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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Newport Beach

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Louie's by the Bay restaurant
1. Louie's by the Bay
4.6
Exceptional(1417)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Newport Beach
Booked 41 times today
Louie's by the Bay in Newport Beach is not just a dining delight but a cocktail paradise as well. Nestled along the scenic Mariners Mile, this vibrant locale offers a cocktail bar that truly stands out due to its quality and ambiance. Guests rave about the cocktails, with one patron exclaiming, "Great food, cocktails, and atmosphere. Beautiful view of the bay and boats. Great visit." The bar scene here is lively and late-night, perfect for those seeking both a stunning view and exquisite drink options. Another review highlights, "Their famous margaritas went down way too easy!" making it clear that Louie’s by the Bay masters the art of mixology, ensuring every cocktail is a celebration of flavors. Whether you're winding down after a day or toasting a special occasion, Louie's cocktail bar ambiance combined with top-notch service makes it a must-visit spot in Newport Beach.
A photo of Il Dolce restaurant
2. Il Dolce
4.9
Exceptional(440)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Costa Mesa
Booked 1 time today
Il Dolce in Costa Mesa is a treasure trove for those craving authentic Italian pizza. This family-owned pizzeria captures the essence of Naples with each pizza baked in a traditional wood-fire oven, infusing pies with a distinct, smoky flavor that patrons rave about. Reviewers consistently praise its authenticity, with one diner exclaiming, “Honestly the food was amazing! We’ve been missing pizza from Italy, and this is by far the best pizza we have ate!” The restaurant's commitment to natural, fresh ingredients and its cozy, comfortable ambiance make it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts. Whether it's the "best pizza" or the "home made bread," Il Dolce delivers an exceptional Italian dining experience right in the heart of Costa Mesa.
A photo of Andrea at Pelican Hill restaurant
3. Andrea at Pelican Hill
4.5
Awesome(1891)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Newport Beach
Booked 5 times today
The Resort at Pelican Hill invites diners on a weekend-long epicurean experience with the debut of the inaugural Italian Culinary Masters: Act I/Spring 2024 featuring GUCCI Osteria – the first ever U.S. outpost of the Michelin-starred restaurant in Beverly Hills, helmed by renowned Chef Mattia Agazzi and The Resort at Pelican Hill’s Director of Culinary Operations, Chef Kyung Soo Carroll. The Italian Culinary Masters will take place in the Resort’s beloved Andrea restaurant space, Friday, March 22 – Sunday, March 2024. Guests will delight in a multi-sensory dining experience with three 6-course dinners, one four-course lunch and one four-course brunch replete with cocktail/wine pairings curated by the Resort’s Beverage Manager & Sommelier Lorenzo Rocci.
A photo of North Italia – Irvine restaurant
4. North Italia – Irvine
4.5
Awesome(5382)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Irvine
Booked 144 times today
At North, we focus on what we do best: Italian from scratch. Enjoy any of our handmade pastas and pizzas, created with seasonal ingredients and inventive flavors. Or, try a different signature dish, prepared with our fresh flavors from the garden, farm, and sea. We’ve hand crafted seasonal cocktails that pair great with our food, creating a real modern Italia experiences perfect for any occasion.
A photo of Prego Restaurant restaurant
5. Prego Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1415)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Irvine
Booked 11 times today
Prego Restaurant, nestled between Irvine and Tustin, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings. The vibrant ambiance, reminiscent of old-world Italy, complements the exquisite seafood dishes crafted in the lively exhibition kitchen and corner Raw Bar. Diners rave about the "perfectly done salmon" and commend the "cod special" for its freshness and flavor, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Awarded by prestigious organizations like the Restaurant Writers Association, Prego excels in delivering not only top-notch cuisine but also an unforgettable dining experience. Visitors consistently praise the seafood's authenticity and the skilled chefs, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers.
A photo of Cucina Alessa Huntington Beach restaurant
6. Cucina Alessa Huntington Beach
4.7
Exceptional(1063)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Huntington Beach
Booked 5 times today
Welcome to Cucina Alessa in Huntington Beach, a gem for those seeking authentic and contemporary Italian cuisine. This delightful restaurant thrives on bringing the essence of Italian hospitality right to your table with dishes that have guests raving about their experiences. Relish in homemade delicacies like "salsa verde," fresh fish, and the crowd-favorite tiramisu. Patrons consistently praise not only the food but the atmosphere and service, with one guest noting, "the food was freshly cooked and came out on time, my date and I loved the food so much" and another celebrating "the best Italian place we’ve found in Orange County!" Whether it's the "phenomenal" PENNE FUNGI E SALSICCE or the exquisite lobster ravioli rated 10/10, Cucina Alessa promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps locals and newcomers alike returning for more.
