The 30 Best Authentic italian dining in Manchester

“The restaurant is fantastic, the pizza is delicious, the service is very nice, the owner and the cook are really nice people. I honestly recommend it. We will come back to this restaurant again and again, the atmosphere is magical, we felt like we were in Italy. We love this place.”

“Wow!!! 1st time we've ordered from Francos and it was gorgeous. Finally an authentic Italian pizza in Prestwich/Whitefield. Amazing ingredients and produce. Will definitely order again. Thank you”

“Had the nicest dinner here, best thing it was plant based. Everything on the menu is plant based so no concerns. Would highly recommend eating here.”

“Great food. What can I say. Only had the ribs this time with the Bonochi Garlic Bread and it was fantastic. Definitely be back on Mother's Day. I just wish I had a bigger appetite so I could try everything on the menu all in one night........oh and the food is probably half eaten in the pics because it just had to be dived into and eaten. Thanks gals and guys. See you soon and again my compliments to the Kitchen/Chef.”

“We came here when we realised Tesco didn't have a cafe. We were so pleased. The food and service was great and the price was good too. Would definitely come again.”

“Finally a fantastic Italian restaurant in Macclesfield. Lovely staff, nice atmosphere, menu with plenty of classic options. We had three different pizzas and everyone thought they were incredible.”

“We can never ever fault this restaurant. Local to us but worth a drive if you live outside Heaton Moor. So glad they are back open after a holiday closure. Just wished they did orders to be delivered although it's no effort to go to the restaurant and see the lovely staff. The food is fabulous and when family come over from Ireland they ask if we can book a table. Book now you won't be disappointed.”

“We had such a lovely experience here. The food was absolutely delicious, full of flavour and really well prepared. The service was fantastic from start to finish – the staff were so kind, attentive, and especially thoughtful in accommodating a disabled person my mum, which made the evening even more enjoyable and comfortable. Their friendliness and care really stood out. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, although on a Friday evening it was a little on the noisy side – but that’s only because the place is clearly popular and full of people enjoying themselves. Overall, it was a wonderful evening, and we left very happy. We’ll definitely be coming back again.”

“Fantastic Moroccan food. Amazing food and atmosphere. Great central location with the train station steps away and parking within walking distance.”

“What an experience. The menu changes for each event, but the one we had came with a glass of Prosecco was very elegant The location threw us slightly but don’t be alarmed it’s a hidden gem. The portion sizes were really good considering it’s supposed to be a tasting style menu. Will certainly be returning”

“The food was yummy, especially the Maradona pizza. The staff were friendly,and the atmosphere was very warm and cosy . For dessert, the pistachio cheesecake was unique and tasty. Would recommend!”

“I live locally and popped in for a pizza to try it out. Was super impressed with the speed it was made and the quality of the ingredients! I was in and out in less than 10 mins and the pizza tasted lovely, very authentic. Definitely coming back for more!”

“Absolutely recommend Eden, we were a large party of 19 and every dish came out as good as the last. The steak was cooked perfectly and so tender, the service was as great as the food.”

“Upon entering the atmosphere was great, very polite and friendly, the small appetiser that me and friend shared was really good, the food was really delicious, flavourful, wasn’t cold or undercooked, the dessert was super light but had really good flavour across all layers of the lemon cheesecake. I would recommend this place to any couples who’s looking for a little romantic Italian date or for a family”

“The food here was absolutely delicious and well presented. The early bird menu is great value for money and has a good selection of dishes on it. It was just less than £22 for 3 courses which is excellent. I had the bruschetta, sea bass and crembrule, each dish was very tasty. The decor was nice and the staff were friendly. Great experience.”

“Valentina and all the staff are so friendly. Well furnished stylish and amazing food especially the chicken breast with chips. The romanian chef there is a real pro. We lost our wallet there and they kept in the safe the next day now thats what I call a dam good restaurant. Highly recommend. Deserts are fab too!”

“What a lovely little restaurant. We ordered garlic bread with cheese - amazing. Then cannelloni and risotto for main. Both came piping hot and very tasty. Sticky toffee pudding and profiteroles for pudding. The profitaroles were the best I've ever tasted. Service was speedy and reasonably priced. Under £60 for 2 with drinks. Definitely worth a visit. They also offered gluten free pasta and pizza.”

“I really loved the pizza, the staff were really kind and the restaurant itself looked really nice. The food i have ordered were really good. Now i have re ordered and bought pizza. Keep it up!”

“Friendly attentive waiters.. good food and nice setting for group birthday party.. enjoyed it greatly!”

“3 of us went for bottomless brunch and I’d 100% recommend for value for money. £37 for 90 minutes. The lovely waitress never let our cocktails become empty and was always taking a drinks order from us. The food was also excellent and served in a timely matter. Will definitely be back!!”

“Really enjoyed our meal. Great service & reasonable pricing for party of 3.”

“First time visiting Gusto in Knutsford and it did not disappoint. Extensive menu with plenty to choose from. Service was speedy and our waiter Juan was friendly and helpful. The food was delicious and I would not hesitate to book again.”

“Had a lovely meal here last weekend I'm a fussy eater usually so this place was definitely out of my normality but I was on holiday so said let's give it a go, Had the garlic bread as a starter and went for the Margherita as a main, was pleasantly surprised by how delicious both were! Would absolutely have a look if you're in the area , staff are lovely and very personable”

“The food was exceptional—fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care. The staff were incredibly welcoming, attentive without being overbearing, and they made us feel right at home. Prices were very reasonable considering the quality, and the whole experience felt like true value for money. This is definitely a place I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys authentic, well-prepared Italian food. I’ll absolutely be coming back!”

“I never review but the pizza from this place slaps, for a pizza easy 9/10 go to pizza place from now, need to try that stuffed crust next”

“We had a wonderful experience at Gusto Italian. Our waitresses Ciara and Fran was absolutely excellent – attentive without being intrusive, warm, and very professional. She made great recommendations from the menu, checked in at just the right times, and created a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere throughout our meal. Her service really elevated the evening and made it feel special. Highly recommend both the restaurant and the outstanding service we received.”

“The most beautiful restaurant. Sat outside on a lovely sunny day. Staff were very friendly and welcoming. I very rarely change where I eat an Italian as not many places do it perfectly but piccolo was recommended by the friend I visited with and it did not disappoint. Arancini was a delicious starter and I had the carbonara which was delicious. My friend had the lasagna which was very rich in flavour and delicious. Will definitely go again”

“Loved the specials! Very friendly and perfect informal dining with a good vibe. Dalia was lovely and everyone very attentive.”

“Lydia was was beautifully hospitable for our late lunch today!! Our food came out quickly, and we were very well taken care of. Definitely a very laid back place for good food where you’re well looked after. I had the caprese salad, and my husband had the chorizo pizza. Both highly recommended!”

“Excellent, family-run Italian restaurant that has been open in Urmston for decades. The restaurant is spacious with a quirky décor and delicious food. We were there on a very busy night (Christmas Eve), but we were served by friendly and efficient staff. To start, we had garlic bread and cheese, followed by salmon in a cream and tomato sauce and chicken in a Diane sauce. Both were excellent: the salmon was cooked perfectly, with a light and tasty sauce, and the chicken was moist and flavoursome. I have been coming here for years, and it is always a great experience.”