Reader-approved Italian restaurants in Wisconsin

Harry's Prohibition Bistro (Courtesy Beth OReilly)

By Ellie Bourdo

February 4, 2026

From hand-made pasta to authentic Neapolitan pizza, Italian cuisine is no stranger to Wisconsin.

Across the state, Italian restaurants offer more than just the classics. They highlight locally-sourced ingredients from farmers, seasonal menus and unique atmospheres to accompany your meal.

Our readers shared the Italian restaurants that they believe give you a taste of Italy without leaving home:

Carmelo’s, Wausau

A family-owned restaurant established in 1986, the Oliva family has come together to create a welcoming atmosphere and a classic fine dining experience.

“Fabulous food and extremely consistent for the past 50 plus years. The family run business has been going for 3 generations of the Oliva family.” — Lee S.

Luigi’s Italian Restaurant, Manitowoc

Enjoy classic Italian flavors in-house or at home with this family-owned restaurant, where they serve authentic Italian dishes from pasta and appetizers to signature pizzas.

“You can inhale the enticing aroma as soon as you open the car door. Spacious bar to wait at while waiting for a meal. Everything on the menu-Magnifico! Wonderful memories of big gatherings there.” — Ann U.

Mona Lisa’s, Eau Claire

This Italian-Mediterranean restaurant offers a seasonally changing menu of fresh pasta, fish, meats, vegetables, and more, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

“It is a Mediterranean Italian restaurant with fresh home made ingredients. It has a quirky atmosphere and is located in an older part of the city. Diners get a “completely comfortable” experience there.” — Arlan B.

Lombardino’s, Madison

With locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant offers an Italian menu that changes regularly with the seasons, accompanied by a thoughtfully curated selection of wines.

“Old school, comfy space meets locally sourced and updated Italian food.” — Susan H.

Harry’s Prohibition Bistro, Sheboygan

This restaurant takes you back in time, bringing the 1920s style to life with vintage-inspired lighting and decor. They’re best known for their authentic wood‑fired Neapolitan pizza, earning one of Wisconsin’s few VPN certifications by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana.

“The food is fantastic across the board — perfectly cooked pizza, great flavors, and the kind of quality that makes you want to come back just to try something new. The drinks are just as impressive: creative, well-made, and seriously amazing.” — Selmamae J.

This roundup first appeared in our newsletter’s Locals Love section, where we spotlight reader favorites each week. Subscribe today to catch upcoming features and share your own favorite local spots!

Author

Ellie Bourdo

Ellie Bourdo is UpNorthNews’ newsletter editor. A Wisconsin native, she was born and raised in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in journalism and Spanish. In her free time, Ellie enjoys spending time with family and friends on the lake or at the ski hill. Have a story tip? Reach Ellie at [email protected]. For local reporting in Wisconsin that connects the dots, from policy to people, sign up for UpNorthNews’ "news of the day” email newsletter.

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