Looking for the best authentic Italian restaurants in KL? Same here, because let’s be honest, we all love a good bowl of pasta from time to time. I used to think the pastas at trendy cafés were already pretty decent… until I married an actual Italian man. That’s when my taste buds were humbled.

Italians don’t play when it comes to their food — every ingredient, every bite, every plate is personal. So when he says a restaurant is “actually authentic,” you better believe it’s the real deal. If you’re serious about finding the best authentic Italian restaurants in KL — ones that are Italian-tongue-approved — keep reading. Here are 3 incredible restaurants every Italian food lover in KL needs to try. Buon appetito!

1. La Risata Ampang – Rustic, Charming & Crowd-Pleasing

La Risata (which means “The Laughter” in Italian) is one of KL’s longest-standing Italian restaurants and for good reason. It’s one of those places that Italians and Malaysians agree on — hearty portions, proper flavours, and consistent quality. With exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and the comforting scent of bubbling cheese from the pizza oven, this place just oozes charm.

While the Spaghetti alla Carbonara is a hit (creamy, cheesy, and none of that overcooked nonsense), what really keeps us coming back is their pizza. The Margherita is simple but comforting, and the Diavola (that’s “pepperoni” for the rest of us) is fire. The tomato blend on their pizzas? Chef’s kiss. It’s tangy, rich, and has that authentic balance that even picky Italians rave about. No matter how many times we go, we never get sick of it — and honestly, we don’t think we ever will.

And for dessert, you have to try their Panna Cotta. It’s silky, subtly sweet, and wobbles just the way a proper panna cotta should. Paired with a tangy berry coulis, it’s the perfect end to a comfort meal.

Location: 16, Persiaran Ampang, Kuala Ampang, 55000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Operating Hours: Daily (11am – 3pm) | Reopens (6pm – 11pm)

Image Source: @larisatakl on Instagram

2. Monnalisa Ristorante Italiano, Plaza Damas – A Hidden Gem for Romance & Ravioli

Tucked away in Plaza Damas, Monnalisa is the kind of Italian restaurant you stumble into and instantly fall in love with. The vibe is intimate and cozy — perfect for date nights or quiet dinners away from the city’s noise.

Their signature Rigatoni Monnalisa is a must-try. This hearty pasta dish is rich, comforting, and packs a punch of savoury goodness. The sauce? A secret house blend with bits of sausage and herbs that cling perfectly to those ridged rigatoni tubes.

And for dessert, don’t skip the Cannoli Siciliani. Crisp pastry shells filled with sweet, citrus-kissed ricotta cream — it’s the kind of dessert that makes you pause mid-bite just to savour it properly.

Location: K-0-7 Plaza Damas, Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Operating Hours: Tue – Thur & Sun (430pm – 1030pm) | Fri & Sat (430pm – 11pm)

Image Source: @shawn.loh7 on Instagram

3. Ciccio, Changkat – Rustic Italian in the Heart of the Party

Right in the middle of bustling Changkat Bukit Bintang, Ciccio offers a slice of rustic Italian charm. Think brick walls, wood-fired oven, candle-lit tables — it’s like dining in a little Roman hideout.

Their wood-fired pizzas are a solid 10/10. Thin, crisp base with toppings that don’t overpower. Try the Pizza Prosciutto e Funghi or the Quattro Formaggi if you’re in the mood for cheese heaven. The Pappardelle al Ragu di Agnello (lamb ragu) is also a comforting standout.

End your meal with their Affogato al Caffè — a scoop of creamy vanilla gelato “drowned” in hot espresso. It’s simple, dramatic, and so satisfying, especially if you need a dessert with a caffeine kick.

Location: 15, Changkat Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Operating Hours: Mon – Sat (5pm – 12am) | Sun (12pm – 12am)

 

Image Source: Ciccio’s website

Final Bite: KL’s Top Italian Tables Await

Craving an Italian escape without leaving town? These picks for the best authentic Italian restaurants in KL bring together all the classics — from wood-fired pizzas to handmade pastas and velvety desserts. Whether it’s a romantic dinner at Monnalisa, family night at La Risata, or pizza and wine with friends at Ciccio, you’re in for a memorable meal.

And for more flavour-packed recommendations around the city, don’t forget to follow @citykaki.life — your insider guide to KL’s tastiest hidden gems.

Also read: Sandwich Places in KL That Aren’t Subway