The Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Bellevue [Updated 2025]

Having reviewed twelve standout locations in our vibrant city, I’ve tasted a delightful mix of traditional flavors and innovative dishes that showcase Italy’s rich culinary heritage.

From family-run trattorias serving homemade pasta to upscale eateries offering a sophisticated dining experience, Bellevue has something for every palate.

Join me as I share my top picks, detailing what makes each spot unique and worth a visit.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic Italian cuisine.

Cantinetta Bellevue

Highlights
Fresh and delicious pasta
Great portion sizes
Perfect for special occasions
Friendly and accommodating staff
Superb dessert options

Cantinetta Bellevue is a gem tucked away in the heart of Bellevue that celebrates the essence of authentic Italian cuisine. As I stepped inside, I was immediately enveloped by the warm ambiance and the delightful aroma of fresh pasta. The menu offered a variety of options, but I was particularly drawn to their handcrafted pasta, which truly stole the show.

One bite of the pasta and I was transported straight to Italy—each piece was impeccably cooked and bursting with flavor. The generous portion sizes meant that I wasn't just satisfied; I was enticed to linger a little longer, savoring each mouthful. It feels like the sort of place where you'd want to celebrate a special occasion, and I can envision gathering friends or family for a lively dinner filled with laughter and exquisite dishes.

What impressed me even further was the staff's friendly disposition—they were not just accommodating but also seemed genuinely passionate about the menu. And let me not forget the desserts! The options were divine, making it impossible to resist indulging.

Overall, Cantinetta Bellevue is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience worth returning to. Buon appetito!

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Carmine's

Highlights
Upscale atmosphere
Delicious lobster pasta
Friendly and helpful staff
Fresh and authentic ingredients
Customizable vegetarian options

Carmine's in Bellevue is a delightful experience that transports you straight to Italy, wrapped in an upscale atmosphere that feels both elegant and inviting. As I settled in, I couldn’t help but admire the tasteful decor that sets the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner or a celebratory gathering with friends.

The menu is a treasure trove of authentic dishes, but I was truly wowed by the lobster pasta. Rich and decadent, the flavors danced on my palate, making me feel as if I were dining by the shores of Sicily. And for the herbivores out there, the customizable vegetarian options are plenty, ensuring everyone can find something delightful.

What stood out, even more, was the attention to detail and the genuine warmth of the staff. They were always ready with a smile, knowledgeable about the dishes, and eager to ensure my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

In short, if you're searching for a captivating culinary journey in Bellevue, Carmine's is a must-visit. With its fresh ingredients and a passion for authentic Italian cuisine, it's the kind of place that makes you want to keep coming back for more – and trust me, you will!

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Andiamo Italian Ristorante

Highlights
Customizable vegetarian options
Delicious white sauce pasta
Tasty and fresh appetizers
Sensational salmon special
Reasonably priced with great ambience

Andiamo Italian Ristorante in Bellevue is a culinary delight that whisked me away to the heart of Italy without any passport needed! From the moment I stepped through the door, I was dazzled by the charming ambience—it feels like a cozy nook in a rustic Italian villa. The menu boasts an extensive selection, with customizable vegetarian options that cater beautifully to diverse palates.

I kicked off my meal with some appetizers, which were fresh and flavor-packed. Each bite was a delightful prelude to the main course. Speaking of which, I couldn't resist trying their white sauce pasta, a creamy dream that paired perfectly with a delectable salmon special. The salmon was sensational, beautifully cooked and bursting with flavor.

What really impressed me was the reasonably priced menu, offering excellent value for the high-quality dishes served. It's rare to find a place where taste meets affordability so seamlessly!

If you're in the mood for Italian cuisine that satisfies both your cravings and your wallet, look no further than Andiamo. It's definitely a gem in Bellevue that will have you returning for more!

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Angelo's of Bellevue

Highlights
Long-standing Bellevue history
Delicious pasta dishes
Cozy, intimate atmosphere
Friendly, personal service
Excellent tiramisu

Angelo's of Bellevue is a charming gem that has been delighting locals for years, and I finally discovered why. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was enveloped in a cozy, intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebratory gathering.

The friendly, personal service made me feel right at home. The staff was incredibly welcoming and eager to recommend their favorites. Now, let’s talk about the food—oh my goodness! I indulged in their delicious pasta dishes, each crafted with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. The pasta was cooked to perfection, leaving me longing for another bite.

And if you have a sweet tooth like I do, do not miss the tiramisu! It was the perfect ending to my meal—rich, creamy, and utterly divine. Every bite felt like a little piece of heaven.

