The Best Italian Restaurants in Toronto, Compared: Chef Picks from Pasta Bars to Roman Pizza

Toronto's Italian scene runs from white-tablecloth steak-and-martini rooms to neighbourhood pasta bars and Roman-style pizza counters. A June 2026 roundup from Streets of Toronto asked local chefs and restaurateurs where they eat Italian; here is how their picks compare, with a nod to the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list.

For a special-occasion splurge

Sammarco was recommended by chef Tomer Markovitz of Romi's Bakery for its dry-aged Ontario beef, tableside martinis and house-made pastas. It is the clearest pick if you want a dinner that feels like an event.

For pasta-focused dinners

Enoteca Sociale in the west end is a repeat name: chef Massimo Capra highlights its pasta, appetizers and cheese-aging program, and the Michelin Guide listed it among its Bib Gourmand picks in September 2025. Bar Vendetta in Dundas West earned praise from chef Mona Sleiman for scratch-made pasta and a bitter green salad. Occhiolino, near College and Bathurst, was recommended by Canoe's Roderick Tomiczek for seasonal hand-made pastas and salted olive oil soft-serve. Famiglia Baldassarre serves daily-changing fresh handmade pasta at lunch only, so plan around the clock. Sugo is the comfort-food answer, with meatballs, spaghetti al pesto and daily pasta specials.

For something different

Radici Project in Little Italy blends Italian cooking with Japanese flavours, according to Park Hyatt chef Jonathan Williams. Tavernitis is described as authentic, family-style Italian fare.

For pizza and casual bites

Ciao Roma bakes pizza rossa and potato pizza in rectangular trays, while Sud Forno in King East offers Roman-style pizza slices, pastries, bombaloni and espresso. Mattachioni specializes in naturally leavened pizza; chef Giovanna Alonzi's usual order is the Boccadasse. And Cafe Diplomatico, the long-loved "Dip" at College and Clinton, is recommended for breakfast, accessible pasta and good coffee.

How to choose

Match the place to the occasion. For a celebration, book Sammarco. For a pasta-first dinner with a wine-bar feel, choose Enoteca Sociale, Bar Vendetta or Occhiolino. For a quick, cheaper meal, go with Sud Forno, Ciao Roma or Mattachioni. For lunch-only pasta, Famiglia Baldassarre rewards planning. Menus, hours and reservation policies change, so confirm details with each restaurant before you go.