Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Mid-City

24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Toscana - Brentwood restaurant

1. Toscana - Brentwood

4.8

Exceptional(1077)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Brentwood

Booked 10 times today

Nestled in the charming Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, Toscana is a gem that has been delighting diners with its exemplary Contemporary Italian cuisine for over three decades. Known for its rustic, farm-to-table approach, Toscana offers a menu that highlights authentic Tuscan flavors with a modern twist, featuring standout dishes such as Truffle and Burrata Pizza, Veal Milanese, and handmade desserts like Torta della Nonna. Praised for its "top-notch meals" and "authentic delicious Italian food," the restaurant consistently earns accolades, including the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Patrons, including celebrities, adore the "fabulous food" and "charismatic experience," making Toscana a beloved staple in the LA dining scene.

2. Bar Toscana

4.7

Exceptional(212)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Brentwood

Booked 5 times today

Bar Toscana is an intimate, chic cocktail bar next door to sister restaurant, Toscana, in the heart of Brentwood. Bar Toscana’s Executive Chef Justino Quirino curated a simple yet elegant menu with small plates, entrees, and "Street Food" Specials. Menu highlights include Bruschetta, Prosciutto e Melone, Caesar Salad, Beet Salad with goat cheese and hazelnuts, Tuna Tartare, Wagyu Truffle Sliders, and Polpette al Sugo, veal meatballs. Bar Toscana also features Pinsa, pizza’s airy, crispy-crusted, less caloric cousin. Spaghetti Squash and Homemade Lasagna are available, as well as some of Toscana's most popular dishes, such as Ravioli Pomodoro, Pappardelle Funghi, Salmon, Branzino, Veal Milanese, and Bistecca. Cocktails are hand-crafted, and the wine list is largely Italian-focused. This neighborhood lounge opens nightly at 5:00 PM and is ideally fashioned for unique cocktails, intimate dinners, and sparkling conversation. Takeout & delivery through ChowNow and Uber Eats.

A photo of The Courtyard Kitchen restaurant

3. The Courtyard Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(112)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica

Booked 12 times today

The Courtyard Kitchen in Santa Monica has firmly established itself as a premier destination for breakfast enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic charm and contemporary flavors. Praised as the "best breakfast spot in Santa Monica ALL day long," this restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience in its picturesque setting. Diners rave about the "consistently delicious" food, which includes a variety of breakfast favorites crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance, reminiscent of a cozy Parisian café, along with "attentive and friendly" service, enhances the dining experience, making every breakfast here not just a meal, but a memorable event. Whether it's for the classic omelets or the innovative Day In Cuba cocktail, The Courtyard Kitchen is a true gem that promises a breakfast worth savoring.

4. Vicini

4.6

Exceptional(111)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Los Angeles

Booked 6 times today

Vicini Ristorante & Wine Bar in West Los Angeles' Cheviot Hills offers a sublime Wine Bar experience that truly stands out. Celebrated for its "authentic Northern Italian cuisine" and an impressive selection of wines, Vicini delights diners with a "thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail menu." Guests rave about the authentic touches, particularly noting that the wine selection complements the exquisite dishes crafted by Chef Lucio Bedon, whose expertise includes experience in Michelin-starred kitchens. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the wine, with one noting the exceptional pairing advice, stating, "Shout out to our server who offered us a few wines to taste before committing to a glass. His recommendation was the best." Vicini's Wine Bar is not just about wine; it's an integral part of an authentic Italian dining journey that leaves guests planning their next visit.

A photo of Rosti Tuscan Kitchen - Brentwood restaurant

5. Rosti Tuscan Kitchen - Brentwood

4.5

Awesome(87)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Brentwood

Booked 3 times today

Experience the charm of Modern Tuscan cuisine right in the heart of Brentwood at Rosti Tuscan Kitchen. Praised for its authenticity and exceptional flavors, Rosti offers a delightful array of dishes that cater to all, including an extensive selection of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Guests rave about the "flavorful, fresh, and simply phenomenal" dishes, highlighting the culinary brilliance of the chef. The ambiance is cozy, with an "upscale Italian diner" feel, making it a neighborhood gem. One reviewer enthusiastically noted, "This is the best Tuscan cuisine in Brentwood." From the heartwarming hospitality to the meticulously crafted meals, Rosti Tuscan Kitchen ensures a memorable dining experience that keeps patrons returning for more.

6. Vito Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(1593)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica

Booked 8 times today

Vito Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Santa Monica, is a beacon of culinary excellence renowned for its sublime steak offerings. With over four decades of experience, Vito has mastered the art of steak cuisine, providing diners with exceptionally cooked, high-quality cuts that consistently receive rave reviews. Patrons describe their steak experiences as “mouth-watering” and praise the “old school Italian” charm that enhances every meal. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every dish, particularly in their steak, which is a testament to their dedication to maintaining culinary authenticity and excellence. Whether you're seeking a cozy family dinner or a sophisticated night out, Vito promises a steak that’s not only delicious but memorable.

7. Caffé Delfini

4.8

Exceptional(552)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Santa Monica

Booked 6 times today

Nestled in the charming enclave of Santa Monica, Caffé Delfini is a true gem for those seeking an authentic slice of Italy with a contemporary twist. Since its inception in 1990 by a group of passionate Italian friends, this restaurant has continued to enchant diners with its "unpretentious environment" and "consistently excellent food and service." The menu, lauded for its freshness and authenticity, features standout dishes like homemade pasta and the celebrated Ravioli al Ragu Toscana, earning it rave reviews as "the best Italian restaurant on the west side." Patrons consistently praise not only the food but also the "warm, family-friendly atmosphere" and the attentive service, often highlighted by personal interactions with the owners themselves. Caffé Delfini is more than just a dining spot; it's a destination where every meal is a "culinary journey through Italy" and every visit feels like a homecoming.

