20 BEST Italian Cuisine Spots in Washington DC: Uncover These Hidden Gems Before They’re Gone
Welcome to a gastronomic journey through the vibrant culinary scene of Washington, D.C.! From hidden gems to renowned establishments, this guide unveils the city’s best Italian cuisine experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a curious traveler, these carefully curated recommendations promise unforgettable flavors and moments.
Embark on a delightful exploration of Washington, D.C.’s Italian restaurants, where each bite tells a story of passion and tradition. In addition to highlighting stellar service and diverse menus, we’ve sprinkled in some local insights – like pet-friendly patios or lesser-known dishes – to enhance your dining adventure. Get ready to savor the essence of Italy right here in the heart of the nation’s capital!
Best Italian Cuisine In Dc
1. Filomena Ristorante
“Great coffee”“Great dessert”
Filomena Ristorante is a fancy Italian restaurant that serves delicious handmade pasta in a beautiful setting. The pasta is made fresh in-house, giving it a unique and authentic taste. The restaurant also offers a variety of classic Italian dishes that are hearty and satisfying.
The decor of Filomena Ristorante is ornate and over-the-top, creating a luxurious atmosphere for diners to enjoy their meal. The upscale restaurant provides a special dining experience for those looking to indulge in traditional Italian cuisine. Whether you’re craving a plate of pasta or a hearty Italian dish, Filomena Ristorante is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings.
2. Carmine’S
“Fast service”“Great coffee”“Great dessert”
Carmine’s is a cozy, family-friendly Italian restaurant that offers a relaxed dining experience. The menu features a variety of homestyle Southern Italian dishes that are sure to satisfy everyone in the family. From classic pasta dishes to hearty meat entrees, there is something for every taste bud at Carmine’s.
The atmosphere at Carmine’s is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a casual family dinner or a special celebration. The portions are generous, so you can be sure that no one will leave hungry. Whether you’re craving a traditional lasagna or a flavorful chicken parmesan, Carmine’s is the go-to spot for delicious Italian cuisine in a family-friendly setting.
3. Rpm Italian
“Fast service”“Great coffee”“Great dessert”
Rpm Italian is a trendy restaurant that serves modern Italian dishes in a stylish environment. The menu features a variety of pasta, steaks, and seafood options that are perfect for sharing with a group of friends or family. The sleek setting of the eatery creates a sophisticated atmosphere for diners to enjoy their meal.
Owned by Giuliana and Bill Rancic, Rpm Italian offers a unique dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pasta dish or a juicy steak, this restaurant has something for everyone to enjoy. Visit Rpm Italian for a taste of Italy in a chic and inviting setting.
4. L’Ardente
“Great dessert”
L’Ardente is a fancy Italian restaurant that serves delicious pizza cooked in a gold-plated oven. The restaurant has a classy atmosphere with chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.
The signature pies at L’Ardente are cooked to perfection in the pizza oven, giving them a unique and flavorful taste. The upscale eatery offers a fine dining experience for those looking to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
5. Floriana
“Fireplace”“Great coffee”“Great dessert”
Floriana is a cozy Italian restaurant with a charming Victorian vibe. The intimate bistro is adorned with white tablecloths, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for diners to enjoy a delicious meal.
The menu features classic Italian dishes like lasagna, along with weekly specials that keep customers coming back for more. Whether you’re craving a comforting plate of pasta or a hearty meat dish, Floriana has something to satisfy every craving. Come experience the taste of Italy in this quaint eatery with a touch of old-world charm.
6. Fiola
“Great coffee”“Great dessert”
Fiola is an upscale Italian restaurant known for its high-end dining experience. The restaurant offers a menu of rustic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From homemade pastas to wood-fired pizzas, Fiola’s menu is sure to satisfy any craving for authentic Italian cuisine.
In addition to its delicious food, Fiola also boasts a modern and upscale atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic date night. The restaurant’s creative cocktails are also a hit with diners, adding an extra touch of sophistication to the dining experience.
