13 Best Restaurants in Mantua, Italy

If you’re on the hunt for the best restaurants in Mantua, Italy, you’re in luck because we’ve got just the right list for you!

Mantua, or Mantova in Italian, is a captivating city with a rich history. It’s located in the northern part of Italy, close to Lake Garda, nestled within the Lombardy region.

Mantua is a delightful destination for those who are into history, art, and the heart of Italian culture. The city boasts beautifully preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings. During the Renaissance, Mantua was a magnet for writers and artists, contributing significantly to the Italian cultural scene.

Foodies, get ready for a treat! Mantua’s culinary scene is beyond amazing and promises to tickle your taste buds. Whether you’re craving traditional family recipes passed down through generations or innovative creations by talented chefs, you’re in for a food adventure that’ll leave you grinning from ear to ear.

When visiting Mantua, do not miss the famous risotto alla pilota. It’s a creamy rice dish prepared with butter and Grana Padano cheese. Another dish you shouldn’t miss is cotechino con lenticchie, which is a hearty dish featuring boiled pork sausage served with lentils. It is traditionally enjoyed on New Year’s Eve to symbolize good luck and prosperity for the coming year.

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out in Mantua, as the city is home to numerous excellent restaurants that showcase the best of local cuisine.

13 Best Restaurants in Mantua, Italy

Mantuan cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition and showcases the region’s agricultural bounty. The fertile land surrounding the city provides an abundance of fresh ingredients, which form the foundation of many delicious dishes.

Now, let’s check out the must-visit restaurants in Mantua, Italy, highlighting the city’s unique flavors and local specialties.

1. Trattoria Due Cavallini

You’ve got to check out this charming and historic trattoria, right by the old town. They serve regional pastas, hearty stews, and the house Lambrusco wine.

Trattoria Due Cavallini has been around for a while and even has a garden covered in wisteria. For a romantic dinner or a big group, their cozy backyard works like a charm.

The menu is something special, too. They whip up amazing authentic Mantuan dishes like maccheroncini con stracotto d’asino (that’s pasta with donkey meat), pumpkin tortelli, and agnoli with stewed meat sauce. The cured meats are simply incredible!

Go for the small bottle of wine instead of a glass; it’s a better deal. They’ve got a bunch of local wine brands, and they won’t break the bank.

You’ve got to try their sweet chocolate salami and the mouthwatering Elvezia cake for a perfect finish. Your taste buds are definitely in for a huge treat here!

2. Carlo Govi Ristorante

You can easily walk to Carlo Govi ​​from Palazzo Te, and it’s a delightful find.

The tasting menu offers generous portions of delicious dishes. The food is excellent, the service is friendly, and there are plenty of gluten-free options.

Don’t miss their carpaccio and pasta with zucchini flowers – the carpaccio might be the best you’ve ever had. They also serve outstanding dishes like buckwheat pappardelle with duck sauce and super imperial lasagna. The pumpkin soup is really flavorful, and you can even customize the tartare to your liking.

Carlo Govi’s coffee ice cream and mascarpone Bavarian cream are fantastic, so make sure to save room for dessert!

Carlo Govi Ristorante focuses on local and seasonal menus, using high-quality ingredients and skillful cooking techniques. The experience is so good that it’s worth a trip to Mantua just to savor their food!

3. Osteria delle Quattro Tette

The environment at Osteria delle Quattro Tette is very clean, and the staff are friendly and helpful. The food is extraordinary, perfectly embodying the essence of an osteria.

The place is adorned with charming frescoes and offers authentic Mantuan cuisine. The dishes are gorgeous, simple, seasonal, and made with local ingredients.

Their house red wines, especially the lambrusco, perfectly complements the osteria’s offerings such as polenta, crepes, fettucine with seasonal greens, and local fish. For dessert, they have chocolate budino and apple cake.

Osteria delle Quattro Tette has a simple yet essential vibe. They don’t take reservations, so you might wait a bit for a meal, especially since it is always filled with locals.

Osteria delle Quattro Tette is highly recommend if you’re in or near Mantua. And if you’re not nearby, consider planning a trip to experience their worth-it lunch!

4. Lo Scalco Grasso – Osteria Contemporanea

This restaurant is Mantua’s gem! Here, the food is incredible and comes with a unique twist.

Lo Scalco Grasso serves traditional dishes, not just from Italy but specific to the city of Mantua, and they’re cooked to perfection. The owner and staff are super friendly, making the experience even better.