8. Sor Tino

4.8

Exceptional(527)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Brentwood

Booked 6 times today

Nestled in the heart of Brentwood, Los Angeles, Sor Tino offers a slice of Northern Italy with its authentic and meticulously crafted Italian cuisine. Celebrated chef Agostino Sciandri has been enchanting diners for over 30 years, bringing a European standard of hospitality right to LA’s doorstep. Guests rave about the "homemade pastas" and the "fabulous beet salad called Bietole e Caprino" that transports them straight to Italy’s piazzas. The glowing reviews highlight not only the "great food" but also the "welcoming and attentive" service, making Sor Tino a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Italian dining experience. Whether it’s the artfully prepared Tagliatelle Carciofi or the daily special Blueberry Pie with Vanilla Gelato, every dish is a testament to Sor Tino’s commitment to quality and authenticity.

9. Nerano

4.6

Exceptional(367)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Beverly Hills

Booked 3 times today

Nerano, nestled in the upscale enclave of Beverly Hills, epitomizes exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine with a delightful infusion of Amalfi Coast flair. Patrons rave about the authentic and innovative dishes, such as the "best pizza I have ever had in Los Angeles" and the praised Linguine alla Nerano, celebrated for its freshness and authenticity. The restaurant's ambiance mirrors the welcoming spirit of Italy, complete with a team that receives consistent accolades for their hospitality. "Exquisite Amalfi coast level, Italian food and wonderful service as always," notes one satisfied customer, highlighting Nerano as not just a meal but a "magical experience." This gem truly stands out in Beverly Hills as a top destination for contemporary Italian fare.

10. Locanda Positano

4.6

Exceptional(1668)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Marina del Rey

Booked 5 times today

Locanda Positano, nestled in the vibrant Marina del Rey, is a treasure trove of Contemporary Italian cuisine that effortlessly blends traditional flavors with a modern twist. Praised as a "hidden gem," this cozy, family-owned eatery receives accolades for its authentic dishes like the "out of this world" short rib rigatoni and truffle-laden tagliatelle. Diners rave about the "perfectly al dente" pasta and the ambiance that makes you "feel like family." With its warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that sings with the flavors of Italy, Locanda Positano promises not just a meal but an "outstanding" culinary journey right in the heart of Los Angeles. Whether it's the praised wine pairing dinners or the lush outdoor patio dining, every visit here is a foray into the heart of Italy's culinary best.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
Johnvip
Los Angeles •149 reviews
5.0
Dined today
We love going to Toscana--great family dinner spot...we had a wonderful time. The pizza is only OK, the salad very good, the angel hair past with meat balls and a very good sauce--terrific. Max the waiter excellent. Nothing to complain about at all. WE like eating at Toscana frequently and wil be back soon.
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Toscana - BrentwoodPrice: Expensive• Italian• Brentwood
•
4.8
M
Marcyvip
Los Angeles •23 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
It was amazing as usual. We took a friend out to celebrate her birthday. She hadn’t been there in years . She love it and so did we . Thank you, Marcy and Dale
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Caffé DelfiniPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Monica
•
4.8
R
Robinvip
Orange County •23 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Our friends came into LAX for an overnight stay. We chose Vicini as our restaurant to have dinner with them. It was incredible! Everything from the food we had to our wines and the Ability to have a nice conversation in the somewhat quiet restaurant was superb. The steak that I had was incredible and perfectly done. The others’ pasta dishes were delicious! It is certainly worth a visit if you are in the area and would like authentic Italian food. The ambience was perfect as well. The only drawback is there is limited parking only on the side streets with a meter or after seven in front of the restaurant on the street.
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ViciniPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• West Los Angeles
•
4.6
L
Laurence
Los Angeles •14 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 9, 2024
We moved into the area recently, and finally got to try this neighborhood gem. There are a few Rosti locations, most notably on Montana Avenue, but I like the vibe--and the food--better at this location. The menu is chock-full of typical choices done very well. Lots of delicious pastas, salads, mains (staples such as Chicken Piccata and Chicken Milanese), Panini, Known for their rosemary roasted potatoes, a great side with some roasted veggies added. The menu is large, which is sometimes a concern, but almost everything I've tried in my few visits so far has been excellent. Portions are large and nicely done, rustic, simple, no frills. Good bread and excellent soups. My husband had a very fresh and flavorful Minestrone and I enjoyed the Roasted Butternut Squash to bring in Fall. Best to go after traffic dies down, you'll find parking is easier, unless you can walk. Service was friendly, efficient and unobtrusive. Recommended!
More info
Rosti Tuscan Kitchen - BrentwoodPrice: Moderate• Italian• Brentwood
•
4.5
L
laura
Los Angeles •8 reviews
5.0
Dined on Oct 2, 2024
Very nice experience. Great service! Small portions
More info
Bar ToscanaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Brentwood
•
4.7

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Mid-City

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24 restaurants available nearby

1. Toscana - Brentwood

2. Bar Toscana

3. The Courtyard Kitchen

4. Vicini

5. Rosti Tuscan Kitchen - Brentwood

6. Vito Restaurant

7. Caffé Delfini

8. Sor Tino

9. Nerano

10. Locanda Positano

See what locals rave about

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