italian flair.
Finding it is easy, since it sits near the East Parkway exit off I-240. The doors open daily, though Sunday service starts at 1 PM, so plan your after-church pizza craving accordingly.
Address: 1063 S Pkwy E, Memphis, TN 38106
2. Ronnie Grisanti’s, Memphis, TN
Four generations of Italian cooking know-how land on the plates at Ronnie Grisanti’s. That’s a family tree with serious sauce credentials.
The focus is Northern Italian, served in a quiet, dimly lit dining room with an upscale feel. Think date night, anniversary dinner, or any evening when sweatpants just won’t do.
Start with Calamari Fritti or Toasted Ravioli, crunchy little pillows that are hard to stop eating. Burrata and Italian Spinach make lighter openers if you’re saving room.
For the main event, the Lasagna and Manicotti stick close to tradition. Seafood fans should look for the Tuna Puttanesca, a bold dish built around chef-prepared fish.
Pasta and pizza share the menu, and many dishes are handmade fresh. The menu includes vegetarian choices, though diners should check the current offerings before visiting.
Timing matters here, since the restaurant closes on Sundays and currently operates from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Dinner reservations are recommended, so book before your stomach starts making demands.
Dessert and coffee round things out nicely, and live music sometimes adds to the mood. It’s a polished Tennessee night out with deep family roots.
Address: 6150 Poplar Ave #122, Memphis, TN 38119
3. Pete and Sam’s, Memphis, TN
Plenty of families pass down china sets, but Memphis families seem to pass down a table at Pete and Sam’s. Couples who dated here now bring their kids, grandkids, and even great-grandkids.
This family-run Park Avenue spot keeps its old-school decor proudly intact. Portions are generous, so arriving hungry is more of a strategy than a suggestion.
The menu has quirky favorites like Stuffed Celery and a Baby Pizza for anyone who wants a smaller pie. Spinach artichoke dip also makes a great start for the table.
Beyond pasta, you’ll find Fried Chicken and Broiled Chicken, which shows how Italian cooking blends with Southern comfort here. Save room for the cannoli, because skipping it feels wrong.
Dinner starts at 4 PM daily, and weekends get busy, so expect a wait at peak times. Reservations are accepted, which beats pacing the parking lot with a growling stomach.
Kids get their own menu, and high chairs are on hand. A private dining room also makes this a natural pick for birthdays and family milestones.
Service tends to be quick and friendly. In a city full of Tennessee tradition, few dinners feel this much like home.
Address: 3886 Park Ave, Memphis, TN 38111
4. Dino’s Grill, Memphis, TN
The Grisanti family entered the Memphis restaurant business in 1945, while Dino’s Grill has operated at its current location since the early 1970s. The setting is unfussy and old-fashioned, which is exactly the point.
Homestyle Italian is the backbone here, with spaghetti and meatballs leading the charge. It’s the kind of plate that tastes like Sunday supper, even on a Tuesday.
Eggplant lovers, pay attention. The eggplant parmesan comes crispy, paired with rich sauce and garlicky spinach, and it’s a strong contender for best in town.
Diner classics share the spotlight too. Burgers, homemade fries, and toasted ravioli make this a great lunch stop when you can’t decide between Italian and American.
Want something less expected? Look for the vegetarian Eggplant Polenta Torta, or grab the Muffaletta for a hearty sandwich fix.
Finish with tiramisu if you’ve saved any room. Coffee is on hand too, perfect for lingering a few extra minutes over the last bites.
Plan around the schedule, since Dino’s closes on Mondays and shuts down at 8 PM the rest of the week. Free parking and a kids’ menu make it easy for families to swing by.
Address: 645 N McLean Blvd, Memphis, TN 38107
5. Catherine & Mary’s, Memphis, TN
Tuscany and Sicily meet in downtown Memphis, and somehow cornbread got invited to the party. Catherine & Mary’s serves chef-driven Italian food with a Southern farm-to-table streak.
The industrial-chic dining room sits right on South Main Street. It feels stylish and romantic, perfect for a night when you want to impress someone, including yourself.
Handmade pastas anchor the menu, with responsibly sourced ingredients guiding the kitchen. The Mezze Rigatoni is a vegetarian standout, and the locally sourced cornbread is a fun Tennessee twist.