The place is so welcoming, and they offer a wide range of local dishes and wines. You must try the pumpkin tortelli, deer tartare with red fruits, Monaco ring with eggnog, and the delightful coffee mousse with chocolate crumble and mint-marinated apples – they’re absolutely amazing. If you’re a seafood fan, definitely go for the scallops with black pasta – highly recommended!

The ambiance at Lo Scalco Grasso is clean and quiet, and they have a great wine selection. The prices are reasonable, especially for the quality of the food. The service is excellent, and you won’t believe how affordable it is.

Seriously, this is easily one of the best restaurants you’ll ever come across in Italy!

5. Osteria dell’Oca

Are you looking for a charming, cozy restaurant where you can savor traditional local dishes and homemade pasta in a relaxed atmosphere while in Mantua? Look no further than Osteria dell’Oca.

This wonderful little gem is known for its friendly service and fantastic Mantova cuisine, especially their mouthwatering pasta. If you’re looking to avoid the typical “tourist menus,” this place is a must-visit!

They offer authentic local food in a rustic, down-to-earth setting that’s simply delightful. The mixed salumi with polenta appetizer is a personal favorite. Be adventurous and sample meats like donkey, rabbit, and steak. Don’t leave without trying their delectable tiramisu.

You’ll find the staff at this osteria to be warm and welcoming, and the local food and wine are superb. It’s an atmospheric experience like no other.

The whole ambiance is nice and informal, yet well-kept, making it a favorite among locals. Osteria dell’Oca also boasts generous portions at very reasonable prices.

As a bonus, they also cater to vegetarians. Try the tortelli with zucca and pear mustard for a delightful surprise!

6. Sucar Brusc Ristorante

Embark on a culinary journey at Sucar Brusc Ristorante in Mantua, where they’ve reimagined pasta, meat dishes, desserts, and wine to offer an authentic taste of the city’s cuisine.

Upon entering, the staff warmly welcomes you, treating you like a part of their extended family. Their team’s expertise ensures each dish is a flavorful masterpiece. Be sure to explore their thoughtfully curated wine selection, enhancing your dining experience.

Every plate is a culinary masterpiece, thoughtfully presented and composed of the freshest regional ingredients. You’ll savor the harmonious flavors and the distinct character of each dish.

However, it’s worth noting that the outdoor seating, while charming, is situated near a public road. Despite this, the exceptional dining experience more than compensates for the minor inconvenience.

7. Trattoria La Stella

Prepare to be delighted by meticulously crafted menus that offer a culinary experience like no other. Trattoria La Stella is a hidden gem, tucked away from the usual dining spots, promises simply delicious dishes you are sure to love.

Your visit here promises a fantastic journey through local cuisine with three enticing options for primi piatti, including the must-try risotto alla pilota, ravioli, and a daily pasta special. A bottle of Lambrusco perfectly complements your meal.

For travelers passing through the region, this place is an absolute must-stop. Nestled just a few kilometers from Mantua’s center, it’s a well-kept and welcoming establishment. The staff are not only exceptionally kind but also dedicated to showcasing the best of local products.

Trattoria La Stella features dishes like pumpkin tortelli, tagliatelle with duck sauce, local cured meats, wild boar stew with polenta, and homemade desserts. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the sweet local wine, a hidden gem in itself.

Their commitment to homemade goodness extends to pasta, bread, and breadsticks, guaranteeing consistently excellent, well-balanced, and flavorful dishes.

If you’re seeking recommendations, the gnocchi and the tender, flavorful fillet steak come highly recommended – put your trust in the hands of the chef and prepare to be amazed!

8. Ristorante Tiratappi

Experience the best of Mantuan and Sicilian cuisine in a fantastic setting adorned with wood-beamed ceilings and tiled floors. Without a doubt, Ristorante Tiratappi ranks among the best restaurants in Mantua.

Prepare your tummy for a journey of delicious flavors. The food at this ristorante is a culinary delight, complemented by impeccable service in a warm and cozy atmosphere. You’ll find yourself savoring dishes like the homemade bigoli with Mediterranean sardines and the tortelli di zucca with butter and sage, both bursting with flavor.

This restaurant boasts a beautiful location, an enticing menu, and a friendly and attentive staff. Please note that there is a cover fee of €3 per person, which is certainly well-deserved.

If you prefer dining al fresco, you’re in luck – you can enjoy your meal in a picturesque square just behind Basilica di Sant’Andrea.

The majority of the dishes feature locally sourced ingredients from the Mantova area, making it an excellent choice for those seeking traditional flavors. However, they also add a modern twist to some recipes to proved its diners with a delightful fusion of old and new tastes.

