Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Columbia Heights / Brightwood

18 restaurants available nearby

1. San Lorenzo

4.7

Exceptional(306)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Shaw

Booked 20 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 Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant

2. Carmine's - Washington DC

4.5

Awesome(6524)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter

Booked 107 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.

3. Modena

4.6

Exceptional(1180)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 27 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.

A photo of North Italia - Washington DC restaurant

4. North Italia - Washington DC

4.6

Exceptional(1678)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • West End

Booked 62 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.

5. Tosca

4.8

Exceptional(4511)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 64 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.

6. Il Piatto

4.6

Exceptional(645)

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.

7. Claudio's Table

4.7

Exceptional(270)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Palisades Northwest

Booked 34 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.

8. Tortino

4.7

Exceptional(1885)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 18 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.

9. i Ricchi

4.7

Exceptional(3758)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Dupont Circle

Booked 9 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 Officina Cafe - Downtown restaurant

10. Officina Cafe - Downtown

4.3

Awesome(34)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 12 times today

Chef Nicholas Stefanelli brings his Italian-inspired culinary collective to the heart of downtown DC. Located in The Hub. Stefanelli has reinvented the typical weekday dining experience by bringing chef-driven cuisine to returning office workers. From breakfast through happy hour, guests can enjoy takeaway coffee, sit-down-worthy cheese, and charcuterie platters, to-go salads, panini, Roman-style pizza, handmade pasta, pastries, gelato, and cocktails. Inspired by the lively streets of Italy, Officina Cafe—with DC locations at The Wharf and Downtown—is a culinary destination designed for effortless meals any time of the day.

‘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
Joanne
Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We were a party of six. Three had not been there before. Those who had been warned us we would get a lot of food, so we shared 3 plates and a salad. We all enjoyed the experience and left fully satisfied. Our server Big Mac was fabulous!
More info
Carmine's - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• Penn Quarter
•
4.5
V
Valerievip
Washington, D.C. Area •152 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Fabulous all around. LOVE the gluten free options! Thank you for yet another delicious restaurant option and experience.
More info
ModenaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.6
M
Mary Louvip
Fort Lauderdale •49 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
If you’re in the area and looking for some basic Italian this is a good place to consider. It’s the second time we have been here and both times the food and service did not disappoint. The seating is tight so probably not the best for large groups but otherwise would highly recommend it.
More info
Il PiattoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown
•
4.6
V
Victor
Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Awesome place, very intimate! Food was amazing! Staff were super friendly and polite. Cocktails were strong as they come! The tiramisu, uhhm to die for!
More info
San LorenzoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Shaw
•
4.7
S
Shauna
Washington, D.C. Area •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
First time going. My husband suggested it to me and my daughter for her 20th birthday. We went for dinner the Saturday after Thanksgiving so it wasn’t that busy in DC. Great food, service and prices were reasonable for the awesome food and portions. We would definitely go again!
More info
North Italia - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• West End
•
4.6

Explore OpenTable

Columbia Heights / Brightwood

Contemporary italian

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Columbia Heights / Brightwood

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Award-winning

Accessibility

18 restaurants available nearby

1. San Lorenzo

2. Carmine's - Washington DC

3. Modena

4. North Italia - Washington DC

5. Tosca

6. Il Piatto

7. Claudio's Table

8. Tortino

9. i Ricchi

10. Officina Cafe - Downtown

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable