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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in University City

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22 restaurants available nearby

A photo of LaScala's Fire-University City restaurant
1. LaScala's Fire-University City
4.6
Exceptional(179)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • University City
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in University City, Philadelphia, LaScala's Fire is a delightful destination for dessert enthusiasts. Known for its exquisite dessert cuisine, this restaurant has garnered rave reviews, with many diners praising the "authentic flavors" and "well-crafted, complex" sweets that leave a lasting impression. Awarded Open Table's Diner's Choice in both 2022 and 2023, LaScala's Fire promises a memorable dessert experience that combines quality and authenticity. The welcoming atmosphere, coupled with attentive service, makes it the perfect spot for any occasion. Whether you're a local or a visitor, indulge in their delectable treats and discover why LaScala's Fire is a beloved gem in Philadelphia.
A photo of La Fontana Della Citta restaurant
2. La Fontana Della Citta
4.4
Awesome(2029)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 21 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 Scampi restaurant
3. Scampi
4.9
Exceptional(20)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Queen Village
Booked 10 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 Melograno restaurant
4. Melograno
4.8
Exceptional(1652)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Rittenhouse Square
Booked 22 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 Osteria Ama Philly restaurant
5. Osteria Ama Philly
4.6
Exceptional(309)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Center City
Booked 45 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 Bellini restaurant
6. Bellini
4.8
Exceptional(1169)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Center City
Booked 25 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 Porcini - Philadelphia restaurant
7. Porcini - Philadelphia
4.8
Exceptional(2035)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Center City
Booked 17 times today
Porcini, nestled in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, capturing the essence of Italy with a modern twist. With its fresh, house-made pastas and authentic ingredients imported from Sicily and the Mediterranean, Porcini ensures an "authentic and swoon-worthy" dining experience. The restaurant’s dedication to quality is reflected in every dish, from the delicate spaghetti to the exquisite tiramisu. Guests rave about the warm welcome from David and the attentive service that "makes you feel like family." Porcini’s inviting atmosphere and delectable dishes make it a must-visit for Italian food aficionados.
A photo of Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti restaurant
8. Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti
4.6
Exceptional(3971)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Old City
Booked 37 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 Bucatini Caffe restaurant
9. Bucatini Caffe
4.9
Exceptional(71)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • East Passyunk Avenue
Booked 30 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 Buca D'oro Ristorante restaurant
10. Buca D'oro Ristorante
4.5
Awesome(686)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Society Hill
Booked 19 times today
Buca D'oro Ristorante, nestled in the vibrant Society Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia, is a true gem for Contemporary Italian cuisine enthusiasts. This restaurant has perfected the art of blending tradition with innovation, offering dishes that transport diners straight to the Amalfi Coast. Reviewers rave about their "absolutely divine" handmade pasta and "rich and savory Pacheri Bolognese," lauding the authentic flavors and impeccable presentation. The warm, inviting atmosphere and professional, attentive service make every visit memorable. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch or a pre-theater dinner, Buca D'oro ensures a delightful culinary journey with consistently excellent dishes and an impressive wine selection.
‘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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