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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Cambridge

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27 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Terra at Eataly Boston restaurant
1. Terra at Eataly Boston
4.2
Awesome(3744)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Back Bay
Booked 104 times today
Located in the vibrant Back Bay neighborhood of Boston, Terra at Eataly Boston offers an enchanting experience of contemporary Italian cuisine. At the heart of Terra is a wood-burning Italian grill, which infuses each dish with a distinct smoky essence that accentuates the natural flavors. The culinary artistry here transforms simple ingredients into exquisite, earthy dishes, making each meal a celebration of refined rusticity. Patrons rave about their experiences, describing dishes like the "burrata with asparagus" as "AMAZING" and praising the perfectly executed meat platters. The ambiance, coupled with top-tier service, ensures that each visit is memorable. Terra consistently receives glowing reviews for its fresh, flavorful fare and its ability to create "dizzying happiness" with its entrees. If you're seeking a genuine, high-quality contemporary Italian meal in Boston, Terra at Eataly is an unrivaled choice.
A photo of The Red Fox restaurant
2. The Red Fox
4.5
Awesome(126)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • North End
Booked 50 times today
Nestled in the historic North End of Boston, The Red Fox has quickly become a beacon of Italian-American cuisine. Celebrated for its "handmade pasta" and a blend of "classic and throwback dishes," this vibrant spot delivers an authentic taste of Italy with a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "succulent" lobster ravioli and "fabulous" orecchiette with pistachio pesto, noting the dishes' uniqueness and authenticity. The atmosphere is equally praised, described as a "magical Italian speakeasy" with a "swank" vibe perfect for a date night or a lively dinner with friends. Coupled with an "excellent wine list" and "seasonal cocktails" that are "so smooth," The Red Fox promises an exceptional dining experience that makes every visitor eager to return.
A photo of Prima restaurant
3. Prima
4.7
Exceptional(719)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Charlestown
Booked 119 times today
Located in the heart of Charlestown, Boston, Prima stands out as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts. This vibrant Italian eatery not only offers a stunning view of City Square Park and the city skyline but also boasts a cocktail bar that has garnered glowing praise. Patrons rave about the "tiramisu espresso martinis" and "French toast martinis," highlighting their creativity and perfect blend. The atmosphere of Prima complements its drinks with a beautifully restored bar area that beckons guests to relax and enjoy. With its exceptional service and a noteworthy mention of their "extensive wine list and cocktails," Prima ensures each visit is memorable, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier cocktail experience in Boston.
A photo of MIDA - South End restaurant
4. MIDA - South End
4.7
Exceptional(2724)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • South End
Booked 32 times today
MIDA in the vibrant South End of Boston stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, integrating the simplicity of classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant is celebrated for its "excellent food with well-balanced flavors" and has quickly become a favorite in the neighborhood. Guests rave about the "outstanding" lemon gnocchi and the eggplant parm, highlighting the authentic and meticulous preparation of each dish. The ambiance is described as "cozy" and "lively," perfect for a delightful dining experience. MIDA's commitment to quality is consistently praised, with one reviewer noting, "MIDA might be my new favorite restaurant." Whether it's the "creative and light" dishes or the "professional, knowledgeable" service, MIDA delivers a genuine Contemporary Italian dining experience that keeps guests returning.
A photo of Bar 'Cino Brookline restaurant
5. Bar 'Cino Brookline
4.8
Exceptional(1386)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Brookline
Booked 54 times today
Bar 'Cino (we say "chee-no") is an informal neighborhood spot on Beacon Street in Brookline - directly across from the Saint Mary's T Stop. Open nightly for dinner and cocktails.
A photo of Toscano Harvard Square restaurant
6. Toscano Harvard Square
4.6
Exceptional(2424)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Cambridge
Booked 31 times today
Nestled in the heart of West Cambridge, just a short walk from Harvard, Toscano Harvard Square is a gem for authentic Italian cuisine. Diners consistently rave about its "bright, fresh flavors of Tuscany" and the warm, inviting atmosphere that makes every meal special. The restaurant is celebrated for its "delicious and authentic Italian pasta" and an extensive wine list that complements every dish beautifully. Patrons like to highlight the "fabulous service" and how the dishes, such as the "seafood risotto," and "truffle beef special," always hit the mark. Toscano is not just a meal; it’s an experience, with one reviewer noting, "We ALWAYS LOVE being there!" making it a top choice for both locals and visitors seeking a slice of Italy in Cambridge.
A photo of Serafina - Boston Back Bay restaurant
7. Serafina - Boston Back Bay
4.4
Awesome(541)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Back Bay
Booked 42 times today
Serafina in Boston's vibrant Back Bay neighborhood is a gem for those seeking a contemporary Italian dining experience. Located on Newbury Street, this restaurant offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, with a menu that brilliantly balances traditional flavors with modern twists. Guests rave about the authenticity and creativity of the dishes, such as the "best arancini I've ever had" and the "limoncello bow tie pasta with shrimp that was out of this world!" The atmosphere is described as cozy and inviting, making it ideal for everything from a casual meal to a special celebration. With glowing reviews for both food and service, Serafina stands out as a top destination for exceptional contemporary Italian cuisine in Boston.
A photo of Geppetto restaurant
8. Geppetto
4.6
Exceptional(214)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Cambridge
Booked 13 times today