7. Capa Tosta
“Fast service”“Great dessert”
Capa Tosta is a cozy Italian restaurant and bar that offers a laid-back dining experience. The menu features classic Italian dishes like pasta and pizza, as well as a variety of cocktails to enjoy. The casual setting makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
One of the highlights of Capa Tosta is its outdoor patio, where guests can dine al fresco and enjoy the fresh air. The restaurant’s friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular choice for those looking for a taste of Italy in a casual setting.
8. Lupo Verde
Lupo Verde is a cozy restaurant that serves delicious Southern Italian cuisine and specialty cocktails. The rustic backdrop adds to the charm of the dining experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meal.
In addition to the mouthwatering dishes, Lupo Verde also offers a market where customers can purchase high-quality meats and cheeses to take home. Whether you’re craving a classic pasta dish or a unique cocktail creation, Lupo Verde has something for everyone to enjoy in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
9. Sfoglina Downtown
“Great dessert”
Sfoglina Downtown is a fancy Italian restaurant that is both spacious and upscale-casual. The interior is stylish and airy, with big windows and warm wood accents. The red leather banquettes add a touch of elegance to the dining experience.
This Italian eatery offers a wide selection of wines on tap, making it a great spot for wine enthusiasts. The atmosphere is inviting and perfect for a special night out or a casual meal with friends. With its delicious food and chic ambiance, Sfoglina Downtown is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Italy in the heart of the city.
10. Fiola Mare
“Great coffee”“Great dessert”“Great tea selection”
Fiola Mare is a fancy Italian seafood restaurant that serves up delicious dishes in a classy atmosphere. The menu features a variety of sophisticated seafood options, and the restaurant also offers a selection of fine wines and cocktails to complement your meal. With its modern decor and stunning views of the river, Fiola Mare provides a luxurious dining experience for those looking to indulge in high-end Italian cuisine.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself to a gourmet meal, Fiola Mare is the perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood in an elegant setting. The restaurant’s upscale ambiance and top-notch service make it a popular choice for those seeking a refined dining experience with a touch of Italian flair.
11. Alta Strada – Washington, Dc
“Fast service”“Great dessert”
Alta Strada in Washington, DC is a trendy spot known for its delicious pasta dishes, entrees, and cocktails. The sophisticated eatery offers a menu filled with housemade pasta dishes, garlic bread, and other classic Italian favorites.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of spaghetti or a refreshing cocktail, Alta Strada has something for everyone. The cozy atmosphere and top-notch service make it the perfect spot for a casual dinner or special occasion.
12. Grazie Nonna
Grazie Nonna is a charming Italian restaurant located in the heart of the city. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a perfect spot for a casual dinner or a special occasion. The menu features traditional Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.
One of the highlights of Grazie Nonna is their homemade desserts, including tiramisu and cannoli, which are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The restaurant also offers a selection of wines and cocktails to complement your meal. Overall, Grazie Nonna is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting.
13. Osteria Morini
“Great cocktails”“Great coffee”“Great dessert”
Osteria Morini is a cozy restaurant that serves delicious Northern Italian cuisine in a charming rustic atmosphere. The menu features dishes from the Emilia-Romagna region, known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Guests can enjoy classic Italian cocktails and a wide selection of wines to complement their meal.
The warm setting of Osteria Morini creates a welcoming and intimate dining experience for patrons looking to enjoy traditional Italian fare. With a robust wine list to choose from, diners can savor the flavors of Italy while relaxing in the cozy ambiance of the restaurant. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, risotto, or a hearty meat dish, Osteria Morini offers a taste of authentic Northern Italian cuisine in a delightful setting.
14. Ristorante Tosca
“Great dessert”
Ristorante Tosca is a fancy restaurant that serves delicious Northern Italian food. The waiters wear fancy clothes and serve the food in a beautiful, calm environment. The restaurant has a sophisticated atmosphere and the decor is simple and elegant.
