If you’re craving authentic Italian food in Washington, D.C., you’re in luck. From handcrafted pasta to wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, the city is home to a range of Italian spots that rival even those in Rome. After countless personal tastings, local foodie recommendations, and checking what truly satisfies both flavor and ambiance in 2025, I’ve narrowed it down to the 15 best Italian restaurants in Washington, DC. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a celebratory dinner, or just want to grab a plate of heavenly cacio e pepe, this list has you covered.
1. RPM Italian – Sophisticated Italian Dining in Mount Vernon Square
RPM Italian offers a modern twist on traditional Italian recipes, with a sleek ambiance that’s ideal for both business dinners and romantic evenings. Their signature Mama DePandi’s Bucatini is a must-try — fresh pasta, slow-cooked tomato sauce, and a flavor that sticks with you long after the last bite.
- What to order: Short Rib Bolognese, Truffle Garlic Bread, Zucchini Fritti, and one of the best Tiramisu desserts in D.C.
- Price: Entrees average around $25–$40
- Location: 650 K St NW, Washington, DC 20001
2. Red Hen – Cozy Vibes & Handmade Pasta in Bloomingdale
A neighborhood favorite that feels like dining in your stylish Italian cousin’s rustic kitchen. Red Hen specializes in wood-fired Italian fare with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Their Mezze Rigatoni with fennel sausage ragu has become legendary for a reason.
- What to order: Grilled Octopus, Smoked Ricotta Crostini, and any house-made pasta (they rotate specials often).
- Perfect for: Date nights, wine lovers, pasta purists
- Price: Entrees in the $20–$30 range
- Location: 1822 1st St NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Visit The Red Hen
3. 2Amys Neapolitan Pizzeria – Authentic Naples-Style Pizza
For a casual but truly Italian pizza experience, 2Amys is where to go. It’s one of the few D.C. spots certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), which means the dough, ingredients, and technique are the real deal.
- What to order: Margherita Extra pizza, Suppli al Telefono (crispy risotto balls), and their house-cured meats.
- Price: Pizzas are under $20
- Location: 3715 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC 20016
- Visit 2Amys
4. L’Ardente – Luxe Italian Meets Modern D.C. Flair
A fairly new player on the scene, L’Ardente quickly rose to fame for its over-the-top Italian classics and Insta-worthy décor. Think plush velvet, open kitchen views, and truffle everything. Their 100-layer lasagna is arguably one of the most decadent pasta dishes in the city.
- What to order: Truffle Cacio e Pepe, Tableside Tiramisu, and the iconic Lasagna
- Ideal for: Celebrations, special nights out, or impressing visitors
- Price: Expect to spend $30–$50+ per entrée
- Location: 200 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Visit L’Ardente
5. Rosario – Intimate Italian Spot in Shaw
Rosario may not have the buzz of bigger names, but it quietly delivers some of the most comforting Italian dishes in the city. With an emphasis on homestyle cooking, warm service, and a great wine list, it’s the kind of place you find yourself coming back to.
- What to order: Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, Calamari, and Tartufo dessert
- Best for: Low-key nights, authentic food without the fuss
- Price: Entrees around $18–$28
- Location: 1813 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
6. Filomena Ristorante – Georgetown's Legendary Italian Institution
Since 1983, Filomena has been serving hearty, traditional Italian dishes in an old-world setting that feels like stepping into nonna’s house. You’ll often see fresh pasta being rolled by hand right at the entrance. Portions are generous, flavors are bold, and the decor is full of nostalgic charm.
- What to order: Ravioli alla Matrimonia (two sauces, one dish!), Veal Saltimbocca, and their famous homemade cheesecake.
- tip: Come hungry. The servings are enormous — and delicious from start to finish.
- Price: Entrees typically $25–$40
- Location: 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
- Visit Filomena Ristorante
7. Osteria Morini – Waterfront Italian with a View
Located at The Yards, Osteria Morini brings the rustic charm of Emilia-Romagna to the Capitol Riverfront. With views of the Anacostia River and a sleek, modern interior, it’s a favorite for weekend brunches and stylish dinners.
- What to order: Cappelletti (truffled ricotta ravioli), Tagliatelle Bolognese, and Bomboloni (Italian doughnuts)
- Best for: Brunch with a view, waterfront date nights, and Italian food with regional depth.
- Price: Expect $30+ for entrees
- Location: 301 Water St SE, Washington, DC 20003
- Visit Osteria Morini DC
8. Tosca – Elegant Northern Italian Fare near the White House
Tosca blends Northern Italian sophistication with white-tablecloth service, just blocks from the White House. The menu is rich with fine ingredients like duck, truffle, and saffron, and the wine list is curated to match.
- What to order: Handmade Agnolotti, Roasted Duck Breast, and the Lemon Olive Oil Cake
- Perfect for: Celebrations, business dinners, or a refined night out
- Price: Fine dining, so budget accordingly
- Location: 1112 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004
- Visit Tosca DC
9. Etto – Rustic, Seasonal Italian in Logan Circle
Etto is small but mighty, with a menu that rotates based on what’s fresh and in-season. The vibe is unfussy, warm, and welcoming. Their house-made focaccia and seasonal small plates are standouts.
