Best Italian Restaurants in Cluj
Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars
Cluj-Napoca has quietly become one of Eastern Europe's most exciting destinations for authentic Italian cuisine, and the numbers tell the story. With an average rating of 4.8 stars across hundreds of establishments, this Romanian city has cultivated an Italian dining scene that rivals major European capitals. What sets Cluj apart isn't just the quality of the food, but the passion behind it. From family-run trattorias serving handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzerias that transport you straight to Naples, the city's Italian restaurants blend traditional techniques with local warmth and hospitality that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
This guide showcases 10 exceptional Italian restaurants that have earned their stellar reputations through consistently outstanding food and service. You'll discover everything from intimate pasta bars where you can watch fresh tortelli being crafted before your eyes, to bustling pizzerias serving vera pizza napoletana with perfectly charred crusts, to elegant wine bars pairing regional Italian bottles with house-made specialties. Whether you're craving a leisurely Sunday brunch, an authentic Sicilian cannoli, or a romantic dinner over handmade gnocchi, these carefully selected establishments represent the very best of what Cluj's Italian culinary landscape has to offer.
Featured Restaurants
Tortelli Pasta Bar
This beloved pasta bar in Cluj-Napoca has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from nearly 4,000 diners who rave about its fresh handmade tortelli and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant's stellar reputation suggests consistently excellent food and service that keeps both locals and travelers coming back for authentic pasta dishes. Book ahead or arrive early, as places this popular in Cluj tend to fill up quickly, especially during dinner hours.
Napoli Centrale
Napoli Centrale has earned a stellar reputation among Cluj-Napoca locals and visitors alike, with nearly 4,000 reviews praising this beloved Italian spot for consistently delivering authentic flavors and reliable service. The restaurant's impressive 4.5-star rating speaks to their commitment to quality, whether you're dining in or taking advantage of their convenient delivery service. For the best experience, consider ordering during off-peak hours when you can enjoy fresher preparation and faster service from this clearly well-loved neighborhood gem.
Perfetto Cucina Italiana
Nestled in Cluj-Napoca's bustling Piața Unirii, Perfetto Cucina Italiana has won over locals and travelers alike with its authentic atmosphere and consistently excellent food, earning an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 1,200 diners. The restaurant's prime location in the city's main square makes it perfect for people-watching while enjoying quality Italian cuisine at reasonable prices. Book ahead during peak dinner hours, as this popular spot fills up quickly with both tourists exploring the historic square and discerning locals who've made it their regular haunt.
Il forno - vera pizza napoletana
Il forno brings authentic Neapolitan pizza to Cluj-Napoca, earning devoted local fans with traditional wood-fired techniques and genuine Italian flavors that transport you straight to Naples. With nearly 1,200 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.8-star rating, travelers consistently rave about the perfectly charred crusts and quality ingredients that make this intimate spot a standout in Romania's food scene. Since it offers takeaway service, consider calling ahead during peak dinner hours to skip the wait and enjoy your authentic pizza at nearby Memorandumului area.
PASQUALE | brunch & dinner
Pasquale delivers an exceptional dining experience that has earned rave reviews from over 1,100 satisfied guests, serving up diverse cuisine options for both brunch and dinner in Cluj-Napoca's vibrant dining scene. The consistently high 4.8-star rating speaks to their reliable quality and welcoming atmosphere that keeps both locals and travelers coming back. With such stellar reviews across the board, you can't go wrong with either their brunch or dinner service, though booking ahead is wise given their popularity.
Cucina Turea Italian
This beloved Italian gem in Cluj-Napoca has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from nearly 1,000 diners, making it a reliable choice for authentic Italian cuisine in Romania's vibrant university city. The exceptional rating speaks to consistently delicious food and warm hospitality that keeps both locals and travelers coming back. Book ahead during peak dinner hours, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly with its loyal following of Italian food enthusiasts.
Alle Bollicine Vino & Pasta
This charming wine and pasta bar on Cluj-Napoca's main Republic Street has earned an exceptional reputation among locals and visitors alike, with nearly 700 glowing reviews praising its cozy atmosphere and quality Italian fare. The consistently high ratings suggest this is a reliable spot for authentic pasta dishes paired with carefully selected wines in an intimate setting. Book ahead or arrive early, as places this beloved in Cluj's historic center tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
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