Angelo's isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience steeped in Bellevue history that I believe every Italian food lover should enjoy. If you're on the hunt for the best Italian cuisine in the area, Angelo's of Bellevue should be at the top of your list!

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Firenze

Highlights
Homemade gnocchi
Authentic sauce experience
Reminiscent of NYC flavors
Overpriced meal
Store-bought Parmesan cheese

Firenze in Bellevue is a delightful culinary escape that transports you straight to the heart of Italy! As I walked through its charming entrance, the warm ambiance embraced me like a long-lost friend. I couldn’t resist starting my meal with their homemade gnocchi, each bite light and fluffy, almost like a cloud of joy! These little pillows of goodness are drenched in an authentic sauce that sings with every forkful, bringing to mind the bustling streets of New York—where I first fell in love with Italian cuisine.

However, I have to say, while my taste buds danced with delight, my wallet took a bit of a hit. The meal felt slightly overpriced for the overall experience, which left me contemplating the fine balance between gourmet and gouging. I was slightly disappointed to discover that the Parmesan cheese served was store-bought, which felt a tad out of sync with the otherwise genuine offerings.

All in all, while Firenze has its minor quirks, I walked away feeling satisfied and eager to return for another round of that memorable gnocchi. It’s definitely a place worth visiting for anyone craving a taste of Italy in Bellevue!

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Bis on Main

Highlights
Delicious Black Cod Dish
Friendly and Attentive Service
Elegant Modern Decor
Great Wine Selection
Convenient Parking Validation

Visiting Bis on Main in Bellevue was an absolute delight! As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the restaurant's elegant modern decor, which set the tone for a truly enjoyable dinner. The ambiance perfectly strikes the balance between sophisticated and cozy, making it a great spot for both a romantic night out and a lively gathering with friends.

Now, let’s talk about the food. If you ever find yourself dining here, don't miss the black cod dish—it was the star of my meal! The flavors danced on my palate, and the fish was cooked to perfection. And while the food was phenomenal, the highlight truly was the friendly and attentive service. The staff made me feel right at home, offering recommendations and ensuring every need was met, from the first sip of wine to the last crumb of dessert.

Speaking of wine, their selection is impressive, with options that perfectly complement any dish. Plus, the convenience of parking validation is a major win in Bellevue, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of finding a spot. Overall, I left Bis on Main with a satisfied belly and a happy heart!

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JOEY Bellevue

Highlights
Excellent craft cocktails
Friendly and attentive staff
Unique dessert experience
Cozy bar seating
Great reservation availability

JOEY Bellevue is a delightful gem that effortlessly blends a contemporary vibe with classic Italian flavors. As I stepped into the warm atmosphere, I was greeted by friendly and attentive staff, setting the tone for a lovely evening. The cozy bar seating invites you to indulge in some excellent craft cocktails before diving into the culinary offerings.

Now, let's talk about the food! I was pleasantly surprised by their unique take on traditional Italian dishes. The pasta was cooked to perfection, dancing playfully on my palate. The flavors were vibrant and fresh, making each bite a small celebration. Even as I savored my meal, my mind was already whipping up sweet dreams about dessert. JOEY does not disappoint with its distinct dessert experience; each offering is a delightful finale to the meal.

One aspect that stood out was the great reservation availability, allowing guests to dine when it suits them best. Overall, JOEY Bellevue is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary adventure. With its playful atmosphere and top-notch service, it's a must-visit for anyone seeking an Italian feast in Bellevue. Bring your appetite and discover why this place is a standout!

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Bake's Place Bar & Bistro

Highlights
Great outdoor seating
Live music enhances experience
Attentive and knowledgeable staff
Eclectic drink selection
Free garage parking after 5 PM

Bake's Place Bar & Bistro is a delightful escape in Bellevue that effortlessly blends a cozy atmosphere with a vibrant dining experience. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the warm ambiance and the tantalizing aroma wafting from the kitchen, promising culinary delights ahead.

One of the standout features of this gem is its great outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal while basking in the sunshine or soaking up the lively atmosphere on a warm evening. As I settled in, I was pleasantly surprised by the addition of live music, which added a charming touch to the overall experience.

The service was impeccable, with an attentive and knowledgeable staff who went above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was nothing short of stellar. They effortlessly guided me through their eclectic drink selection, helping me find the perfect pairing for my freshly made pasta dish.

I also appreciated the convenience of free garage parking after 5 PM, making it hassle-free for diners to enjoy a night out. If you're in the mood for an unforgettable Italian dining experience, look no further than Bake's Place!

