Best Italian Restaurants in Washington

Real videos of Italian Restaurants in Washington — 12 places, filmed by creators on the ground.

Ranked venues

Imperfecto
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$$ChicSeasonalInnovativeSeasonal ingredientsCraft cocktailsInnovative dishes
About the venue
Imperfecto, located on 23rd St NW in Washington, D.C., is a Latin-inspired kitchen that emphasizes seasonal and locally sourced ingredients since opening in 2020. The diverse menu includes dishes such as fresh ceviche and plantain gnocchi, crafted with a modern twist. Featuring a casual yet chic dining space, Imperfecto appeals to food enthusiasts looking for innovative Latin fare. The bar offers craft cocktails that complement the vibrant flavors of the dishes.
What the videos show
The video shows a hand using a fork to scoop out burrata cheese from a plate. The fork is lifted upwards, carrying a portion of the cheese, and then moves away from the frame, leaving behind a partially scooped-out piece of burrata.
1124 23rd St NW
@Beggarsintummy
Ben's Next Door
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$$LivelyCasualNeighborhoodSouthern comfortLive musicVibrant bar
About the venue
Ben's Next Door, located on U Street NW, has established itself as a staple in the DC dining scene, offering an extensive menu that highlights Southern-inspired comfort food. The restaurant features a lively bar area and hosts local music, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Customers can enjoy favorites like the fried chicken and cornbread while soaking in the neighborhood vibe. The blend of casual dining and live entertainment makes it a popular spot among both locals and visitors.
What the videos show
The video captures a dining scene at a restaurant, focusing on a plate of pasta with shrimp and other dishes such as chicken wings, fish over pasta, and drinks. A woman is seen taking pictures of the food, and the camera pans across the table to show the variety of dishes and partially observed people.
1211 U St NW
@Jasminanicole
Dirty Habit
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$$$UrbanLivelySocialRooftop barSignature cocktailsBrunch offerings
About the venue
Dirty Habit, located at 555 8th St NE in Washington D.C., stands out for its rooftop bar and exceptional cocktails since its opening in 2018. The venue features a lively, urban decor with an emphasis on eclectic art and an expansive drink menu, including signature cocktails and craft beers. It is well-known for its weekend brunches which attract a youthful, social crowd. The outdoor space is particularly popular for evening gatherings and boasts views of the city skyline.
What the videos show
The video showcases a plate of seafood stew featuring mussels, clams, squid ink pasta, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, white wine, olive oil, salt, pepper, parsley, and oregano. Two slices of toasted bread accompany the dish, and a glass of water is visible to the right. The camera remains still, focusing on the presentation of the dish.
555 8th St NW
@MsCierraSociety
L'Ardente
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$$StylishModernInteractiveHandmade pastaSeasonal ingredientsCurated wine
About the venue
L'Ardente, situated on Massachusetts Ave NW in Washington, D.C., features a modern Italian dining experience highlighted by seasonal ingredients and handmade pastas. The restaurant boasts a stylish interior with an open kitchen, creating an interactive dining experience. Signature dishes include truffle fettuccine and duck ragu, often praised for their depth of flavor. L'Ardente also has a carefully curated wine list to complement the vibrant menu.
What the videos show
The video showcases a visit to L'Ardeente restaurant, highlighting its exterior, interior decor, menu, and various dishes served. It includes shots of the restaurant's entrance, interior design, a menu, drinks, salads, pasta, dessert, and the ambiance.
200 Massachusetts Ave NW
@SolanasSelections
@NowChowing
Osteria Morini
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$$$StylishLivelyWaterfrontWood-fired dishesHouse-made pastaRustic entrees
About the venue
Located by the waterfront in Washington, D.C., Osteria Morini offers a vibrant Italian dining experience with stunning views of the Anacostia River. This restaurant stands out for its wood-fired dishes, particularly its house-made pasta and rustic entrees that celebrate the Emilia-Romagna region. With a chic industrial decor, Osteria Morini emphasizes both quality ingredients and authentic preparation methods. Additionally, it has a lively bar area known for serving innovative cocktails and artisanal Italian wines.
What the videos show
The video begins with close-up shots of various dishes, including black pasta with shrimp, steak with vegetables, and a salad. It then transitions to a wider shot of an outdoor restaurant setting with red umbrellas and people dining. The camera pans across the restaurant, showing the surrounding area, including trees, string lights, and a body of water.
301 Water St SE
@bitesizedblog
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley
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UpscaleVibrantInvitingUnique twistsStylish interiorThemed events
About the venue
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley, located in Washington, D.C., merges upscale dining with a vibrant bar atmosphere. Opened in 2019, the restaurant features a modern American menu that includes unique twists on classic dishes. Its stylish interior makes it a destination for both dining and socializing. The establishment often hosts special events and themed nights, appealing to those looking for a lively evening out.
What the videos show
The video shows a plate of macaroni and cheese and grilled chicken with onions and bell peppers. The camera pans to reveal drinks, including a clear liquid and a red-colored drink with lemon slices. Another plate with fried fish, fries, and coleslaw comes into view, partially obscuring the initial plate.
