Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Bethesda

17 restaurants available nearby

1. Claudio's Table

4.7

Exceptional(290)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Palisades Northwest

Booked 19 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 Talea Italian Restaurant restaurant

2. Talea Italian Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(4)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Cleveland Park

Booked 8 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.

A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant

3. Carmine's - Washington DC

4.5

Awesome(6548)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter

Booked 103 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.

4. Modena

4.6

Exceptional(1189)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 16 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.

A photo of North Italia - Washington DC restaurant

5. North Italia - Washington DC

4.6

Exceptional(1695)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • West End

Booked 36 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.

6. San Lorenzo

4.7

Exceptional(311)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Shaw

Booked 7 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.

7. Tosca

4.8

Exceptional(4516)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 11 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.

8. Il Piatto

4.5

Awesome(654)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 24 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.

A photo of North Italia - Tysons restaurant

9. North Italia - Tysons

4.5

Awesome(1161)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Tysons Corner / McLean

Booked 64 times today

At North Italia in Tysons Corner, the Pizzeria cuisine is celebrated for its exceptional quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the handcrafted pizzas, noting them as "always delicious, fresh, flavorful" and a true testament to Italian culinary traditions. The restaurant prides itself on using seasonal ingredients, bringing inventive flavors that elevate each dish. A standout favorite, the Pesto Chicken Pizza, encapsulates the perfect blend of fresh taste and creativity. The glowing reviews highlight not just the food but the vibrant ambiance and stellar service, making North Italia a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Pizzeria experience in McLean.

A photo of Mazaro Italian Restaurant restaurant

10. Mazaro Italian Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(355)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Arlington

Booked 14 times today

Mazaro Italian Restaurant in Arlington is a beacon of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, delighting diners with its classic Italian offerings and Neapolitan pizzas straight from a wood-fired oven imported from Italy. Patrons rave about the "delicious" food and "exceptional service," with one guest highlighting the "divine Penne a Vodka" and another praising the "perfect" Pasta Carbonara Roma. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality shines through in each dish, making it a "highly recommended" destination. Whether celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual dinner, Mazaro promises a memorable Mediterranean dining experience that feels like a "taste of Venice."

‘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

R
Richard
Jacksonville / Northeast Florida •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Great evening at North Italia. Reception, service and food was great. Pricing on target. Highly recommend.
More info
North Italia - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• West End
•
4.6
G
garyVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •145 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Our service was excellent. When we asked about the wine by the glass, he had the sommelier come to discuss the choices which was super helpful. Our dinners were excellent, both the appetizers and the mains. Their brodetto is one of the best dishes we’ve experienced in DC.
More info
ModenaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.6
E
ElizabethVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Bravo Claudio's Table! We enjoyed a variety of superb pasta dishes and salads on a Saturday evening. The ambience is glowing and bright. Service was exceptional -- attentive and personal. And we appreciated the upgrades in soundproofing so that noise is not an issue. We are in the neighborhood and are now confirmed regulars.
More info
Claudio's TablePrice: Moderate• Italian• Palisades Northwest
•
4.7
E
Elizabeth
London •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We really enjoyed our evening at Talea. It was a nice meal following an event at Washington National Cathedral. The food and service were excellent. I had the seafood pasta and my husband had the truffle pasta. Wine choice was also good.
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Talea Italian RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Cleveland Park
•
4.4
J
Julie
Washington, D.C. Area •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
This was the third time I have eaten at this restaurant, and the first time that the service was not very good. The waiter we had seemed dismissive and uninterested in our having a good dining experience. My companion thought this might be explained by our being elderly ladies who do not drink. The restaurant was not at all crowded and there seemed to be enough staff on hand.
More info
Carmine's - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• Penn Quarter
•
4.5

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Bethesda

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17 restaurants available nearby

1. Claudio's Table

2. Talea Italian Restaurant

3. Carmine's - Washington DC

4. Modena

5. North Italia - Washington DC

6. San Lorenzo

7. Tosca

8. Il Piatto

9. North Italia - Tysons

10. Mazaro Italian Restaurant

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