The 20 Best Italian Restaurants in Riverside, California

Housed in a historic former citrus warehouse, The Old Spaghetti Factory offers a nostalgic setting for Italian-American comfort food. Guests appreciate hearty pasta dishes served as complete meals with salad, warm bread, and spumoni ice cream for dessert. The atmosphere is lively yet comfortable, and service is generally attentive and consistent over time.

D'Caesaro Pizza & Italian serves hearty pizzas and classic Italian favorites in a modest, no-frills setting. Guests highlight the well-baked crusts, generous cheese, and substantial portions, from antipasto salads to lasagna and chicken parmesan. Service is straightforward and efficient, with orders placed at a counter and brought to the table, and both dine-in and carry-out options available.

Cardelli's Italian Deli specializes in hearty, made-to-order sandwiches layered with Boar's Head meats and cheeses on fresh bread. The menu offers a broad selection of Italian-style combinations, along with sides and occasional sweet touches like ice cream or dessert. Guests highlight the consistently fresh ingredients, generous portions, and attentive, accommodating service in this casual neighborhood spot.

First Class Pizza serves classic pizzas and hearty sandwiches in a clean, casual setting. Guests highlight the fresh crust, balanced tomato sauce, and generous cheese, with options like beef pepperoni and meatball sandwiches standing out. Friendly staff and the option to dine in with self-serve drinks add to the laid-back, comfortable experience.

MOD Pizza specializes in thin-crust, build-your-own pizzas made with fresh ingredients and prepared quickly. Guests can choose from a variety of toppings and enjoy a light, airy dining room with both indoor and outdoor seating. The atmosphere is upbeat and welcoming, with staff offering attentive, friendly service. Draft beer, other beverages, and a popular marionberry lemonade round out the experience.

Capone's Pizza Arlington Avenue specializes in hearty pizzas with ample toppings, including creative specialty combinations and customizable options. Diners also find calzones, pasta dishes, salads, sandwiches, and wings. Pizzas are noted for their flavorful crust and sauces, and delivery typically arrives hot and fresh, making it a convenient choice for groups and gatherings.

Bella Trattoria Italian Bistro serves classic Italian favorites such as pizza and pasta in a cozy, charming setting. Elegant wall murals and both indoor and patio seating create an appealing atmosphere, with festive touches like live carolers on special occasions. Service is generally courteous, contributing to a relaxed, enjoyable dining experience.

Blaze Pizza specializes in individual, thin-crust pies built to order with a wide range of sauces, cheeses, and toppings. Pizzas are assembled in front of guests and baked in high-heat ovens for a quick turnaround. Diners highlight the crisp crust, flavorful sauce, and creamy cheese, along with attentive, helpful staff.

California Pizza Kitchen offers inventive, nontraditional pizzas, including signature toppings like barbecue chicken and global-inspired flavors. Pies are described as fresh and vibrant, with gluten-free choices and additional menu options beyond pizza. The modern interior, friendly service, and ability to accommodate larger groups and families create an easygoing dining experience.

Enzo's Pizza serves generous portions of Italian-American favorites, from classic pepperoni pies to pasta dishes like lasagna and tortellini Alfredo. Guests highlight the flavorful pizza, satisfying breadsticks, and rich sauces, often noting there is plenty to share or take home. The setting suits small groups and takeout, making it a popular choice for casual meals and relaxed outings.

Romano's Chicago Pizzeria offers classic Chicago-style pies alongside Italian-American sandwiches and salads in a laid-back, casual setting. Guests highlight the hearty deep-dish pizzas, customizable sandwiches, and a signature creamy Italian dressing. A separate bar area with multiple TVs creates an easygoing spot to enjoy drinks and watch the game, complemented by experienced, welcoming service.

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant offers familiar Italian-American comfort dishes such as soup and salad, pasta, and warm breadsticks. Guests highlight hearty options like Zuppa Toscana and classic spaghetti with marinara. The atmosphere is family-friendly, with staff attentive to both adults and children. Service is described as prompt and organized, even during busy periods.