Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Universal City

23 restaurants available nearby

1. Antico Nuovo

4.7

Exceptional(874)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Hollywood

Booked 49 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.

2. Lemon Grove

4.6

Exceptional(116)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Hollywood

Booked 38 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.

3. Terra E Mare

4.7

Exceptional(543)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Studio City

Booked 10 times today

At Terra E Mare in Studio City, the art of seafood cuisine is elevated to exquisite heights, creating a dining experience that is truly memorable. The restaurant masterfully blends traditional and contemporary Italian culinary styles, focusing on the freshest oceanic bounty. Diners rave about dishes like the "outstanding Chilean sea bass" and the "perfectly done Branzino with clams," emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. One reviewer exclaimed, "The sea bass and swordfish were outstanding!" and another recommended the "great tuna tartar w avocado." Terra E Mare ensures that each dish is not only delicious but presented with the utmost elegance, making it a go-to spot for seafood lovers seeking authenticity and sophistication in their dining choices.

A photo of Angelino Trattoria restaurant

4. Angelino Trattoria

4.8

Exceptional(287)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Toluca Lake

Booked 10 times today

Angelino Trattoria, nestled in the heart of Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, is a true culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Pizzeria cuisine. Patrons rave about their gourmet pizzas, particularly highlighting the “Napoli with fresh mozzarella, anchovies, capers, and olives” and the “shiitake mushroom with shaved parmesan, truffle oil, and parsley.” One customer exclaims, “The pizza is incredible! Coming from NY, I'm always searching for the best pizza in LA, Angelino Trattoria is top tier 5 stars.” This bustling Italian eatery not only offers a delightful array of pizzas but also creates an ambiance that feels like “you’re eating in Italy.” With glowing reviews consistently praising its authenticity and quality, Angelino Trattoria stands out as a must-visit spot for anyone craving truly authentic Italian pizza in Los Angeles.

5. Vitello's

4.7

Exceptional(1432)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Studio City

Booked 18 times today

No place on earth can fresher ingredients be found than Southern California! From the freshest fish, produce and meats, it all comes together as California-Inspired Contemporary Italian cuisine. Our chef-driven kitchen produces some of the many classic Italian dishes such as Piccatas, Marsalas and Parmigianas as well as many delicious contemporary dishes.Lighter & healthier is always on our minds here at Vitello's. There is always an array of fresh fish available too, such as Halibut and Salmon, just to name a few. The menu also includes Steaks and Chops and homemade soups and salads. Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-Free options are yours for the asking. Daily specials round out the menu each day. Lunch, Dinner or our Weekend Jazz Brunch, whichever you choose, the kitchen at Vitello's Restaurant surely won't disappoint!

6. Da Barbara

5.0

Exceptional(71)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Hollywood

Booked 1 time 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.

7. N10 Restaurant

4.5

Awesome(812)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Hollywood

Booked 9 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.

8. Cafe Angelino

4.9

Exceptional(39)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Beverly Hills

Booked 7 times today

Cafe Angelino in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, is a haven for lovers of authentic Contemporary Italian cuisine. Celebrating over 30 years of culinary excellence, Chef Antonio Riccardi masterfully combines fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft dishes that resonate with traditional Italian flavors while presenting a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "delicious and reliable Italian cuisine," especially the linguine alle Vongole and the boscaiola dish, which come highly recommended. The cozy ambiance and the charming patio add to the dining experience, making it a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. As one satisfied diner put it, Cafe Angelino is "easily one of my top three favorite Italian restaurants in the entire country," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of Los Angeles.

9. Rossoblu

4.6

Exceptional(2131)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 29 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.

10. Vicini

4.6

Exceptional(117)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Los Angeles

Booked 2 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.

‘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

C
Cater
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Loved it! The food was amazing and it was beautifully decorated for the holidays!
More info
Angelino TrattoriaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Toluca Lake
•
4.8
A
AlexVIP
Los Angeles •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
quickly became one of my favorite restaurants in LA. It’s expensive but worth every penny, especially as the restaurant is pretty generous with the portions. The Pane with pistachios and ricotta is amazing along with the the broccolini caesar salad. The uni pasta is simple and elegant, and one of the best i’ve had, especially topped with grade A uni. Don’t skip dessert and take any digestifif offered. $350 for 2 people. Not cheap, but well worth it and unique amongst the many high end choices in Los Angeles
More info
Antico NuovoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Hollywood
•
4.7
M
MichaelVIP
Los Angeles •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
If you are lucky enough to score on of the 6 tables at Da Barbara you will not be disappointed. The setting is not what you expect - a small intimate restaurant in a live/work loft in Hollywood and you wonder how such amazing food comes out of the small open kitchen and prepared by Barbara herself. The rest of the staff is amazing and you are made to feel like your first time there is your 21st! Make a reservation and be prepared to have an extraordinary experience.
More info
Da BarbaraPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Hollywood
•
5
M
Margie
Los Angeles •18 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
The service has an experience was wonderful. My dining mates food was delicious. However, my lamb chops were very very tough. I hope to try again because I really loved the experience.
More info
Terra E MarePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Studio City
•
4.7
N
NicoleVIP
Los Angeles •37 reviews
5.0
Dined on 16 Dec 2024
Food was amazing (as always). We tried a few new things like the focaccia bread and spicy salami pizza. The room was cold but the good food kept us warm!
More info
N10 RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• West Hollywood
•
4.5

Explore OpenTable

Universal City

Contemporary italian

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Universal City

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Award-winning

Accessibility

23 restaurants available nearby

1. Antico Nuovo

2. Lemon Grove

3. Terra E Mare

4. Angelino Trattoria

5. Vitello's

6. Da Barbara

7. N10 Restaurant

8. Cafe Angelino

9. Rossoblu

10. Vicini

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable