Little Italy: Authentic Italian Dining in Inverness
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Inverness at Little Italy, a beloved local gem.
Little Italy is a charming Italian restaurant located at 8 Stephens Street in Inverness, offering an intimate and lively atmosphere with authentic Italian cuisine crafted by Italian chefs. Known for its friendly service, extensive menu, and cozy setting, it serves classic dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood, alongside a fine selection of wines. Open Monday to Saturday, it is a beloved spot for locals and visitors seeking genuine Italian flavors in the Scottish Highlands.
A brief summary to Little Italy
- 8 Stephens St, Inverness, IV2 3JN, GB
- +441463712963
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-9 pm
- Tuesday 5 pm-9 pm
- Wednesday 5 pm-9 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-9 pm
- Friday 12 pm-9 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Book a table in advance, especially on weekends, as the restaurant is small and often busy.
- Try the house specialties like carbonara, meatballs, and calzone for a true taste of Italy.
- Enjoy the outdoor terrace seating during warmer months for a relaxed dining experience.
- Ask the staff about daily specials or dishes not listed on the menu—they are happy to accommodate.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Little Italy location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Little Italy
A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Inverness
Little Italy brings a slice of authentic Italian culture to Inverness with its traditional trattoria vibe. Situated on Stephens Street, this intimate restaurant is run by Italians, from the kitchen to the waitstaff, ensuring genuine flavors and hospitality. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, often lively with the charm of an Italian dining experience, including occasional singing performances by the waiters that add to its unique character.Menu Highlights and Culinary Craftsmanship
The menu at Little Italy is extensive, offering a wide range of Italian favorites such as freshly made pasta, classic pizzas, and seafood dishes. Signature items include rich carbonara, flavorful meatballs, and the calzone filled with Bolognese sauce. The kitchen prides itself on using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, with the flexibility to prepare dishes not listed on the menu if ingredients are available. Desserts and a variety of Italian wines complement the meals, enhancing the overall dining experience.Ambience and Dining Experience
The restaurant’s cozy interior and friendly staff create an inviting environment perfect for couples, families, and groups. The space is relatively small, which can result in a bustling, vibrant atmosphere especially during peak times. The outdoor terrace offers an alternative seating option during warmer months. Guests often appreciate the attentive service, with staff going the extra mile to ensure satisfaction, including offering complimentary limoncello shots as a gesture of hospitality.Community and Cultural Significance
Little Italy stands out as the only traditional Italian-owned restaurant in Inverness city center, making it a cultural landmark for authentic Italian cuisine in the region. It attracts both locals and tourists who seek a genuine Italian dining experience away from the typical chain restaurants. The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and quality has earned it a loyal following and positive recognition within the community.Operating Hours and Practical Information
Open Monday through Saturday, Little Italy serves lunch and dinner, with hours generally from midday until late evening. It is closed on Sundays except during certain seasons. Booking ahead is recommended due to its popularity and limited seating. The location is accessible within Inverness and offers a comfortable setting for a casual yet refined meal.Notable Features and Visitor Tips
Visitors often highlight the restaurant’s lively atmosphere, the extensive menu variety, and the personable staff as key reasons to visit. The restaurant’s authentic Italian feel is enhanced by its Italian-speaking staff and chef, providing an immersive cultural experience. While the restaurant can get busy, the vibrant energy adds to its charm rather than detracts from it.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cheese & Tomatin
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Girvans
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Water filling station
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Cath's Inverness Tours
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Highlands with personalized tours from Cath's Inverness Tours, your expert guide to Scotland's rich heritage.
Nairn Book & Arts Festival
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Highland Hyacinth Fine jewellery & piercings
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WOW Scotland
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The Botanic House
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Inverness’s vibrant live music venue blending cocktails, pizza, and dynamic entertainment in a welcoming city-center setting.
Historic & Scenic Tours Inverness
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Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Scottish Highlands with Historic & Scenic Tours Inverness, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Waverley Guesthouse
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Inverness Big Ben
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Sign Patrick Sellar
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Caledonian Gifts & Souvenirs
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The Rendezvous Cafe Inverness
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Bella Italia - Inverness
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bella Italia in Inverness, where every dish is a celebration of flavor, warmth, and hospitality.
Unmissable attractions to see
Market Brae Steps
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Historic stone steps linking Inverness’s vibrant Crown district with its rich market heritage and scenic urban views.
National memorial of Scotland
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Explore the National Memorial of Scotland in Inverness, a profound tribute to the nation's rich history and cultural heritage.
Visit Inverness Loch Ness
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Historic Midmills Buildings transformed into a vibrant creative hub for artists, innovators, and cultural events in the heart of Inverness.
Lochness tours
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Discover the enchanting Loch Ness with guided tours that reveal the history, myths, and stunning beauty of Scotland’s most famous lake.
Walking Tours in Inverness
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Explore Inverness’s rich history and culture on engaging guided walking tours through its scenic old city streets.
Alan's Historical Walks
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Discover Inverness's medieval and Victorian heritage through engaging daily walking tours led by a knowledgeable local guide.