Seafood shows up in style, with options like Halibut and Scallops. Steak fans aren’t left out, either.
Desserts stick to the classics, with cannoli and tiramisu both on the lineup. A Caesar salad with shredded cheese makes an easy starter if you want something crisp first.
Dinner runs nightly from 4:30 PM, and reservations are strongly recommended. Street parking downtown can be tricky, so give yourself extra time.
Vegan and vegetarian diners should check the current menu or contact the restaurant about available options. That’s a big win for mixed groups who don’t want to argue over where to eat.
Address: 272 S Main St Ste 105-a, Memphis, TN 38103
6. Ciao Bella Italian Grill, Memphis, TN
Greek specialties next to lasagna? Ciao Bella Italian Grill makes the combination feel completely natural.
Pasta and pizza cover the Italian side, while dishes like Chicken Santorini nod to Greece. It’s a tasty Mediterranean road trip without leaving Memphis.
One creative standout is the Beef Brisket Gnocchi, a hearty mix of comfort and craft. Chicken Marsala and Chicken Alfredo keep the traditionalists happy.
Don’t skip the spinach and artichoke dip, a much-loved starter. Caprese and Manicotti Con Spinaci are good picks for vegetarians.
The setting leans quiet and elegant, with room for a private conversation. A private dining room is available for bigger gatherings, too.
Lunch runs on weekdays, while brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner follows brunch on Saturdays, so plan your weekend visit accordingly.
Outdoor seating is available, and dogs are allowed outside. That means your four-legged friend can enjoy the fresh air while you enjoy the tiramisu.
Service is attentive, with a generous dose of Southern hospitality. It’s a friendly East Memphis option that works for date nights and business lunches alike.
Address: 5101 Sanderlin Ave #100, Memphis, TN 38117
7. Andrew Michael, Memphis, TN
Fine Italian dining inside a house with a garden sounds like a storybook setup, and Andrew Michael delivers it in East Memphis. The kitchen highlights local ingredients and global ideas.
Homemade fresh mozzarella shows up here, which is always a good sign. Potato gnocchi in gorgonzola sauce is another dish that shows off the kitchen’s skill.
The menu blends Italian tradition with Southern touches. Cornbread and polenta both appear, proving the South and Italy share a love for cornmeal.
Rigatoni and risotto round out the pasta and grain side. Expect inventive takes rather than a carbon copy of grandma’s recipe box.
This is a special-occasion splurge, with an upscale, romantic feel and a beautiful bar. It’s ideal for anniversaries, proposals, or celebrating that you finally finished your taxes.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during busy dinner periods. Dinner runs Monday through Saturday starting at 4:30 PM, and the restaurant closes on Sundays.
Parking can be tight, but valet service helps. Outdoor seating is available when the Tennessee weather cooperates.
Desserts and coffee make a strong finish. Save room, because a meal like this deserves a proper ending.
Address: 712 W Brookhaven Cir, Memphis, TN 38117
8. Bari Ristorante e Enoteca, Memphis, TN
Cheese lovers, your Midtown dream table exists. Bari Ristorante e Enoteca pairs modern Italian cuisine with a serious variety of cheeses.
The name points to Bari, a port city in southern Italy’s Puglia region. It’s a fitting name for a restaurant this devoted to Italian flavors.
Small plates make it easy to share and sample. Order a few for the table and turn dinner into a tasting adventure.
Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a menu highlight. This Roman classic is simple on paper, so a kitchen really has to nail it.
The menu includes several meat-free dishes, although it does not advertise a separate full vegetarian menu. The atmosphere is quiet, intimate, and romantic, making Bari a top pick for date night.
Hours are dinner only, Monday through Saturday from 5 to 9 PM. Reservations are required, so book ahead instead of hoping for luck.
Outdoor seating is an option, and on-site parking makes arrival easy. That’s a welcome perk in such a popular part of town.
Finish with dessert and coffee. A cheese course could also work as dessert if you’re that kind of person, and honestly, respect.
Address: 524 S Cooper St, Memphis, TN 38104
9. Amerigo Italian Restaurant, Memphis, TN
A brick pizza oven anchors the kitchen at Amerigo Italian Restaurant. The rest of the place feels fancy but relaxed, like a dinner party where nobody checks your shoes.
The menu covers classic Italian dishes with a few creative turns. Lasagna and wild mushroom ravioli lean traditional, while smoked chicken ravioli adds a smoky Memphis wink.
