Best Italian Restaurants in Lafayette

32 restaurants available nearby

1. Locanda Positano

4.8

Exceptional(1354)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Lafayette

Booked 33 times today

Enzo Rosano grew up in a town just outside of Naples, Italy. His fondest memories of his childhood are centered around his mother’s cooking and the spirited meals he shared with his eight siblings. Mama Carmela’s amazing cooking kept her children close to home throughout their childhood and young adulthood. Her culinary influence also played a role in Enzo’s decision to enroll in the Scuola Alberghieria Culinary and Hospitality program in Naples. Upon completion of his culinary training, Enzo landed a job as bartender at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Vong’s in London. Next was a stop as bar manager at The Berkeley Knightsbridge, a luxury property also in London. When he came to the Bay Area, his first stop was in Half Moon Bay where he helped open one of the town’s most popular restaurants, Mezza Luna, with family friend, Roberto Giovanni. At Caffe Riace,Enzo joined his brothers and worked alongside them as they made plans to open AquaPazza in San Mateo in 2008

A photo of Montesacro Walnut Creek restaurant

2. Montesacro Walnut Creek

4.6

Exceptional(464)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Walnut Creek

Booked 26 times today

Montesacro Walnut Creek, nestled in the vibrant heart of Walnut Creek, is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, exuding the charm and culinary richness of Rome. Known for its unique Pinsa, a Roman specialty, Montesacro offers a "cloud-like pizza" that is "crispy outside and soft inside... and delicious," as raved by patrons. Reviewers praise the restaurant for dishes that transport them straight to Italy, with one noting it as "the closest Italian food we have had since our trip to Italy." The restaurant's dedication to tradition shines through in their expertly crafted pastas and the use of high-quality ingredients, making each dish a delightful exploration of Italian flavors. The service at Montesacro is consistently highlighted as outstanding, adding to the overall exceptional dining experience. Whether it's the tender and flavorful octopus or the creamy carbonara, Montesacro promises an authentic Italian meal that's both memorable and heartwarming.

3. Casa Orinda

4.8

Exceptional(2507)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Orinda

Booked 30 times today

Casa Orinda in Orinda, renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, has been a culinary landmark for over 84 years. Patrons rave about the traditional Italian dishes, noting the "exceptional calamari appetizer" and "perfectly cooked chicken piccata with just the right amount of lemony capered sauce." Made from scratch using the freshest ingredients, each dish celebrates the rich flavors of Italy. Guests frequently commend the warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, making every dining experience memorable. As one satisfied diner expressed, "Casa Orinda is always a go-to. Food is good. Drinks are great and service is the best." It's clear why Casa Orinda remains a beloved choice for Italian dining in the community.

A photo of Il Fornaio - Walnut Creek restaurant

4. Il Fornaio - Walnut Creek

4.5

Awesome(4191)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Walnut Creek

Booked 48 times today

Il Fornaio in Walnut Creek offers an exceptional dining experience, transporting guests on a gourmet journey through Italy. Known for its house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and authentic risotto, the restaurant prides itself on using the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. With glowing reviews like, "The food is always good," and "The food and service was great!" it's clear that Il Fornaio stands out in the Walnut Creek area. The ambiance, coupled with a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence wine list, ensures every meal is as delightful as it is memorable. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Il Fornaio is a top choice for an authentic Italian dining experience.

A photo of Melo's Italian Table restaurant

5. Melo's Italian Table

4.7

Exceptional(244)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Walnut Creek

Booked 49 times today

Melo's Italian Table, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Walnut Creek, stands out as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts. Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, Melo's also shines with its exceptional Cocktail Bar offerings. Patrons consistently rave about the "drinks made well" and highlight the bar's ability to craft perfect cocktails that beautifully complement the Italian fare. One glowing review emphasizes, "The drinks were amazing, too. Would definitely go back!" highlighting the memorable experience provided by the bar. Melo's Italian Table is not just a place for superb dining but also a top choice for anyone seeking a refined cocktail experience in Walnut Creek.

A photo of Montecatini Restaurant - Walnut Creek restaurant

6. Montecatini Restaurant - Walnut Creek

4.8

Exceptional(704)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Walnut Creek

Booked 26 times today

Montecatini Restaurant in Walnut Creek is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and lovers of authentic Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, Montecatini has been a cornerstone of the East Bay dining scene since 1989. The restaurant boasts a "great list of wines," ensuring a perfect pairing for their acclaimed Italian dishes. Patrons rave about the wine selection, with one reviewer noting it's a compelling reason to return. Montecatini's commitment to a high-quality dining experience is evident, making it a beloved spot for both casual outings and special occasions. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Montecatini offers a wine bar experience that is both enriching and delightful.

