Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Brookland / Brentwood

17 restaurants available nearby

1. San Lorenzo

4.7

Exceptional(305)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Shaw

Booked 18 times today

At San Lorenzo in Shaw, Washington, the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine comes alive under the mastery of Chef Massimo. Transported from the heart of Tuscany, his culinary prowess brings forth dishes that are "anything but simple." With over three decades of experience, Chef Massimo crafts a menu that showcases the brilliance of homemade pastas, succulent Florentine steak, and exceptional risotto, all of which sing with the authentic flavors of his native Italy. Diners consistently rave about the "best Italian food" they've experienced, with special mentions of the "superb" lobster risotto and "perfectly prepared" Branzino. San Lorenzo's atmosphere, coupled with its inventive tasting menus and communal wine lunches, makes it not just a meal, but a "wonderful experience" that echoes the warmth of Italian hospitality.

2. Tortino

4.7

Exceptional(1884)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 11 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 Talea Italian Restaurant restaurant

3. Talea Italian Restaurant

4.0

Excellent(1)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Cleveland Park

Booked 13 times today

At Talea, we take pride in offering the finest Italian cuisine in Washington DC. Our menu boasts a delightful variety of flavorful appetizers and exquisite main dishes, all expertly crafted with the freshest ingredients and a touch of culinary flair. Every bite at Talea is sure to create a lasting impression.

4. Masseria

4.9

Exceptional(1)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • NoMa

Chef Nicholas Stefanelli approaches hosting guests in his restaurant as more of a lifestyle than a profession, taking the pretense out of fine dining in favor of heartfelt hospitality and honest cooking. Featuring an open-air courtyard with relaxed seating, a covered pergola seating area, and an indoor sala with a view of the seafoam green-tiled open kitchen, Masseria, brings together the rustic but welcoming aesthetic of an Italian country estate, the industrial grit of the Union Market district. Masseria features two dining experiences, a special 8-course Chef's Tasting Menu at our Chef's table, and Chef's counter. And our 6-course La Cucina Menu at our Bar, Sala, and Pergola.

A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant

5. Carmine's - Washington DC

4.5

Awesome(6509)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter

Booked 114 times today

Carmine's in Washington DC's Penn Quarter is a beacon of authentic Sicilian cuisine. The restaurant captures the essence of a true Italian American wedding feast, offering dishes that are "tender, flavorful, and mouthwatering." Guests rave about the famous meatballs and angel hair pasta, describing their dining experience as "magic." The service at Carmine's is consistently praised, with remarks about the "knowledgeable and friendly" staff enhancing the dining experience. Whether it's the "work of art" desserts or the family-style portions that bring people together, Carmine's ensures every meal is memorable. As one reviewer summed it up, "Carmine’s is famous for their fantastic Italian meals" making it a must-visit for authentic, generously served Sicilian fare in the heart of DC.

6. Claudio's Table

4.7

Exceptional(261)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Palisades Northwest

Booked 34 times today

Claudio's Table is a gem nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Palisades Northwest, Washington, where Chef Claudio Pirollo's passion for blending Italian and Belgian influences shines through each dish. This restaurant is celebrated for its exceptional Bistro cuisine, offering a cozy yet sophisticated vibe that mirrors a traditional Italian trattoria with a French twist. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with reviews highlighting the "best tiramisu" and "pasta cooked to perfection." The Bistecca special and thoughtfully curated wine selection are just a glimpse of the culinary excellence found here. Claudio's Table remains a vibrant neighborhood favorite, where each meal is a testament to Chef Pirollo's dedication to fresh, local ingredients and delectable family specialties. Perfect for those seeking a spectacular dining experience, it’s no wonder guests are quick to plan their next visit.

A photo of North Italia - Washington DC restaurant

7. North Italia - Washington DC

4.6

Exceptional(1672)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • West End

Booked 31 times today

At North Italia in Washington DC's West End, the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine is celebrated with flair and authenticity. This vibrant spot prides itself on crafting delectable dishes "from scratch," ensuring each bite resonates with freshness and innovative flavors. Patrons rave about the "out-of-this-world spicy vodka rigatoni" and commend the "perfectly paired seasonal cocktails and wines." The ambiance complements the meticulously prepared fare, from handmade pastas to inventive pizzas, making every dining experience memorable. As one diner highlighted, it is a place where "food is god," and the "service is outstanding," making North Italia a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Italian meal in DC.

8. Modena

4.6

Exceptional(1177)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 19 times today

At Modena, located in the heart of Downtown Washington, the wine bar experience is as refined and delightful as the Italian-inspired cuisine it accompanies. Guests consistently rave about the "great wine selection," noting both the variety and the high-quality offerings that pair beautifully with Modena's dishes. The knowledgeable staff, including a commendable sommelier, are always ready to recommend the perfect glass to enhance your meal, making every dining experience uniquely satisfying. Whether it’s a glass of robust Sangiovese or a delicate Vermentino, Modena’s wine bar stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity, ensuring that each visit is both memorable and enjoyable.

9. Tosca

4.8

Exceptional(4505)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 35 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.

10. Il Piatto

4.5

Awesome(641)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 30 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Washington, Il Piatto shines as a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its "delicious and authentic" dishes, the restaurant offers a modern twist on classics from antipasto to gnocchi. Guests rave about the "amazing flavor" and "outstanding" service, with one patron noting, "The carbonara was a highlight for us." Perfect for any occasion, Il Piatto boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a private dining area that overlooks a charming wine cellar, making it an ideal spot for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Whether it's for a holiday brunch or a cozy dinner, Il Piatto promises an exceptional Italian dining experience right in the heart of the city.

‘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
Christine
Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
Clean and comfortable. Delicious, fresh pasta. Welcoming staff that are very attentive.
More info
Claudio's TablePrice: Moderate• Italian• Palisades Northwest
•
4.7
B
Brucevip
Los Angeles •15 reviews
4.0
Dined 5 days ago
The food was great for the price and portions! We weren't quite ready for how large those family portions are! Service was great. A nice place for a family and casual atmosphere!
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Carmine's - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• Penn Quarter
•
4.5
E
Ellenvip
Washington, D.C. Area •62 reviews
4.0
Dined on Nov 15, 2024
We came relatively early (6:30) and the place was reasonably quiet, but by the time we left the noise level made it very difficult to talk/understand each other. The food was good, but not outstanding. Service friendly. It took over 20 minutes for our food to be delivered. Don't know why.
More info
Talea Italian RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Cleveland Park
•
4
R
Richardvip
Los Angeles •44 reviews
4.0
Dined on Nov 15, 2024
Excellent, neighborhood Italian, very reminiscent of local ristorante in Rome or New York. Very good service, great vibe and decor, strong wine list—an enjoyable spot for dinner.
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San LorenzoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Shaw
•
4.7
CP
CharlesPvip
South Carolina •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on Mar 31, 2023
Incredible experience-food &service both flawless!!!
More info
MasseriaPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• NoMa
•
4.9

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Brookland / Brentwood

Contemporary italian

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Brookland / Brentwood

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17 restaurants available nearby

1. San Lorenzo

2. Tortino

3. Talea Italian Restaurant

4. Masseria

5. Carmine's - Washington DC

6. Claudio's Table

7. North Italia - Washington DC

8. Modena

9. Tosca

10. Il Piatto

See what locals rave about

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