Waukesha County's Italian Dining Guide

Waukesha County offers an impressive diversity of Italian dining—from 70-year-old institutions to new openings, lakeside fine dining to beloved neighborhood pizzerias. This guide covers more than 50 Italian restaurants across Waukesha, Brookfield, Pewaukee, Delafield, Hartland, Oconomowoc, New Berlin, Muskego, and surrounding communities, helping families discover authentic trattorias, Chicago-style pizza specialists, and everything in between.

The standout destinations include Michael's Italian Restaurant in Waukesha (a family favorite since 1955), Lago Su Bella in Oconomowoc (stunning lakeside Italian), Balistreri's Bluemound Inn near Brookfield (legendary thin-crust), and the celebrated Chef Michael Feker restaurants in Lake Country. For pizza purists, the county delivers Chicago deep-dish at Lou Malnati's, Brooklyn coal-fired at Grimaldi's, and Wisconsin cracker-thin crust at local legends like Jimmy's Grotto.

Waukesha city anchors the county's Italian scene

Michael's Italian Restaurant stands as the premier family Italian destination in Waukesha proper. Located at 1400 S. Grand Ave, this white-tablecloth establishment has served homemade Italian since 1955. The menu features everything from traditional chicken marsala and eggplant parmigiana to their famous homemade pizza and signature ponza (deep-fried calzone). Entrees range $12-25, and the restaurant offers a full bar with an extensive wine list. Monday and Tuesday bring exceptional value with a large pizza, antipasto salad, and garlic bread with cheese for $35.99. Perfect for birthdays and anniversaries, Michael's accepts reservations and offers catering. Call (262) 549-0406 or visit michaelsitalianrestaurant.net.

Mia's Kitchen & Pizzeria at 800 Clinton Street provides a cozier, more intimate Italian experience. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 4 PM (closed Monday-Tuesday), this small restaurant features two dining areas with traditional Italian décor that reviewers describe as feeling "like dining in Italy." Their spinach lasagna draws vegetarian acclaim, while the house-made tiramisu and cannoli satisfy dessert cravings. Thursday brings lasagna specials. Mia's emphasizes everything homemade with fresh vegetables and pasta. Call (262) 547-6503 or visit miasofwaukesha.com. DoorDash delivery and full catering services available.

Jimmy's Grotto claims the title of Waukesha's oldest pizza restaurant, serving continuously since 1946 from 314 E. Main St. Their legendary Ponza Rotta—a deep-fried calzone invented here by co-owner Rosie Ruccia in the 1940s—cannot be found anywhere else. This crispy creation filled with pizza sauce, mozzarella, and your choice of toppings starts around $5.25, making it one of the area's best budget Italian options. Open until 11 PM Friday-Saturday, Jimmy's operates Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-10 PM. Call (262) 542-1500 or visit jimmysgrotto.com. Limited dine-in seating suits this primarily takeout operation.

For Chicago-style deep dish, Rosati's Pizza at 310 W St Paul Ave delivers authentic buttery crust loaded with mozzarella and chunky Pomodoro tomatoes. This five-generation family brand (established 1964) offers both deep dish and their "double dough" pizza with hand-rolled edges. Hours run Monday-Thursday 10 AM-9 PM, Friday 10 AM-10 PM, Saturday-Sunday 11 AM-10/9 PM. The Fabulous Four (sausage, mushrooms, onions, green peppers) goes for $15.99. Call (262) 574-1111 or visit myrosatis.com/waukesha.

Glass Nickel Pizza Co. opened their 10th Wisconsin location at 116 E Sunset Dr in early 2025. This eco-minded chain emphasizes community involvement and maintains their own delivery team rather than outsourcing to apps. Open daily 10 AM-9 PM, their specialty pizzas with sides run about $28 for a 16-inch. Call (262) 888-4008 or visit glassnickelpizza.com.

