Winter in Sioux Falls means craving carbs like it’s your job. Pasta, pizza, risotto—we get it. But before you dive headfirst into a bowl of fettuccine alfredo, consider this: not all Italian food has to be a gut bomb. These spots prove you can indulge in authentic flavors without the post-meal regret. Here are the 10 best Italian restaurants in Sioux Falls that actually make you feel good.
Fazoli’s
$ | (605) 800-4550 | WEBSITE
Yes, you can get a full Italian meal at Fazoli’s. BUT FOR THE LOVE OF GOD HAVE SOME SELF CONTROL. Someone’s gotta do it, and we know it’s probably not going to be you. Stick to the addictive breadsticks that come quickly and get refilled promptly, which are all excellent and will keep you feeling nice and satisfied without overdoing it.
Maribella Ristorante
$$ | (605) 271-1710 | WEBSITE
Maribella Ristorante has established itself as a go-to for authentic Italian cuisine that still feels approachable. The pizza is great, but dishes like the phenomenal risotto and fresh gluten-free pasta aren’t overly heavy either. This is a good way to bridge the gap between indulgence and everyday dining. The dessert menu also features must-try options like vanilla gelato with espresso poured over top, but we probably shouldn’t tell you that.
R Wine Bar & Kitchen
$$ | (605) 271-0814 | WEBSITE
Italian food is classic for a reason. R Wine Bar & Kitchen is a bustling spot to settle in for the evening, from braised beef to flourless chocolate torte, which sounds rich and indulgent. But you should go to R Wine Bar & Kitchen for their wine pairings, suggested by friendly and professional servers, matched perfectly with all types of dishes, polenta, and dessert. You’ll be sitting outside humming along to the live music thinking ‘I’m satisfied, thanks for asking.’
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
$ | (605) 333-0290 | WEBSITE
The Italian chain is steadily winning over families, just like how breadsticks and Alfredo sauce have probably won over your taste buds. That being said, there are a few staples on the menu we’ve grown to genuinely appreciate, and Olive Garden is straightforward and pleasant when you’re in the mood. Try the kid-friendly options and the consistently decent service.
Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop
$ | (605) 271-7303 | WEBSITE
A sandwich shop that you might not have guessed was this good if we didn’t just tell you. Want to eat something called the Bobbie? Well, now you can, and surprisingly it comes full of Thanksgiving turkey with cranberry sauce and stuffing instead of just another hoagie. Stick to the sandwich-centric classics like the Wagyu Philly Cheese Steak and the phenomenal Capistrami with its coleslaw.
Pizza Cheeks
$ | (605) 271-0974 | WEBSITE
We’ll be honest, as a whole, Pizza Cheeks is not subtle. New York style thin crust? Phenomenal, and not subtle. Meatball sliders? Gourmet, and definitely not subtle. But the reason we’re pointing out Pizza Cheeks is because of their sweet meat pizza with ‘Hot Honey’ sauce. Homemade crust, homemade sauce, high-quality ingredients, plus that sweet and spicy honey drizzle that cuts through the richness. Addictive, literally.
Tomacelli’s Pizza & Pasta
$ | (605) 335-8500 | WEBSITE
Gourmet pizza might not sound as exciting as fast food pizza, but we’ll reluctantly admit it’s better for us. The Tomacelli’s crew makes freshly made pizzas available for delivery at minimal costs. Delicious and you don’t have to interact with wait staff? Win-win.
Marco’s Pizza
$ | (605) 275-9696 | WEBSITE
All pizza everything. On one hand, Marco’s Pizza has serious pies with a wide range of topping options, which sounds a little overwhelming. But we do like the classic pepperoni with its higher-than-normal quality, and the friendly staff.
Valentino’s
$ | (605) 271-8257 | WEBSITE
Valentino’s calls itself one of the ’10 Best Italian Restaurants in Sioux Falls,’ and you’re going to need someone to give you a reason to brave the parking lot. The reason at Valentino’s happens to be wonderful food, including fresh pizza and tasty pasta dishes, plus some salad to go along with it. That said, the pizza is the star.
Hy-Vee Market Grille
$$ | (605) 334-4570 | WEBSITE
New “Italian restaurant lists” get updated every year, and we wish we could be part of those rankings. “I know what we’ll do! Italian cuisine! Nobody else is serving it!” Brilliant. Hy-Vee Market Grille is one of the countless spots claiming exactly that, except for also they happen to have a location in Sioux Falls too. Go hard on the bacon cheeseburger and chicken tenders.