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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Truly Pizza restaurant
1. Truly Pizza
4.8
Exceptional(345)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Dana Point / Monarch Beach
Booked 73 times today
Truly Pizza, nestled in the vibrant Lantern District of Dana Point, is celebrated for its artisanal pizzas that fuse traditional techniques with innovative flavors. Patrons rave about the "light, chewy, fluffy" crust and the unique toppings that make each pizza a culinary delight. The restaurant's outdoor setting, complete with cozy blankets and heaters, adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions. As one reviewer exclaimed, it's the "best pizza in Orange County," highlighting standout choices like the La Foresta and Smoky Vodka pizzas. The warm, inviting ambiance and attentive service at Truly Pizza ensure an unforgettable dining experience, consistently praised as "fabulous" by satisfied guests.
A photo of Pronto Cucina Italiana restaurant
2. Pronto Cucina Italiana
4.9
Exceptional(47)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • San Clemente
Indulge in the flavors of Sicily at Pronto Cucina Italiana in San Clemente, CA, where the essence of Italy is brought to life with authentic dishes and a passion for culinary excellence. Since its opening in April 2021, this family-owned gem has specialized in pasta and pizza, capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike. With ingredients sourced directly from Italy and complemented by local produce, Pronto Cucina Italiana offers a menu curated by the award-winning Chef Adriano Piazza. Guests rave about the "authentic" dishes, stating it's "the same quality and flavor as eating in Italy." From the truffle fettuccine to the perfectly crafted pizzas, and the delightful lemon panna cotta, every dish is a testament to Italian culinary traditions. This charming eatery on Avenida Del Mar is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine Italian dining experience.
A photo of Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar restaurant
3. Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar
4.9
Exceptional(63)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 4 times today
Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar, nestled in the vibrant neighborhoods of Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine that resonates with authenticity and culinary excellence. Patrons rave about the homemade pasta and pizzas, exclaiming, "The pasta is the best I've ever had" and the pizza "can't be beat." The dedication to quality is evident as everything on the menu is made fresh, capturing the essence of true Italian flavors in every dish. The restaurant offers a unique charm with its modern yet vintage vibe, enhanced by live music on weekends. As one diner put it, "This place is special," not just for its food but for the overall dining experience that makes every visitor feel like part of the family. Whether it's the warmly lit patio or the cozy indoor seating, Bricco Cucina and Wine Bar ensures a memorable meal that keeps guests returning.
A photo of Mangia Bene Cucina restaurant
4. Mangia Bene Cucina
4.6
Exceptional(666)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
Booked 9 times today
Located in the scenic area of Laguna Niguel, CA, Mangia Bene Cucina has established itself as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine since 1991. Guests rave about the "fabulous dinners" and the "best garlic bread ever," highlighting the authenticity and quality of the dishes served. Reviewers consistently mention the "friendly service" and the welcoming atmosphere, making every dining experience memorable. One patron exclaimed, "Everything was delicious and plentiful," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to both quality and quantity. With its vibrant and festive ambiance, Mangia Bene Cucina stands out as a culinary gem where tradition meets modern flair, ensuring that every visit is "always amazing." Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this restaurant promises a top-tier Italian dining experience.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Rickvip
    Orange County •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    After a movie, we decided to try the new North Italia at Los Cerritos. We had enjoyed dining at the Irvine location in the past. Our party of four had the opportunity to taste a number of menu items. Everything was very good. We started with the prosciutto pizza as an appetizer for the table. Delicious. My wife and I shared the Caesar salad next; very fresh and tasty. For entrees, she loved the tortelloni Al Pomodoro and I had the pork Milanese. It was very good. Our friends also enjoyed the salmon and bolognese. For dessert, we shared the brookie gelato sundae. It was more than enough for the four of us. We just dumped it all onto a plate and dug in. Our server Allison was amazing. She made excellent recommendations and checked in with us frequently. If you’re in the Cerritos area, try North Italia.
    More info
    North Italia - CerritosPrice: Moderate• Italian• Cerritos
    •
    4.5
  • Dianevip
    Orange County •43 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    The food and the service are great. Really nice server and he made some great recommendations. Only downside is most of the restaurant is outside so bring a jacket. I would definitely recommend this restaurant.
    More info
    Truly PizzaPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Heidi
    Orange County •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food was really good! I'll definitely be going back! Price was great for the quantity. Service was great, too!
    More info
    Bricco Cucina and Wine BarPrice: Moderate• Italian• Aliso Viejo / Laguna Niguel
    •
    4.9
  • Sultanvip
    Los Angeles •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Crabcakes and Bolognese spaghetti wow. 🙌 The vibe and service was just great as usual. Thank you guys.
    More info
    Louie's by the BayPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Newport Beach
    •
    4.6
  • Bernie
    Orange County •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 9, 2024
    Great food and service, a really nice vibe. Sat outside on a cool night, but very comfortable with the heaters. Inside looked nice, really prefer the outside which was quieter.
    More info
    Pronto Cucina ItalianaPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Clemente
    •
    4.9

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Dana Point / Monarch Beach

Discover the charm of contemporary Italian cuisine in Dana Point/Monarch Beach, nestled in the picturesque South Orange County. This area boasts a diverse selection of restaurants that masterfully blend modern culinary techniques with traditional Italian flavors, offering a fresh take on classic dishes. Whether you're seeking a sophisticated dining experience by the ocean or a cozy, intimate setting, the restaurants in this locale cater to all preferences. The dining scene here is vibrant and highly regarded, characterized by its innovative approaches and high-quality ingredients. Each establishment promises an unforgettable gastronomical journey with exceptional service and a commitment to authenticity. With options ranging from gourmet pizzas to refined pasta dishes, food enthusiasts will find a delightful array of choices to satisfy their cravings for Italian cuisine. Perfect for foodies and culinary adventurers, Dana Point/Monarch Beach is a premier destination for those looking to explore the richness of contemporary Italian dining.

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