Seafood fans have plenty to choose from. Shrimp Scampi, Seafood Pasta, Shrimp Bisque, and cedar plank salmon make an appearance.
Start with Cheese Fritters, because fried cheese is always a wise decision. Chicken Acuto and Fettuccine Imperial are also menu highlights worth a look.
Families get a kids’ menu, high chairs, and changing tables. That makes it easier to bring the whole crew without packing half your house.
Doors open at 11 AM daily, so lunch and dinner are both covered. Brunch is also offered, and reservations are recommended.
Groups can book the private dining room. Happy hour food is another bonus for an early evening bite.
Tiramisu makes a classic finish. Pair it with coffee and you’ve got a sweet ending to a Tennessee pasta night.
Address: 1239 Ridgeway Rd, Memphis, TN 38119
10. Cocozza American Italian – East, Memphis, TN
American-Italian is right there in the name, and Cocozza American Italian – East owns it proudly. Think classic lasagna, signature pastas, and steaks in a casual setting.
Lasagna is the headline act here. It’s the dish to order when you want comfort on a plate and maybe leftovers for tomorrow.
Portions are generous but reasonable, which is a tricky balance to strike. You’ll leave full without needing to be rolled to the car.
Vegetarian choices are available, while vegan diners should contact the restaurant about suitable options. Your friend who just went plant-based won’t be stuck with a side salad.
Families will appreciate the kids’ menu, high chairs, and changing tables. The crowd is welcoming and inclusive, and the restaurant is known as a safe space for transgender guests.
Dinner runs daily from 4 to 9 PM. Happy hour food adds a nice early option.
Outdoor seating is available, and dogs are welcome outside. Free on-site parking makes the trip easy, too.
Curbside pickup and delivery are on offer for nights at home. Catering can bring the pasta to your next party as well.
Address: 919 S Yates Rd, Memphis, TN 38120
11. Hog & Hominy, Memphis, TN
Southern ingredients and Italian technique share a name tag at Hog & Hominy. The result is a lively spot with a quirky streak and a nationally recognized chef.
Wood-fired Neapolitan pizza is a big draw and a strong contender for the city’s best. The Quattro Formaggi brings four cheeses, and the Margherita can get a pepperoni upgrade.
A vegan pizza is also available. The rest of the menu leans bold, with Crab Claws, Sweetbreads, and gnocchi.
Comfort food gets playful, too. Poutine Fries and a Wedge Salad prove this kitchen enjoys a little mischief.
Save room for the Peanut Butter Pie. It’s a Southern dessert that feels right at home here.
Weekend brunch starts at 10:30 AM, and weekday lunch runs Tuesday through Friday. Dinner is served nightly, with hours stretching to 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Expect a wait at busy times, so reservations are a smart move. Valet parking helps when the lot fills up.
The restaurant sits across Brookhaven Circle from Andrew Michael. That makes this little block a serious Italian destination in Tennessee.
Address: 707 W Brookhaven Cir, Memphis, TN 38117
12. Tamboli’s Pasta & Pizza, Memphis, TN
Plants, a lively room, and wood-fired pizza? Tamboli’s Pasta & Pizza on Madison Avenue checks a lot of boxes.
Signature meatballs are a calling card here. House-made pasta and Neapolitan pizzas round out the menu.
Pasta lovers can pick from Spicy Vodka Campanelle, Lemon Pepper Fettuccine, or Bucatini & Marinara. Portions are hearty enough to make you rethink sharing.
The Cacio E Pepe Pizza turns a Roman pasta classic into a pie, which is a clever move. Pepperoni Pizza is there for the traditionalists.
Start with Arancini, those fried rice balls from Sicily. Then sip an Italian Soda, a bubbly treat for any age.
Pistachio gelato is a sweet way to finish. Vegan and vegetarian options are available, but diners should check the current menu for specific choices.
Dinner runs Tuesday through Sunday from 4 to 10 PM, and Mondays are closed. Weekends get busiest, so plan ahead and reserve a table.
Dogs are allowed, and outdoor seating is available. Kids get their own menu, so the whole family, furry members included, can come along.
Midtown diners have a friendly, inclusive hangout here. It’s a fresh chapter in the city’s long Italian story.
Address: 1761 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
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