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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Kensington, Washington, D.C. Area

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15 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Claudio's Table restaurant
1. Claudio's Table
4.8
Exceptional(657)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Palisades Northwest
Booked 58 times today
Claudio's Table in Palisades Northwest, Washington, is a shining example of Contemporary Italian cuisine, effortlessly blending tradition with innovation. Chef Claudio Pirollo brings his Italian heritage to life with dishes that showcase "authentic flavors that easily compete with food in Italy." The homemade pasta and oven-baked pizzas are consistently praised for their perfection, while unique menu offerings like the linguine with truffles and pumpkin soup highlight the chef's creative flair. The restaurant's warm, neighborhood ambiance and exceptional service contribute to a dining experience that is both welcoming and memorable, making Claudio's Table a must-visit destination for Italian food lovers.
A photo of North Italia - Washington DC restaurant
2. North Italia - Washington DC
4.4
Awesome(1893)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • West End
Booked 35 times today
At North Italia in Washington DC's vibrant West End, the Contemporary Italian cuisine is a celebration of authenticity and creativity. This restaurant is renowned for its "handmade pastas and pizzas," crafted with seasonal ingredients that bring a modern twist to traditional Italian flavors. Diners rave about the "white truffle garlic bread" and "bomboloni" as must-try delights that capture the essence of Italy. The inviting and comfortable ambiance, coupled with attentive service, ensures a memorable dining experience. With a commitment to scratch-made dishes and an inventive menu, North Italia offers a true taste of modern Italian excellence, making it a beloved choice for locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Tosca restaurant
3. Tosca
4.9
Exceptional(4609)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 34 times today
Currently open for lunch and dinner. Ristorante Tosca offers the finest in contemporary northern Italian cuisine. Tosca serves Italian cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients, using a creative approach that respects the great traditions of Tuscan gastronomy. Tosca combines modern style and elegance to create an intimate and comfortable setting. Tosca implements a dress code and proper attire is required. We do not allow athletic wear, shorts, beach attire, tank tops, flip flops, or torn or excessively revealing clothing. We reserve the right to determine if a guest needs to adjust their attire before being seated.We no longer offer valet parking, we do validate at dinner in our parking garage located on 11th St, NW
A photo of Il Piatto restaurant
4. Il Piatto
4.3
Awesome(860)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 25 times today
Il Piatto, located in the heart of Downtown Washington, offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that beautifully blends tradition with modern flair. Diners rave about the "delicious authentic Italian food," with standout dishes like the perfectly prepared Arancini and the exquisite Pappardelle Bolognese. The restaurant's menu, featuring freshly made pasta and authentic sauces, "exceeds expectations" and delights guests with each visit. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or a sophisticated dinner, the vibrant atmosphere and attentive service make every meal memorable. Diners frequently highlight the "great food, excellent service, and cozy ambiance," making Il Piatto a must-visit destination for Italian cuisine lovers.
A photo of San Lorenzo restaurant
5. San Lorenzo
4.6
Exceptional(427)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Shaw
Booked 9 times today
San Lorenzo, nestled in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood of Washington, offers an exquisite journey through Contemporary Italian cuisine. Chef Massimo's dishes are a true homage to Tuscany, where "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." With over 30 years of culinary expertise, the restaurant excels in delivering "the best Italian food in DC," as many diners rave. From the delectable homemade pastas to the sensational Florentine steak and risotto, every dish is a testament to authentic Italian flavors. The charming ambiance, adorned with black and white photos of Massimo's hometown, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for Italian food lovers.
A photo of Al Tiramisu restaurant
6. Al Tiramisu
4.8
Exceptional(1515)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Dupont Circle
Booked 11 times today
Al Tiramisu in Dupont Circle, Washington, is a shining star of Vegetarian cuisine, renowned for its authentic, flavorful dishes crafted with the freshest ingredients. Chef Luigi Diotaiuti has been delighting diners since 1996 with his commitment to excellence. As one reviewer gleefully expressed, "the food is next level," showcasing the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity. The cozy, welcoming ambiance enhances the dining experience, with attentive service that ensures each visit is memorable. Whether indulging in their famed white truffle pasta or savoring the exquisite homemade tiramisu, Al Tiramisu offers a vegetarian feast that promises to captivate your taste buds.
A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant
7. Carmine's - Washington DC
4.5
Awesome(6723)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 49 times today
Carmine's in Washington DC's vibrant Penn Quarter offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience, meticulously crafted to bring the warmth of a traditional Italian family meal to every table. Guests rave about the "outstanding eggplant parmigiana" and the "penne alla vodka," both hailed as some of the best ever tasted. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for gatherings with family and friends. Known for its generous portions and "fantastic service," Carmine's ensures every visit feels like a "festive Italian meal," capturing the essence of authentic Southern Italian cuisine with a modern twist.
