Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Los Angeles

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Historic South-Central

Price
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating options
Award-winning
Accessibility

15 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Rossoblu restaurant
1. Rossoblu
4.6
Exceptional(2118)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 10 times today
Rossoblu in Downtown Los Angeles masterfully marries contemporary Italian cuisine with the vibrant spirit of both Bologna and LA. Chef Steve Samson's foundation in authentic Italian cooking shines through dishes like "Olympias tagliatelle," highly praised for bringing guests a taste of Bologna. The restaurant's house-made salumi, soulful pastas, and wood-grilled meats are crafted from market-fresh ingredients, ensuring a delectable and genuine Italian dining experience. Guests rave about the "perfectly balanced" tortellini in brodo and the "mouthwatering" fungi pizza, with one reviewer recalling, "Rossoblu brought me right back to my time in Bologna." With its chic ambiance and welcoming service, Rossoblu stands out as a gem for those seeking top-tier Italian cuisine in LA.
A photo of Antico Nuovo restaurant
2. Antico Nuovo
4.7
Exceptional(845)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Hollywood
Booked 42 times today
Antico Nuovo in Hollywood, Los Angeles, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine. Nestled in the vibrant East Larchmont Village, the restaurant is celebrated for its skillful blend of traditional Italian techniques with a modern twist. Chef Chad Colby's mastery is evident in every dish, from the hand-made pasta to the wood-fired meats. Patrons rave about the "incredible" flavors and "unique" dishes, emphasizing the restaurant's ability to offer an "amazing dining experience" with a stellar wine list to match. The ambiance, described as "rustic, warm, with impeccable service," ensures every meal is not just eaten but savored. Reviews consistently highlight the focaccia and pasta as must-try items, making Antico Nuovo a beacon of Italian culinary excellence in LA.
A photo of Drago Centro restaurant
3. Drago Centro
4.7
Exceptional(3704)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 15 times today
Drago Centro in Downtown Los Angeles is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, where Chef Celestino Drago’s mastery shines through a menu that melds traditional Italian flavors with contemporary flair. The restaurant is praised for its “excellent Italian dinner, great flavour, top taste” and is consistently described as a place that never disappoints. Guests are enamored by the diverse and extensive selection of premium wines and the beautifully designed space that complements every dining experience. With accolades like “If I could give Drago 10 Stars I would,” and a reputation for impeccable service and quality, Drago Centro stands out as a premier destination for Italian dining in LA, promising an unforgettable experience with every visit.
A photo of Settecento DTLA restaurant
4. Settecento DTLA
5.0
Exceptional(1)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Coming Soon Summer 2024! More details to come soon!
A photo of Lemon Grove restaurant
5. Lemon Grove
4.6
Exceptional(92)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Hollywood
Booked 18 times today
Lemon Grove, nestled atop The Aster in Hollywood, Los Angeles, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with its innovative and seasonal menu. Awarded a Michelin Key, this rooftop gem offers a dynamic dining experience where California’s freshest ingredients shine. Patrons rave about the "fantastic food" and "amazing and tasty" dishes, highlighting favorites like the Hollywood Bowl Salad and the lemon pasta, both praised for their surprising and delightful flavors. The restaurant's commitment to accommodating all dietary needs, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensures a welcoming environment for all. Coupled with "top-notch food and excellent service" in a "beautiful atmosphere," Lemon Grove is a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of Contemporary American cuisine in a vibrant, upscale setting.
A photo of Vicini restaurant
6. Vicini
4.6
Exceptional(111)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Los Angeles
Booked 9 times today
Vicini Ristorante & Wine Bar in West Los Angeles' Cheviot Hills offers a sublime Wine Bar experience that truly stands out. Celebrated for its "authentic Northern Italian cuisine" and an impressive selection of wines, Vicini delights diners with a "thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail menu." Guests rave about the authentic touches, particularly noting that the wine selection complements the exquisite dishes crafted by Chef Lucio Bedon, whose expertise includes experience in Michelin-starred kitchens. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the wine, with one noting the exceptional pairing advice, stating, "Shout out to our server who offered us a few wines to taste before committing to a glass. His recommendation was the best." Vicini's Wine Bar is not just about wine; it's an integral part of an authentic Italian dining journey that leaves guests planning their next visit.
A photo of Via Alloro restaurant
7. Via Alloro
4.6
Exceptional(1570)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Beverly Hills
Booked 25 times today
At Via Alloro in Beverly Hills, contemporary Italian cuisine is more than just a meal; it's an experience that captivates your senses and transports you straight to Italy. Diners rave about the "authentic southern Italian" flavors and the exceptional dishes like the "heavenly pasta such as Spaghetti strazopretti or Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe," often prepared tableside adding a touch of spectacle to the dining experience. The ambiance, described as both "great" and "elegant," complements the culinary delights with its vibrant yet welcoming setting. With an "extensive and varied wine list," including rarities like Opus One, and service that is consistently described as "impeccable" and "non intrusive," it's no wonder guests are eager to return. Whether you're there for a leisurely lunch or a significant business meeting, Via Alloro stands out as a beacon of contemporary Italian gastronomy in Beverly Hills.
