Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Washington DC

Price: Moderate (13)Price: Expensive (6)Price: Very Expensive (1)

20 restaurants available nearby

A photo of North Italia - Washington DC restaurant

1. North Italia - Washington DC

4.5

Awesome(1645)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • West End

Booked 66 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.

2. Il Piatto

4.6

Exceptional(618)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 29 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.

A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant

3. Carmine's - Washington DC

4.5

Awesome(6470)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter

Booked 79 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.

4. Modena

4.6

Exceptional(1159)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 11 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.

5. Tosca

4.9

Exceptional(4485)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 49 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.

6. San Lorenzo

4.7

Exceptional(294)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Shaw

Booked 14 times today

At San Lorenzo in Shaw, Washington, the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine comes alive under the mastery of Chef Massimo. Transported from the heart of Tuscany, his culinary prowess brings forth dishes that are "anything but simple." With over three decades of experience, Chef Massimo crafts a menu that showcases the brilliance of homemade pastas, succulent Florentine steak, and exceptional risotto, all of which sing with the authentic flavors of his native Italy. Diners consistently rave about the "best Italian food" they've experienced, with special mentions of the "superb" lobster risotto and "perfectly prepared" Branzino. San Lorenzo's atmosphere, coupled with its inventive tasting menus and communal wine lunches, makes it not just a meal, but a "wonderful experience" that echoes the warmth of Italian hospitality.

7. Claudio's Table

4.6

Exceptional(228)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Palisades Northwest

Booked 24 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.

8. Alta Strada- DC

4.6

Exceptional(980)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Mount Vernon Square

Booked 6 times today

Alta Strada in the heart of Washington DC's Mount Vernon Triangle offers a sublime taste of Contemporary Italian cuisine that consistently delights diners. Known for its "authentic Italian classics" and "housemade pasta," the restaurant has become a staple for both locals and visitors. Reviews often highlight the exceptional quality of dishes like "delicious parpadelle" and "outstanding spaghetti with sauce", praising their bold flavors. The ambiance is complemented by a "very attentive and friendly" staff, making Alta Strada not just a meal, but an experience. As one reviewer put it, this is "the BEST Italian food in DC. Hands down." Whether it's the "amazing garlic bread" or the perfectly crafted "aperol spritz", Alta Strada's commitment to excellence is evident in every bite, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Contemporary Italian fare.

9. i Ricchi

4.8

Exceptional(3748)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Dupont Circle

Booked 6 times today

At i Ricchi in the heart of Dupont Circle, Washington, DC, the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine is celebrated with every dish served. Known for its "Cucina Rustica" style, the restaurant offers an unforgettable epicurean experience that keeps patrons coming back. One diner exclaimed, "The tortellini must be experienced at least once in your life – this dish never disappoints." From the calamari, praised as the best in DC, to the heavenly tiramisu, each menu item is crafted with authenticity and flair. The warm, attentive service and the charming ambiance, perfect for any special occasion, enhance the dining experience, making i Ricchi a true gem for Contemporary Italian cuisine lovers.

A photo of Officina Cafe - Downtown restaurant

10. Officina Cafe - Downtown

4.4

Awesome(33)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 15 times today

Chef Nicholas Stefanelli brings his Italian-inspired culinary collective to the heart of downtown DC. Located in The Hub. Stefanelli has reinvented the typical weekday dining experience by bringing chef-driven cuisine to returning office workers. From breakfast through happy hour, guests can enjoy takeaway coffee, sit-down-worthy cheese, and charcuterie platters, to-go salads, panini, Roman-style pizza, handmade pasta, pastries, gelato, and cocktails. Inspired by the lively streets of Italy, Officina Cafe—with DC locations at The Wharf and Downtown—is a culinary destination designed for effortless meals any time of the day.

‘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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