A photo of Reveler's Hour restaurant
8. Reveler's Hour
4.7
Exceptional(58)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Adams Morgan
Booked 36 times today
Reveler’s Hour is an award-winning Brazilian-influenced Italian restaurant with the soul of a cozy neighborhood watering hole. We’re known for our fresh pasta and expansive wine list, but our inspirations vary widely, drawing from Chef Mari Kolchraiber's São Paulo roots and Owner Bill Jensen's travels throughout the wine world. From stylish small plates to hearty entrées from our wood-fired grill, the menu changes seasonally, offering something to satisfy every palate and making Reveler's Hour equally ideal for occasions mundane and momentous.While reservations are recommended, walk-ins are equally welcome. We take online reservations for groups of up to six people. If you are interested in dining with a larger party, please reach out to us via email: hello@revelershour.com. We can handle most but not all allergies and dietary restrictions. If you have questions about a specific allergy or dietary restriction, please reach out to us before booking.
A photo of i Ricchi restaurant
9. i Ricchi
4.8
Exceptional(3694)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Dupont Circle
Booked 5 times today
Nestled in the heart of Dupont Circle, Washington, i Ricchi delivers an authentic Contemporary Italian dining experience that is unmatched. Known for its Cucina Rustica Tuscan country-style, scratch cooking, this culinary gem has become a cherished favorite among locals and visitors alike. Patrons rave about the "spectacular cuisine" and "authentic Italian cooking" that transports them straight to Italy. The restaurant's cozy ambiance, paired with attentive and warm service, creates a dining atmosphere that feels like home. With standout dishes like tortellini and risotto, i Ricchi's reputation for excellence is well-deserved, making it a must-visit destination for Italian food enthusiasts.
A photo of Stellina Pizzeria - Union Market restaurant
10. Stellina Pizzeria - Union Market
4.4
Awesome(33)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • NoMa
Booked 13 times today
## Stellina Pizzeria: A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Union MarketStep into Stellina Pizzeria and be transported to the bustling streets of southern Italy. The aroma of fresh-baked pizza, the vibrant atmosphere, and the warm hospitality will make you feel like you've stepped into a charming trattoria.Our menu celebrates the humble yet robust street food culture of Italy. Start your journey with our signature **Cuoppo Misto**. Then, indulge in our **Neo-Neapolitan pizzas**, crafted with a light, crispy crust and topped with the freshest ingredients. From classic Margherita to innovative creations like the Piccante with spicy sausage and 'nduja jam, each bite is a symphony of flavors.Beyond pizza, our menu boasts an array of delectable dishes. Savor our house-made pastas, like the Paccheri Alla"Avellinese, or indulge in our creative panini served on our signature pizza dough. And don't forget to save room for our dolci, like Tiramisu, a sweet ending to your Italian adventure.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Paula
    Houston •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Waiter was awesome. Food portions are enormous. Overall quality exceptional.
    More info
    Carmine's - Washington DC$$$$• Italian• Penn Quarter
    •
    4.5
  • DorothyGold
    Washington, D.C. Area •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    If you want a wonderful Italian meal - whether for business or pleasure - this is the place. It is homey, the wait staff efficient and helpful. It was a Tuesday in summer so the restaurant wasn't filled - it likely would be a little loud if filled. This is a DC treasure that should be on a frequent diner list. Prices were in alignment with similar restaurants - but the food was really amazing.
    More info
    i Ricchi$$$$• Italian• Dupont Circle
    •
    4.8
  • Lori
    Las Vegas •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    The food was delicious and server very friendly with good recommendations. We sat outside
    More info
    North Italia - Washington DC$$$$• Italian• West End
    •
    4.4
  • MichaelGold
    Washington, D.C. Area •162 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Loved the new patio — our first visit. Food and service (thank you Daniel, as always) were excellent — also as expected. Melon and prosciutto for shared appetizers and then Spaghetti vongole and gemelli ragù for mains. We shared a vanilla/caramel swirl to end things. A carafe of Falanghina accompanied it all. Fabulous dinner on a great evening.
    More info
    Claudio's Table$$$$• Italian• Palisades Northwest
    •
    4.8
  • tomGold
    Washington, D.C. Area •30 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on May 27, 2026
    What a beautiful gem of a restaurant - small, cozy by vibrant. Food was excellent - pasta excellent - service was attentive but left us alone-- felt like dining in someone's living room-- great experience!!!!
    More info
    San Lorenzo$$$$• Italian• Shaw
    •
    4.6

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