Italian joints are everywhere in Poznań—seriously, you can’t walk five minutes without spotting a spot slinging pizza and pasta. But here’s the kicker: this list isn’t about just any Italian food. We’re talking real-deal Italian, straight from the source. These places are owned by Italians who bring the flavors, the vibes, and the passion of Italy right to Poznań. So, expect nothing less than authentic dishes that’ll have you saying mamma mia with every bite. 🍝🍕

Marino Bistrot

If you’re hunting for that authentic Italian vibe, Marino Bistrot on Poznańska 50 in the foodie paradise of Jeżyce is the spot. This gem is run by Livio Marino, with his son Jakub holding it down by his side. Together, they’ve created a local favorite serving some of the most mouthwatering Italian dishes in the city and have been recommended by the Michelin guide in 2024! No wonder Marino Bistrot has cemented itself as one of the top go-to spots for Poznań’s Italian food lovers. 🍝✨

When it comes to the menu at Marino Bistrot, they primarily serve dishes with fresh seafood, as befits the region of Liguria whose Mediterranean coastline is known as the Italian Riviera. The menu includes dishes such as Spaghetti Riviera, which is homemade spaghetti pasta with mulmi, mussels, calamari, and shrimp in a sauce with white wine, usually served with Ligurian Vermentino or Garganega wine from the Veneto region. Their Ragu is also a must-try! We recommend though their CHITARRA NERA DELLA RIVIERA LIGURE, it is a cuttlefish-colored pasta with mullets, shrimp, squid, and clams in their own spicy sauce and wine. Absolutely delicious!

Smak Italy

Szyperska 3, Old town

The owner of Smak Italy might not be born Italian, but living in Sardinia for over half her life and being married to an Italian? That definitely earns them a spot on our exclusive list! When passion and authenticity mix like that, you know the food is gonna hit just right. 🍝🇮🇹

Smak Italy is bringing those Sardinian vibes straight to the streets of Poznań! This spot’s dripping with Mediterranean tradition, serving up flavors that hit deep. The Culurgiones—a Sardinian classic from Ogliastra—are pure comfort, but with the colder days rolling in, it’s all about their pumpkin ravioli and pumpkin risotto. Trust, it’s like autumn wrapped up in Italian goodness. If you’re hunting for that authentic vibe with a seasonal twist, this is where you wanna be. 🍂🍝🔥

Amici Miei

Rybaki 24/25, Old town

This Italian-owned gem pulls you straight into an authentic vibe the second you step through the door. Yeah, it’s one of the pricier spots on our list, but this place is about more than just food—it’s an experience. Think slow dining, soaking in the atmosphere, and chatting it up with the many Italians who make this their go-to. It’s a spot where you don’t just eat—you vibe, you connect, you live a little. 🍷🍝🇮🇹

This spot is pure Italian vibes—slow, soulful, and seriously indulgent. Forget fast food; here, dining is an event. People stay for hours, savoring every bite like true Italians do. And the co-owner, Ricardo? You’ll probably catch him out front, sipping wine or getting his espresso fix in their charming garden. It’s all about the vibe, the service, and, of course, the food.

The star? LA VOCE DEL MARE, a seafood platter that’s straight-up epic! Think shrimp and squid skewers, baked mussels, prawns, tempura squid and sprats, grilled cod, mussels soute, sea salad, shrimp-and-avocado cocktail, anchovy panini, and lobster Catalan style—all in one massive feast. It’s perfect for four people, but you might not want to share. Dive in, and let the flavors of the sea blow your mind! 🌊🍤🔥

Imaginarium

Pl. Bernardyński 1, Old town

Imaginarium is owned by Mirko who adds his incredible personality to every dish he prepares. Recently relocated to a more prominent place in Plac Bernardinski they have grown from strength to strength.

Simple things like every plate being a different color all add to the authenticity of Imaginarium and like the other restaurants on this list, it feels homely and cozy — as if the place is an extension of his home.

He does some wonderful things with a pizza such as the Catamarano for example. It gets its name from the catamaran boat. The pasta is to die for! That’s why they call this place Imaginarium which is taken from the word Imagination.