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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in South Philly

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22 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Bucatini Caffe restaurant
1. Bucatini Caffe
4.9
Exceptional(144)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • East Passyunk Avenue
Booked 14 times today
Bucatini Caffe, nestled in the vibrant East Passyunk Avenue of Philadelphia, offers a delightful journey into Contemporary Italian cuisine that has diners raving. “A true neighborhood gem,” Bucatini Caffe consistently delivers “10/10 food and experience” with its innovative menu that perfectly balances tradition and modern flair. The homemade pastas, made fresh and al dente, are paired with inventive sauces, making each dish a flavor explosion. Diners are particularly enamored with standout dishes like the squid ink rigatoni and duck bolognese. Coupled with exceptional service that “treats you like family,” Bucatini Caffe is a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts.
A photo of Scampi restaurant
2. Scampi
4.9
Exceptional(68)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Queen Village
Booked 3 times today
Scampi, located in the vibrant Queen Village of Philadelphia, offers a unique and unforgettable experience of Contemporary American cuisine with an Italian twist. Chef Liz's culinary expertise shines in every dish, where "precision honors traditional methods without taking things too seriously." The buzzing atmosphere and friendly, knowledgeable service create the perfect setting for an evening of "fantastic food and storytelling." Guests rave about the "outstanding dishes that are creatively authentic," with favorites like the scampi shrimp dish capturing the hearts of many. As a BYOB establishment, Scampi invites diners to bring their favorite wines to complement the exquisite flavors crafted by a truly talented chef.
A photo of Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti restaurant
3. Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti
4.6
Exceptional(4049)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Old City
Booked 32 times today
Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti offers an exquisite seafood dining experience that transports you to the Amalfi Coast right in the heart of Old City, Philadelphia. Renowned for its fresh and authentic seafood offerings, this restaurant has quickly become a local favorite. Guests rave about the "delicious seafood options" and the "outstanding calamari appetizer," making it a go-to destination for seafood enthusiasts. The freshness of the seafood, combined with the restaurant's beautiful ambiance and attentive service, ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether you're savoring the grilled branzino or indulging in the sea urchin and squid ink pasta, Positano Coast promises a culinary delight that keeps patrons coming back for more.
A photo of La Fontana Della Citta restaurant
4. La Fontana Della Citta
4.5
Awesome(2084)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 10 times today
Nestled right off Rittenhouse Square, La Fontana Della Citta is a beacon of authentic Mediterranean cuisine in Philadelphia. Guests rave about the “amazing meal” and “delicious food” that capture the essence of Mediterranean flavors, with dishes like heavenly gnocchi and seafood specials that are “to die for.” As a BYOB establishment, diners can personalize their experience while enjoying the intimate setting and “phenomenal service” that make every visit special. This charming spot has quickly become a hidden gem, with patrons praising it as a “real home” for Mediterranean culinary delights, ensuring they’ll “definitely be back.”
A photo of Bellini restaurant
5. Bellini
4.8
Exceptional(1286)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Center City
Booked 18 times today
Bellini, nestled in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia, stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine. With Chef Francesco Parmisciano, an Italian native from Naples, at the helm, diners are treated to "truly authentic cuisine" that melds tradition with innovation. Guests rave about the "excellent homemade pasta" and "scrumptious" dishes like the Linguine di Ravi d’Astice. Beyond the delectable offerings, patrons are greeted like family, and the "impeccable service" ensures a flawless dining experience. The cozy ambiance, reminiscent of an Italian retreat, combined with standout dishes like the eggplant parmigiana, makes Bellini a must-visit culinary gem.
A photo of Paffuto restaurant
6. Paffuto
4.8
Exceptional(9)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Bella Vista
Booked 1 time today
Paffuto is a BYOB Italian cafe from chefs and co-owners Daniel Griffiths, Jake Loeffler, and Sam Kalkut. Paffuto is proud to recreate a modern Nonna's home. We are now offering an à la carte dinner service starting at 5:30 pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays! We gladly accept reservations and walk-ins. For parties of seven+, private event requests, or reservation changes, please email us at paffutophl@gmail.com. Parties of six+ are subject to an automatic 20% gratuity charge on their final bill.We hope to see you soon.
A photo of LaScala's Fire - Philadelphia restaurant
7. LaScala's Fire - Philadelphia
4.6
Exceptional(3313)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Old City
Booked 24 times today
LaScala's Fire, nestled in the lively Old City of Philadelphia, is a standout in Pizzeria cuisine, offering a delightful blend of Italian authenticity and contemporary flair. Patrons rave about the “mushroom truffle pizza,” describing it as an exceptional treat that leaves them eager for more. The restaurant's ambiance is described as “warm, cozy, and laidback,” making it a perfect spot for a relaxed dining experience. LaScala's Fire is consistently praised for its “excellent service,” with attentive staff ensuring every visit is memorable. Whether it's the generous portions or the innovative menu options, this pizzeria promises a genuinely satisfying culinary journey.
A photo of Osteria Ama Philly restaurant
8. Osteria Ama Philly
4.4
Awesome(370)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Center City
Booked 48 times today
Osteria Ama Philly stands out as a haven for Contemporary Italian cuisine in Center City, Philadelphia. This charming BYOB restaurant is celebrated for its “incredible” chicken parm and “outstanding” homemade pastas, which are crafted using authentic Italian techniques and imported ingredients. Diners rave about the “excellent home made food and dessert” which embodies both tradition and modernity. The cozy ambiance is complemented by attentive service, making it a favorite local gem. As one patron exclaimed, "Food was amazing, perfect BYOB in center city." With its delightful dishes and warm atmosphere, Osteria Ama Philly offers an unforgettable Italian dining experience.
A photo of Melograno restaurant
9. Melograno
4.8
Exceptional(1723)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 29 times today
Melograno, nestled in the charming Rittenhouse Square of Philadelphia, delivers an authentic and delightful seafood experience that transports diners straight to the Italian coast. Esteemed for its "fantastic fresh pasta" and "excellent fish and veg," Melograno's dishes are crafted with the utmost care and creativity, ensuring a memorable culinary journey. Guests rave about the "superb, solicitous service" and the welcoming atmosphere that feels like dining with family. The rainbow trout special receives high praise as "quaint and fantastic," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. As a BYOB establishment, Melograno offers a unique and inviting dining experience for seafood lovers.
A photo of Water Street Grill restaurant
10. Water Street Grill
3.9
Excellent(9)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Camden
Booked 8 times today
Our waterfront restaurant has floor to ceiling windows, with full views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the Philadelphia Skyline! Contemporary American-style food that also features seafood and Italian selections. Located inside the Hilton Hotel in the revitalized Camden Waterfront! Try our hand rolled Cheesesteak eggrolls, or go for our popular Crab cakes!
‘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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