The best Italian restaurants in Erie, according to our readers

When it comes to Italian food, Erie, PA has some impressive selections, from Italian bakeries to locally owned pizza joints to satisfying, sit-down, family-style meals. 

Why does Erie love Italian food so much? Italian immigrants began flooding into the area between 1864-1895, and by 1911, more than 3,000 residents settled into Erie’s Little Italy. Some of those original families still reside in the area. Others came later. All brought their favorite family recipes with them. And while many of those recipes have remained the same for generations, others have been upgraded to suit a modern palate. 

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From timeless classics (I’m looking at you, lasagne) to modern farm-to-table dishes, Erie’s top Italian spots have earned high praise from our readers. If you’re ready to scarf down some amazing Italian food, check out the top two best Italian restaurants in Erie — according to our readers.

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2. Mi Scuzi Restaurant

Mi Scuzi Restaurant offers a unique blend of cozy ambiance and authentic Italian dishes. Located on a quaint street, Mi Scuzi welcomes guests with dim lighting, rustic decor, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s a great place to bring a date, plan a family outing, or have a quiet lunch with your grandma. 

The menu features some dishes that are straight from Italy and others that have a modern twist. It’s a great blend of classic and contemporary, welcoming every palate. Plus, their wine list is built to pair with your favorite dishes, complementing the flavors beautifully and adding a touch more sophistication to the overall experience. 

Mi Scuzi also excels in service. The staff’s friendliness and the restaurant’s overall welcoming vibe add to the experience, making it a prime spot for those seeking very good Italian food — or very good local food — while shopping at the Millcreek Mall.

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Honorable Mention: Lucero Eatery

Lucero Eatery was our reader’s number two choice for the best Italian food in Erie via write-ins. After carefully reviewing Lucero’s beautiful menu and mission statement — even though I have not yet dined at this new Erie restaurant myself — it has been confirmed that Lucero is not, in fact, an Italian restaurant. 

Lucero offers traditional Spanish fare, which is pretty similar to some Italian dishes given their shared Mediterranean roots. Both cuisines rely heavily on fresh vegetables, olive oil, seafood, cured meats, legumes, garlic, rice, pasta, and various forms of protein like fish and beef. Not to mention that both Spanish and Italian chefs of good measure are known for using fresh, farm-to-table ingredients when they can.

So I’m declaring it here and now: even though Lucero has only been open for a few months, I am naming it the best Spanish restaurant in Erie, PA. Do yourself a favor and stop in, try the croquettes, the crispy trout, and the Spanish almond cake. And please, report back. I want to hear all about it!

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1. Colao’s 

I had no doubt that Colao’s would take the crown as the best Italian restaurant in Erie. This cozy, classy, family-owned and operated bistro captures the essence of classic Italian dining yet elevates it with fresh, local ingredients. This restaurant has built a loyal following over the last thirty years, thanks to its warm, welcoming atmosphere, rotating farm-fresh menu, and amazing wine list.

Honestly, Colao’s wipes the floor with most other Italian joints in Erie. There’s nothing wrong with stuffed shells, linguine, or lasagna, but if you’re looking for an elevated date night experience, and you’re not afraid of throwing a few bucks around to enjoy a memorable meal and a good bottle of wine you won’t find anywhere else, this is the place.

The menu features some dishes that have been perfected over time and others with a modern touch. Colao’s also places a strong emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. This commitment is evident in everything they do. This isn’t just a great place for food. Wine lovers gather here, too. I have not, ever, had a bad meal, a corked glass of vino, or a bad experience here. And clearly, neither have our readers who voted for Colao’s in our survey. 

Service at Colao’s is attentive and personal, making you feel like part of the family. The staff’s dedication to making your meal memorable is evident in every interaction. This genuine hospitality, combined with their extraordinary cuisine is why everyone should visit Colao’s at least once.

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