DC's Italian scene always bursts with flavors and experiences beyond your wildest dreams. It's like a culinary passport, satisfying your stomach without the jet lag.
Craving creamy Venetian risottos, Wood-fired Tuscan pizzas, or Puglian seafood, you'll find them all within the city limits. Therefore, buckle up and check out some delightful Italian restaurants you shouldn't miss.
1. Via Sophia
If you ask the locals for the top Italian restaurants in Washington DC, they might point you to Via Sophia due to their quality, consistency, and hospitality.
Be it Ricotta Pancakes, Lobster, or Strip Steak, you can't go wrong with the menu. Via elevates Italian staples with seasonal ingredients and a touch of creative flair.
Where: 1001 14th Street NW
2. Centrolina
Renowned Chef Amy Brandwein is the man behind the kitchen at Centrolina. Attached to the dining space is a bustling market brimming with Italian delights.
Centrolina's fame isn't just about pasta, it's about the entire experience. It's a place to savor regional flavors, discover hidden gems in the market, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Where: 974 Palmer Alley NW
3. Officina Cafe-Downtown
Officina Cafe-Downtown's ambiance is like a chameleon, shifting its charm depending on the time of day and your mood. In the morning, it's a vibrant hub to start your day with caffeine.
The pace slows at midday, offering a welcome pause from the city's hustle. You can expect complimentary Wi-Fi, happy hour food, and many more.
Where: 1615 L St NW
4. L'Ardente
L'Ardente in DC is a secret haven for adventurous palates and lovers of all things wood-fired. It's a celebration of fire-kissed flavors that'll leave you craving more.
Handmade pasta dancing in vibrant sauces, like charcoal-black squid ink pasta with shrimp, or melt-in-your-mouth meal like lamb chops crusted with fire-roasted vegetables.
Where: 200 Massachusetts Avenue NW
5. Floriana
Floriana is one of the trending Italian restaurants, which focuses more on the "savor the flavors" experience than a "pile your plate high" one.
You can indulge in a delightful 3 or 4-course dining experience for only $55 to $65 per person. Expect beautifully plated dishes like handmade pasta, fresh seafood specialties, and melt-in-your-mouth main courses.
Where: 1602 17th St NW
6. Modena
Modena is a culinary palace enhanced by renowned chef John Melfi. Though it has been only a few years in operation, this place has already won several loyal patrons.
The magic lies in the hands of Chef Melfi, a true maestro of modern Italian cuisine. He uses his classical training and adventurous spirit to create dishes with surprise and delight.
Where: 12th St NW
7. Masseria
Masseria is known for winning the first-ever Michelin star guide in DC. This hidden oasis offers a culinary trip to Puglia, the sun-drenched heel of Italy.
No Italian feast is complete without dessert, and Masseria's dolci are legendary. Expect house-made ricotta doughnuts or a decadent chocolate torta that's pure bliss.
Where: 1340 4th ST NE
8. Lupo Verde
Lupo Verde can be the best contender with cozy, old-world charm and eclectic floral fabrics. Plus, the upstairs dining area is intimate and candlelit, perfect for setting the mood.
They focus on fresh, seasonal Italian cuisine, so you can expect delicious pasta, pizzas, and other Italian classics made with quality ingredients.
Where: 1401 T ST NW
9. RPM Italian
RPM Italian is famous for its top-notch service, exceptional native fare, and unique ambiance. Patrons feel it like the best Italian restaurants near Washington DC, they've ever been to.
Their wine list is like a curated tour of Italy's finest vineyards, with a focus on statement-making bottles. Staff can guide you through the vino labyrinth, to complement your meal and fuel your night.
Where: 650 K ST NW
10. Lupo Marino
Lupo Marino is at your service with a spacious room, if you are searching for an Italian charm with delicious foods to savor. This place can accommodate up to 45 guests for an exclusive dining event.
They offer a two or three-course menu with various southern Italian plates. Parking is available in the Wharf parking garage for guest with their wheels.
Where: 40 Pearl Street SW
11. Nostra Cucina
Nostra prides itself on making its pasta, sauces, and pizza dough fresh daily using quality ingredients. You can taste the difference in every bite.
Their specialty platters, the showstoppers are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Their portions are generous and satisfying, ensuring you get your money's worth.
Where: 320 D Street NE
12. Radici
Radici means roots in Italian. And this hidden gem represents the connection to Italian heritage and community.
If you're an early riser, start your morning fresh with their illy cappuccino with fresh-baked savory pasta or sandwiches. They have ample baked item options, including almond croissants, Sicilian salty oat cookies, and ginger scones.
Where: 303 7th ST SE
13. Sfoglina Downtown
The name "Sfoglina" literally means "pasta maker," and that's no joke. They handcraft their pasta fresh daily using traditional techniques, a testament to their art.
They have delightful antipasti like grilled calamari and burrata with roasted peppers, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs, and pizzas boasting unique toppings like speck and figs.
Where: 1099 Ny Avenue NW
14. San Lorenzo
Visit San Lorenzo to experience the warmth of Chef Massimo Fabbri's passion for Tuscan cooking. The atmosphere feels like you've stepped into a hidden trattoria in the Tuscan countryside.
Try the Foori di Zucca, deep-fried squash blossoms in a homemade beer batter. It comes with a side of their signature marinara sauce.
Where: 1316 9th ST NW
15. Capa Tosta
With exposed brick walls and dim lighting with fairy lights twinkling, Capa Tosta is perfect for sinking into a plate of pasta. They have a long list of homemade Italian-style favorites.
When the weather cooperates, the charming patio is a must-try. String lights overhead, greenery all around, and the warm glow of the restaurant spilling out.
Where: 2737 Sherman Avenue NW
16. Ristorante TOSCA
If you are craving some Italian that feels like a secret escape to Tuscany, Look no further than Ristorante TOSCA. It's not your typical trattoria fare, but a love letter to refined Northern Italian cuisine.
The staff become your Italian hosts for the evening. They're attentive and knowledgeable and can help with things to do in DC if you're new to the city.
Where: 112 F ST NW
17. Filomena Ristorante
Overlooking the C&O Canal, Filomena Ristorante is one of the best Italian restaurants in DC Georgetown. This place has been serving the community since 1983.
From luscious Italian bites to impeccable services and a great atmosphere, it tempts diners to come over again. For dessert, this place has the best Mousse, second to none.
Where: 1063 Wisconsin Avenue NW
18. Flavio
Flavio takes you on a culinary adventure, showcasing regional specialties from Piemonte to Puglia. Step inside and you're transported to a charming trattoria in the heart of Rome.
No Italian feast is complete without vino, and Flavio's got you covered. Their curated wine list boasts an impressive selection from crisp pinot grigios to bold Barolos.
Where: 1073 31st St NW
19. La Tomate
La Tomate has been in the business since Dupont Circle used to be an up-and-coming area of the Chocolate City. This family-owned and operated day-to-night cafe offers pastries, salads, panini, and espresso.
Compared to fancy eateries in Dupont Circle, La Tomate has a three-course lunch menu for $24 and an endless brunch option for $29 per person.
Where: 1701 Connecticut Avenue N.W
20. Angolo Ristorante
Angolo Ristorante is a relaxed spot in Georgetown where you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine made with seasonal ingredients. The Spaghetti Bolognese is the star of the show.
It's got a charming European sidewalk cafe vibe, perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual hangout with friends. They also have happy hour deals that would make any aperitivo lover swoon.
Where: 2934 M St NW
