Williamsburg wears its Italian heritage like a well-loved apron, and the local dining scene has embraced this legacy with gusto. From family-run trattorias to modern enotecas, the city’s best spots serve up more than just pasta—they dish out tradition, innovation, and a whole lot of heart. Here, you’ll find everything from wood-fired pizzas to handmade gnocchi, all waiting to transport your taste buds straight to the Old Country.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
$ | (757) 259-9170 | WEBSITE
When we hear the name “Olive Garden,” our mind goes to some charming Italian villa where pasta is made fresh daily and the air smells of garlic and herbs. This fantasy doesn’t quite exist in Williamsburg, but they do serve some consistently hot and delicious food. The menu is straightforward and affordable, but you can still enjoy most of the classics, including one of the highlights—the Breadsticks, a.k.a.
warm, fluffy starters that are both a satisfying appetizer and a comforting treat in one convenient basket.
Little Charlie’s Pizza
$ | (757) 259-7955 | WEBSITE
It’s a promising sign when the owner at a pizza joint hands your child a lollipop before you’ve even ordered. And it’s even more promising when you can watch the kitchen staff tossing fresh dough for the pizza you came to enjoy with your family. Little Charlie’s Pizza might not have all the appeal of a fine-dining Italian restaurant—known for things like handmade pasta and wine lists—but it’s one of the more reliable bets in Williamsburg for a satisfying pizza and a welcoming atmosphere.
Paul’s Deli & Neighborhood Restaurant
$ | (757) 565-2380 | WEBSITE
The chicken shawarma at Paul’s Deli arrives on a generous platter, spilling over with tender, spiced meat and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in warm pita. Enjoy it with a cold beer in hand, and you can recreate the experience of dining at their New Town location. Stylistically, it falls somewhere between a Greek gyro and a classic deli sandwich. But realistically, you’ll finish it before you can even think too hard about the difference between the two.
The Marketplace Cafe
$ | (757) 259-9967 | WEBSITE
There was a time when visitors to Busch Gardens would settle for typical theme park fare—greasy burgers and soggy fries. Now, we have The Marketplace Cafe right inside the park—it’s perfect for when you need a surprisingly good meal with generous portions before heading back out to enjoy the rides.
The Italian dishes like the cannoli and artisanal flatbread are standout options, and the cafeteria-style setup means everyone in your group can find something they love, from Asian-style cuisine to classic chicken tenders. During peak seasons, the variety expands even further, while off-season visits still offer satisfying soups and sandwiches.
The real draw, though, is the entertainment—top-notch singers and orchestra performances, with this year’s Christmas show featuring a talented pianist that adds a festive touch. With ample seating under a roof, it’s a must-visit spot for a fulfilling meal and delightful show, even if the prices reflect its prime park location.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
$$ | (757) 564-3696 | WEBSITE
It may not have the same bustling energy, people-watching appeal, or outdoor seating vibe of other Italian spots in Williamsburg, but Carrabba’s is one of our favorite places for a reliable lunch or a family-friendly meal, like eggplant parmesan, fresh salads, and even vegetarian sides. And when we want something just a little bit more comforting, there’s no better option than the attentive service from Priscilla—a warm, welcoming waitress who goes above and beyond.
Marco Polo’s Marketplace
$ | (757) 229-4386 | WEBSITE
The original Marco Polo’s Marketplace in Williamsburg doesn’t exist anymore, but its spirit—and many of its signature menu items—lives on at the current location. That means you can still get dishes like the beef roast (very much not what you’d expect from a quick-service spot) plus lighter options like the pepperoni flatbread. Maybe if this place sticks around for a while, we’ll be talking about the signature ‘marketplace flatbread’ in a few years.
Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant
$$ | (757) 565-1977 | WEBSITE
We love the carbonara with bucatinni at Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant, and their cozy Williamsburg location lets us savor those rich, creamy, and savory pancetta flavors until right before it’s time to head home. Of course, you can also get shrimp scampi, soups, and salads as pastas or an entree. Williamsburg has pretty good Italian food by local standards to begin with, and Giuseppe’s is right up there near the top.
Larry’s Italian Restaurant
$ | (757) 229-0045 | WEBSITE
This Larry’s location might not draw quite the same crowds as the original Italian spots in Downtown, but it’s still one of the best places in Williamsburg for classic Italian comfort food. The seating can feel a bit cozy, but the staff tends to be attentive and helpful. If you’re in the mood for generous Chicken Alfredo or standout garlic knots, it’s worth the visit.
Maurizio’s Italian Restaurant
$$ | (757) 229-0337 | WEBSITE
Maurizio’s does one thing, and they do it exceptionally well—Italian cuisine in authentic and comforting form. The dishes use fresh ingredients, but through some combination of tradition and skill (or maybe that’s just called passion), the food manages to stay flavorful throughout with a nice homemade feel. The best part is their array of spectacular pasta, pizza, and seafood options to choose from (we love the amazing caprese).
Olde Towne Pizza & Pasta
$ | (757) 863-3718 | WEBSITE
At Olde Towne Pizza & Pasta, you can smell everything getting baked in the oven as soon as you walk in—something of a rarity in the world of chain pizza joints. Don’t expect some kind of fancy Italian show, but do expect food that arrives fresh and flavorful. We like the Margherita pizza—with fresh basil and delicious marinara sauce, plus a little extra garlic for added kick. We’ve found it pairs pretty well with a glass of their fruit-forward Chianti from the impressive wine selection.