Geppetto, nestled within The Lexington at Cambridge Crossing, stands out as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its "excellent food and delicious drinks," Geppetto masterfully blends traditional Northern Italian flavors with the finest local ingredients from New England. The restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience, featuring housemade pastas, local seafood, and fresh butchered meats that truly highlight its culinary prowess. Guests rave about the "lobster spaghetti" and the "rabbit gnocchi," praising both the service and atmosphere. The standout reviews consistently applaud the thoughtful composition of dishes, like the "flavorful and beautifully presented" meals, making Geppetto a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and sophisticated Italian dining adventure in Cambridge.
A photo of Artu restaurant
9. Artu
4.3
Awesome(1742)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • North End
Booked 19 times today
Artu in Boston's historic North End stands out as a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. Since its inception in 1992, Artu has delighted diners with its commitment to simple, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Patrons rave about dishes that evoke nostalgia and transcend typical expectations. As one reviewer exclaims, "This place is better than most places in Italia!" The menu features timeless favorites like the "best carbonara I've had in North End" and the eggplant parmigiana, hailed as the best in 70 years by a seasoned diner. The restaurant's atmosphere, coupled with its excellent service, makes every meal memorable. Whether it's the delectable lobster arancini or the perfectly balanced Frutti di Mare, Artu is a culinary gem that captures the essence of Italian dining.
A photo of Libertine restaurant
10. Libertine
4.3
Awesome(288)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • North End
Booked 18 times today
Nestled in the vibrant North End of Boston, Libertine is a culinary gem that delights with its authentic Italian fare, seamlessly blending tradition with innovative gluten-free options. Patrons rave about dishes like the "best ever" lobster ravioli and the exquisitely homemade gnocchi, each bite promising a burst of authentic Italian flavors. The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident, with 98% of the menu available as gluten-free, ensuring that all guests, regardless of dietary restrictions, can indulge in a true Italian feast. Reviewers consistently celebrate Libertine for its "amazing food" and "fantastic service," making it a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional Italian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Nancy
    Chicago / Illinois •11 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Lovely neighborhood restaurant with a great menu and excellent service
    More info
    MIDA - South EndPrice: Moderate• Italian• South End
    •
    4.7
  • Michaelvip
    Jacksonville / Northeast Florida •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Excellent food and service. We went on a gluten free Monday due to my wife’s celiac disease. Gluten free or not, the food was fantastic.
    More info
    PrimaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Charlestown
    •
    4.7
  • Kathyvip
    Greater Boston •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Super fun girls' night out. Loved the vibe. Food and service were both excellent. Music and conversation are noisy so be prepared. Will come again!
    More info
    The Red FoxPrice: Expensive• Italian• North End
    •
    4.5
  • KarenCvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    I loved this restaurant. The food was delicious, and our server, Miguel, was excellent. I appreciated his investment in the restaurant he works in. Miguel answered my questions about when the restaurant was established and his love for the food and the people he worked with. My husband and I will be back.
    More info
    Bar 'Cino BrooklinePrice: Expensive• Italian• Brookline
    •
    4.8
  • Emanuelvip
    Greater Boston •85 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 15, 2024
    This was our first time dining at Terra where he had been meaning to go for a long time but just kept puuting off. I can safely tell you that we will definitely not be putting off out going back. THe experience was totally beyond our many forrays to Eataly that we always enjoy. The decor is rustic, tasteful, relaxing, and comforting Service was above and beyond. Cocktails were innovative and delicious. The star attaction, of course, was the cuisine that proved to be far above our expectations. Anything open fire grilled from the large open pit is not to be missed - flavorful, juicy, and cooked to perfection. The dishes all with freshly made pasta were like bites of heaven with velvety and luscious sauces. The surprise of the evening was definitely the Tiramisu that was unlike any that we had every eaten anywhere and with plenty of delicious masacarpone. Cappucinos were also excellent. We did not want to leave but had a concert to go to, but we will definitely be back very soon.
    More info
    Terra at Eataly BostonPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Back Bay
    •
    4.2

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Cambridge

Discover the allure of contemporary Italian cuisine in the vibrant dining scenes of Boston and Cambridge. This page brings you a curated selection of eateries renowned for blending modern culinary techniques with the traditional flavors of Italy, all set within the culturally rich areas of Greater Boston. Each restaurant offers a unique take on Italian dining, emphasizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative recipes that elevate classic dishes to new heights. Whether you're in the mood for expertly crafted Neapolitan pizzas, inventive pastas, or gourmet small plates, these establishments promise an unforgettable dining experience. The Cambridge and Boston areas are known for their dynamic and diverse culinary offerings, with contemporary Italian cuisine standing out as a particularly vibrant part of the local food scene. Diners can expect exceptional service, elegant ambiance, and a commitment to quality that shines through in every dish. These restaurants not only cater to the taste buds but also offer aesthetically pleasing environments that enhance the overall dining experience. Perfect for food enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike, this selection of restaurants captures the essence of sophisticated Italian dining in one of America's oldest and most culturally significant cities. Whether planning a romantic night out, a business dinner, or a special family gathering, these contemporary Italian spots in Boston, Cambridge, and Greater Boston area are sure to impress with their culinary creativity and flair.

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