Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Chestnut Hill

28 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Terra at Eataly Boston restaurant

1. Terra at Eataly Boston

4.3

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Back Bay

Booked 80 times today

Located in the vibrant Back Bay neighborhood of Boston, Terra at Eataly Boston offers an enchanting experience of contemporary Italian cuisine. At the heart of Terra is a wood-burning Italian grill, which infuses each dish with a distinct smoky essence that accentuates the natural flavors. The culinary artistry here transforms simple ingredients into exquisite, earthy dishes, making each meal a celebration of refined rusticity. Patrons rave about their experiences, describing dishes like the "burrata with asparagus" as "AMAZING" and praising the perfectly executed meat platters. The ambiance, coupled with top-tier service, ensures that each visit is memorable. Terra consistently receives glowing reviews for its fresh, flavorful fare and its ability to create "dizzying happiness" with its entrees. If you're seeking a genuine, high-quality contemporary Italian meal in Boston, Terra at Eataly is an unrivaled choice.

2. MIDA - South End

4.7

Exceptional(2728)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • South End

Booked 58 times today

MIDA in the vibrant South End of Boston stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, integrating the simplicity of classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant is celebrated for its "excellent food with well-balanced flavors" and has quickly become a favorite in the neighborhood. Guests rave about the "outstanding" lemon gnocchi and the eggplant parm, highlighting the authentic and meticulous preparation of each dish. The ambiance is described as "cozy" and "lively," perfect for a delightful dining experience. MIDA's commitment to quality is consistently praised, with one reviewer noting, "MIDA might be my new favorite restaurant." Whether it's the "creative and light" dishes or the "professional, knowledgeable" service, MIDA delivers a genuine Contemporary Italian dining experience that keeps guests returning.

A photo of Bar 'Cino Brookline restaurant

3. Bar 'Cino Brookline

4.7

Exceptional(1389)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Brookline

Booked 45 times today

Bar 'Cino (we say "chee-no") is an informal neighborhood spot on Beacon Street in Brookline - directly across from the Saint Mary's T Stop. Open nightly for dinner and cocktails.

A photo of Bar' Cino Watertown restaurant

4. Bar' Cino Watertown

4.7

Exceptional(417)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Watertown

Booked 37 times today

Bar 'Cino (we say "chee-no") is an informal spot nestled in the heart of Watertown Square with a lively bar and a menu that highlights the green & white of the Italian flag more than the red.A great crowd fills the space nightly - from neighbors, after work folks, and local professionals. Open nightly, plus lunch on weekends.

A photo of Toscano Harvard Square restaurant

5. Toscano Harvard Square

4.6

Exceptional(2425)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Cambridge

Booked 52 times today

Nestled in the heart of West Cambridge, just a short walk from Harvard, Toscano Harvard Square is a gem for authentic Italian cuisine. Diners consistently rave about its "bright, fresh flavors of Tuscany" and the warm, inviting atmosphere that makes every meal special. The restaurant is celebrated for its "delicious and authentic Italian pasta" and an extensive wine list that complements every dish beautifully. Patrons like to highlight the "fabulous service" and how the dishes, such as the "seafood risotto," and "truffle beef special," always hit the mark. Toscano is not just a meal; it’s an experience, with one reviewer noting, "We ALWAYS LOVE being there!" making it a top choice for both locals and visitors seeking a slice of Italy in Cambridge.

A photo of Serafina - Boston Back Bay restaurant

6. Serafina - Boston Back Bay

4.4

Awesome(545)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Back Bay

Booked 30 times today

Serafina in Boston's vibrant Back Bay neighborhood is a gem for those seeking a contemporary Italian dining experience. Located on Newbury Street, this restaurant offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, with a menu that brilliantly balances traditional flavors with modern twists. Guests rave about the authenticity and creativity of the dishes, such as the "best arancini I've ever had" and the "limoncello bow tie pasta with shrimp that was out of this world!" The atmosphere is described as cozy and inviting, making it ideal for everything from a casual meal to a special celebration. With glowing reviews for both food and service, Serafina stands out as a top destination for exceptional contemporary Italian cuisine in Boston.

7. MIDA - Fenway

4.6

Exceptional(38)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Fenway–Kenmore

Booked 39 times today

MIDA by Chef Douglass William's is now open in the bustling Fenway neighborhood. This outpost of our James Beard Nominated restaurant group is situated just a few blocks from Fenway Park within close walking distance to several destinations including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and the Beth Israel Medical Campus. Come enjoy staple dishes from our scratch kitchen such as Gnocchi Cacio e Pepe, New Haven-Style thin crust pizza, crispy Arancini, and much more. The restaurant features a contemporary but comfortable aesthetic that lends itself to any occasion from the perfect date night, a quick lunch, or large private events. Vaulted ceilings, sprawling windows, a gorgeous lighting profile, and a covered patio make this location the perfect Fenway escape. The restaurant also features a 15 seat bar that is open for walk-ins seven days a week. We are thrilled to be a part of this neighborhood and cannot wait to welcome you into our home. XOXO MIDA