Magellan's on Main St at 370 W Main St combines craft beer culture with creative pizza. Their stone oven produces specialty pizzas including the "Dirty Dirty Welcome to Waukesha" (BBQ pork, mac and cheese bites, coleslaw) and classics like Margherita. The real draw: 56 unique beer taps—the most in Waukesha. Open late (until 2 AM Friday-Saturday), this makes an excellent choice for date nights or adult gatherings. Tuesday-Wednesday 3 PM-11 PM, Thursday 3 PM-1 AM, Friday 3 PM-2 AM, Saturday 11 AM-2 AM, Sunday 11 AM-11 PM, closed Monday. Call (262) 542-0420.

Sal's Pizza at 823B W. Moreland Blvd focuses on delivery with generous daily specials. Tuesday features an 18-inch 3-topping pizza for $20.99; Friday brings fish fry at $11.99. Open Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 AM-9/10 PM, Sunday 2 PM-9 PM, closed Monday. Call (262) 970-5701 or visit salspizzaandmore.com.

Brookfield upscale Italian and legendary pizza

Balistreri's Bluemound Inn sits just across the Brookfield border at 6501 W. Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee and represents the area's most acclaimed Italian-American dining. This family-owned institution since 1968 combines supper club elegance (white tablecloths) with exceptional food. Their thin-crust pizza consistently wins "Milwaukee's Best" accolades, while Pasta Balistreri (Italian sausage, peppers, fresh mozzarella, marinara) and made-from-scratch lasagna draw devoted regulars. The kitchen stays open until 11 PM Sunday-Thursday and 1 AM Friday-Saturday—rare for the area. Full bar with craft beers, extensive wine, and ice cream drinks. Outdoor patio seating in season. Shuttle service available to Milwaukee sporting events. Closed Tuesdays. Call (414) 475-1414 or visit balistreris.com. Price range $$-$$$.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria brings Chicago deep-dish legend to 15795 W Bluemound Road (Brookfield Square). The family name spans 50+ years in Chicago pizza history. "The Lou"—their signature deep dish with exclusive sausage blend, spinach, and famous buttercrust—defines authentic Chicago-style. Open late (until midnight Friday-Saturday, 11 PM other nights), Lou Malnati's offers outdoor patio seating, delivery, and ships frozen pizzas nationwide. Reservations available via OpenTable. Call (414) 930-4500 or visit loumalnatis.com/brookfield.

Grimaldi's Pizzeria at The Corners of Brookfield (20119 Lord Street, Space J-101) delivers Brooklyn-style coal-fired pizza—a rare find in Wisconsin. Their traditional coal-fired brick oven creates signature charred, crispy-yet-chewy crust using a secret-recipe sauce and fresh handmade mozzarella. The vintage NYC décor completes the experience. Pizza by the slice available until 3 PM. Open Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-10 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-11 PM. Group dining requires 72-hour advance notice for parties of 8+. Call (262) 785-1115 or visit grimaldispizzeria.com.

Bravo Italian Kitchen at 95 N Moorland Rd offers Roman-ruin themed décor in an upscale-casual setting. Their Pasta Woozie (grilled chicken, fresh fettuccine, house alfredo, spinach) and Shrimp Fra Diavolo showcase the menu's range. Weekday happy hour (3-6 PM) features $8 drinks and menu items; Wine Wednesday and Martini Thursday bring $7 specials. Weekend brunch served until 3 PM. Outdoor terrace seating available. Hours run 11 AM-10/11 PM daily (9:30 PM Sunday). Call (262) 785-0858 or visit bravoitalian.com.

Carrabba's Italian Grill at 18375 W Bluemound Rd features an exhibition kitchen with wood-burning grill visible to diners. Signature dishes include Chicken Bryan (wood-grilled with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, basil lemon butter) and Pollo Rosa Maria (chicken stuffed with fontina and prosciutto). Kids menu available for ages 10 and under. Happy hour 4-7 PM daily in bar area. Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-9 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-10 PM. Call (262) 797-2548.

Jet's Pizza at 2491 N 124th St specializes in Detroit-style square pizza with crispy, caramelized cheese edges. Their signature "8 Corner Pizza" ensures everyone gets a coveted corner piece. Free "Turbo Crust" flavorization (butter, romano, garlic, cajun, or other options) distinguishes every order. Gluten-free available. Open Monday-Thursday 10 AM-10 PM, Friday-Saturday 10 AM-11 PM, Sunday 11 AM-10 PM. Call (262) 788-5007 or visit jetspizza.com.