- What to order: Focaccia with whipped lardo, Eggplant Parmigiana, and seasonal pasta dishes
- Fun fact: Their wine list leans natural and organic, making it a favorite for wine-savvy foodies.
- Price: Pastas and mains in the $18–$30 range
- Location: 1541 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
- Visit Etto
10. Il Canale – Wood-Fired Pizza & Italian Hospitality in Georgetown
Il Canale brings Southern Italian authenticity to the heart of Georgetown. Their Neapolitan pizzas are certified by the AVPN (like 2Amys), and the staff makes you feel like family. If you’re a fan of crisp-but-soft crust and imported San Marzano tomatoes, you’ll be in pizza heaven.
- What to order: Diavola Pizza, Linguine alle Vongole, and Cannoli for dessert
- Award-winning: Recognized by the Italian government as one of the top ambassadors of Italian cuisine abroad.
- Price: Pizzas and pastas around $20–$30
- Location: 1065 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007
11. Al Tiramisu – Hidden Gem with Big Italian Heart
Tucked away just off Dupont Circle, Al Tiramisu is a tiny, no-frills trattoria that wins hearts with its authentic Roman flavors, charming staff, and an ever-changing blackboard menu. The chef-owner, Luigi Diotaiuti, is a James Beard Award nominee who cooks like he’s feeding his own family.
- What to order: Homemade Gnocchi with Gorgonzola, Grilled Calamari, and — of course — the Tiramisu
- Insider tip: Ask for the off-menu specials. Regulars swear by the seasonal dishes.
- Price: Pastas start around $20
- Location: 2014 P St NW, Washington, DC 20036
- Visit Al Tiramisu
12. Sfoglina – Chic Pasta House by Fabio Trabocchi
From Michelin-starred chef Fabio Trabocchi, Sfoglina is his tribute to the art of handmade pasta (a sfoglina is a woman who rolls pasta by hand in Emilia-Romagna). With multiple DC locations and a refined yet approachable vibe, it’s a go-to for serious pasta lovers.
- What to order: Tortellini in Brodo, Lobster Tagliatelle, and the Ricotta Cheesecake
- Stylish and family-friendly: Sfoglina balances upscale dining with warm, Italian hospitality.
- Price: Entrees range from $25–$40+
- Location: Multiple locations, including Van Ness and Downtown
- Visit Sfoglina
13. Masseria – Michelin-Starred Modern Italian Near Union Market
If you’re looking for a Michelin-starred fine dining experience with Italian soul, Masseria is your destination. Helmed by Chef Nicholas Stefanelli, this refined spot blends coastal Italian influences with local ingredients. Elegant, creative, and perfect for tasting menus.
- What to order: Opt for the tasting menu with wine pairing. Don’t miss the Agnolotti or Suckling Pig.
- For special occasions: This is a place to celebrate milestones or impress clients.
- Price: Tasting menus start around $115+
- Location: 1340 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
- Visit Masseria
14. Ristorante i Ricchi – Florentine Tradition in the Heart of DC
Open since 1989, Ristorante i Ricchi offers hearty Tuscan cuisine in a sophisticated yet approachable setting. It’s one of the few places in DC where you can find Bistecca alla Fiorentina and authentic peppery pici pasta. Ideal for traditionalists and wine lovers.
- What to order: Wild Boar Ragu, Ribollita (Tuscan bean soup), and the Panna Cotta
- Elegant and low-key: It’s not trendy — it’s timeless.
- Price: Entrees typically $25–$35
- Location: 1220 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
- Visit Ristorante i Ricchi
15. Ella's Wood Fired Pizza – Casual Italian with Serious Flavor
Located near the National Mall, Ella’s is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with friends. The wood-fired pizzas are crispy, thin, and loaded with flavor, and the pastas and salads hold their own, too.
- What to order: Prosciutto Arugula Pizza, Spaghetti alla Carbonara, and a glass of house Chianti
- Price: Pizzas and pasta dishes around $15–$22
- Location: 610 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
- Visit Ella’s Wood Fired Pizza
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Try First?
If you’re seeking upscale Italian with a modern edge, go to L’Ardente. Want pasta that tastes like it came straight from an Italian nonna’s kitchen? Red Hen and Rosario are the move. For pizza fanatics, 2Amys is non-negotiable. And if you’re in the mood for a glamorous dinner with standout classics, RPM Italian never disappoints.
Planning Your Culinary Tour?
Washington, D.C.’s Italian food scene in 2025 is thriving — whether you’re visiting for the weekend or a local rediscovering your neighborhood. Save this list, book a table, and let the carb-loading begin.
FAQ: Best Italian Restaurants in Washington DC (2025)
What’s the most romantic Italian restaurant in DC?
L’Ardente and RPM Italian both offer upscale, romantic vibes with incredible food.
Where can I get the best pizza in Washington DC?
2Amys is widely regarded as the best Neapolitan-style pizza spot in the city.
Are these restaurants vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! All listed restaurants offer multiple vegetarian options, especially in their pasta and antipasti selections.
Do I need reservations?
Definitely. Especially for L’Ardente, RPM, and Red Hen — they fill up fast, so plan ahead.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
