Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in McLean

Price: Moderate (13)Price: Expensive (5)Price: Very Expensive (1)

19 restaurants available nearby

1. Idylwood Grill

4.7

Exceptional(1027)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Falls Church

Booked 8 times today

Idylwood Grill in Falls Church is a treasure trove of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a delightful twist with Mediterranean influences. Diners are consistently impressed, with one recently noting, "Just returned from Naples, Italy and I don’t think I had food this good!" The restaurant's inviting atmosphere is complemented by its varied menu, which includes standout dishes like the creamy seafood tomato pasta and the freshly made tiramisu, described as having "mascarpone balanced just right with the lady fingers." This hidden gem ensures every meal is a celebration of flavors, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic and innovative Italian dishes in a casual yet sophisticated setting.

A photo of North Italia - Tysons restaurant

2. North Italia - Tysons

4.6

Exceptional(1121)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Tysons Corner / McLean

Booked 51 times today

At North Italia in Tysons Corner, the Pizzeria cuisine is celebrated for its exceptional quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the handcrafted pizzas, noting them as "always delicious, fresh, flavorful" and a true testament to Italian culinary traditions. The restaurant prides itself on using seasonal ingredients, bringing inventive flavors that elevate each dish. A standout favorite, the Pesto Chicken Pizza, encapsulates the perfect blend of fresh taste and creativity. The glowing reviews highlight not just the food but the vibrant ambiance and stellar service, making North Italia a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Pizzeria experience in McLean.

3. Claudio's Table

4.6

Exceptional(223)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Palisades Northwest

Booked 46 times today

Claudio's Table is a gem nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Palisades Northwest, Washington, where Chef Claudio Pirollo's passion for blending Italian and Belgian influences shines through each dish. This restaurant is celebrated for its exceptional Bistro cuisine, offering a cozy yet sophisticated vibe that mirrors a traditional Italian trattoria with a French twist. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with reviews highlighting the "best tiramisu" and "pasta cooked to perfection." The Bistecca special and thoughtfully curated wine selection are just a glimpse of the culinary excellence found here. Claudio's Table remains a vibrant neighborhood favorite, where each meal is a testament to Chef Pirollo's dedication to fresh, local ingredients and delectable family specialties. Perfect for those seeking a spectacular dining experience, it’s no wonder guests are quick to plan their next visit.

A photo of Alta Strada Mosaic restaurant

4. Alta Strada Mosaic

4.6

Exceptional(1351)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Fairfax

Booked 16 times today

Alta Strada Mosaic, nestled in Fairfax, Virginia’s vibrant Mosaic District, is a beacon of Italian culinary excellence. Created by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schlow, this gem offers an authentic Italian experience with its housemade pasta and classic dishes that resonate with the essence of Italy. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, noting dishes like the "love, love, love the Bolognese" and the perfectly balanced tiramisu as highlights. With its combination of a warm atmosphere and exemplary service, Alta Strada Mosaic stands out as a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of Italy. As one satisfied diner put it, "Their pasta tastes the closest to Italy I've had in the states. It's very good." This spot ensures every meal is not just eaten, but celebrated.

A photo of North Italia - Washington DC restaurant

5. North Italia - Washington DC

4.5

Awesome(1644)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • West End

Booked 62 times today

At North Italia in Washington DC's West End, the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine is celebrated with flair and authenticity. This vibrant spot prides itself on crafting delectable dishes "from scratch," ensuring each bite resonates with freshness and innovative flavors. Patrons rave about the "out-of-this-world spicy vodka rigatoni" and commend the "perfectly paired seasonal cocktails and wines." The ambiance complements the meticulously prepared fare, from handmade pastas to inventive pizzas, making every dining experience memorable. As one diner highlighted, it is a place where "food is god," and the "service is outstanding," making North Italia a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Italian meal in DC.

A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant

6. Carmine's - Washington DC

4.4

Awesome(6468)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter

Booked 55 times today

Carmine's in Washington DC's Penn Quarter is a beacon of authentic Sicilian cuisine. The restaurant captures the essence of a true Italian American wedding feast, offering dishes that are "tender, flavorful, and mouthwatering." Guests rave about the famous meatballs and angel hair pasta, describing their dining experience as "magic." The service at Carmine's is consistently praised, with remarks about the "knowledgeable and friendly" staff enhancing the dining experience. Whether it's the "work of art" desserts or the family-style portions that bring people together, Carmine's ensures every meal is memorable. As one reviewer summed it up, "Carmine’s is famous for their fantastic Italian meals" making it a must-visit for authentic, generously served Sicilian fare in the heart of DC.

7. Corso Italian

4.5

Awesome(202)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Arlington

Booked 13 times today

Corso Italian in Arlington is a gem for those seeking authentic and high-quality American cuisine with an Italian twist. Despite its Italian-inspired menu, patrons rave about its distinctly American approach to service and innovation in classic dishes. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant for its "delicious food and great service," highlighting the comfortable and chic atmosphere that complements the culinary experience. The handmade pastas and modern classics, alongside a fine wine list, receive special mentions, with one guest noting, "Every single appetizer and entrée were delicious." This restaurant's dedication to excellence makes it a standout in the Arlington dining scene, promising an unforgettable experience with every visit.

8. Il Piatto

4.6

Exceptional(617)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 34 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Washington, Il Piatto shines as a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its "delicious and authentic" dishes, the restaurant offers a modern twist on classics from antipasto to gnocchi. Guests rave about the "amazing flavor" and "outstanding" service, with one patron noting, "The carbonara was a highlight for us." Perfect for any occasion, Il Piatto boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a private dining area that overlooks a charming wine cellar, making it an ideal spot for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Whether it's for a holiday brunch or a cozy dinner, Il Piatto promises an exceptional Italian dining experience right in the heart of the city.

9. Modena

4.6

Exceptional(1158)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 15 times today

At Modena, located in the heart of Downtown Washington, the wine bar experience is as refined and delightful as the Italian-inspired cuisine it accompanies. Guests consistently rave about the "great wine selection," noting both the variety and the high-quality offerings that pair beautifully with Modena's dishes. The knowledgeable staff, including a commendable sommelier, are always ready to recommend the perfect glass to enhance your meal, making every dining experience uniquely satisfying. Whether it’s a glass of robust Sangiovese or a delicate Vermentino, Modena’s wine bar stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity, ensuring that each visit is both memorable and enjoyable.

10. Tosca

4.9

Exceptional(4484)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 29 times today

Currently open for lunch and dinner. Ristorante Tosca offers the finest in contemporary northern Italian cuisine. Tosca serves Italian cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients, using a creative approach that respects the great traditions of Tuscan gastronomy. Tosca combines modern style and elegance to create an intimate and comfortable setting. Tosca implements a dress code and proper attire is required. We do not allow athletic wear, shorts, beach attire, tank tops, flip flops, or torn or excessively revealing clothing. We reserve the right to determine if a guest needs to adjust their attire before being seated.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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