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Best Italian Restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Best Italian Restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Home › Where to Eat › Best Italian Restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be famous for its fairy-tale cottages and dramatic coastline, but the village's Italian restaurant scene is equally enchanting. Here, Italian dining goes beyond red-checkered tablecloths and spaghetti and meatballs. You'll find everything from old-school trattorias serving grandmother-approved recipes to modern spots putting creative spins on regional classics, all within a few charming blocks of each other. The intimate size of these restaurants, many tucked into converted cottages, creates the kind of warm, convivial atmosphere that makes you feel like a regular even on your first visit.

This guide rounds up the 10 highest-rated Italian restaurants in Carmel-by-the-Sea, each boasting at least 4.5 stars and hundreds of genuine reviews from fellow diners. Whether you're craving handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, or that perfect osso buco, you'll find detailed insights on what makes each spot special, from their signature dishes to the ambiance you can expect. These aren't just good restaurants that happen to serve Italian food; they're beloved local institutions and good spots that understand what makes Italian cuisine so universally comforting and crave-worthy.

Featured Restaurants

Mama Carolla's
$$

Mama Carolla's

★★★★☆
4.7
(2,613 reviews)

This beloved Indianapolis neighborhood spot has earned its stellar reputation with over 2,600 glowing reviews, drawing both locals and visitors for its welcoming atmosphere and consistently satisfying food. The diverse menu means there's plenty of options in your group, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving comfort classics or want to try something new. With its mid-range pricing and impressive track record, it's worth arriving early during peak dinner hours to snag a table at this popular gem on East 54th Street.

1031 E 54th St, Indianapolis, IN 46220, USA
Savor Restaurant
$$

Savor Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.6
(1,218 reviews)

Savor Restaurant lives up to its name with a diverse menu that keeps Carmel locals and visitors coming back, as evidenced by over 1,200 glowing reviews. The mid-range pricing and impressive 4.6-star rating suggest consistently excellent food and service across their varied cuisine offerings, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving comfort food or something more adventurous. Given its popularity and downtown Carmel location, consider making a reservation ahead of time, especially for weekend dinners.

211 W Main St Suite 102, Carmel, IN 46032, USA
The Italian House
$$

The Italian House

★★★★☆
4.7
(1,054 reviews)

The Italian House has earned its stellar 4.7-star rating from over a thousand diners who praise its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that goes beyond traditional Italian fare. This Westfield favorite consistently delivers quality dishes at reasonable prices, making it a reliable choice whether you're celebrating a special occasion or seeking a satisfying weeknight meal. Arrive early on weekends to snag a table without a wait, as this popular spot fills up quickly with both locals and visitors.

219 Park St, Westfield, IN 46074, USA
Capri Italian Restaurant
$$$

Capri Italian Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.5
(1,038 reviews)

Capri Italian Restaurant has earned its stellar reputation among Indianapolis diners, with over a thousand glowing reviews praising its welcoming atmosphere and consistently delicious Italian fare. Travelers appreciate the upscale-casual vibe that makes it perfect for both special occasions and relaxed dinners, while the extensive menu offers something for every palate. Given its popularity in the North Indianapolis area, consider making a reservation ahead of time, especially for weekend evenings when locals pack the dining room.

2602 Ruth Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46240, USA
Convivio Italian Artisan Cuisine
$$$

Convivio Italian Artisan Cuisine

★★★★☆
4.5
(938 reviews)

Convivio Italian Artisan Cuisine brings authentic Italian craftsmanship to Carmel's dining scene, where nearly a thousand diners have awarded it an impressive 4.5-star rating for its dedication to quality and artisanal approach. Travelers consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere and carefully prepared dishes that showcase traditional Italian techniques. Given its popularity and upscale pricing, reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings when this local favorite fills up quickly.

11529 Spring Mill Rd, Carmel, IN 46032, USA
Sauce on the Side
$$

Sauce on the Side

★★★★☆
4.6
(749 reviews)

Sauce on the Side has earned its impressive 4.6-star rating from over 700 diners who rave about its welcoming atmosphere and consistently satisfying fare. This Carmel favorite offers plenty of options with its diverse menu options, making it an ideal spot whether you're dining solo or with a group with different tastes. Given its popularity and solid reputation, consider visiting during off-peak hours to snag a table without the wait.

12751 N Pennsylvania St Suite 130, Carmel, IN 46032, USA
Carmel's Bistro Giovanni
$$

Carmel's Bistro Giovanni

★★★★☆
4.5
(743 reviews)

located in the heart of charming Carmel-By-The-Sea, Bistro Giovanni has earned its stellar reputation with over 700 glowing reviews, drawing both locals and visitors to its welcoming Italian atmosphere. Travelers consistently praise this moderately priced gem for delivering authentic flavors and warm hospitality that make it perfect for everything from a casual dinner to a special evening out. Given its popularity in this small coastal town, consider making a reservation ahead of time, especially for weekend dining when Carmel fills with visitors exploring the galleries and beaches.

San Carlos, between 5th &, 6th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, USA

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