9. Osteria Da Giannino

Located on a serene street in Mantua’s center, Osteria Da Giannino provides a unique retreat from the bustling tourist areas while embracing the city’s rich history.

If you have a penchant for seafood, booking a table here is a must. Not only do they offer a delectable seafood selection, but they also provide English-speaking assistance to make your ordering experience smooth. In terms of wine, their suggestions are impeccably spot-on.

Now, let’s talk about the prices. While they may be a tad higher than the average, the exceptional service and warm, friendly staff make every penny worthwhile.

Osteria Da Giannino excels not only in seafood but also in local delights like tortelli di zucca and cacio e pepe con scampi – both to die for!

As for beverages, their Italian wine selection is impressive, and don’t forget to savor their espresso.

From the exquisite fish dishes to the incredibly fresh desserts and fruits, everything at Osteria Da Giannino boasts the highest quality. The food is simply amazing, and the people behind it make the experience even more memorable. Trust me; it’s worth every cent!

10. Osteria della Fragoletta

Welcome to a cozy haven where you’ll find home-style pasta, hearty meat dishes, and a selection of cold cuts, all served in an unassuming yet inviting setting.

Osteria della Fragoletta offers a taste of the local cuisine, complete with delightful wine pairings. While it may lean towards the pricier side, the quality and execution of the dishes make it worth the price. Don’t miss their yummy tortelli di zucca and other famous regional specialties.

The restaurant boasts a simple interior, but what sets it apart is the exceptionally friendly service. Begin your culinary journey with treats like salame Mantovano paired with warm bread, a refreshing spinach salad with melon, or shrimp with lime oil and sesame seeds.

Truly, this is one of the finest osterias if you’re seeking authentic Mantuan flavors. The staff’s warmth and the soothing ambiance add to the overall experience. Surprisingly, its location away from the main square hasn’t dimmed its popularity among locals and tourists alike.

To secure your spot, consider arriving early or making a reservation.

11. Restaurant Il Cigno – Trattoria dei Martini

Nestled in the heart of Mantova, Il Cigno offers a dining experience that’s both steeped in history and graced with a modern touch. This restaurant blends a historic setting with outstanding service and exceptional cuisine, setting it apart in the city. It also boasts a beautiful garden.

While prices may be on the higher side, the value for money is exceptional, making it a top recommendation for the best restaurants in Mantua. Prepare for an absolutely fabulous dinner that’s a must for anyone visiting the city. The food is excellent, and the wine list is equally impressive.

Expect flavors that are delicious without overwhelming your palate, and save room for their delectable desserts. Standout dishes like the non-fried eggplant Parmesan and the guinea fowl leg will leave a lasting impression.

With friendly and polite staff, Il Cigno is truly a wonderful discovery that we highly recommend to anyone visiting or passing through Mantua. Don’t miss the chance to experience this exceptional trattoria.

12. Osteria Regale

A genuinely delightful experience awaits you at Osteria Regale! As soon as you step in, you’ll be greeted by courteous, friendly, and highly competent staff.

The menu offers a wide range of dishes, from simple yet satisfying options suitable for children to more refined and uniquely flavored choices. What ties it all together is the excellent quality of the ingredients used.

Don’t forget to explore their selection of local wines, which pairs wonderfully with your meal. And when it comes to pricing, it’s more than fair for the overall experience you receive.

Now, let’s talk about the ambiance. Osteria Regale is truly a sight to behold. The location exudes elegance, and to top it off, there’s live music that adds a magical touch to your evening.

If you happen to be in the area, consider yourself lucky to find the Osteria Regale (“Royal Tavern”). Your taste buds and your senses will thank you for it!

13. La Bottega della Pizza

Step into a welcoming, homey restaurant where the focus is on traditional pasta, hearty meat dishes, and mouthwatering cold cuts, all served in a cozy setting.

La Bottega della Pizza is a hidden gem, highly appreciated by locals for its scrumptious offerings. Imagine delicious bites that resemble focaccia, but with an array of fantastic toppings! What sets them apart is the exceptional quality of ingredients and the inventive combinations you won’t find elsewhere. It’s a unique opportunity to try something truly out of the ordinary.

Keep in mind that the venue isn’t overly spacious, so La Bottega della Pizza is ideal for a quick meal or take-out. Don’t leave without sampling their diverse pizza options and special dishes like vegetable quiches.

If you’re looking for a slice of pizza heaven, the pan pizza at La Bottega della Pizza is a Mantua specialty you won’t want to miss.