The menu at Ristorante Tosca features traditional Northern Italian dishes that are prepared with care and attention to detail. The restaurant is a great place to enjoy a special meal with friends or family, and the service is top-notch. If you’re looking for a classy dining experience, Ristorante Tosca is the perfect choice.
15. Masseria
“Fireplace”“Great dessert”
Masseria offers delicious Puglian fare in a charming country-chic setting. Chef Nicholas Stefanelli creates prix fixe menus inspired by the cuisine of Puglia, a region in southern Italy known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.
Guests can enjoy a taste of Italy in the cozy and rustic atmosphere of Masseria. The restaurant’s country-chic decor adds to the overall dining experience, making it the perfect spot for a special night out or a romantic dinner.
16. Centrolina
“Great coffee”“Great dessert”
Centrolina is a trendy Italian kitchen and market that offers seasonal Italian dishes in a sleek and modern setting. The restaurant serves handmade pastas and other traditional Italian fare in a bright and airy atmosphere. Customers can also shop at the on-site market for fresh ingredients and specialty products.
The restaurant’s menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that guests can enjoy the freshest and most flavorful dishes. Centrolina’s stylish decor and welcoming ambiance make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a taste of authentic Italian cuisine.
17. Pines Of Florence
“Fast service”“Live music”
Pines of Florence is a cozy Italian restaurant located in the heart of the city. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with rustic decor and friendly staff.
The menu features a variety of traditional Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood. The food is made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection, ensuring a delicious dining experience for all guests. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner for two, Pines of Florence is the perfect spot to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
18. Al Volo Osteria
“Fast service”“Great dessert”
Al Volo Osteria is a cozy Italian restaurant known for its fresh pasta and delicious gelato. The rustic ambiance attracts locals looking for a casual dining experience with authentic Italian flavors. The menu features housemade pasta dishes, antipasti, and a selection of wine and beer to complement your meal.
Whether you’re craving a classic spaghetti carbonara or a creamy fettuccine alfredo, Al Volo Osteria has something for everyone. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, as their homemade gelato is a must-try. Visit this charming osteria for a taste of Italy right in your neighborhood.
19. The Red Hen
“Great cocktails”
The Red Hen is a trendy Italian restaurant and bar known for its delicious wood-fired dishes. The rustic-industrial decor creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family. The open kitchen allows guests to watch as their food is prepared, adding to the overall dining experience.
The menu at The Red Hen features a variety of creative Italian dishes, all cooked in a wood-fired oven for that authentic flavor. The large bar offers a selection of drinks to complement your meal, making it a great spot for a casual night out. With its cool vibe and tasty food, The Red Hen is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique dining experience.
20. Al Tiramisu
“Fireplace”“Great coffee”
Al Tiramisu is a cozy Italian restaurant located in the heart of Washington, D.C. Known for its authentic and delicious Italian cuisine, this family-owned restaurant has been serving customers for over 20 years. The warm and inviting atmosphere of Al Tiramisu makes it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.
The menu at Al Tiramisu features a variety of traditional Italian dishes, including homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and mouthwatering desserts. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, with options to complement every meal. Whether you’re craving a classic spaghetti carbonara or a decadent tiramisu, Al Tiramisu has something for everyone to enjoy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering the best Italian cuisine in DC is a delicious journey that can be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. From authentic pasta dishes to mouth-watering pizzas, the city offers a wide range of Italian restaurants that are sure to satisfy your cravings. So next time you’re in DC, be sure to check out our recommendations and indulge in some of the best Italian food the city has to offer!
While exploring the Italian cuisine scene in DC, make sure to visit popular restaurants such as Casa Luca for their delectable handmade pasta dishes, or Osteria Morini for their authentic Northern Italian fare. You can also take a food tour of the city to discover hidden gems and local favorites, immersing yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Washington, DC. And don’t forget to check out our other articles on must-see monuments and attractions in the city for a well-rounded experience during your visit!
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