VisitScotland Inverness iCentre
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Discover the Scottish Highlands with expert guidance and local insights at Inverness’s central VisitScotland iCentre.
Huntfun
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Explore Inverness through interactive treasure hunts blending adventure, culture, and fun for all ages and occasions.
Falcon Square
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Historic Inverness square blending industrial heritage, striking sculpture, and vibrant shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Royal Highland Hotel
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Historic Victorian railway hotel with grand architecture, central location, and authentic Scottish hospitality.
Inverness
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Inverness Railway Station: Your accessible gateway to the Scottish Highlands with seamless connections and essential amenities.
Race for life
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Inverness’s largest park, blending rich Scottish traditions, vibrant sports, and family-friendly outdoor attractions beside the River Ness.
The Victorian Market
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Discover Inverness’ historic heart with charming independent shops and a vibrant food hall beneath a stunning Victorian dome.
Castle Gallery
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Contemporary art gallery showcasing Scottish and British artists in the heart of Inverness.
Inverness Town House
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A majestic Victorian Gothic landmark at Inverness’s heart, blending rich history with vibrant civic and cultural life.
Essential places to dine
Little Italy
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the cozy heart of Inverness at Little Italy, a beloved local gem.
Fig & Thistle
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Loch & Larder
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Ash
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Aye Eat
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Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
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Experience the best of Scottish cuisine at Number 27 Bar and Kitchen in Inverness – where every meal tells a story.
Salt’N’Fire
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The UK’s first fully vegan takeaway, serving bold, globally inspired street food in the heart of Inverness’s Victorian Market.
Kool Runnings
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Experience vibrant Jamaican flavors and lively Caribbean vibes in the heart of Inverness at Kool Runnings.
Comfort Foods
0.3 km
Cozy café in Inverness serving hearty homemade meals with fresh local ingredients and generous portions all day long.
Georges
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Cafe 1
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nar
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Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Nar, a cozy and highly regarded restaurant.
EscoBar - Taqueria & Cocktails
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Authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Inverness, perfect for lively dining and festive gatherings.
The Brasserie
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A comfortable and centrally located brasserie in Inverness offering quality food and a relaxed atmosphere from noon till late.
Heathmount Hotel
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Cozy boutique hotel with stylish rooms, acclaimed British dining, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Inverness.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White Stuff Inverness
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Souvenir & Gift shop
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A convenient Highland gift shop in Inverness’s main shopping district, offering tartan souvenirs, Nessie memorabilia, and traditional Highland wear.
Unique Ness
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Discover Unique Ness, Inverness’s boutique home furniture shop offering distinctive pieces and creative homeware in Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris
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Discover authentic Harris Tweed heritage and craftsmanship in Inverness with timeless woollen fabrics, clothing, and accessories.
Highland tweeds Inverness
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Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless Highland style in the warm, welcoming boutique of Highland Tweeds Inverness.
Keepsake Scotland
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Discover unique Scottish gifts and heartfelt souvenirs in the welcoming heart of Inverness at Keepsake Scotland.
Isle of Skye Candle Company - Inverness
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Authentic hand-poured candles inspired by the Scottish Highlands, crafted with care in Inverness’s family-run boutique.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Explore authentic Scottish woollen fashion and timeless knitwear at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Inverness’ historic city centre.
The Highlander Store
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Discover authentic Scottish heritage and unique Highland gifts at The Highlander Store, Inverness’s premier destination for souvenirs and fashion accessories.
The Works
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Affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Inverness’s bustling High Street.
The Drawing Room
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Discover unique, locally crafted gifts in a warm, inviting Inverness boutique that celebrates Highland creativity and culture.
Ellerium Games
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Far Fetched
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Cancer Research UK
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Shop sustainably at Inverness’s Cancer Research UK charity shop and support vital cancer research with every purchase.
Victorian Gift Shop & Barber Shop
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A charming fusion of traditional Scottish gifts and classic barbering in Inverness’s historic Market Hall.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Imperial
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The Tooth & Claw
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Caledonian
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The Gunsmiths Bar
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Platform 8
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The Exchange
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Playback
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A lively four-story bar and restaurant in Inverness offering gourmet burgers, exclusive craft beers, rooftop vibes, and fun social games.
MacCallums Bar
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Lauders
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Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
Revolution Inverness
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Market Bar
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The Malt Room
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Highlander
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R&Bs
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The Walrus & Corkscrew
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
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The Ross Shire Club
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Xplosive Discos
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Seaforth Club
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Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Jackos Bar & Diner
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the Balavoulin
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A lively, dog-friendly pub with hearty meals and cozy rooms, perfectly placed for exploring Aviemore and the Cairngorms.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
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Discover The Winking Owl in Aviemore for a delightful experience of craft ales, local flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Vault
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Mambos
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The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
40.5 km
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Woodshed Bar
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SUIE BAR
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The Pine Marten Bar
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Moray Jazz Club
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Shmelgin
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Lively
- Romantic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