1300 I St NW
@Jasminanicole
La Vie
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$$ElegantLivelySociableModern MediterraneanWaterfront viewsLive music
About the venue
La Vie, located in the District Sq SW in D.C., specializes in modern Mediterranean cuisine since its establishment in 2017. The menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and an array of mezze that celebrate Mediterranean flavors. The elegant decor includes stunning waterfront views, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or memorable dinners. Regular live music events contribute to a lively atmosphere, enhancing the overall dining experience.
What the videos show
The video showcases a sequence of dishes, starting with a risotto garnished with mushrooms and microgreens, followed by cauliflower florets with cheese shavings and herbs, and finally green vegetables like broccoli and asparagus spears, sprinkled with nuts and seeds. The narrator comments on the dishes, suggesting they are part of a seafood Italian meal and that they look and presumably taste good.
88 District Sq SW Fl 5
@FlightsandFoods
@fooodmuncher
Filomena Ristorante
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$$$CharmingItalianInvitingHomemade pastaSignature lasagnaWine pairings
About the venue
Filomena Ristorante at 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW in Washington, D.C. is renowned for its homemade pasta since opening in 1983. The restaurant's extensive menu features classic Italian dishes, including their signature lasagna and tortellini, all made fresh daily. The charming, rustic interior brings a touch of Italy to the heart of the city, creating an inviting ambiance for all diners. The knowledgeable staff provides extensive wine pairing suggestions, making it a favorite choice for those celebrating special occasions.
What the videos show
The video shows a plate of fried calamari being topped with red sauce from a metal ladle. The dish is garnished with lemon wedges and parsley, placed on a white plate with a lace doily underneath.
1063 Wisconsin Ave NW
@TastesoftheUnion
RPM Italian
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$$SophisticatedModernInvitingHouse-made pastaWood-fired pizzaRobust wine
About the venue
RPM Italian, located on Massachusetts Ave NW in Washington, D.C., has been redefining Italian-American fare since opening in 2017. The menu highlights house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a selection of market-fresh ingredients, making it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists. The modern decor is both sophisticated and inviting, creating an ideal atmosphere for both casual meals and special occasions. A robust wine list complements the dining experience, providing ample pairing options.
What the videos show
The video showcases various dishes at RPM Italian, including garlic bread, shrimp pasta, chicken parmesan, and birthday desserts. It concludes with a toast with champagne glasses.
650 K St NW
@iamkeac
Le Diplomate
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$$$ChicElegantBustlingOutdoor patioSteak fritesParisian decor
About the venue
Le Diplomate, situated on 14th Street NW in Washington, D.C., has been a staple for French cuisine since 2013. The restaurant is designed to resemble a classic Parisian bistro, featuring high ceilings and an ornate bar. Notable dishes include the steak frites and freshly baked croissants, which are made daily. Le Diplomate also offers a sizable outdoor patio that is popular during the warmer months. The venue attracts both locals and visitors at brunch and dinner, making it a go-to for authentic French fare.
What the videos show
The video opens with a close-up of a plate of pasta covered in red sauce and topped with grated cheese and herbs. It then pans to the right, revealing a plate of salmon tartare garnished with radish slices, cucumber sticks, and lettuce leaves, as well as a slice of meatloaf served with mashed potatoes and green vegetables.
1601 14th St NW
@romy
Napoli Pasta Bar
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$$IntimateAuthenticArtisanHand-rolled pastaOpen kitchenSeasonal sauces
About the venue
Napoli Pasta Bar, located on Sherman Ave NW in Washington, D.C., offers authentic Italian pasta dishes made with fresh ingredients. This establishment prides itself on hand-rolled pasta and an extensive sauce selection, including seasonal specialties. The intimate setting makes it ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions. Diners can watch chefs prepare dishes in an open kitchen, enhancing the dining experience.
What the videos show
The video begins with a close-up of two plates of pasta on a table set outdoors at night, one with green garnish and the other topped with grated cheese. A glass filled with dark liquid is also visible. The camera then pans to the right, revealing more tables covered with white cloths and string lights illuminating the area, with buildings visible in the distance beyond a fence.
2737 Sherman Ave NW
@cheerfulchoices
Old Ebbitt Grill
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$$HistoricBustlingClassicFresh oystersAmerican dishesClassic cocktails
About the venue
Old Ebbitt Grill, located in the heart of Washington, D.C., has been a dining staple since 1856, famous for its freshly shucked oysters and classic American dishes. The restaurant features multiple dining rooms with elegant decor that reflects its long history. Known for its bustling atmosphere, it caters to both tourists and locals alike. Old Ebbitt Grill also serves a variety of craft beers and cocktails, enhancing the dining experience.
What the videos show
The video captures a scene at a restaurant where a plate of pasta with grated cheese and herbs is shown. A woman is seen twirling her fork around another dish, and a man sitting across from her smiles and waves at the camera. The video ends with a close-up of the pasta dish again.
675 15th St NW
@minna.eats