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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in River Oaks

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19 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Coppa Osteria restaurant
1. Coppa Osteria
4.8
Exceptional(510)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Rice Village
Booked 23 times today
Coppa Osteria, nestled in the vibrant Rice Village of Houston, captures the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine with its delightful fusion of traditional and modern flavors. Patrons rave about dishes like the "sublime" tomato salad and the "always delicious" spaghetti carbonara, highlighting Coppa's commitment to quality and authenticity. The restaurant's atmosphere is equally praised, with diners describing it as "energetic and fun," perfect for enjoying craft cocktails and an extensive wine list. A standout feature is the outdoor patio, ideal for sipping rosé while soaking in the neighborhood's scenery. Whether it's the "perfectly cooked" pasta or the "impeccably prepared" veal, Coppa Osteria consistently impresses with its culinary prowess and warm ambiance, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Contemporary Italian dining experience in Houston.
A photo of Lombardi Cucina Italiana - Houston restaurant
2. Lombardi Cucina Italiana - Houston
4.6
Exceptional(709)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Westside
Booked 30 times today
Lombardi Cucina Italiana in Houston's Westside is quickly becoming a steak lover's paradise, offering a refined twist on classic Italian cuisine with a spotlight on superb steak dishes. The restaurant thrives on authenticity and quality, meticulously crafting each steak dish to perfection. As one guest raved, the "Prime beef carpaccio do manzo, Agnolotti del plin, and Olive oil cake were our favorites!!!!" highlighting the exceptional quality and flavor of their steak. The ambiance of Lombardi's, reminiscent of an Italian villa, complements its culinary excellence, making every dining experience both luxurious and memorable. Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful meal out, Lombardi Cucina Italiana promises an unmatched steak experience in the heart of Houston.
A photo of Rosie Cannonball restaurant
3. Rosie Cannonball
4.8
Exceptional(30)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Montrose
Booked 19 times today
Rosie Cannonball, nestled in the vibrant Montrose neighborhood of Houston, serves up a delightful slice of Italy with its exquisite Italian cuisine. Patrons rave about the authentically crafted dishes, with the "Cacio e pepe pizza" being heralded as a must-try that is "to die for." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, as they skillfully utilize a wood-burning oven to enhance the flavors of their handcrafted pizzas and pastas, ensuring each dish celebrates the essence of Italian cooking. The ambiance is described as "lively and chic," perfect for enjoying the "geeky wine list" that complements the Italian-centric menu. Whether it's the praised "phenomenal presentation" of the food or the "excellent service" that makes every dining experience memorable, Rosie Cannonball is a gem in Houston's culinary scene, consistently impressing with its robust Italian flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
A photo of Fiori restaurant
4. Fiori
4.3
Awesome(620)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Montrose
Booked 11 times today
Fiori, nestled in the picturesque Montrose neighborhood of Houston, offers a delightful escape into the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine. Chef Alessio from Rome brings the authenticity of traditional Italian recipes to life in a charming two-story building surrounded by majestic oak trees. Patrons often rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with one guest exclaiming, “The carbonara and cacio e pepe... I felt like I was dining in Rome!” (Best Italian restaurant in Houston). The restaurant's atmosphere, highlighted by fresh floral arrangements and cozy lighting, complements its culinary excellence, making Fiori a gem for those seeking a genuine Italian dining experience. Whether it’s the praised pasta dishes or the expertly curated wine selection, Fiori stands out as a pinnacle of Italian dining in Houston.
A photo of North Italia – BLVD restaurant
5. North Italia – BLVD
4.7
Exceptional(4126)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Galleria / Uptown
Booked 20 times today
Nestled in the bustling Galleria/Uptown area of Houston, North Italia – BLVD stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine. Specializing in "Italian from scratch," this vibrant eatery delights diners with its handmade pastas and pizzas, crafted with seasonal ingredients that bring "inventive flavors" to every dish. Guests rave about the unique twists, like the "fried ball of Carbonara" and "White Truffle Garlic Bread," which are just a few examples of how North Italia redefines traditional Italian fare. The atmosphere, described as energetic and hopping, complements the food, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. With consistent praise for its "amazing service" and culinary creativity, North Italia – BLVD is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch dining experience in Houston.
A photo of il Bracco - Post Oak restaurant
6. il Bracco - Post Oak
new
4.7
Exceptional(49)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Galleria / Uptown
Booked 19 times today
il Bracco is an upscale Italian restaurant in the heart of Uptown, Houston, located in Post Oak Plaza. Our menu features handmade pastas, fresh salads, hand-cut steaks & seafood, and an extensive yet approachable wine list. Breads, pasta and dessert are made from scratch, in house daily.Our dining room is made of intimate booths with a full service bar and cocktail lounge, as well as a quiet patio with an outdoor fire place.
A photo of Tony's restaurant
7. Tony's
4.9
Exceptional(907)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor
Booked 8 times today
Tony's, nestled in the vibrant Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor of Houston, is a beacon of Modern European cuisine, masterfully blending tradition with innovative culinary techniques. Celebrated for its top-notch dining experience, Tony's has rightly earned its place as #5 on Alison Cook's Top 100 Restaurants in Houston. Diners rave about the authenticity and creativity of the dishes, with one patron exclaiming, "The Spaghetti al limone is simply one of the best things you will eat!" The restaurant's commitment to excellence is reflected in its meticulous service and the artful presentation of food, making every meal a memorable event. Whether it's a family celebration or a romantic evening, Tony's consistently delivers an exceptional Modern European dining experience that is both heartwarming and exquisite.
A photo of George's Bistro & Bar restaurant
8. George's Bistro & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(287)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • W. University / Med Center
Booked 3 times today
George's Bistro & Bar, nestled in the vibrant W. University / Med Center area of West University Place, is a treasure trove of authentic Mediterranean flavors. Patrons rave about the "outstanding" cuisine and highlight dishes like the "excellent Chicken Piccata" and "perfectly spiced Shrimp Arrabiata." The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality, local ingredients to craft dishes that are both innovative and rooted in Mediterranean traditions. Guests consistently commend the "amazing food and exceptional bar," making it clear that George's is not just serving food, but a rich, flavorful experience. With glowing testimonials about their "consistently good food" and "very friendly service," it's evident that George's Bistro & Bar is a top destination for Mediterranean cuisine lovers.
A photo of Mia Bella Trattoria - Greenway Plaza restaurant
9. Mia Bella Trattoria - Greenway Plaza
4.9
Exceptional(999)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor
Booked 7 times today
Mia Bella Trattoria in Houston's Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor is a gem for those seeking exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine with a creative twist. The restaurant, with its vibrant and inviting atmosphere, is renowned for its daring preparations and imaginative ingredients, making each dish a delightful surprise. Guests rave about the "mouth-watering smoked duck tortellinis" and the "perfectly seasoned calamari," highlighting the chef's expertise in elevating traditional Italian flavors. The extensive wine list and innovative cocktails complement the dining experience, ensuring that every meal is both memorable and satisfying. As one reviewer put it, "This is my go-to place... the food is always on point!" Mia Bella Trattoria is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in top-notch Italian fare in Houston.
A photo of Dante Vini e Cucina Italiana restaurant
10. Dante Vini e Cucina Italiana
4.7
Exceptional(26)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • River Oaks
Booked 3 times today
Our Italian cuisine's authenticity and philosophy lies in a perfect balance of tradition, local ingredients, and culinary finesse. Each region in Italy contributes its distinct flavors and techniques to create a culinary mosaic that's both diverse and harmonious. Our goal and purpose are to achieve and maintain the original Italian taste by adding locally Houston based products.
‘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.

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