Discover this place
Emporio Italia: A Hidden Gem in Ilkley
Emporio Italia, nestled at 7 Railway Rd, Ilkley, stands out as a vibrant destination for authentic Italian cuisine. Many reviews echo the sentiment that dining here feels like a journey back to Italy. The intimate setting, complete with friendly staff and owner Chef Luigi's passionate presence, creates an inviting atmosphere.
Culinarians rave about the daily-changing menu, showcasing genuine Italian dishes with a Calabrese flair. One diner described the Lasagna as the best they've ever had, loaded with flavors from ricotta, Calabrese sausage, and rich ragu. Others have highlighted the Genovese pasta and a salted caramel dark chocolate torte that lingers in memory long after the meal.
While some reviews mention minor slip-ups like overcooked pasta, the overall consensus is that Emporio Italia offers exceptional value for the quality of food. With an affordable £18.95 special menu that includes food, coffee, and wine, it’s no surprise that patrons like Chris and Samuel deem it worth the wait, often needing to book weeks in advance.
Emporio Italia is a testament to authentic Italian dining, leaving guests eager for their next visit. With a heartwarming blend of incredible food and welcoming hospitality, this restaurant is not just a meal but an experience to treasure.
Photos
Amenities & More
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
Reviews for Emporio Italia
Review highlights
Based on 321 reviewsEmporio Italia is widely recognized for its authentic Italian cuisine, offering a menu that frequently changes to highlight fresh, high-quality ingredients and classic regional flavors, particularly from Calabria. Patrons appreciate the intimate and welcoming atmosphere, complemented by attentive and knowledgeable staff who provide personalized service. The restaurant is often praised for its well-crafted dishes, such as distinctive pasta and decadent desserts, which many describe as both flavorful and satisfying. While some diners note that prices lean toward the higher side, the overall experience is considered excellent value given the quality and ambiance. Emporio Italia is especially favored for special occasions and casual lunches alike, consistently delivering a memorable dining experience rooted in genuine Italian hospitality.
Had wonderful Saturday lunch time, special menu: food, coffee and a glass of wine for £18.95. (extra it's not cheap) The menu features a range of classic Italian dishes with signature of "Italian calabrese taste"...even a little bit adapted.(pasta a little overcooked and lots of sauce). Nice personal introduction from a member of team , who explained the dishes of the day to everybody. Staff friendly. The place is rather small inside, but we enjoyed the atmosphere outside table. We will visit again in the future.
It was meant to be :) Shortly after we came back from Italy and saw the waterfall in the #valleyofdesolation we found this hidden in the grass as made our way past the big oak tree. Coincidence?? Talk about a sign! A picture of a Vespa with the words 'Emporio Italia'. Of course we wouldn't have known about this place, had we not have stumbled across the card on that day. The moment we walked in we felt like we were back in Italy. We had to book at least 3 months in advance to get a table!!! As it's that popular. Inside there are only a handful of tables. This small, Italian family owned restaurant, opposite the train station in Ilkley, is well worth the visit. Friendly, relaxed wholesome atmosphere, even one of the son's did a presentation of the lunch menu! The place oozes with pride and passion! Chef Luigi proudly comes from Calabria and is very humble of his roots, sharing his stories and success with the guests. Most of all his food is authentic and exceptional!!! Emporio Italia is an award winning hailing as the best Italian restaurant in Yorkshire. ...It certainly lives up to the hype!!! I ordered one of the best Lasagna's I've ever tasted! Made with Ricotta, Calabrese sausage, ragu and mozzarella. Packed with flavour... Delicious!!! To think we would never have known about this hidden gem had we not gone to see the waterfall! (be sure to book well in advance) Grazie Luigi and the family of Emporio Italia for an amazing lunch and hospitality...we will be back
Me and my partner went there for an impromptu lunch and it was definitely a top choice. My partner is Italian and I am from the south of France and both have had restaurant businesses in our family. This place is authentic, the food is super fresh and all the ingredients were top quality. Both our meals were thoroughly enjoyed. The charm of this place is that the menu changes each day, which is testament to the freshness of the produce. The staff are very friendly and take care of the customers. The best bit is the price was very affordable for the quality of food.
By far the best authentic Italian restaurant for miles! Wonderful food, fabulous service and a really special atmosphere. This small but perfectly formed restaurant is such a treat and superb value for money. The Genovese pasta was beyond delicious and I’m still thinking about the salted caramel dark chocolate torte. Food so good, I didn’t want it to end! Luigi and Sam continue to create real magic here and we’ll be back very soon!
Had my 60th birthday here and just had an incredible time . Superb food and hospitality. Just fantastic
One word - Outstanding! I've waited a while to visit here and finally I got to sample some of the best Italian food outside of Italy. The service is very good and the staff are really friendly and attentive. I loved how the menu was read out to everyone before service began. Each dish was just amazing, with the right portion size that by the end I was full but not uncomfortable. The lasagna was rich in flavour but not overpowering. The pasta just melted in my mouth. I would return here to try a meat dish next time
If you want an authentic Italian atmosphere and experience, look no further! Staff are friendly and attentive upon arrival, Luigi takes time to explain all the meals on the menu, and you can see his passion for what he loves doing! Food is more than reasonably priced, portions are just right and it really is top notch! Looking forward to our next visit already...
Amazing experience! The lovely chef comes out and talks you through the menu. Got some really great vegetarian food & managed to buy a bottle of wine I’ve only ever seen sold in Italy! The fresh fruit cheesecake with ice cream was one of the best dessert I’ve ever eaten
Write a review
Share your experience with the community. Your honest feedback helps others find great places.
Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday (Today) Closed
- Tuesday 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Wednesday 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Thursday 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Friday 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Saturday 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Sunday Closed
Location
Own this business?
Claim this listing to update info, respond to reviews and reach more customers.
Claim listingMore places in Ilkley
Discover more places like this
Browse thousands of bars, restaurants, cafés and more — wherever you go.