A-T-E in the 806: Local Favorite Italian Cuisine

By: Kayla Omukawila

When I think of my favorite Italian dishes, images of gooey cheese stringing out of a halved calzone, a saucy piece of New York-style pizza or a fork swirled with as much spaghetti marinara and meatballs as possible dance across my mind. For authentic, locally-owned restaurants featuring plates of delicious and genuine Italian cuisine, we have a complete list of the top four must-try restaurants that put Lubbock on the map! 

One Guy From Italy 50th Street
One look at the menu at this Lubbock staple will have your mouth watering. For over 40 years One Guy From Italy has been a local gem. A true time capsule of memories and delicious food, the recipes have been tested throughout time, ultimately naming them the home of the best calzone in Texas! From traditional minestrone soup and an array of subs – both hot and cold – to pasta dishes like the old-time favorite baked ziti, pasta lovers can’t go wrong by ordering anything off of this menu. 

They also offer a lunch special of two slices or a calzone with a drink for $7.50. Stop by this local favorite any day of the week!

Stella’s
Stella’s Italian restaurant holds a rich history, relating to its roots in New York. With their perfectly crafted high-end cuisine and warm decor, this is the place to be. At Stella’s, guests can have the best of both worlds with fresh, New-York Minute meals from the deli or a luxurious full course meal in the restaurant. Stella’s Deli features both hot and cold heroes in the front display as well as hot entrees like three cheese lasagna and specialty pizzas. 

In the main dining room, we recommend trying the Rizzo family spaghetti marinara. With a plethora of options including fresh seafood and locally grown produce and raised beef, Stella’s features the finest local ingredients.

Italian Garden
Italian Garden is a can’t miss in downtown Lubbock. With a scratch kitchen, meaning everything is made from scratch including the creamy sauces to the baked bread, this local favorite is as real as it gets. We recommend ordering anything in the pink sauce! From lobster ravioli to penne vodka, guests keep coming back for more. The perfect option for large celebrations or intimate dates, this local favorite welcomes guests in with the intimate vibes accompanied by the smell of fresh garlic toast. 

Orlando’s Italian Restaurant
Orlando’s is a Lubbock hotspot and a household name, being one of the oldest restaurants in town! Orlando’s Italian Restaurant creates a family-like atmosphere from the moment you enter the restaurant. The menu contains a variety of options to cater to everyone’s tastes, as it highlights Tex-Italian cuisine. From cheesy burgers to the vast selection of honorable fresh baked pasta and pizza, Orlando’s is a great option for the whole family. Visit Orlando’s at both locations on 24th andAve Q or 70th and Indiana.

Share your favorite Italian dish that offers a “Hub City” flare using #LiveLoveLubbock on social media. Buon appetito!