Additional Brookfield options include Olive Garden (18180 W Bluemound Rd, consistent family chain dining), Jimano's Pizzeria (17135 W Capitol Drive—Chicago thin crust with half-price pizza Wednesdays), Rosati's Pizza (17565 W North Ave), Glass Nickel Pizza (13175 W Bluemound Rd, Elm Grove area), and The Red Mill Inn & Pizza (1005 S Elm Grove Rd—historic neighborhood tavern with Friday fish fry and live jazz).

Lake Country: Scenic dining with chef-driven excellence

Western Waukesha County's Lake Country communities—Pewaukee, Delafield, Hartland, and Oconomowoc—deliver some of the region's most memorable Italian experiences, often with stunning lakeside settings.

Pewaukee lakefront options shine

La Tavola Italiana at 161 W Wisconsin Ave, Suite 1H opened in 2024 directly across from Pewaukee Lakefront Beach. Chef Llazar Konda specializes in pinsa—a lighter, healthier Roman-style pizza with airy crust—alongside traditional Italian fare like arancini, chicken parmesan, and lombo di maiale (pork loins with polenta). Indoor and outdoor seating offer lake views. Gluten-free pinsa available. Hours: Monday-Thursday 4-9 PM, Friday-Saturday 4-10 PM, closed Sunday. Reservations recommended. Call (262) 696-4301 or visit latavolaonthebeach.com. Price range $$-$$$.

Doc's Dry Dock at N38W27091 Parkside Rd overlooks Pewaukee Lake's north shore—arrive by car, boat, or swim. This beloved dive bar has served Wisconsin cracker-thin crust pizza for over 30 years, earning 2nd place for Best Pizza in Milwaukee (2014). Their BBQ Chicken Pizza and Hawaiian Woody draw regulars. Gluten-free 10-inch available. Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 4-10 PM, Sunday 4-9 PM, closed Monday-Tuesday. Call (262) 691-9947 or visit docsdrydock.com.

Park Avenue Pizza Company Pub & Restaurant at 121 Park Ave occupies the former Lake Theater building—a 43+ year family operation where remnants of the original theater architecture remain visible. Nearly 30 pizza toppings available plus broasted chicken dinners. Their craft beer selection includes 120+ varieties. Gluten-free crust option. Delivery to Pewaukee Lake Beach. Private banquet room available. Hours: Wednesday-Thursday 4-9 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-10 PM, Sunday 11 AM-8 PM, closed Monday-Tuesday. Website: parkavenuepizzacompany.com.

Noah's Pizza at 220 Oakton Ave delivers exceptional value with generous portions. Daily specials include 16-inch 3-topping pizza for $17.99 and chicken parmesan pasta for $8.50. Their diverse menu extends beyond pizza to Italian pastas and more. Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 9 AM-9 PM, Friday-Saturday 10 AM-9 PM, Sunday 1-8 PM, closed Monday. Call (262) 696-8001 or visit noahspizzapewaukee.com.

Delafield features acclaimed chef restaurants

Zin Uncommon California Italian in downtown Delafield holds the #1 TripAdvisor rating with 500+ reviews. This California-Italian fusion concept combines West Coast freshness with Italian tradition. Nightly specials include Steak Night (Monday), Throwback Tuesday, Date Night (Wednesday), and Half-Priced Wine (Thursday). Happy hour cocktails $9. Reservations recommended at (262) 646-5959 or visit zincredible.com. Price range $$-$$$.

IL Mito Cafe at 515 Wells Street belongs to Chef Michael Feker's celebrated restaurant group. White-tablecloth elegance meets welcoming atmosphere with creative Italian and Mediterranean dishes, pasta flights, and cheese boards. Happy hour Monday-Thursday 4:30-6 PM. Hours: Monday-Thursday 4:30-8 PM, Friday-Saturday 4:30-9 PM, closed Sunday. Reservations via Tock. Delivery available for $3.99. Call (262) 303-5070 or visit ilmitocafe.com.

