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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Highlands

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6 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Trama's Trattoria restaurant
1. Trama's Trattoria
4.9
Exceptional(2409)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Long Branch
Booked 41 times today
Trama's Trattoria in Long Branch, NJ offers an exquisite journey into Contemporary Italian cuisine, celebrated for its "amazing food" and "wonderful service." Chef Trama's commitment to quality is evident in the fresh, farm-to-table ingredients that make each dish sing with seasonal flavor. Diners rave about the "luxurious" butternut squash on whipped ricotta and the "amazing" seven fishes fra diavolo. The restaurant's inviting ambiance and attentive service, often highlighted by standout staff like Sean and Andrew, ensure that every visit feels like a cherished gathering among friends. Trama's Trattoria is "hands down the best kept secret at the Jersey shore," offering a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Semolina Restaurant restaurant
2. Semolina Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3179)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Red Bank
Booked 48 times today
Semolina Restaurant in Red Bank is a gem of Contemporary Italian cuisine, praised for its inventive use of local, fresh ingredients that elevate traditional Italian dishes to new heights. The farm-to-table approach ensures every dish bursts with flavor and authenticity, with "pasta dishes that are particularly fantastic," as diners rave. Guests highlight the "outstanding" service and the cozy, welcoming BYO atmosphere that complements the dining experience. The menu, which rotates seasonally, keeps patrons excited with each visit. Semolina's commitment to quality and creativity makes it a standout choice for anyone eager to indulge in exceptional Contemporary Italian dining.
A photo of Monticello at Red Bank restaurant
3. Monticello at Red Bank
4.5
Awesome(1652)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Red Bank
Booked 5 times today
Monticello at Red Bank is a beacon of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, setting a high standard with its commitment to fresh, non-GMO, and hormone-free ingredients. Diners rave about the "outstanding" flavors and "exceptionally fresh" dishes, often highlighting the unique garden-to-table experience from their onsite organic garden. Located in the heart of Red Bank, the restaurant offers an intimate and romantic ambiance, perfect for any occasion. The chef's philosophy of clean, Mediterranean eating is evident in every meticulously prepared dish, from the sumptuous seafood spaghettini to the exquisite poached pear salad. As one reviewer exclaims, "Every meal is a great meal from start to finish!"
A photo of Gargiulos Tinton Falls restaurant
4. Gargiulos Tinton Falls
4.8
Exceptional(1228)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Tinton Falls
Booked 10 times today
Gargiulos Tinton Falls is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, seamlessly blending tradition with modern flair. This family-owned gem, steeped in over 50 years of culinary heritage, offers diners in Tinton Falls, NJ, a genuine taste of Italy without the need for a transcontinental journey. Guests rave about the "fantastic food," which consistently delivers delightful surprises from appetizers to desserts. The stuffed artichoke and scallop appetizers are especially praised as "phenomenal" by patrons. The ambiance is inviting, with an old-world charm that complements the exquisite dishes. Experience their "excellent service" and "authentic" flavors that make every meal memorable and satisfying.
A photo of Blu Grotto at Monmouth Park restaurant
5. Blu Grotto at Monmouth Park
4.4
Awesome(1133)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Long Branch
Booked 4 times today
Blu Grotto at Monmouth Park in Oceanport is a shining example of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering diners an exquisite fusion of modern adaptations and regional Italian classics. Chef James Corona’s commitment to using the freshest and locally grown ingredients ensures that every dish bursts with authentic flavors and quality. Guests rave about the "delicious entrees" and "generous glasses of great wine" paired with the "beautiful atmosphere." The restaurant's ambiance is described as "fabulous," making it a perfect spot for special occasions. With attentive staff and a creative menu that never disappoints, Blu Grotto promises an unforgettable dining experience.
A photo of Monmouth Park Racetrack Dining Club restaurant
6. Monmouth Park Racetrack Dining Club
3.6
Very Good(173)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Oakhurst
Monmouth Park Racetrack Dining Club delivers a remarkable Italian dining experience that "stands out for its impressive blend of authenticity and flavor." Nestled in the vibrant Oakhurst neighborhood of Oceanport, the restaurant offers an enticing array of Italian dishes as part of its diverse menu. Guests revel in the exquisite taste of freshly prepared dishes, with the chicken salad receiving particular praise for being "fresh, flavorful, and simply delicious." The atmosphere is enhanced by a breathtaking view of the racetrack, creating a unique dining ambiance. The attentive staff, described as "outstanding hosts," ensure every visit is memorable, making it a must-visit for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
‘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
  • LaurenVIP
    New York City •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our server, Danielle, was nothing short of fabulous. Very attentive, knew the entire menu and specials thoroughly. I am gluten free and she knew exactly how everything was prepared so she was very helpful in going over the menu with me. Although I did not get it, they have gluten free pasta! Almost the whole menu is gluten free or can be prepared gluten free. The food was excellent, not one bad bite. Bone in ribeye was perfectly marbled and cooked at exactly medium as we requested. Oysters as fresh as could be. The Tartare Trio and Slab Bacon are to die for! If you are looking for a special celebration or even a swanky night out, I highly recommend. Looking forward to returning!
    More info
    Jasper Stone Italian SteakhousePrice: Expensive• Italian• Spotswood
    •
    4.8
  • Emanuel
    New York City •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Always good food and good service. Very consistent.
    More info
    Cecconi's DumboPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• DUMBO
    •
    4.6
  • SueVIP
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Consistently fabulous meal. The signature pork chop was amazing and the shaved Brussel Caesar salad delicious. Love the caramel mousse dessert. One of our favorite restaurants for a fantastic dinner.
    More info
    Semolina RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Red Bank
    •
    4.8
  • Chester
    South Carolina •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Food was OUTSTANDING, service was outstanding, my only criticism would be that it was overly crowded (possibly due to the fact that the food is so good) and the noise level is high (the landlord should put sound dampening panels in the roof area). But all in all it was an excellent experience and I look forward to going back there again soon.
    More info
    La LupaPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Manalapan
    •
    4.8
  • valerieVIP
    New York City •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    The restaurant was warm and inviting. Our server was Mickey. He was knowledgeable and attentive. Our food was promptly delivered to us. It was delicious! We split the Artichoke salad then chose the seafood special of 8 fish over spaghetti and veal parmigiana with spaghetti on the side. The dinner did no disappoint. It is difficult to get a reservation because it is such a great restaurant but I will plan ahead.
    More info
    Trama's TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Long Branch
    •
    4.9

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