Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in University City

22 restaurants available nearby

A photo of LaScala's Fire-University City restaurant

1. LaScala's Fire-University City

4.4

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • University City

Booked 1 time today

LaScala's Fire-University City, nestled in the heart of University City, Philadelphia, on the Drexel University Campus, is a beacon of Modern European cuisine. Celebrated as Open Table's Diner's Choice for both 2022 and 2023, the restaurant consistently impresses with its unique and authentic flavors. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, with one guest highlighting that "the flavors were well crafted, complex and authentic." From the must-order ricotta bread to the lauded meatball trio, every dish is a testament to the culinary prowess of LaScala's Fire. The vibrant atmosphere and excellent service further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional Modern European dishes in Philadelphia.

A photo of La Fontana Della Citta restaurant

2. La Fontana Della Citta

4.3

Awesome(2007)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 13 times today

La Fontana Della Citta, located right off Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia, shines as a beacon of exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine. This 100-seat BYOB gem, brought to life by owner Rafael Kupa, receives consistent praise for its delectable dishes and warm, attentive service. Patrons rave about the "delicious food with a lot of menu options," highlighting the perfectly executed seafood pasta and the nightly special pasta that keeps diners coming back. The restaurant's ability to create a "small intimate space" amidst the bustling city ambiance, coupled with its friendly staff and the BYOB option, crafts a personalized dining experience. As one review perfectly sums it up, La Fontana Della Citta is "one of my favorite spots in the city."

3. Melograno

4.8

Exceptional(1627)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Rittenhouse Square

Booked 4 times today

Melograno, nestled in the vibrant Rittenhouse Square of Philadelphia, is a treasure trove for seafood lovers. Established in 2003 by the talented duo, Chef Gianluca Demontis and Rosemarie Tran, this restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Italian seafood dishes. Patrons rave about the "delicious ink pasta with shrimp, clams, and octopus," highlighting the "terrific nuanced sauce with Calabria peppers" as a standout. Another guest recommended the "special fish bream" and the "squid ink linguini with seafood in a red sauce," which was so good that they "asked for more bread just to soak up the oils and sauce left at the bottom." Melograno's commitment to quality and its BYOB policy only enhances the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional seafood in a charming atmosphere.

4. Bellini

4.7

Exceptional(1136)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Center City

Booked 13 times today

Experience the heart of Italian cuisine at Bellini, located in the vibrant Center City of Philadelphia. Under the expert guidance of Italian-born Chef Francesco Parmisciano, Bellini has become a culinary beacon, renowned for its innovative flavors and artful presentations that stay true to authentic Italian roots. Guests rave about the "consistently delicious" dishes, with standout reviews for the "incredible Duck Ragú" and "homemade fresh pasta." The restaurant's ambiance is complemented by exceptional service, where the staff makes diners feel genuinely valued, noting that they "treat you like family." Whether it's the pre-theater dinner crowd or local food enthusiasts, Bellini promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps patrons returning. Join us for a meal that celebrates the best of Italian tradition and innovation.

A photo of Osteria Ama Philly restaurant

5. Osteria Ama Philly

4.5

Awesome(289)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Center City

Booked 24 times today

Osteria Ama Philly in Center City, Philadelphia, stands as a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering an exceptional dining experience that leaves patrons raving about its authenticity and quality. Known for its homemade bread, pizza crust, and pastas, the restaurant prides itself on using traditional methods and imported Italian ingredients, ensuring every dish is an authentic taste of Italy. Patrons consistently praise the "incredible Chicken Parmigiana" and "dangerously good homemade rolls," with one noting, "The Eggplant parm was incredible." The atmosphere is described as inviting and the service as impeccable, making Osteria Ama Philly a must-visit for lovers of fine Italian cuisine.

A photo of Porcini - Philadelphia restaurant

6. Porcini - Philadelphia

4.9

Exceptional(2022)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Center City

Booked 1 time today

Porcini, nestled in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia, is a true gem for those seeking an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience. Established in 1996, Porcini has been lauded for its fresh, house-made pastas and authentic ingredients sourced directly from Sicily and the Mediterranean. Diners rave about the "incredible food" and "wonderful part of the total experience" at this vibrant BYOB spot. The charming atmosphere, combined with the warm welcome from owners David and Chef Steven Sansone, makes every meal feel like a gathering among friends. With dishes that are both "simply lights out" and service described as "unpretentious and inviting," Porcini continues to be a top choice for both locals and visitors.

