Italian Restaurants in the Valley

Indulge in a Taste of the Old World

by Morgan Benavidez

PastaBAR

Since Wade Moises and Nick Gentry teamed up to create PastaBAR, residents of Downtown Phoenix have embraced it with open arms. With its sleek, colorful decor and brow-raising artwork (six portraits of famous murderers adorn the walls), PastaBAR is a trendy spot suitable for events from a first date to a late-night snack after an evening on the town. The pasta is handmade and perfectly proportioned, and the ingredients are all locally grown.

Start with a refreshing signature cocktail such as the Comparita, made with fresh squeezed lemon, lime, orange and grapefruit juice and finished with Frida Kahlo Blanco Tequila, Cointreau and Campari on the rocks. Or, for a twist on a classic beverage, try the Spremate con Gin made with Tanqueray 10 Gin and Limonata on the rocks.

For an appetizer, you can't go wrong with the Buffalo Mozzarella with basil pesto, heirloom tomatoes and anchovies--a fresh, flavorful medley large enough to share.

Then, of course, there's the pasta; if you're in the mood for a rich, hearty dish, order the Chitarra alla Carbonara with guanciale, farm egg, local onion and pecorino. Nicknamed the "Italian Breakfast," this dish will at once fill your belly and warm your soul. The Fettuccini e Finocchio made with fennel pesto, raisins, pine nuts, hot peppers, lemon and anchovy combines a unique assortment of spicy and sweet flavors, and the result is mouth-watering.

Prices from $10 - $20

705 N. First St., Suite 110, Phoenix
602.687.8704
www.pastabaraz.com

Brio Tuscan Grille

From its ornate entryway to its crisp white tablecloths, Brio Tuscan Grille radiates warmth and opulence. Perfect for a decadent meal with the girls or celebrating a milestone with your family, this restaurant will satisfy your desire for luxury without breaking the bank.

If you're craving a cocktail, go for the Mama's Margarita made with Jose Cuervo and Grand Marnier or the Brio Bellini--a classic frozen number made with fresh fruit, peach nectar and prosecco, and garnished with a strawberry.

Start with Brio's Bruschetta Quattro, a sampling of the restaurant's four housemade bruschettas: roasted red pepper and mozzarella with fresh basil and a balsamic drizzle; shrimp bruschetta with lobster sherry sauce; sliced steak bruschetta with Gorgonzola Dolce, arugula, charred tomato and Tuscan Italian dressing; and a seasonal bruschetta of the chef's selection.

For a perfect entree, indulge in the Insalata Toscano-a colorful array of grilled chicken, spinach, mixed greens, applewood bacon, gorgonzola, spicy pecans, apples, cremini mushrooms and crispy angel hair pasta tossed in an herb vinaigrette.

If you're in the mood for pasta, try the Pasta alla Vodka, a melt-in-your-mouth dish of handmade pasta filled with ricotta cheese and tossed with crispy prosciutto, garlic, basil and a tomato parmesan cream sauce. Save room for a sinfully delicious dessert such as the Caramel Creme Brulee, served elegantly in an espresso cup.

Prices from $10 - $20

15301 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale
480.607.1100
www.brioitalian.com

Babbo Italian Eatery

If you're seeking a fun, family-friendly environment where you can enjoy hearty Italian cuisine made with only the freshest ingredients, look no further than Babbo Italian Eatery. With its comfy booths and nostalgic black and white photography, Babbo is a great place to unwind and enjoy good company.

You'll be greeted at your table with warm focaccia bread topped with rosemary and onions. This tasty starter is made in-house and served with oil and vinegar for dipping. But don't fill up without trying the Firecracker Rolls; these hand-rolled won tons are topped with parmesan and served with spicy arribiata sauce and a side of greens. Choose steak, Italian or buffalo chicken--or better yet, try all three!

Babbo's signature cocktails such as the Babbo-tini, made with Bacardi Coco Rum, Disaronno Amaretto, pineapple and orange juice are a perfect complement to the appetizers. If you're feeling "saucy," go for the Babbo Bloody Mary, made with vodka, spicy Bloody Mary mix and pizza sauce.

For an entree, consider a timeless treat--Spaghetti and Meatballs. Served on spaghettini and spiced with oregano and basil, this isn't the spaghetti your mother made. Or forgo the red sauce and try the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta, made with roasted chicken, creamy garlic sauce, mushrooms and sun dried tomatoes and served on penne.

Hopefully, you've saved enough room to satisfy your sweet tooth with Tiramisu, made classically with lady finger sponge cake soaked in Marsala and espresso, layered with mascarpone and served in an oversized coffee cup.

For an evening in, Babbo Italian Eatery offers carry-out and catering service at each of their four Valley locations.

Prices from $10 - $15

29455 N. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek
480.419.6363

20211 N. 67th Avenue., Glendale
623.566.9898

15609W. Bell Road, Surprise
623.825.1919

6855 N. 16th Street, Phoenix
602.279.1500

www.babboitalian.com