Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Southwest Waterfront

17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant

1. Carmine's - Washington DC

4.5

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter

Booked 120 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.

2. Tosca

4.8

Exceptional(4516)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 23 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.

3. Modena

4.6

Exceptional(1189)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 8 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.

4. Il Piatto

4.5

Awesome(654)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 27 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(311)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Shaw

Booked 10 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

4.6

Exceptional(1694)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • West End

Booked 26 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. Jackie

4.6

Exceptional(163)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Navy Yard

Booked 1 time today

Jackie American Bistro in Navy Yard, Washington, provides a delightful twist on Italian cuisine that leaves diners raving about its "thoughtful and flavorful food" and "impeccable service." The restaurant’s modern American menu, with nods to classic Italian flavors, is crafted using fresh, sustainably-harvested ingredients. Highlights include the short rigatoni, which has been described as fantastic. The ambiance, described as "fancy retro/60s feel," perfectly complements the dining experience. Patrons consistently praise the innovative cocktails and the professional, attentive staff, making Jackie a must-visit for those seeking a unique and exquisite Italian dining experience in the heart of DC.

8. Corso Italian

4.6

Exceptional(264)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Arlington

Booked 19 times today

Corso Italian in Arlington is a gem for those seeking authentic and high-quality American cuisine with an Italian twist. Despite its Italian-inspired menu, patrons rave about its distinctly American approach to service and innovation in classic dishes. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant for its "delicious food and great service," highlighting the comfortable and chic atmosphere that complements the culinary experience. The handmade pastas and modern classics, alongside a fine wine list, receive special mentions, with one guest noting, "Every single appetizer and entrée were delicious." This restaurant's dedication to excellence makes it a standout in the Arlington dining scene, promising an unforgettable experience with every visit.

9. Tortino

4.7

Exceptional(1892)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 7 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.

A photo of Mazaro Italian Restaurant restaurant

10. Mazaro Italian Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(355)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Arlington

Booked 6 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
Jenelle
Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Delicious and great service! The bottomless mimosas and brunch special for 40.00 is a great deal.
More info
Il PiattoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown
•
4.5
G
garyVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •145 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
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
•
4.6
J
JasonVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Delicious food and great service. Always a great time.
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San LorenzoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Shaw
•
4.7
T
Tracy
Washington, D.C. Area •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
I’ve eaten here twice, lunch and dinner. Both times urge me to return again. The fresh pasta and sauces are amazing, the appetizers are inventive and delicious! My favorite dessert is the dark chocolate budino and I look forward to trying their famous donuts next time.
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North Italia - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• West End
•
4.6
J
Julie
Washington, D.C. Area •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
This was the third time I have eaten at this restaurant, and the first time that the service was not very good. The waiter we had seemed dismissive and uninterested in our having a good dining experience. My companion thought this might be explained by our being elderly ladies who do not drink. The restaurant was not at all crowded and there seemed to be enough staff on hand.
More info
Carmine's - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• Penn Quarter
•
4.5

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Southwest Waterfront

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17 restaurants available nearby

1. Carmine's - Washington DC

2. Tosca

3. Modena

4. Il Piatto

5. San Lorenzo

6. North Italia - Washington DC

7. Jackie

8. Corso Italian

9. Tortino

10. Mazaro Italian Restaurant

See what locals rave about

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