4 Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants In Downtown Cleveland / Playhouse Square

4 restaurants available nearby

1. Acqua di Dea

4.4

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown Cleveland

Booked 25 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Cleveland, Acqua di Dea epitomizes the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a menu that dazzles with freshness and authenticity. This culinary gem, part of the award-winning Jola Eat Global Restaurant Group, offers an innovative approach that merges modern flair with classic Mediterranean elements. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked" sea bass and the "flavorful and fresh" carpaccio appetizer, highlighting the quality ingredients and skilled preparation. The ambiance, described as a sleek, rustic warehouse setting, complements the coastal aesthetic, making every dining experience not just a meal, but a delightful escape to the Mediterranean shores. Whether it's the fresh seafood, unique pasta dishes, or the extraordinary steaks, Acqua di Dea consistently delivers an exceptional dining adventure.

2. Il Venetian

4.8

Exceptional(915)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown Cleveland

Booked 28 times today

Il Venetian in Downtown Cleveland offers a sublime slice of Contemporary Italian cuisine, expertly crafted by Venetian-born Chef Alberto Leandri. This upscale gem stands out with its handmade pastas, artisan pastries, and an array of fresh fish and fine meats, capturing the essence of Italy with a modern twist. Diners rave about the “out of this world” lasagna and ravioli, and the “best veal parm we have EVER had anywhere,” underscoring Il Venetian’s commitment to quality and authenticity. The atmosphere is described as “swanky” with “nice jazz music,” making it not only a feast for the palate but also for the senses. Whether it’s for a memorable anniversary, a business dinner, or simply to indulge in “the best Italian food ever,” Il Venetian is a must-visit destination in Cleveland, consistently praised for its excellent service and “amazing food.”

3. The Palazzo

4.8

Exceptional(645)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Cleveland West

Booked 3 times today

At The Palazzo in Cleveland's West Side, Chef Rafael channels the romantic essence of Verona, Italy into every dish, creating an authentically Italian dining experience that is unmatched. With his roots deeply planted in Italian culinary traditions, he skillfully prepares homemade pastas and signature dishes that transport diners straight to Italy. Guests rave about the authenticity and quality, describing the food as "super authentic" and "as good as it gets." The restaurant’s ambience complements its cuisine, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere where even the chef himself makes rounds to ensure guest satisfaction. One diner celebrated, "The food was wonderful as always and Jose did his usual outstanding job in taking care of us!" making it clear that The Palazzo is a gem in Cleveland’s dining scene.

A photo of Gather FOOD + DRINK restaurant

4. Gather FOOD + DRINK

new

4.7

Exceptional(7)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Rocky River

Booked 4 times today

Offering a curated selection of wines, classic cocktails, local beers, as well as delicious non-alcoholic options. Dishes are thoughtfully chosen, and a small selection of desserts will also be available nightly.“We built Gather to be a place where we wanted to hang out. We wanted it to feel upscale and comfortable simultaneously” - Matt and Julie Barnes

‘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.

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Downtown Cleveland / Playhouse Square

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4 restaurants available nearby

1. Acqua di Dea

2. Il Venetian

3. The Palazzo

4. Gather FOOD + DRINK

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