Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Washington

17 restaurants available nearby

1. Modena

4.5

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 9 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.

2. Tosca

4.8

Exceptional(4517)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 9 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.

A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant

3. Carmine's - Washington DC

4.5

Awesome(6560)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter

Booked 115 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. Il Piatto

4.5

Awesome(659)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 45 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.

5. San Lorenzo

4.7

Exceptional(313)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Shaw

Booked 9 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.

A photo of North Italia - Washington DC restaurant

6. North Italia - Washington DC

4.5

Awesome(1700)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • West End

Booked 52 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.

7. Tortino

4.8

Exceptional(1894)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 15 times today

Executive Chef and owner Noé Canales welcomes you to experience his vision of contemporary Italian cuisine in his lovely new neighborhood restaurant designed to transport you to a trattoria in Tuscany.

8. Claudio's Table

4.7

Exceptional(300)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Palisades Northwest

Booked 27 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.

9. i Ricchi

4.7

Exceptional(3763)

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 Mazaro Italian Restaurant restaurant

10. Mazaro Italian Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(356)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Arlington

Booked 12 times today

Mazaro Italian Restaurant in Arlington is a beacon of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, delighting diners with its classic Italian offerings and Neapolitan pizzas straight from a wood-fired oven imported from Italy. Patrons rave about the "delicious" food and "exceptional service," with one guest highlighting the "divine Penne a Vodka" and another praising the "perfect" Pasta Carbonara Roma. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality shines through in each dish, making it a "highly recommended" destination. Whether celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual dinner, Mazaro promises a memorable Mediterranean dining experience that feels like a "taste of Venice."

‘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

J
Jesus
New York City •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
It was our fist time at the restaurant and it was really amazing the staff, the food and all the good stuff that we got, I would recommend this place to have a good time and good experience, you can have a good food anywhere but not the good food and good experience together.!! It’s was great.!!
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Il PiattoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown
•
4.5
T
TerryVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •11 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
I keep returning to San Lorenzo for its excellent food, very fine service and delightful atmosphere. My veal chop was of the highest quality, and the squash blossom is a personal favorite. There’s a very good, but overly expensive, wine list. The staff are very knowledgeable and quite friendly. I’ll be back.
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San LorenzoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Shaw
•
4.7
A
AngelaVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •22 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Carmine's is my family favorite for Christmas Eve dinner. Everyone in the restaurant was wonderful--from the people checking us in and seating us to the people in the kitchen who prepared wonderful food. My last bit of praise is for the young woman who helped us navigate Carmine's menu to seeing that all our food and beverages arrived at the table with just enough time between courses.
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Carmine's - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• Penn Quarter
•
4.5
K
Kimberly
Alabama •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Wonderful Christmas Eve dinner in a corner table. Service was awesome and food was delicious and served at perfect temp.
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North Italia - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• West End
•
4.5
G
garyVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •145 reviews
5.0
Dined on 22 Dec 2024
Our service was excellent. When we asked about the wine by the glass, he had the sommelier come to discuss the choices which was super helpful. Our dinners were excellent, both the appetizers and the mains. Their brodetto is one of the best dishes we’ve experienced in DC.
More info
ModenaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.5

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Contemporary italian

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Washington

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17 restaurants available nearby

1. Modena

2. Tosca

3. Carmine's - Washington DC

4. Il Piatto

5. San Lorenzo

6. North Italia - Washington DC

7. Tortino

8. Claudio's Table

9. i Ricchi

10. Mazaro Italian Restaurant

See what locals rave about

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