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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Dupont Circle

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of i Ricchi restaurant
1. i Ricchi
4.7
Exceptional(3764)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Dupont Circle
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in the heart of Dupont Circle, Washington, i Ricchi delivers an authentic Contemporary Italian dining experience that is unmatched. Known for its Cucina Rustica Tuscan country-style, scratch cooking, this culinary gem has become a cherished favorite among locals and visitors alike. Patrons rave about the "spectacular cuisine" and "authentic Italian cooking" that transports them straight to Italy. The restaurant's cozy ambiance, paired with attentive and warm service, creates a dining atmosphere that feels like home. With standout dishes like tortellini and risotto, i Ricchi's reputation for excellence is well-deserved, making it a must-visit destination for Italian food enthusiasts.
A photo of North Italia - Washington DC restaurant
2. North Italia - Washington DC
4.5
Awesome(1704)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • West End
Booked 38 times today
At North Italia in Washington DC's vibrant West End, the Contemporary Italian cuisine is a celebration of authenticity and creativity. This restaurant is renowned for its "handmade pastas and pizzas," crafted with seasonal ingredients that bring a modern twist to traditional Italian flavors. Diners rave about the "white truffle garlic bread" and "bomboloni" as must-try delights that capture the essence of Italy. The inviting and comfortable ambiance, coupled with attentive service, ensures a memorable dining experience. With a commitment to scratch-made dishes and an inventive menu, North Italia offers a true taste of modern Italian excellence, making it a beloved choice for locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant
3. Carmine's - Washington DC
4.5
Awesome(6566)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 97 times today
Carmine's in Washington DC's vibrant Penn Quarter offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience, meticulously crafted to bring the warmth of a traditional Italian family meal to every table. Guests rave about the "outstanding eggplant parmigiana" and the "penne alla vodka," both hailed as some of the best ever tasted. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for gatherings with family and friends. Known for its generous portions and "fantastic service," Carmine's ensures every visit feels like a "festive Italian meal," capturing the essence of authentic Southern Italian cuisine with a modern twist.
A photo of Modena restaurant
4. Modena
4.6
Exceptional(1192)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 13 times today
Modena, nestled in the heart of Downtown Washington, serves up a Contemporary Italian culinary masterpiece that has diners raving. Chef Joshua Hunt's creative touch shines through dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in authentic Italian flavors. Guests frequently applaud the "legit top of the line Italian" offerings and the "out of this world" flavors that make each meal an unforgettable experience. The menu highlights seasonal, regionally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and authenticity in every bite. With a welcoming ambiance, attentive staff, and sublime dishes like the highly recommended lamb bolognese, Modena is truly a standout destination for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Il Piatto restaurant
5. Il Piatto
4.5
Awesome(660)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 30 times today
Il Piatto, located in the heart of Downtown Washington, offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that beautifully blends tradition with modern flair. Diners rave about the "delicious authentic Italian food," with standout dishes like the perfectly prepared Arancini and the exquisite Pappardelle Bolognese. The restaurant's menu, featuring freshly made pasta and authentic sauces, "exceeds expectations" and delights guests with each visit. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or a sophisticated dinner, the vibrant atmosphere and attentive service make every meal memorable. Diners frequently highlight the "great food, excellent service, and cozy ambiance," making Il Piatto a must-visit destination for Italian cuisine lovers.
A photo of San Lorenzo restaurant
6. San Lorenzo
4.7
Exceptional(313)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Shaw
Booked 13 times today
San Lorenzo, nestled in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood of Washington, offers an exquisite journey through Contemporary Italian cuisine. Chef Massimo's dishes are a true homage to Tuscany, where "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." With over 30 years of culinary expertise, the restaurant excels in delivering "the best Italian food in DC," as many diners rave. From the delectable homemade pastas to the sensational Florentine steak and risotto, every dish is a testament to authentic Italian flavors. The charming ambiance, adorned with black and white photos of Massimo's hometown, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for Italian food lovers.
A photo of Tosca restaurant
7. Tosca
4.8
Exceptional(4521)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 29 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 Claudio's Table restaurant
8. Claudio's Table
4.7
Exceptional(305)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Palisades Northwest
Booked 32 times today
Claudio's Table in Palisades Northwest, Washington, is a shining example of Contemporary Italian cuisine, effortlessly blending tradition with innovation. Chef Claudio Pirollo brings his Italian heritage to life with dishes that showcase "authentic flavors that easily compete with food in Italy." The homemade pasta and oven-baked pizzas are consistently praised for their perfection, while unique menu offerings like the linguine with truffles and pumpkin soup highlight the chef's creative flair. The restaurant's warm, neighborhood ambiance and exceptional service contribute to a dining experience that is both welcoming and memorable, making Claudio's Table a must-visit destination for Italian food lovers.
A photo of Tortino restaurant
9. Tortino
4.8
Exceptional(1897)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 10 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(356)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Arlington
Booked 9 times today
Mazaro Italian Restaurant in Arlington is a standout destination for authentic Mediterranean cuisine, perfectly blending traditional Italian flavors with modern flair. The wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, baked in an oven imported straight from Italy, is a must-try, capturing the essence of “classic Italian cuisine” that diners rave about. Guests consistently praise the “excellent food and service,” noting the fresh, homemade pasta that is crafted to perfection. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, combined with attentive service, ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Mazaro offers a taste of Italy that keeps patrons coming back for more.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Angela
    Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I knew the portions would be large for 2-3 people but it was larger than expected! I went with a party of 3 and we all had leftovers. We got one appetizer, one pasta, and one shrimp dish. The complimentary bread was great too! Everything was very good! We ordered portobello parmigiana, penne alla vodka, and shrimp diavolo. Everything was very flavorful.
    More info
    Carmine's - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• Penn Quarter
    •
    4.5
  • Lisa
    Wisconsin •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Very nice ambiance, cozy for date night or very comfortable for a family dinner or group. Food is excellent, menu has something for everyone.
    More info
    North Italia - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• West End
    •
    4.5
  • Jesus
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days 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.!!
    More info
    Il PiattoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown
    •
    4.5
  • MichaelVIP
    Virginia •60 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Outstanding service, dinner and ambience. We were celebrating our anniversary and this restaurant made it a wonderful night.
    More info
    i RicchiPrice: Expensive• Italian• Dupont Circle
    •
    4.7
  • gary
    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
    •
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Dupont Circle

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the heart of Washington, D.C.'s Dupont Circle. This area is renowned for its dynamic dining scene, offering a blend of historical charm and modern culinary innovations. The restaurants here cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring that lovers of Italian fare can find a sophisticated environment that pairs traditional Italian techniques with a contemporary twist. These establishments boast menus featuring high-quality, fresh ingredients, with dishes that are both artfully crafted and deeply satisfying. From expertly prepared pastas to gourmet pizzas and inventive seafood dishes, each restaurant offers a unique insight into the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Italy. Patrons can expect not only a feast for their taste buds but also an atmospheric setting that compleates the dining experience. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor exploring Dupont Circle, the area’s contemporary Italian restaurants offer a delightful exploration of taste and tradition.

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