Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Old City

Price: Moderate (8)Price: Expensive (7)Price: Very Expensive (2)

17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti restaurant

1. Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti

4.7

Exceptional(3920)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Old City

Booked 43 times today

Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti consistently delights its guests with its authentic and well-prepared Italian dishes, particularly highlighting seafood and vegetable choices. Reviewers have lauded the restaurant for its excellent food, outstanding service, and unique ambiance, with full murals of Positano adding to its charm. The creative cuisine has been described as fresh and innovative, with several patrons highlighting the seafood, steak, and meatballs as standout dishes. The restaurant's atmosphere is frequently praised for being beautifully decorated, with a lively bar and open, airy spaces. Located in Old City Philadelphia, it is hailed as a delightful destination for any occasion, from casual lunch visits to special celebrations. Its value for money is also mentioned favorably by diners.

2. Panorama

4.7

Exceptional(2678)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Old City

Booked 32 times today

Panorama is renowned for its exceptional Italian cuisine, impressive wine selection, and outstanding service, as highlighted in numerous reviews. Frequently described as the "best Italian food" diners have ever had, the restaurant offers a menu brimming with traditional dishes and innovative creations. A constant accolade is Panorama’s hand-rolled pasta, with one reviewer stating, "a true Italian will enjoy their hand-rolled pasta," and another praising the "phenomenal" eggplant parm appetizer. Diners also emphasised the attentive and knowledgeable service provided by the restaurant staff. This gem in old city Philadelphia, is noted for its beautiful setting and decor, making it an ideal destination for both casual and special occasions.

3. Scampi

4.8

Exceptional(9)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Queen Village

Hi! Scampi will be touring Southern Italy this summer at Wim Cafe at 226 South Street. We will explore with a 5 Course Tasting menu highlighting the food Liz fell in love with. While at the space, there will be a lovely selection of PA wine, beer and spirits to enjoy. These menus only run for one month, so come enjoy and learn some edible history of Italy.

A photo of La Fontana Della Citta restaurant

4. La Fontana Della Citta

4.3

Awesome(1970)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 40 times today

La Fontana Della Citta consistently delivers authentic, delicious Italian cuisine, earning it rave reviews from patrons. As a BYOB venue, it provides a relaxed, homely atmosphere that allows diners to enjoy an outstanding dining experience at their own pace. Reviewers frequently praise its extensive menu, with dishes like Lobster Ravioli being particularly recommended. The restaurant's professional and attentive service further enhances the dining experience, with staff often praised for their friendly demeanor. The venue's ambiance is also applauded, with customers comparing it to European dining experiences. As one guest specifically noted, La Fontana Della Citta is "our go-to spot for Italian date nights."

5. Bellini

4.7

Exceptional(1083)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Center City

Booked 28 times today

Bellini is a top-notch Italian restaurant known for its heartwarming ambiance, excellent service, and undoubtedly, the authentic Italian cuisine it offers. As per the reviews, it is a warm and inviting restaurant suitable for romantic outings in Philly. The homemade pasta, Gorgonzola gnocchi, chicken parmigiana, and roast duck are among the favorite dishes. The dishes are known for their richness, fine taste, and generous portions. The restaurant also takes pride in its extensive wine list. It doesn't stop there - the desserts are also highly praised. The restaurant maintains a classic Italian vibe and guests have appreciated that it offers great value for money. The staff is highly praised for their professionalism, friendliness and attentiveness. For many, the experience at Bellini keeps on improving with every visit, making it a favorite among local diners.

6. Melograno

4.9

Exceptional(1595)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 38 times today

Melograno is a superb Italian restaurant renowned for its authentic cuisine. According to numerous glowing reviews, the establishment serves up delicious, carefully prepared dishes. Guests frequently commend the pasta selections, particularly the duck ragu and crab pasta, while the burrata and octopus appetizers have also won acclaim. The restaurant offers a BYOB policy, enhancing its appeal and adding to the lively atmosphere. Described as both a local favorite and a must-try destination, Melograno continues to impress with its fresh food, top-notch service, and welcomed feeling. As one reviewer poignantly expressed, dining at Melograno feels like a visit to Italy, underscoring its culinary authenticity and charming ambiance.

A photo of Osteria Ama Philly restaurant

7. Osteria Ama Philly

4.6

Exceptional(269)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Center City

Booked 40 times today

Osteria Ama Philly is a highly recommended Italian restaurant located in Philadelphia. Renowned for its excellent service, customers commend the knowledgeable staff that add to the warm and inviting atmosphere that the restaurant offers. Patrons constantly praise the variety and quality of the food, from the homemade thin crust pizzas to the lobster ravioli special that is described as "delicious". The Chicken Fusilli Funghi and the Veal Parm also consistently garner positive reviews. A noteworthy mention is their BYOB policy which speaks to the authenticity of their Italian dining experience. Osteria Ama Philly has repeatedly exceeded customers' expectations, establishing it as a premier destination for an authentic Italian meal.

A photo of Buca D'oro Ristorante restaurant

8. Buca D'oro Ristorante

4.8

Exceptional(614)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Society Hill

Booked 17 times today

Buca D'oro Ristorante is highly regarded for its exceptional, authentic Italian cuisine. This fantastic Italian restaurant offers a versatile menu featuring dishes from homemade pasta to tiramisu, all of which are not just delicious but genuinely representative of Italian culinary tradition. As per reviews, the pasta is outstanding and impressively authentic. Patrons rave about the fresh Pappardelle pasta with creamy pink sauce and mushroom Fettuccine. The restaurant's ambiance is complemented by its Italian decor, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere perfect for all occasions. In addition to that, the staff is praised for being attentive, friendly, and professional, further enhancing the dining experience. The restaurant makes a lasting impression on its visitors, with many choosing to return for more of its excellent food and great atmosphere.

A photo of Porcini - Philadelphia restaurant

9. Porcini - Philadelphia

5.0

Exceptional(2005)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Center City

Booked 14 times today

Porcini in Philadelphia is a gem in the realm of Italian cuisines. Reviewers frequently lauded the restaurant's intimate, welcoming atmosphere and the palpable authenticity of its dishes, praising it as "the Best of Philly". Porcini is a family-owned restaurant, run by two brothers, with one as the chef and the other as the host, a factor that significantly contributes to its charm and warmth. The food is unanimously loved by customers, with mentions of homemade pasta, perfectly prepared veal saltimboca, and Osso Bucco ravioli as highlights. The accolades suggest that Porcini is more than just a restaurant - it's an immersive, delectably satisfying Italian dining experience.

10. L'Anima

5.0

Exceptional(767)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • South Philly

Booked 7 times today

A frequented neighborhood stop, L'Anima in Philadelphia continues to establish itself as a go-to for delectable Italian cuisine. Customers love their innovative interpretations of Italian classics, which include dishes like Potato Gnocchi, Pasta Amatriciana, and Tuna Crudo. The menu is richly varied and "every bite is sensational." The Tiramisu comes highly recommended, with one diner urging others to "definitely save room for it." L'Anima has been appreciated for its excellent service, comfortable ambiance, and reasonable prices. The restaurant also boasts a patio, popular among diners for its chic and relaxing vibe. With several customers calling it one of the "best Italian restaurants in Philly", it's no wonder why L'Anima is considered a neighborhood gem.

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Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Old City

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the heart of Philadelphia's Old City. This vibrant dining scene is renowned for its blend of historic charm and modern culinary innovations, offering an array of restaurants that specialize in contemporary Italian fare. Each establishment in this locale prides itself on delivering authentic flavors with a modern twist, using high-quality ingredients to craft dishes that are both delightful and visually appealing. Patrons can expect a variety of hand-rolled pastas, fresh seafood, and inventive takes on classic Italian dishes, all served in settings that combine the rustic with the refined. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to indulge in Philadelphia's culinary offerings, these restaurants provide a perfect blend of atmosphere, service, and exquisite cuisine. The Old City neighborhood enriches the dining experience with its historical backdrop, making each meal not just a feast for the palate but also a moment in time. For those passionate about Italian cuisine with a contemporary edge, Old City, Philadelphia is your go-to destination.

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