A photo of Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti restaurant

7. Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti

4.6

Exceptional(3956)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Old City

Booked 12 times today

Discover the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine at Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti, located in the historic Old City of Philadelphia. This restaurant captures the spirit of the Amalfi Coast with a menu that showcases fresh fish and seafood, alongside beloved dishes like tagliatelle bolognese and pork chop milanese. Diners consistently praise the quality and creativity of the meals, with reviews highlighting dishes such as the "heavenly sea urchin linguine" and the "perfectly cooked branzino." The atmosphere is described as "beautiful," complementing an experience that is both "refreshing" and authentically Italian. Whether it's for a sunny brunch or a delightful dinner, Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti offers an exceptional blend of ambiance, service, and Contemporary Italian fare that is sure to enchant.

8. Scampi

4.8

Exceptional(9)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Queen Village

Booked 6 times today

Scampi is a Queen Village BYOB. Taste edible tours through the regions of Italy with Chef Liz as your guide. Enjoy a buzzy atmosphere and relaxed vibe, bring a bottle or two of wine and some friends, and enjoy a deeper look into Italy's regional cuisines.

9. Bucatini Caffe

4.9

Exceptional(47)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • East Passyunk Avenue

Booked 5 times today

We're thrilled to announce our NEW menu is here! We're open for dinner 6 nights a week and can't wait for you to join us. Don't forget we're BYOB and make a reservation today!

A photo of Buca D'oro Ristorante restaurant

10. Buca D'oro Ristorante

4.5

Awesome(656)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Society Hill

Booked 18 times today

Buca D'oro Ristorante in Society Hill, Philadelphia, is a treasure trove of authentic European (Italian) cuisine, capturing the essence of the Amalfi coast with its fresh, high-quality ingredients. Nestled just two blocks from the Italian market, this gem stands out with its "delicately prepared Italian food" and a menu that appeals to the most discerning palates. Praised for its "excellent Italian food at a more than reasonable price," and service delivered by "professional servers," Buca D'oro ensures a memorable dining experience. Reviewers rave about its cozy atmosphere and excellent service, describing it as "a hidden gem" and a "local go-to favorite." Whether it's the homemade Limoncello, gluten-free pasta, or the Melanzane Margarita, every dish is a testament to traditional Italian craftsmanship.

‘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

B
Bonnievip
Philadelphia County •730 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Food and service are exceptional. Best Italian restaurant in center city. Innovative tasty pasta dishes. Excellent fish and veg. The manager and the servers go out of their way to please customers. The noise level is good near the window.
More info
MelogranoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Rittenhouse Square
•
4.8
L
Laurievip
Los Angeles •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
We were seated promptly and host asked if we had brought wine! Ohohoh! Restaurant does not have a liquor license. Italian food without a glass of wine did not seem right! Luckily host was able to tell us on request where we might buy some (5min walk). Our orders were excellently prepared: pastas for each of us. I had linguine neri—-a favorite of mine and I would say it was the best version of the dish I have had! They were not skimpy on the lobster and crab in abundance The serving was enough for dinner and lunch the following day!
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La Fontana Della CittaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Rittenhouse Square
•
4.3
M
Megan
Philadelphia County •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Our experience at Bellini was incredible! Robert was our sever & he was so helpful, knowledgeable, & friendly. He honestly felt like family. I’m GF & he was able to point me in the right direction with the menu. Everything tasted incredible. My husband & I will definitely be back!
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BelliniPrice: Expensive• Italian• Center City
•
4.7
J
Jimvip
Southwest Florida •9 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 21, 2024
I’ve been going here for 25 years and it’s always always excellent Last night I had the cannelloni which I haven’t had in a long time and it was delicious.
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Porcini - PhiladelphiaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Center City
•
4.9
K
Krisha
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 16, 2024
Great experience here, our server was super quick, attentive and very kind. She got us a birthday dessert to celebrate our occasion. The food was top notch and very reasonably priced. It is my next stop for all my Italian food cravings.
More info
Osteria Ama PhillyPrice: Moderate• Italian• Center City
•
4.5

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in University City

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22 restaurants available nearby

1. LaScala's Fire-University City

2. La Fontana Della Citta

3. Melograno

4. Bellini

5. Osteria Ama Philly

6. Porcini - Philadelphia

7. Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti

8. Scampi

9. Bucatini Caffe

10. Buca D'oro Ristorante

See what locals rave about

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