A photo of Ravello Italian Kitchen restaurant

8. Ravello Italian Kitchen

4.6

Exceptional(505)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Watertown

Booked 6 times today

Ravello Italian Kitchen in Watertown is a celebrated haven for lovers of Contemporary Italian cuisine. Praised for its "unreal Short Rib Ravioli" and "amazing chicken parmigiana," this cozy gem delights patrons with a menu that changes seasonally to highlight local farm produce. Reviewers rave about its authenticity and quality, saying it rivals Boston's North End favorites without the need to travel. The ambiance, coupled with a thoughtful wine list featuring small producers, crafts a genuine Italian dining experience. One diner enthusiastically noted, "This has quickly become my go-to date night spot...every pasta dish is delicious and the pasta is obviously made fresh." Ravello's commitment to excellence makes it a must-visit for a sublime Italian meal.

9. SOURCE Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(556)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Cambridge

Booked 20 times today

At SOURCE Restaurant in Cambridge, the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine is celebrated with exceptional flair. Renowned for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, expertly crafted in a wood-fired oven, SOURCE provides a culinary experience that's both rustic and refined. Patrons rave about the "incredible pizza," often proclaiming it "the best they'd ever had." The restaurant's commitment to using local and sustainable ingredients ensures each dish, from the "fantastic seasonal pizza with truffle smoked ricotta" to the meticulously prepared pastas, is of the highest quality. Reviews consistently highlight the "amazing crust" and innovative dishes, making SOURCE a must-visit for anyone seeking top-tier Contemporary Italian fare in a vibrant, welcoming setting.

A photo of Sweet Basil on Moody restaurant

10. Sweet Basil on Moody

4.6

Exceptional(417)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Waltham

Booked 5 times today

Sweet Basil on Moody in Waltham is a gem for those craving exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine. Diners consistently rave about the "delicious and well-prepared" dishes, such as the Braised Chicken over Casarecce and the Seafood Fra Diavlo, noting that the servings are "generously sized." The restaurant's ambiance enhances the dining experience, with a setting that is "unique and pretty," perfect for both lively gatherings and intimate dates. Guests particularly highlight the "insanely delicious" pesto and the meticulously crafted cocktails, which complement the vibrant flavors of the Italian fare. Whether it's the handmade ravioli or the crispy Brussels sprouts, Sweet Basil on Moody delivers an unforgettable culinary journey, making it a must-visit destination in Waltham for lovers of refined Italian food.

‘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

C
Cynthia
Greater Boston •31 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We had an excellent meal with impeccable service. Shared the black truffle risotto for our starter - delicious taste and satisfying. I had the sole for my main: perfectly prepared with light lemon butter and capers. Husband had the crabmeat tagliatelle with cream sauce and red pepper. He said that it was like a cream based fra diavolo and delicious.
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Toscano Harvard SquarePrice: Expensive• Italian• West Cambridge
•
4.6
M
Matthew
Greater Boston •10 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We had a lovely, attentive waiter. The apps, arrancini and salad were delicious. And especially the short ribs with polenta, soooo good.
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Bar' Cino WatertownPrice: Moderate• Italian• Watertown
•
4.7
S
Sarah
Greater Boston •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The Scillian muscles were DELICIOUS, the sauce was phenomenal! I also ordered their short rib lasagna which was also tasty!
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MIDA - South EndPrice: Moderate• Italian• South End
•
4.7
S
Sherine
Asheville / Western North Carolina •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We love Bar’Cino!!! The atmosphere is the best. It feels like you’re in a classy yet fun bar/restaurant. It’s so alive and vibrant. The food is great and the prices are very reasonable for what you are getting!!! Great for big groups and small groups alike!
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Bar 'Cino BrooklinePrice: Expensive• Italian• Brookline
•
4.7
M
Melissavip
Greater Boston •14 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Terra is an absolute masterpiece of a restaurant! The Italian food here is nothing short of spectacular—every dish is crafted to perfection, and the flavors are unforgettable. The wine selection is equally impressive, with thoughtful pairings that elevate the dining experience to a whole new level. A special shoutout to our server, Vinicius, who made the evening truly extraordinary. His knowledge of the menu, attention to detail, and warm, professional demeanor added so much to our experience. He went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect, and we left feeling absolutely spoiled. If you’re looking for exceptional Italian cuisine, an incredible wine list, and top-tier service, Terra is the place to be. Highly recommend!
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Terra at Eataly BostonPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Back Bay
•
4.3

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Chestnut Hill

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28 restaurants available nearby

1. Terra at Eataly Boston

2. MIDA - South End

3. Bar 'Cino Brookline

4. Bar' Cino Watertown

5. Toscano Harvard Square

6. Serafina - Boston Back Bay

7. MIDA - Fenway

8. Ravello Italian Kitchen

9. SOURCE Restaurant

10. Sweet Basil on Moody

See what locals rave about

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