Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale Italian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale Italian Food

• Aldo's — Italian · rated 5/5: Aldo’s captures the essence of a spirited Mediterranean bistro, where the table becomes a vibrant canvas of shared plates and artisanal antipasti. The air is rich with the aroma of golden-fried calamari and earthy mushrooms over creamy polenta, while delicate ribbons of carpaccio and sun-ripened caprese bring a fresh, colorful elegance to the dining experience. It is a warm, inviting sanctuary where every bite celebrates the beauty of tradition and the simple pleasure of a meal shared among friends.
• Maurizio's — Italian · rated 5/5: Maurizio’s invites guests into a warm, candlelit haven where the rhythmic toss of hand-stretched dough and the rich aroma of garlic-infused olive oil set the stage for an authentic Italian escape. Each plate celebrates the soul of the Mediterranean, pairing robust, slow-simmered sauces with delicate house-made pastas to create a dining experience that feels both intimately personal and grandly celebratory.
• The Pasta Market — Italian · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood haunt invites guests into a world of golden-brown comforts, where the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and warm, fresh-baked dough sets the stage for a convivial meal. Tables are anchored by baskets of their signature pillowy breadsticks paired with rich cheese spread, while a parade of crispy, herb-dusted favorites—from molten fried ravioli to tender calamari—brings a satisfying crunch to every shared plate. It is a sanctuary of classic, savory flavors that celebrates the simple joy of indulgence, perfectly balanced by the refreshing snap of chilled, vibrant salads.
• Oak & Rye — Italian · rated 4/5: Oak & Rye invites guests into a glowingly rustic sanctuary where the comforting aroma of toasted grain and wood-fired vegetables sets the stage for an evening of shared discovery. Silky chicken liver mousse and warm, salt-dusted pretzels transition seamlessly into vibrant plates of charred broccoli rabe and earthy roasted beets, each dish celebrating the raw beauty of seasonal ingredients through bold, textured flavors.
• Mama Mia's — Italian · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood gem welcomes guests with the comforting aroma of bubbling mozzarella and slow-simmered marinara, creating an atmosphere that feels like a warm embrace from a long-lost relative. Hand-stretched dough and rich, herb-infused sauces take center stage, offering a soulful journey through traditional flavors that turn every dinner into a lively, candlelit celebration of heritage.
• Bibo's Pizza & Pasta — Italian · rated 4/5: Bibo’s Pizza & Pasta captures the nostalgic charm of a classic neighborhood pizzeria, where the comforting aroma of bubbling mozzarella and toasted dough greets you at the door. Each oversized, golden-brown slice offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory flavor, creating a vibrant space where the simple pleasure of a perfectly crafted pizza takes center stage.
• Giorgio's Italian Grill & Pizzeria — Italian · rated 3/5: The air at Giorgio’s is thick with the irresistible scent of charred meats and bubbling mozzarella, drawing guests into a warm, inviting space where the sizzle of the grill meets the rustic charm of a neighborhood pizzeria. Golden, blistered crusts emerge from the oven to share the table with succulent, flame-kissed cuts of meat, each plate celebrating the robust, sun-drenched flavors of Italy. It is a place where the clink of wine glasses and the lively hum of the kitchen create an atmosphere perfect for lingering over soulful, comforting meals.
• Golden Bay Pizza — Italian: Golden Bay Pizza captures the essence of coastal creativity, where the aroma of hand-stretched dough and bubbling artisanal cheeses drifts through a bright, welcoming space. The kitchen artfully balances tradition and bold experimentation, layering everything from earthy Tuscan mushrooms to aromatic butter paneer atop perfectly charred crusts. Whether you are craving a classic Margherita or a vibrant, plant-based Berkeley vegan specialty, each slice offers a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and inventive spirit.
• Coffeebar Sunnyvale — American: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant hub, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the deep, nutty aroma of freshly ground beans create an inviting sanctuary for caffeine aficionados. From the bright, citrusy notes of the Zephyr espresso to the bold, chocolatey depths of the Giuseppe Italian roast, every cup is a masterclass in roasting that celebrates the journey from bean to brew. The space hums with a modern energy that turns a simple coffee break into a refined daily ritual, whether you’re lingering over a velvety cold brew or savoring a meticulously crafted pour-over.
