By: Andrew Silverstein

Mamma mia, is Italian food delicious when done right!  A schmorgasboard of different classic flavors - tomato, basil, garlic, mozzarella - blending to create dishes that comfort the soul and never leave you hungry afterward.

And, pizza!  Easily in a class of its own, this original Italian delicacy has easily become one of our country's favorite foods and can easily be found at Italian restaurants across the country.  There are many here in the bay area, including New Port Richey.  Here's five of our favorite Italian restaurants in New Port Richey.

Leaning Tower of Pizza - With a name like Leaning Tower of Pizza, you've got to, at least, give the place a few points for cleverness.  Luckily Leaning Tower of Pizza's worth extends far beyond the name with delectable menu items including, of course, pizza (both normal and sicilian), wings, and a classic variety of Italian entrees including stuffed shells, spaghetti, lasagna, and more.

Mezzaluna - For some classic Italian in a quaint, relaxed atmosphere, Mezzaluna's is a great choice in New Port Richey.  Enjoy the outdoor patio while you dine on quality pizzas like their white pizza with olive oil, fresh herbs, spinach, garlic, tomatoes, feta, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan & the house cheese blend; or their Roma with sautéed steak, banana peppers, onions, crushed red pepper, black pepper, topped with Mezzaluna's cheese blend.

Anthony's Italian Restaurant - Voted the #1 Italian restaurant in Pasco county by the St. Petersburg Times Reader's Poll, you know Anthony's is doing something right when it comes to serving up awesome Italian eats.  The menu is HUGE and offers a wide variety of Italian staples in categories from chicken to seafood, subs, and, of course, pizza.  The chicken marsala is a widely renowned favorite.

Ragazzi's - It's only natural that a couple pizza places are featured on this list.  Ragazzi is for good reason, too.  First of all, they're not just pizza.  Italian entrees, monstrous subs, and other menu items abound here.  They're known for their generous helpings, so definitely come hungry!

Rossi Ristorante Italiano - Rossi Ristorante has been a New Port Richey institution for over 25 years, and for good reason; big portions, authentic flavor, and fair prices.  Enjoy their casual atmosphere that's kept patrons coming back for all these years as you dine on italian classics like penne a la vodka, chicken marsala, spaghetti, and much more.