Angelina's Ristorante at 621 Milwaukee Street showcases family recipes handed down through generations, with walls lined with photos of the family members who inspired the restaurant. Lounge drink specials run 4-6 PM (Wednesday: $6 rail Old Fashioneds; Thursday: $6 house wines; Sunday: $6 house red sangria). Full catering available. Hours: Wednesday-Thursday 4-8 PM, Friday-Saturday 4-9 PM, Sunday 4-8 PM, closed Monday-Tuesday. Call (262) 303-4926 or visit angelinasdelafield.com.

Giuseppe's Pizzeria at 615 Main Street specializes in "thin crust heaven" under new ownership that enhanced customer service. Outstanding thin crust and homemade Italian sausage. Hours: Sunday and Saturday 11 AM-8/9 PM, Monday and Wednesday-Thursday 4-8 PM, Friday 3-9 PM, closed Tuesday. DoorDash available. Call (262) 337-9800 or visit giuseppesdelafield.com.

Marty's Pizza at 2580 Sun Valley Dr has served Southern Wisconsin for 60+ years with homemade dough, original marinara, and 100% Wisconsin mozzarella. Kids meals available. Daily pizza specials every day of the week. Full catering for weddings and events. Call (262) 646-3327 or visit martyspizzadelafield.com.

Hartland hosts chef-driven destinations

Zesti Restaurant at 130 E Capitol Drive serves as Chef Michael Feker's Lake Country flagship—regularly called "the best restaurant in Lake Country." Signature dishes include Ravioli di Granchio (blue crab, ricotta, spinach) and Gnocchi Veneziana (basil pesto, fresh shrimp). Hours: Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday 5-8 PM, Friday-Saturday 5-9 PM, closed Monday. Reservations highly recommended via Tock. Call (262) 367-3333 or visit zestieatery.com. Price range $$-$$$.

The Inn at 110 Cottonwood Avenue opened in 2025 emphasizing "honest food, thoughtful wine" with a central wood-fired oven. Sommelier Maddie curates a wine list featuring small producers emphasizing natural expression. Chef Matt brings global technique to seasonal, sustainable ingredients. Now serving lunch Thursday-Saturday 11 AM-2 PM. Dinner hours: Tuesday-Saturday 4:30-9 PM. Call (262) 361-4079 or visit theinnhartland.com. Price range $$$-$$$$.

Falbo Bros Pizzeria at 418 Merton Ave created their own unique pizza style—neither Chicago nor New York, but a blend of both with house-made dough and sauce. Highly rated on Google (4.4 stars) and Yelp (4.6 stars). iOS and Android apps for ordering. Call (262) 367-2700 or visit falbopizza.com.

D'Eli Pizza at 600 Hartbrook Drive, Suite 104 focuses on fresh handmade everything—dough made daily, locally made sausage, creative options like loaded potato pizza (ranch, tater tots, bacon, chives). Bundle deals start at $26.99 for XL pizza with sides and soda. Visit delipizzallc.com.

Oconomowoc delivers lakeside elegance

Lago Su Bella at 126 W Wisconsin Ave translates to "on a beautiful lake"—and delivers on that promise with stunning Lac La Belle views. Featured on America's Best Restaurants, this casual-elegant Italian emphasizes fresh seafood (never frozen), homemade pasta, and seasonal menus. Dishes include branzino, risotto, homemade meatballs, gnocchi, and house-made tiramisu and gelato. A spacious bar with open-concept kitchen views anchors the space. Reservations available 14 days in advance, but walk-in tables held nightly. Hours: Monday, Wednesday-Thursday, Sunday 4-9 PM, Friday-Saturday 4-10 PM, closed Tuesday. Happy hour available. Call (262) 354-3440 or visit lagosubella.com. Price range $$-$$$.

Bella Gusto Italian Deli & Pizzeria at 29 S. Main Street delivers more than restaurant—it's a full Italian experience combining eatery, deli, and wine shop. Their Italian brick pizza oven produces acclaimed pizzas and pinsas (reviewers call it "the best crust in the area"). The deli counter features cured meats; extensive wine selection available by glass, bottle, or for "Stock Your Cellar" events. Come as you are—highchairs and booster seats available. First-come, first-served seating. Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 11 AM-8 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-9 PM, closed Sunday-Monday. Call (262) 354-3132 or visit bellagustomarket.com.

