The Student Guide: The Best 8 Italian Restaurants In Leeds
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There’s nothing like a bit of Italian food, and luckily for you, there are loads of Italian restaurants in Leeds to get your carby fix.
Whether it’s a big juicy pizza, a hearty bowl of pasta, or something different, Leeds has it all!
The best part is, your luxury student accommodation is close to all the action, so you can treat yourself and be back home in no time.
So, grab your new friends, get your best outfit on, and get ready to enjoy some delicious food.
Let’s take a look at the top 8 Italian restaurants in Leeds you need to visit…
1. Da Vito Ristorante
Da Vito Ristorante is located on York Place and is where all the locals go to dine, drink and socialize!
Enjoy fresh flavours and bold ingredients from their menu bursting with fresh and hearty dishes to enjoy.
Whether it’s a spot of seafood or one of the chef’s specials, whatever dish you choose, you’re bound to be satisfied.
For some nibbles whilst you’re waiting, why not try some focaccia with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil?
We’d recommend the Risotto MareMonti, with arborio rice infused with wild mushrooms and an assortment of fish, shellfish, white wine and a dash of cream.
Surely that’s enough to make your stomach rumble!
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Address: 3 York Pl, Leeds LS1 2DR
2. Zucco
In the mood for a bit of tapas? Silly question!
Zucco is one of the Italian restaurants in Leeds that offers just that.
Tapas is fab because you can try a whole bunch of different things and wash your meal down with a nice glass of vino.
The portions at Zucco are nice and hearty, with various pasta, seafood, meat, and pizza dishes to enjoy.
Pssst…they also have some absolutely delicious gelato if you have a sweet tooth – be sure to give it a try!
Highlights on the menu for main meals include pan-fried seabass, ox cheek, pea & grana padano risotto, and freshly made pizzettes.
It’s a little further out from the city centre on Meanwood Road, but it’s so worth the mooch for a gorgeous meal.
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Address: 603 Meanwood Rd, Meanwood, Leeds LS6 4AY
3. Viva
Viva is an Italian restaurant in Leeds that offers super cosy vibes, and delicious food to match!
They offer a variety of hot and cold starters, pasta dishes, yummy main courses, and a great selection of pizzas.
Their hot starter of garlic mushrooms is scrumptious, and if you fancy something a little different, their parigino is yum.
Not sure what parigino is? It’s basically deep-fried brie cheese, seasonal leaves, compote of woodland berries, and seasonal fruit.
Keep a lookout for the specials of the day, and tuck into their freshly baked pasta (their lasagne is the best.)
The best part? This buzzing restaurant is located just a 5 minute walk from Leeds Train Station.
Address: 9-11 Bridge End, Leeds LS1 7HG
4. Livin’ Italy
Livin’ Italy is a family business which started in Milan in the ‘80s, and they’ve been thriving ever since!
Their food is cooked in the Italian way, simple, yet effective and absolutely brimming with flavour.
Just a short 8-minute taxi ride from your student accommodation, Livin’ Italy is located in the heart of Granary Wharf and is definitely worth a visit with your friends.
Whether you’ve had a long day at uni and you want to treat yourself, or it’s a special occasion with your friends – it’s the place to be!
You can opt for click and collect or delivery if you fancy a cosy night in your luxury accommodation ( we can’t blame you.)
For mains, their vegan burger with a Sicilian chickpea panella patty is amazing, and if you’re feeling decadent, try the grand mix seafood platter!
Trust us, their vegan dishes are so tasty, you’ll be wondering how they’re plant-based.
It’s no wonder this Italian restaurant has wracked up over 12k followers on Insta, eh?
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Address: Granary Wharf, Wharf Approach, Leeds LS1 4BR
5. Bibis Italianissimo
Bibis Italianissimo is one of the best Italian restaurants in Leeds, known for their wide range of dishes and stunning cocktail lounge.
The entertainment in the restaurant is like no other, and there’s always service with a smile here!
Start your evening off with some pizza Mariana with Roasted Garlic, Napoli Tomato Sauce and Oregano.
Ready for more? How about a Crispy Smoked Pancetta Bacon carbonara, or a Hot & Spicy N’Duja pizza?
We’d highly recommend trying their calzone too, because what’s better than a folded pizza? Extra carbs please!
The only thing is, they do encourage guests to enjoy the atmosphere and dress smartly.
So, you do need to wear a smart fit if you’re wining and dining!
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Address: Sovereign St, Leeds LS1 4AG
6. Poco Sicilian Street Food
Poco Sicilian Street Food has two stores and is perfect for a bit of Italian street food in Leeds.
With one location on Kirkstall Road and another on Otley Road, both places are ideal if you want to grab a quick bite in between lectures!
Usually open from 10am until late every day of the week, you’ve got plenty of time to visit and try some Sicilian street food.
Their vanilla cannoli is utterly scrumptious.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, of course, you need to try the oven-baked Nutella brioche!
They have an amazing selection of Sicilian rosticceria specials too.
Plus, there’s plenty of veg and vegan options to choose from!
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Address: 360 Kirkstall Rd, Burley, Leeds LS4 2HQ
Address: 24 Otley Rd, Headingley, Leeds LS6 2AD
7. SARTO
SARTO is an authentic restaurant in Leeds known for its delicious Italian food and their focus on fresh, handmade pasta.
They have a fabulous selection of Italian influenced snacks including their focaccia with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic.
As well as their ‘Great Glen’ wild venison salami with green peppercorn.
You need to try their famous pasta with Campanelle, pork and ‘nduja ragu – great for those who like a bit of spice.
For dessert, why not finish off the meal with some classic Tiramisu, go on, treat yourself!
This place never disappoints so, go for a meal and check it out for yourself.
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Address: Munro House, Duke St, Leeds LS9 8AG
8. San Carlo
When it comes to fine dining, this award winning Italian restaurant in Leeds is the place to be.
This one’s for the chic aesthetic lovers, you’re going to love it here!
San Carlo Leeds is one of the city’s star attractions, offering classic Italian dishes with a modern aesthetic.
Whether you got there for lunch or dinner, they’ve got plenty of meals to choose from to suit all tastes.
If you’re feeling #extra, why not try their Costine di Maiale Orientale which is barbecue ribs in their special San Carlo sauce?
If that isn’t your style, go for a Pizza San Carlo.
They also have gluten free pasta which is available on request.
Get yourselves down to San Carlo for a meal like no other!
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Address: 6-7 S Parade, Leeds LS1 5QX
We hope you found our student guide of top Italian restaurants in Leeds useful!
When staying in our luxury student accommodation, you’re never too far away from a delicious place to eat.
Where will you be heading to for a tasty meal in Leeds?
Check out our guide on 10 Best Nightclubs In Leeds You Just Need To Visit.
[UPDATED 2023]