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Cascadia Pizza Restaurant and Brewery

Highlights
Wood-fired pizza excellence
Impressive topping variety
Outstanding, friendly service
Family-friendly atmosphere
Good selection of beers

Nestled in the heart of Bellevue, Cascadia Pizza Restaurant and Brewery is a delightful blend of rustic charm and culinary creativity that captured my heart (and taste buds) during my recent visit. As I walked in, the inviting family-friendly atmosphere greeted me—perfect for a casual night out.

What really set Cascadia apart was their wood-fired pizza excellence. I ordered the Margherita, a classic that showcased the quality of their ingredients; the fresh basil and golden-brown cheese danced perfectly atop a crispy, charred crust. The impressive variety of toppings is a veritable playground for anyone looking to venture beyond traditional flavors, and I could hardly resist sampling a few more!

To complement my meal, I explored their good selection of beers, each finely crafted to enhance the pizza experience. The cherry on top? The outstanding, friendly service that made me feel right at home—my server was attentive, making recommendations that truly hit the mark.

In a city bursting with options, Cascadia stands out as a must-visit for any pizza lover. Whether you're dining with family or friends, this place knows how to turn a meal into a memorable occasion.

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El Gaucho Bellevue

Highlights
Elegant atmosphere
Impeccable service
Best steak experience
High-quality cocktails
Exceptional private dining

Review of El Gaucho Bellevue

El Gaucho Bellevue is a delightful gem that takes the Italian dining experience up a notch—think vintage elegance meets modern sophistication. As I stepped inside, I was immediately enveloped in an atmosphere that whispers luxury. The dim lighting and plush seating create a cozy yet upscale environment, ideal for intimate dinners or special celebrations.

One of the standout features of El Gaucho is its impeccable service. The staff is not only attentive but also genuinely passionate about ensuring that your experience is nothing short of exceptional. They guided me through an impressive menu that boasts some of the best steak options, making it clear that this isn’t just your average Italian restaurant. Their culinary artistry shines through every dish, with flavors that dance on the palate.

And let's not overlook the high-quality cocktails. Each sip is a delightful celebration in itself, perfectly complementing the robust flavors of the meal. If you're seeking a unique twist on classic Italian dining in Bellevue, El Gaucho is definitely worth a visit—it’s a triumph of taste, ambiance, and service that’ll leave you coming back for more!

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Pogacha Restaurant

Highlights
Spacious outdoor patio
Accommodating and sweet staff
Delicious dijon chicken pasta
Expertly prepared dishes
Remarkable Cherry Smoked Old Fashion

I had the pleasure of dining at Pogacha Restaurant in Bellevue, where I found a delightful blend of rustic charm and authentic Italian cuisine. As soon as I stepped inside, I was captivated by the spacious outdoor patio, which sets the perfect scene for a relaxed dining experience, especially on a sunny day.

The staff were nothing short of accommodating and sweet, making sure I felt right at home from the moment I arrived. I decided to dive into their delicious dijon chicken pasta, which turned out to be a showstopper! The sauce was both tangy and creamy, perfectly coating the tender pasta and chicken. It was a delightful dance of flavors that left me wanting more.

As if that weren’t enough, I indulged in their remarkable Cherry Smoked Old Fashion, which was expertly prepared and provided an elegant finish to my meal. Pogacha offers more than just food; it crafts an experience that lingers long after the last bite. If you’re looking for a place that embodies both warmth and culinary excellence, Pogacha Restaurant is a gem you don’t want to miss in Bellevue!

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Sansonina Ristorante Italiano

Highlights
Exceptional customer service
Beautiful and romantic ambiance
Delicious house-made bread
Perfectly cooked pasta dishes
Divine desserts

Sansonina Ristorante Italiano in Bellevue is a treasure that tantalizes both the palate and the imagination. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with exceptional customer service that made me feel right at home. The ambiance is beautifully romantic, with soft lighting and charming decor that sets the perfect scene for a delightful meal.

Now, let’s talk about food! The house-made bread was a revelation—warm, crusty, and utterly addictive. I could have made a meal out of just that! However, I couldn’t resist delving into their perfectly cooked pasta dishes. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors that danced in my mouth, highlighting the chefs’ commitment to rustic Italian cuisine.

And of course, no visit to an Italian restaurant is complete without indulging in dessert. The sweets at Sansonina are nothing short of divine—the kind that leaves you dreaming for days! Overall, my visit was a delightful blend of exceptional service and mouthwatering dishes, affirming Sansonina’s place among Bellevue’s finest Italian dining spots. I left with a full heart (and belly), eagerly anticipating my next culinary adventure at this lovely restaurant!

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