Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Melrose

Price: Moderate (7)Price: Expensive (12)Price: Very Expensive (2)

20 restaurants available nearby

1. Paolo's

4.6

Exceptional(198)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Saugus

Paolo's is acclaimed for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, particularly its Greek-Italian offerings. The restaurant has earned rave reviews for its consistent quality and wide variety of dishes. From butternut squash ravioli, rigatoni with meatballs and sausage, to scallop risotto and Orechette with broccoli rabe and sausage, every dish is a testament to superb culinary skills. The grilled eggplant rollatini and meatball appetizer, for instance, has been praised for its exquisite taste. The restaurant's ambiance is intimate and welcoming, with a small bar providing a cosy dining spot. The staff, too, are noted for their warmth and readiness to assist, creating a truly enjoyable dining experience.

A photo of Raso's Bar and Grille restaurant

2. Raso's Bar and Grille

4.8

Exceptional(427)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Medford

Booked 4 times today

Raso's Bar and Grille is a beloved restaurant known for its outstanding Contemporary American cuisine. The rave reviews speak to its popularity, with guests recounting their "unbelievable experiences". The food, such as the "best Veal Parmesan ever" and "fantastically fresh made pasta", is frequently praised for being "out of this world delicious". The restaurant is also lauded for its superior drinks, including an acclaimed espresso martini and a "killer martini menu". Other standouts include the "over-the-top amazing" Lobster Scampi and a gluten-free pizza described as "the best". Overall, Raso's Bar and Grille is recognized as an exemplar of exemplary neighborhood dining with consistently great food and remarkable service.

A photo of Terra at Eataly Boston restaurant

3. Terra at Eataly Boston

4.3

Awesome(3673)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Back Bay

Booked 71 times today

Terra at Eataly Boston, a contemporary Italian restaurant, consistently impresses guests with their varied seasonal menu and high-quality Italian cuisine. Praised for its “authentic and high quality” meals, Terra champions Italian classics, from the prosciutto and cheese board to the fettuccine with beef and pork ragu, which have been described as “delicious” and “outstanding.” The wine list, representative of fine Italian wines, further enhances the dining experience. Customers laud the “excellent” service and the vibrant atmosphere, where food enthusiasts congregate to savor every bite. Despite a minor setback due to an out-of-service elevator, Terra's captivating blend of exquisite Italian fare, efficient service, and lively ambiance earns it rave reviews.

4. The Red Fox

4.3

Awesome(67)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 41 times today

The Red Fox is an Italian American restaurant and lounge brought to you by All Day Hospitality Group (Tony & Elaine's, Ciao Roma, Farmacia, Ward 8). The focus of the menu is on handmade pasta and a mix of throwback dishes and Italian classics, with a fantastic cocktail menu with nostalgic martinis and high quality seasonal cocktails, and an excellent wine list. Located in The North End, The Red Fox pays homage to the Italian American neighborhood and some of the great old school establishments in the city.

5. Prima

4.7

Exceptional(630)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Charlestown

Booked 56 times today

Prima, nestled in the heart of Charlestown, Boston, has garnered raving reviews for its authentic Italian cuisine. Patrons have praised its top-notch service, cozy ambiance, and especially its tasty dishes. The spicy picci pasta and veal prime rib are highly recommended for their expert seasoning and generous portions. Reviewers also suggest trying the meatballs and the irresistible vanilla fudge buttercream cake. With a choice of half-serving pasta options and a promise of impeccable steak quality rivalling Boston's best, every visit to Prima is a delightful culinary adventure. As one happy customer put it, "Prima was absolutely amazing. The best Italian I've had in Boston yet".

6. MIDA - South End

4.7

Exceptional(2668)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • South End

Booked 63 times today

MIDA - South End has become a cornerstone for authentic Italian cuisine in Boston. Patrons cannot give enough praise for the restaurant's exceptional service, creative drinks, and most importantly, their superbly crafted dishes. Embracing the spirit of Italian culinary tradition, the restaurant particularly shines with its pasta offerings. One visitor even proclaimed that MIDA served some of the best pasta he has eaten in Boston. From the flavorful risotto to inventive desserts, the food consistently leaves an unforgettable impression. Gluten-friendly options and a welcoming ambiance only adds to the restaurant's inclusive allure. Whether it's a spontaneous date night or a dedicated trip from New York, MIDA promises a memorable dining experience steeped in authenticity and warmth.

7. Artu

4.5

Awesome(1718)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 12 times today

Artu, situated in the heart of Boston's North End, is consistently praised for its magnificent authentic Italian cuisine. Customers have lauded it as "excellent," "fabulous," and "outstanding" in their reviews, with one stating it provided the "best authentic Italian food in North End". The homemade pasta, traditional Italian dishes, and exceptional service are notable features that make dining at Artu a delightful experience. The restaurant also shines with its friendly neighborhood ambiance and great drink menu. Artu's commitment to delivering top-notch quality food within a welcoming environment is clear. Artu is a must-try for anyone seeking an unforgettable Italian dining experience.

8. Libertine

4.4

Awesome(270)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 7 times today

Libertine is praised for its authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. Reviewers frequently comment on the excellent food, with dishes like the mushroom tagliotelle and octopus appetizer earning high praises. The service is consistently reported to be exceptional, with kind and attentive staff contributing to an overall welcoming atmosphere. It stands out even among the myriad of Italian restaurants in the busy North End, providing a refreshing change with its unique offerings. The restaurant is also noted for its inclusivity, being a fantastic option for individuals with gluten allergies. With such great reviews, Libertine proves to be a must-visit for Italian food lovers.

A photo of Toscano Harvard Square restaurant

9. Toscano Harvard Square

4.6

Exceptional(2398)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Cambridge

Booked 30 times today

Situated in Harvard Square, Toscano offers an unmatched Italian experience, praised consistently for its authenticity and quality. Patrons commend its excellent service, refined yet welcoming atmosphere, and remarkable food. Reviews highlight the pasta e fagioli soup, equating it to a grandmother's homemade recipe, and the delightful special homemade tagliatelle mixed with crab, alongside an extensive, expertly-curated wine list. Whether for a business meal or a special occasion, Toscano continually impresses with its traditional Italian dishes and innovative twists. The restaurant also gains recognition for its exceptional risotto, with reviewers celebrating the shrimp and mushroom variations as perfect. Toscano is truly a revered jewel in the Italian culinary scene.

A photo of Serafina - Boston Back Bay restaurant

10. Serafina - Boston Back Bay

4.4

Awesome(529)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Back Bay

Booked 40 times today

Serafina is a hidden gem in the heart of Boston Back Bay, often lauded for its authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant's customers consistently rave about the excellent service and the high quality of dishes offered, from the truffle arancini to the rigatoni Bolognese. Reviews describe the atmosphere as "chill" and the dining experience as reminiscent of being in Italy. Despite its location in an upscale neighborhood, the eatery offers food at moderate prices. Serafina is cherished by the local community for its delicious pasta dishes and superb wine selection, making it a must-try spot for Italian cuisine in Boston.

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