A photo of N10 Restaurant restaurant
8. N10 Restaurant
4.3
Awesome(804)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Hollywood
Booked 10 times today
N10 Restaurant in West Hollywood consistently impresses with its distinctive Modern European cuisine, skillfully crafted by its esteemed Italian chef. This culinary gem in Los Angeles combines seasonal flair with multi-regional influences, creating an exquisite menu that reflects authentic European sophistication. Diners rave about the "deliciously decadent arancini" and the "AMAZING Happy Hour," highlighting the chef's ability to blend traditional European techniques with modern twists. The inviting indoor-outdoor atmosphere and the attentive service only enhance the dining experience, making N10 a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Modern European excellence in a vibrant, contemporary setting.
A photo of Da Barbara restaurant
9. Da Barbara
5.0
Exceptional(60)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Hollywood
Booked 7 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Hollywood, Los Angeles, Da Barbara stands as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence, having clinched the prestigious Gambero Rosso International's 2024 Top Italian Restaurants award. This gem offers more than just dining; it's an immersive experience where Chef Barbara Pollastrini's passion and expertise bring authentic Italian cuisine to life. Each dish, crafted with the freshest ingredients, is a testament to Italy's rich culinary heritage. Customers rave about the "truly authentic" flavors and the intimate atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy Italian home. As one diner put it, every bite is a "flavor explosion that transported me straight to Italy!" Whether it's the hand-made ricotta or the Porcini Mushroom Arancini, Da Barbara is a must-visit for anyone seeking a slice of Italy in Los Angeles.
A photo of Nerano restaurant
10. Nerano
4.6
Exceptional(367)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Beverly Hills
Booked 16 times today
Nerano, nestled in the upscale enclave of Beverly Hills, epitomizes exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine with a delightful infusion of Amalfi Coast flair. Patrons rave about the authentic and innovative dishes, such as the "best pizza I have ever had in Los Angeles" and the praised Linguine alla Nerano, celebrated for its freshness and authenticity. The restaurant's ambiance mirrors the welcoming spirit of Italy, complete with a team that receives consistent accolades for their hospitality. "Exquisite Amalfi coast level, Italian food and wonderful service as always," notes one satisfied customer, highlighting Nerano as not just a meal but a "magical experience." This gem truly stands out in Beverly Hills as a top destination for contemporary Italian fare.
‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Diner
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined today
    Food was delicious and the restaurant is beautiful! Staff is not the warmest. Server kept referring to us as "kids" which we found to be disrespectful and unnecessary. To be clear, we are not kids.
    More info
    Antico NuovoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Hollywood
    •
    4.7
  • Andrea
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    It was our first time there, and it will not be our last. The food was phenomenal. The handmade pasta was superb. Excellent cocktails, too. Our server, Jonte, was gregarious and so engaging. Can't wait to go back, and also to take the pasta making class!
    More info
    RossobluPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
    •
    4.6
  • Erikvip
    Greater Boston •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Wow, coming from a first generation Italian family with a Mom who is the “heavy weight champion” of authentic Italian fare. This meal was epoch. We need DRAGO in Boston!! I will always come back here when I am any where near LA. Service, class and perfection all around the table… Erik Santucci
    More info
    Drago CentroPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
    •
    4.7
  • Robinvip
    Orange County •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Our friends came into LAX for an overnight stay. We chose Vicini as our restaurant to have dinner with them. It was incredible! Everything from the food we had to our wines and the Ability to have a nice conversation in the somewhat quiet restaurant was superb. The steak that I had was incredible and perfectly done. The others’ pasta dishes were delicious! It is certainly worth a visit if you are in the area and would like authentic Italian food. The ambience was perfect as well. The only drawback is there is limited parking only on the side streets with a meter or after seven in front of the restaurant on the street. 
    More info
    ViciniPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• West Los Angeles
    •
    4.6
  • Victoria
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 28 Jul 2024
    We made reservations through Open Table months ago and never received notice that they are not yet open. All dressed up and got there to a construction zone. We called and never received a call back. We messaged them through Insta and never received a reply. Things happen, openings are delayed, but a phone call would have been appreciated. I received multiple reminders of my reservation, they HAVE to have some sort of communication with Open Table, but no one bothered to get in touch with us so we could make other plans. Happy Anniversary to us! 😒 ****We received a lovely note from the ownership and will be dining with them upon opening. At that time, we’ll let you know how it was. The note alone was reason to update our review.****
    More info
    Settecento DTLAPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
    •
    5

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Restaurant Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo