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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Irvine

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of North Italia – Irvine restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(5516)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Irvine
Booked 190 times today
At North, we focus on what we do best: Italian from scratch. Enjoy any of our handmade pastas and pizzas, created with seasonal ingredients and inventive flavors. Or, try a different signature dish, prepared with our fresh flavors from the garden, farm, and sea. We’ve hand crafted seasonal cocktails that pair great with our food, creating a real modern Italia experiences perfect for any occasion.
A photo of Prego Restaurant restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1455)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Tustin
Booked 11 times today
Prego Restaurant, nestled in the vibrant locales of Irvine and Tustin, is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, celebrated for its authentic and high-quality offerings. Known far and wide, patrons rave about their seafood, with standout dishes like the Market Salmon and the Tuna Tartare. One delighted diner exclaimed, “The Salmon was delicious!” while another praised their “fantastic” lobster ravioli. Prego's commitment to excellence is evident in its meticulous preparation and presentation, making every seafood dish a culinary masterpiece. With accolades from the Restaurant Writers Association and the Wine and Food Society of Southern California, Prego promises an unforgettable seafood experience.
A photo of Louie's by the Bay restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1470)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Newport Beach
Booked 22 times today
Louie's by the Bay is a premier Cocktail Bar destination in Newport Beach, offering an exquisite cocktail experience that complements its stunning waterfront location. Diners rave about the "perfect margaritas" and the expertly crafted Manhattans that are "great" and perfectly paired with the menu. The lively late-night cocktail scene is a vibrant addition to the elegant ambiance, making it an ideal spot for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations. Guests are consistently impressed by the "fantastic service" and "superb" drinks, which make every visit memorable. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a delightful evening out, Louie's promises an exceptional cocktail experience.
A photo of Il Girasole restaurant
4.5
Awesome(68)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 1 time today
Il Girasole, now open at SOCO & The OC Mix in Costa Mesa, CA, brings a refined, modern Italian dining experience to Orange County. Named after the Italian word for "sunflower," the restaurant embraces a family-owned ethos, with a menu inspired by classic Italian flavors elevated through fresh, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy a variety of beautifully crafted dishes, from handmade pastas and creative flatbreads to thoughtfully curated seafood and meat selections. Each dish is prepared with a focus on authenticity and quality, delivering a dining experience that balances traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine.Highlights from the menu include unique offerings like wild striped bass, duck, sea urchin risotto, and handmade pasta with truffle enhancements. Il Girasole has quickly become a must-visit destination for both Italian food aficionados and those seeking an elegant yet welcoming dining environment in Costa Mesa.
A photo of Il Dolce restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(448)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 2 times today
Il Dolce in Costa Mesa is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, celebrated for its authentic flavors and exceptional quality. This family-owned gem embraces the true essence of Italy by using only fresh, natural ingredients, resulting in "some of the best pizza you will ever have." Their wood-fire oven pizzas mirror the authentic pies of Naples, offering a smoky, delightful taste that is hard to find elsewhere. Pasta enthusiasts will revel in their handmade dishes, while those with dietary restrictions can indulge in the best gluten-free options around. "Outstanding food and service" are guaranteed, making Il Dolce a must-visit for Italian food connoisseurs.
A photo of Andrea at Pelican Hill restaurant
4.1
Excellent(1893)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Newport Beach
Andrea at Pelican Hill is a beacon of exquisite Contemporary European cuisine, nestled in the picturesque Newport Beach. The restaurant offers a multi-sensory dining experience, elevating each dish to an art form. Guests frequently commend the “delicious and plentiful” food, noting the “outstanding service” that accompanies it. The venue is renowned for its special high-end offerings, such as the Italian Culinary Masters event, showcasing the brilliance of Chef Mattia Agazzi. Diners rave about the “exceptional” service and beautifully curated events, making Andrea a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and sophisticated European flavors.
A photo of Mangia Bene Cucina restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(692)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 6 times today
Mangia Bene Cucina, nestled in the heart of Laguna Niguel, offers a seafood dining experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. Renowned for its “perfectly cooked” Calamari Fritti, this restaurant captures the essence of Italian seafood cuisine with dishes that transport diners straight to the coastal regions of Italy. Guests rave about the Cioppino, describing it as a “must-go-to” for seafood aficionados. With a commitment to using fresh, quality ingredients, Mangia Bene Cucina delivers generous portions that satisfy even the most discerning palates. The vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service further enhance the dining experience, ensuring every visit is memorable.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • AdamVIP
    Orange County •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Absolutely delightful experience! Great recommendations from our server Gil. Octopus and tartare were the favorites for appetizers, but, honestly, everything on the menu is top notch. Thank you for a delicious dinner.
    More info
    Louie's by the BayPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Newport Beach
    4.7
  • David
    Orange County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We had great service our waitress, and all of her helpers were wonderful. We had a special evening for our daughter’s birthday thank you to Prego and your staff so much.
    More info
    Prego RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Tustin
    4.6
  • Breanna
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    delicious pizza wonderful service lively warm beautiful restaurant
    More info
    Truly PizzaPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    4.8
  • StacieVIP
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Delicious food, impeccable service! We've already booked our next reservation!
    More info
    Il GirasolePrice: Expensive• Italian• Costa Mesa
    4.5
  • WillyVIP
    Orange County •37 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Dining at North Italia in Cerritos was a delightful experience that made for a wonderful evening. The ambiance was warm and inviting, making it the perfect backdrop for a delicious Italian meal. We started with the Margherita pizza, which was beautifully crafted with a perfectly crispy crust and fresh, bright flavors from the tomatoes and basil. The Yellowtail Crudo was a refreshing highlight, with the fish being impeccably fresh and expertly plated. The Trottole Chicken Pesto was a standout for the main courses, offering a creamy, rich basil pesto that clung perfectly to the tender pasta. The Squid Ink Tonnarelli presented a unique and bold flavor profile that was intriguing and satisfying. The Chicken Parmesan was a delicious classic, featuring a crispy exterior and juicy interior, while the Tuscan Half Chicken was roasted to perfection, boasting a crispy skin and flavorful, moist meat. The service was attentive without being intrusive, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal. North Italia in Cerritos is a fantastic choice for those seeking authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Highly recommend!
    More info
    North Italia - CerritosPrice: Moderate• Italian• Cerritos
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Irvine

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in Irvine, nestled in the heart of South Orange County, Orange County. This vibrant culinary destination boasts a selection of restaurants that masterfully blend traditional Italian techniques with modern innovations, offering a unique dining experience that catiates to the gourmet enthusiast. Each establishment showcases a commitment to authenticity, with menus featuring everything from expertly crafted pasta dishes and artisan pizzas to sophisticated seafood and meat preparations. The dining scene in Irvine reflects a sophisticated blend of cultural influences, creating a dynamic environment that is both inviting and exciting for food lovers. With chefs who are passionate about sourcing high-quality ingredients and delivering exceptional flavors, these restaurants provide not just a meal, but a memorable gastronomic journey. Whether you're seeking a cozy dinner spot or a chic venue for special occasions, the contemporary Italian offerings in Irvine are sure to impress. Experience the perfect fusion of old-world charm and contemporary flair in South Orange County’s top culinary establishments.

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