• Tony Di Maggios Pizza — Italian: Step into a slice of neighborhood history where the comforting scent of bubbling mozzarella and slow-simmered tomato sauce drifts from a roaring oven. This lively pizzeria invites guests to settle into a warm, unpretentious space to enjoy hand-tossed pies with perfectly charred crusts and generous toppings that celebrate the heart of soulful Italian-American comfort.
• A Bellagio — Italian: Stepping into this refined sanctuary feels like a journey to the shores of Lake Como, where crisp white linens and soft candlelight set the stage for an evening of timeless Italian elegance. The air is rich with the scent of slow-simmered ragùs and toasted garlic, as plates of silken handmade pasta and tender braised meats arrive at tables tucked away in the intimate, sun-drenched courtyard. Every pour of velvety Chianti and every bite of delicate tiramisu invites guests to linger over the simple, sophisticated joys of a traditional Mediterranean feast.
• King Kong NY Pizza — Italian: This high-energy pizzeria captures the bustling spirit of a Manhattan corner, where the air is thick with the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and bubbling mozzarella. Towering, wide-rimmed pies boast a signature thin crust that achieves the perfect balance of a crispy snap and a chewy fold, topped with a bright, tangy sauce and generous layers of savory toppings. It is a place where the oversized flavors of the Big Apple come to life, offering a satisfying, soul-warming experience for those who crave an authentic New York slice.
• Tomato Thyme — Italian: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant bistro, where the air is thick with the fragrance of crushed herbs and slow-simmered sauces. The kitchen celebrates the bounty of the garden, transforming peak-season produce into bright, soul-warming dishes that dance with the earthy zest of fresh thyme and the concentrated sweetness of vine-ripened tomatoes.
• Lira — Italian: Lira unfolds as a chic, light-filled sanctuary where the sizzle of the open flame and the aroma of toasted spices create an atmosphere of effortless sophistication. Guests linger over beautifully plated dishes that balance bold textures with refined, seasonal flavors, all while the rhythmic pulse of the dining room turns a simple meal into a vibrant sensory journey.
• Parktown Pizza Company — Italian: Parktown Pizza Company reimagines the casual taproom experience by infusing classic comfort foods with the bold, aromatic spices of the Indian subcontinent. The air hums with the scent of toasted cumin and sizzling tandoori meats, as golden samosas and fries smothered in rich butter chicken sauce offer a vibrant, cross-cultural feast for the senses. It is a lively neighborhood hub where traditional flavors meet modern cravings, inviting guests to gather over creative small plates that bridge the gap between familiar favorites and exotic zest.
• Craving Pizza — Italian: Step into a lively sanctuary where the irresistible scent of bubbling mozzarella and charred dough fills the air, instantly satisfying the deepest of appetites. Artisanal pies emerge from the heat with perfectly blistered crusts and vibrant toppings, creating a warm, communal atmosphere where every slice celebrates the timeless craft of the perfect pizza.
• Pizza Antica — Italian: Pizza Antica elevates the art of the artisanal pie, where the rustic charm of a traditional pizzeria meets a sophisticated palette of seasonal, farm-forward ingredients. The air carries the earthy perfume of white truffle oil drizzled over golden heirloom potatoes and the bright, zesty aroma of preserved lemon paired with tender asparagus. Each creation offers a masterclass in balanced flavors, from the peppery bite of fresh arugula and sweet pear to the sun-kissed sweetness of summer corn atop a perfectly blistered crust.
• Tandoori Pizza — Indian: The air hums with the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin and ginger, drawing guests into a vibrant space where the bold spices of the East meet the comforting warmth of a classic pizzeria. Golden, bubbling crusts serve as a canvas for rich shahi paneer and succulent tandoori chicken, creating a harmonious fusion where every slice delivers a symphony of heat, creaminess, and aromatic flair.
• Halal Fried Chicken — American: The scent of bubbling cheese and golden-fried spices fills this lively neighborhood hub, where the comforting crunch of halal chicken meets a creative array of hand-stretched pizzas. Diners can dive into everything from classic pepperoni slices to the unexpected sweetness of apricot chicken, each dish crafted to offer a satisfying fusion of bold flavors and casual warmth. It is a vibrant destination where the joy of a shared meal is celebrated through a menu that balances traditional comfort food with bright, seasonal inspirations.
• Gumba's Italian Foods Pizzaria — Italian: Step into a lively neighborhood hub where the irresistible aroma of bubbling mozzarella and toasted dough fills the air, inviting guests into a space that feels like a warm embrace from an old friend. Golden, hand-tossed pizzas emerge from the oven with perfectly charred crusts, sharing the table with generous plates of pasta draped in rich, slow-simmered sauces that honor timeless Italian traditions. The experience captures the soulful essence of a classic pizzeria where every bite is a celebration of simple, honest flavors and genuine hospitality.
• Square Pie Guys — Italian: Golden, caramelized cheese crusts provide a satisfying crunch at this lively haunt, where the art of the Detroit-style square is elevated through bold and imaginative toppings. Each pillowy slice balances a light, airy interior with vibrant flavors ranging from zesty lemon pepper to earthy mushroom medleys, creating a soulful dining experience that reimagines the classic pizza night.
• Original Joe's — Italian: This timeless culinary landmark hums with a nostalgic energy, where the aroma of char-broiled steaks and simmering pasta sauces drifts past plush booths and polished wood accents. Guests find comfort in a menu that balances the smoky indulgence of a perfectly seared burger with the delicate brightness of fresh seafood, all complemented by expertly shaken cocktails that evoke a bygone era of effortless sophistication.
• Giovanni's Pizza — Italian: Stepping into this lively neighborhood hub, guests are greeted by the comforting aroma of hand-tossed dough baking to a golden crisp amidst a flurry of flour and molten cheese. Generously topped pizzas range from zesty, spice-flecked creations to classic meat-heavy favorites, while tangled ribbons of fettuccini and savory meatballs offer a soulful, steam-rising taste of traditional comfort.
• Pizza My Heart — Italian: This vibrant coastal haunt pulses with a laid-back surf vibe, where the scent of hand-tossed dough and bubbling cheese fills an atmosphere steeped in California beach culture. Each slice serves as a flavorful tribute to the shoreline, featuring inventive combinations like the hearty Big Sur or the crisp sweetness of Watsonville apples atop perfectly charred crusts. It is a quintessential West Coast experience that offers a sun-drenched escape with every bite.
• Chiaramonte's Market — Italian: Stepping into this historic corner market feels like a journey back in time, where the nostalgic aroma of house-made Italian sausage and aged provolone fills a sun-drenched space that has anchored the neighborhood for over a century. Behind the vintage deli counter, skilled hands craft towering sandwiches layered with premium meats and secret family recipes, while shelves brimming with imported oils and artisanal pastas invite a leisurely browse through authentic Old World flavors.
• iSlice — Italian: This vibrant urban haunt pulses with energy, where the rhythmic sound of the pizza wheel meets the irresistible aroma of wood-fired dough and savory herbs. Guests grab a seat at sleek, modern counters to enjoy artisanal slices that balance a perfectly blistered crust with a creative array of gourmet toppings, making it a stylish destination for a quick, flavor-packed escape.
• La Pizzeria — Italian: La Pizzeria invites guests into a sun-drenched corner of Italy where the air is thick with the scent of toasted garlic and warm, herb-dusted focaccia. Tables overflow with vibrant platters of creamy burrata, crisp zucchini flowers, and golden arancini that pull apart to reveal molten mozzarella. From the delicate saltiness of prosciutto-wrapped prawns to the communal joy of a shared fritto misto, every bite celebrates the simple, soulful elegance of Mediterranean tradition.
• Mountain Mike's — Italian: Step into a lively, lodge-inspired atmosphere where the scent of bubbling cheese and signature curly pepperoni fills the air, promising a feast of mountain-sized proportions. Each hand-stretched crust serves as a rugged canvas for towering layers of fresh ingredients, from the garden-fresh peaks of Mt. Veggiemore to the hearty, meat-stacked heights of The Everest. It is a quintessential neighborhood gathering spot where generous portions and a warm, welcoming spirit turn a casual meal into a shared adventure.
• Premier Pizza — Italian: Premier Pizza transforms the neighborhood slice shop into a polished culinary destination where the warm glow of the ovens and the rhythmic toss of fresh dough create a captivating kitchen theater. Each pie emerges with a perfectly blistered, golden crust that shatters satisfyingly with every bite, harmonizing rich, savory sauces with premium toppings to deliver a sophisticated yet soulful dining experience.
• Willow Street Pizza — Italian: The air at Willow Street Pizza is thick with the scent of bubbling cheese and toasted flour, drawing neighbors into a space that glows with golden light and easy conversation. Each hand-tossed pie arrives with a signature charred crust and vibrant toppings, offering a soulful dining experience that celebrates the simple joy of a well-crafted slice shared among friends.