Johnny Pizzas & Pastaria at 1288 Summit Ave offers full-service Italian dining with extensive bar. Their happy hour runs Monday-Thursday 3-6 PM and Friday-Sunday 11 AM-4 PM with half-off apps and tappers. Private party room available for events. Hours: daily 11 AM-10 PM. Call (262) 560-0066 or visit johnnypizzas.com.

Southern communities harbor hidden gems

New Berlin pizza heritage runs deep

Armeli's Restaurant & Pizzeria at 16201 W National Ave embodies multi-generational Italian-American tradition with their motto "Buon Cibo, Buon Vino, Buoni Amici" (Good Food, Good Wine, Good Friends). Famous pizza, broasted chicken, and Friday Night Fish Fry draw regulars. Family photos line the walls; reviewers describe dining here as "like Nonna's kitchen." Full bar. Hours: Monday, Wednesday-Sunday 4 PM-close, closed Tuesday. Call (262) 786-6699 or visit armelisrestaurant.com.

Giuseppi's Pizzeria at 14185 W Greenfield Ave has operated since 1951—making it one of the oldest family pizza operations in greater Milwaukee. Three generations of family recipes produce flavorful hand-tossed crust with generous toppings. Carryout only (no dine-in). Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 4-8/9 PM, closed Monday. Call (262) 641-5490 or visit giuseppispizzeria.com.

Zaffiro's Pizzeria at 5200 S Moorland Rd (inside Marcus Ridge Cinema) brings the legendary Milwaukee institution (since 1954) to New Berlin. Their THINCREDIBLE® thin-crust pizza uses sliced (not grated) cheese—a signature technique. Full bar with happy hour 3-6 PM. Convenient dinner-and-movie location. Patio dining available. Hours: Monday and Wednesday-Thursday 3:30-8:30 PM, Tuesday 3:30-10 PM, Friday-Saturday 11:30 AM-10 PM, Sunday 11:30 AM-8:30 PM. Reservations via OpenTable. Call (262) 797-8759 or visit zaffiros.com.

Crossroads II Pizza & Subs at 13976 W Beloit Rd has operated since the early 1990s, founded by brothers Lenny and Gary Vandenboom. Known for homemade thin-crust, custom Italian sausage (made to their specifications by Prize Steak Products), and Sunday Hot Hammies tradition (8 AM-1 PM). Family Packs run $27.99 for large pizza, garlic bread, and 2-liter. Gluten-free 14-inch available ($14.99). Delivery within 5 miles. Call (414) 425-6660 or visit crossroadspizzasubs.com.

Muskego and surrounding communities

Leah's Italian Restaurante at S63W13640 W Janesville Rd, Muskego hides exceptional Italian in an unassuming strip mall. Their thin and crispy pizza, legendary garlic bread, and acclaimed lasagna (called "the best in the area") use the same recipes that made Capri in West Allis famous. Ranked #1 restaurant in Muskego on multiple platforms. Parties To Go packages available. Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 4-8 PM, Friday 4-9 PM; check website for Saturday-Sunday hours. Call (414) 425-6161 or visit leahsmuskego.com.

ZA at 13300 Watertown Plank Road, Elm Grove opened April 2024 as a modern Italian trattoria. Sisters Gabbi and Betsi Zierath created a space featuring authentic Italian tiles, arches, and a wood-burning oven imported from Italy. CIA-trained Chef Michael McGee crafts handmade pastas and artisan dough. The spicy pepperoni Neapolitan pizza and spicy rigatoni vodka draw praise. Garage-door windows open for seasonal dining. Gluten-free pasta and pizza available. Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 4-9 PM, Friday-Saturday 4-10 PM, Sunday 4-8:30 PM, closed Monday. Reservations via SpotOn. Call (262) 289-9335 or visit za-elmgrove.com.

