When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot like a warm bowl of pasta. Whether you’re a fan of creamy Alfredo, hearty Bolognese, or a simple garlic and oil toss, America has no shortage of pasta chains ready to dish it up. But with so many options out there, which ones are truly worth your carb-loving loyalty?
We’ve slurped noodles, twirled forks, and braved drive-thrus to bring you the ultimate pasta chain showdown. From fast-casual to full-service, these are the Top 15 Pasta Chains in the USA — ranked from worst to first.
15. Fazoli’s
What it brings: Fast-food Italian with unlimited breadsticks.
Why it’s here: Fazoli’s is the only drive-thru pasta joint on this list, and while that’s impressive, the quality of the pasta doesn’t quite match the convenience. The sauces often feel too heavy or too bland, and the noodles can lean toward soggy. Still, for a quick fix (and unlimited breadsticks), it’s not the worst option.
14. Sbarro
What it brings: Mall food court nostalgia with a side of spaghetti.
Why it’s here: Sbarro isn’t where you go for gourmet Italian, but it’s got a cult following. The pasta is serviceable, especially if you’re grabbing it alongside a thick slice of pizza. But let’s be honest — you’re really there because you’re in an airport or mall, not because you’re craving their ziti.
13. Macaroni Grill
What it brings: Casual dining with generous portions and a cozy vibe.
Why it’s here: Once a go-to for family dinners, Macaroni Grill has fallen off in consistency. While the chicken parmesan and penne Rustica can hit the mark, the overall experience feels a bit dated, and the pasta itself is often overcooked.
12. Bertucci’s
What it brings: Brick-oven flair and hearty pasta dishes.
Why it’s here: Bertucci’s shines when it sticks to classic Italian-American fare. Their pasta is rustic and filling, but some dishes feel like they’re trying too hard. When they nail it — like with their rigatoni with meat sauce — it’s solid. Just be ready for some hits and misses.
11. Brio Italian Grille
What it brings: Upscale feel without fine dining prices.
Why it’s here: Brio aims for a polished experience, and it mostly delivers. Dishes like the Pasta Alla Vodka or Shrimp & Lobster Fettuccine are rich and flavorful. But it can get pricey for what you get, and the pasta sometimes plays second fiddle to the heavy sauces.
10. Johnny Carino’s
What it brings: Texas-born Italian-American fusion.
Why it’s here: Carino’s isn’t afraid to be bold with flavor. Their spicy shrimp and chicken bowtie pasta brings the heat, and the portions are Texas-sized. It’s not the most authentic Italian experience, but it knows its audience — and leans into comfort over refinement.
9. Buca di Beppo
What it brings: Over-the-top family-style portions and a funky, retro atmosphere.
Why it’s here: Buca is fun. The vibe is campy, the portions are outrageous, and the pasta is generally solid. It’s perfect for big groups, even if some dishes are more quantity than quality. Still, their baked ziti and linguine with clams earn repeat orders.
8. Olive Garden
What it brings: America’s favorite chain for “Italian-ish” comfort food.
Why it’s here: Love it or roast it, Olive Garden is a cultural staple. Their fettuccine Alfredo is dangerously creamy, and the Tour of Italy platter scratches every pasta itch in one sitting. It’s not trying to be high-end, but it’s consistently satisfying — and who can say no to endless salad and breadsticks?
7. Carrabba’s Italian Grill
What it brings: A little more authenticity, a lot of garlic.
Why it’s here: Carrabba’s doesn’t get the same love as Olive Garden, but it probably should. Their dishes are a touch more refined, with fresher ingredients and balanced flavors. The Linguine Pescatore and Lasagne are standout picks, and their house-made sauces feel a notch above.
6. Bravo! Italian Kitchen
What it brings: Fresh ingredients, sleek atmosphere, and a solid pasta lineup.
Why it’s here: Bravo! balances Italian classics with a modern touch. Their Campanelle Carbonara is rich without being overwhelming, and the Pasta Woozie (yes, that’s the real name) is a crowd-pleaser. It’s not cheap, but the quality backs it up.
5. Noodles & Company
What it brings: Fast-casual with global pasta inspiration.
Why it’s here: This chain might not be strictly Italian, but it earns its spot for creativity and variety. Where else can you get Wisconsin mac & cheese, Penne Rosa, and Japanese Pan Noodles in one sitting? The pasta is always cooked just right, and customization is easy. Great for families or picky eaters.
4. North Italia
What it brings: Elevated Italian in a trendy, upscale-casual setting.
Why it’s here: North Italia is where pasta lovers go when they want the handmade touch. Their Bolognese, Strozzapreti, and Short Rib Radiatori are rich, layered, and built with real culinary care. It’s not fast or cheap, but the quality is top-tier.
3. Maggiano’s Little Italy
What it brings: Big portions, bold flavors, and nostalgic Italian-American vibes.
Why it’s here: Maggiano’s knows exactly what it is — rich, saucy, hearty food you’ll be thinking about for days. The Rigatoni “D” and Taylor Street Baked Ziti are crowd favorites, and the option to take a second dish home for free is unbeatable. Great for date nights or Sunday dinners.
2. Eataly (Pasta Bar)
What it brings: Authentic Italian ingredients and fresh pasta made daily.
Why it’s here: Eataly is less a chain restaurant and more a food experience. But their pasta bars, found in major cities, are pasta paradise. The cacio e pepe is perfectly simple, the tagliatelle ragu melts in your mouth, and the ingredients come straight from Italy. It’s the closest you’ll get to Rome without a passport.
1. Il Fornaio
What it brings: Artisanal Italian cuisine with a regional touch.
Why it’s here: Il Fornaio earns the crown for its commitment to authentic Italian recipes, fresh-made pasta, and elegant presentation. Each location highlights dishes from a different region of Italy every month, and their pastas — like Tagliatelle alla Bolognese and Lasagna Ferrarese — are exquisite. It’s the chain that feels the least like one.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re all about quick and cheesy comfort or on a quest for authenticity, there’s a pasta chain on this list with your name on it. America’s pasta scene is as diverse as it is delicious — and ranking these spots was no small feat (or forkful).
Got a favorite we missed? Think Olive Garden should’ve been higher (or lower)? Drop your thoughts in the comments — and don’t forget to bring your appetite.