A photo of La Fontaine - Walnut Creek restaurant

7. La Fontaine - Walnut Creek

4.7

Exceptional(672)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Walnut Creek

Booked 11 times today

La Fontaine in Walnut Creek is a delightful blend of French and Italian cuisine, offering a truly authentic and sophisticated dining experience. Patrons rave about the quality and authenticity of their French dishes, highlighting the "excellent dinner" and "impeccable service." Notably, the restaurant's commitment to using local and seasonal ingredients elevates the flavor profiles, creating mouthwatering dishes that leave a lasting impression. One guest enthusiastically recommended the Beef Wellington, praising it as "cooked to perfection." La Fontaine's elegant ambiance, combined with its top-notch service and exquisitely crafted French cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking a memorable culinary journey in Walnut Creek.

A photo of La Finestra Ristorante restaurant

8. La Finestra Ristorante

4.7

Exceptional(450)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Moraga

Booked 5 times today

La Finestra Ristorante in Moraga, California, is a beacon of authentic Sicilian and Italian cuisine that has delighted locals since its inception in 1999. Family-owned and operated, this gem offers a variety of seafood, pasta, poultry, and meat dishes that reflect true Sicilian flavors. Patrons rave about their dining experience, with one noting, "The best authentic Italian restaurant in the area,” and another exclaiming the food is "flavorful and excellent." The live piano music adds a unique, enjoyable ambiance, enhancing each meal. With glowing reviews, exceptional service, and a cozy setting, La Finestra stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian fare.

A photo of Tomatina - Walnut Creek restaurant

9. Tomatina - Walnut Creek

4.1

Excellent(208)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Walnut Creek

Booked 4 times today

Tomatina - Walnut Creek truly captures the essence of Californian cuisine with its vibrant and fresh offerings. Nestled in the charming city of Walnut Creek, this restaurant is celebrated for its delightful fusion of traditional Italian techniques with the fresh, local produce of California. Patrons consistently rave about the authenticity and quality of the meals, with reviews highlighting dishes like the “moist, tasty and beautiful” Sauteed Salmon and the perfectly flavored pasta. The restaurant’s ambience is described as warm and welcoming, perfect for a Californian dining experience. Whether it's the “excellent Antipasta Salad” or the “delicious butternut squash ravioli,” Tomatina ensures a memorable meal with every visit, making it a must-try for lovers of genuine Californian fare.

A photo of La Piazza - Orinda restaurant

10. La Piazza - Orinda

4.7

Exceptional(2)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Orinda

Booked 1 time today

With its cheerful exterior and warm and friendly setting, La Piazza in Orinda is a San Francisco Bay area gem. Offering the fun of an open kitchen, where pizzas, pastas, salads and desserts are prepared before your eyes, La Piazza is a perfect choice for dinner or a post-movie treat as it is directly across the street from the Orinda Theatre. A truly classic Italian menu includes pizza, antipasti, beautiful pasta dishes, heartier entrees and a stunning dessert list. In fact, many visit La Piazza for dolci along with a glass from their comprehensive wine list or excellent and authentic coffees.

‘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.

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From verified diners like you

P
Paulettevip
San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Great food! Party of 8 for a Thanksgiving dinner. We had a few traditional meals and a few non turkey dinners. Cesar salad was fabulous, bread yummy, pasta delicious. Yams were so good. Cranberry quality tart and scrumptious. Turkey moist and tasty. Ham holiday meal also very very good! Service very attentive. We were not rushed through a meal although they were packed.
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Il Fornaio - Walnut CreekPrice: Moderate• Italian• Walnut Creek
•
4.5
B
barry
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
This is my favorite restaurant and it’s always a treat. The service was excellent.
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Casa OrindaPrice: Expensive• American• Orinda
•
4.8
J
Jean
San Francisco Bay Area •14 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Wonderful service, wines, and food. A very fun place to have my son’s birthday celebration Will definitely go back
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Montesacro Walnut CreekPrice: Expensive• Italian• Walnut Creek
•
4.6
B
Buckvip
San Francisco Bay Area •16 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 22, 2024
there were 5 persons for this lunch. The menu provides a ful variety of interesting Italian cuisine . The cocktail menu is also very eclectic and the served drinks are superb. The wine list has a great selection of wine .Our service was impeccable and our server Vito was congenial affable , knowledgeable, and attentive. Our food was made and served to order and was delicious. The desserts and coffees were very good and the prportions were just right after a full delicious meal.
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Locanda PositanoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Lafayette
•
4.8
OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 19, 2024
As always, I enjoyed my meal as did my guest! This is easily my 10th visit during the past year and have never been disappointed. I would recommend this restaurant without exception.
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Melo's Italian TablePrice: Expensive• Italian• Walnut Creek
•
4.7

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Lafayette

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Best Italian Restaurants in Lafayette

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32 restaurants available nearby

1. Locanda Positano

2. Montesacro Walnut Creek

3. Casa Orinda

4. Il Fornaio - Walnut Creek

5. Melo's Italian Table

6. Montecatini Restaurant - Walnut Creek

7. La Fontaine - Walnut Creek

8. La Finestra Ristorante

9. Tomatina - Walnut Creek

10. La Piazza - Orinda

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