Genoa Pizza Italian Restaurant at 225 Bay View Rd, Suite 500, Mukwonago carries three generations of family recipes. Kids find games available; adults appreciate handcrafted pizzas and Italian beef. Voted Mukwonago's Favorite Pizza. Hours: Monday and Sunday 3-9 PM, Tuesday-Saturday 11 AM-9 PM. Online ordering and delivery available. Call (262) 368-5336 or visit genoapizzamukwonago.com.

That Place at 1015 E Veterans Way, Mukwonago offers industrial-vibe atmosphere where guests can leave marks on artist-inspired tabletops. Live acoustic music Thursdays at 5 PM, Second Sunday Blues events. Sunday brunch starting 9 AM. Also voted Mukwonago's Favorite Pizza. Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 4-8 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-9 PM, Sunday 9 AM-7 PM, closed Monday. Call (262) 378-3101 or visit thatplacemuk.com.

Crossroads Pizza & Sub Shoppe at W229S8680 Big Bend Dr, Big Bend represents the original location opened roughly 30 years ago by the Vandenboom brothers. Same outstanding lasagna and generous toppings that built the brand. Hours mirror the New Berlin location. Call (262) 662-4466.

Quick-reference guide by dining style

Fine dining and special occasions merit reservations at Lago Su Bella (Oconomowoc lakeside), The Inn (Hartland wood-fired), Zesti and IL Mito Cafe (Chef Feker's Lake Country concepts), Balistreri's Bluemound Inn (supper club elegance), or ZA (Elm Grove modern trattoria).

Family-friendly casual dining thrives at Michael's Italian Restaurant (Waukesha), Armeli's (New Berlin), Leah's Italian (Muskego), Genoa Pizza (Mukwonago), Angelina's (Delafield), and Bravo Italian Kitchen (Brookfield).

Pizza specialists include Jimmy's Grotto (Waukesha—home of the Ponza Rotta since 1946), Lou Malnati's (Brookfield—Chicago deep dish), Grimaldi's (Brookfield—Brooklyn coal-fired), Jet's Pizza (Brookfield—Detroit-style), Falbo Bros (Hartland—unique house style), Doc's Dry Dock (Pewaukee—Wisconsin cracker-thin), and Giuseppi's (New Berlin—since 1951).

Lakeside and scenic dining await at Lago Su Bella (Lac La Belle), La Tavola Italiana (Pewaukee Beach), and Doc's Dry Dock (Pewaukee Lake north shore—arrive by boat).

Budget-friendly options include Jimmy's Grotto (Ponza Rottas from ~$5.25), Noah's Pizza (Pewaukee), Crossroads locations (New Berlin, Big Bend), Sal's Pizza (Waukesha), and Marty's Pizza (Delafield—60+ years serving families).

Late-night Italian runs until 2 AM at Magellan's on Main (Waukesha) Friday-Saturday, until midnight at Lou Malnati's (Brookfield) Friday-Saturday, and until 1 AM at Balistreri's (Milwaukee/Brookfield border) Friday-Saturday.

Waukesha County's Italian scene

The county's Italian restaurants reveal distinct regional pizza styles rarely found together elsewhere. Chicago deep-dish arrives authentically at Lou Malnati's (50+ year family legacy) and Rosati's (five generations). Brooklyn coal-fired comes via Grimaldi's 100-year tradition. Detroit-style square pizza with caramelized cheese edges appears at Jet's. Wisconsin cracker-thin crust thrives at Doc's Dry Dock and Zaffiro's. And the Ponza Rotta—invented in Waukesha in the 1940s—exists nowhere else on Earth except Jimmy's Grotto.

Chef Michael Feker's restaurant group (Zesti, IL Mito Cafe) has elevated Lake Country dining significantly, while 2024-2025 openings like La Tavola Italiana, ZA, The Inn, and Glass Nickel's Waukesha location signal continued growth. Legacy establishments—Giuseppi's (1951), Zaffiro's (1954), Michael's (1955), Balistreri's (1968), Marty's (60+ years)—prove the region's Italian traditions endure.

Families planning Italian dining in Waukesha County will find options from $5 Ponza Rottas to elegant lakeside fine dining, kid-friendly pizzerias to romantic trattorias, and everything between. The guide above represents current information as of late 2025—calling ahead remains advisable for hours confirmation, especially around holidays.