A photo of Drago Centro restaurant
7. Drago Centro
4.7
Exceptional(3704)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 19 times today
Drago Centro in Downtown Los Angeles is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, where Chef Celestino Drago’s mastery shines through a menu that melds traditional Italian flavors with contemporary flair. The restaurant is praised for its “excellent Italian dinner, great flavour, top taste” and is consistently described as a place that never disappoints. Guests are enamored by the diverse and extensive selection of premium wines and the beautifully designed space that complements every dining experience. With accolades like “If I could give Drago 10 Stars I would,” and a reputation for impeccable service and quality, Drago Centro stands out as a premier destination for Italian dining in LA, promising an unforgettable experience with every visit.
A photo of Terra E Mare restaurant
8. Terra E Mare
4.7
Exceptional(537)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Studio City
Booked 6 times today
At Terra E Mare in Studio City, the art of seafood cuisine is elevated to exquisite heights, creating a dining experience that is truly memorable. The restaurant masterfully blends traditional and contemporary Italian culinary styles, focusing on the freshest oceanic bounty. Diners rave about dishes like the "outstanding Chilean sea bass" and the "perfectly done Branzino with clams," emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. One reviewer exclaimed, "The sea bass and swordfish were outstanding!" and another recommended the "great tuna tartar w avocado." Terra E Mare ensures that each dish is not only delicious but presented with the utmost elegance, making it a go-to spot for seafood lovers seeking authenticity and sophistication in their dining choices.
A photo of N10 Restaurant restaurant
9. N10 Restaurant
4.3
Awesome(804)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Hollywood
Booked 9 times today
N10 Restaurant in West Hollywood consistently impresses with its distinctive Modern European cuisine, skillfully crafted by its esteemed Italian chef. This culinary gem in Los Angeles combines seasonal flair with multi-regional influences, creating an exquisite menu that reflects authentic European sophistication. Diners rave about the "deliciously decadent arancini" and the "AMAZING Happy Hour," highlighting the chef's ability to blend traditional European techniques with modern twists. The inviting indoor-outdoor atmosphere and the attentive service only enhance the dining experience, making N10 a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Modern European excellence in a vibrant, contemporary setting.
A photo of Vitello's restaurant
10. Vitello's
4.7
Exceptional(1426)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Studio City
Booked 9 times today
No place on earth can fresher ingredients be found than Southern California! From the freshest fish, produce and meats, it all comes together as California-Inspired Contemporary Italian cuisine. Our chef-driven kitchen produces some of the many classic Italian dishes such as Piccatas, Marsalas and Parmigianas as well as many delicious contemporary dishes. Lighter & healthier is always on our minds here at Vitello's. There is always an array of fresh fish available too, such as Branzino and Salmon, just to name a few. The menu also includes Steaks and Chops and homemade soups and salads. Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-Free options are yours for the asking. Daily specials round out the menu each day. Lunch, Dinner or our Weekend Jazz Brunch, whichever you choose, the kitchen at Vitello's Restaurant surely won't disappoint!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Holly
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Just. WOW. Some of the best pizza we’ve had outside of Italy. And the cherry on top is the ambiance. Such a warm and lovely patio. I can’t wait to make the drive back from LA to eat here again soon.
    More info
    Truly PizzaPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• Dana Point / Monarch Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Tina
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Came for Saturday brunch. It was a gloomy day so it wasn't busy, but we were ok with that as we had 2 babies in our party. Service was exceptional and food was great with good portions and good value. Get the warm bread basket, it was so good. Beautiful restaurant with a beautiful view of the marina, we'll for sure be coming back again soon.
    More info
    Louie's by the BayPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Newport Beach
    •
    4.6
  • Susanvip
    Orange County •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Il Dolce has the best gluten free pasta I have ever had! We love the restaurant and took friends that are foodies. They thought their dinner was exceptional as well. The Pizza is just like eating in Italy so we highly recommend this restaurant.
    More info
    Il DolcePrice: Expensive• Italian• Costa Mesa
    •
    4.9
  • Audrey
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    It was my birthday. It was my second visit and the rest of my family’s first time. They loved the food, the service was fast and delicious. We had a great time. Would definitely be back again!
    More info
    North Italia - CerritosPrice: Moderate• Italian• Cerritos
    •
    4.4
  • Parkervip
    Orange County •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 17, 2024
    Each of the three of us had a different special: Pork chop, halibut and tortellini. All three Excellent! We had the Oreo cheesecake for dessert also very delicious.
    More info
    Prego RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Irvine
    •
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Newport Beach

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the heart of South Orange County, specifically in the vibrant area of Newport Beach. This locale is celebrated for its sophisticated dining scene, where culinary innovation meets the relaxed Southern California lifestyle. Each restaurant in the region offers a unique twist on traditional Italian fare, incorporating local ingredients and modern culinary techniques to delight the palate. Patrons can expect a range of dining experiences, from upscale, elegant settings to more casual, intimate atmospheres, all emphasizing high-quality service and a commitment to culinary excellence. Whether you're craving a classic pasta dish reimagined or a gourmet Italian-inspired meal, Newport Beach's contemporary Italian restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience. The commitment to freshness, authenticity, and creativity is palpable, ensuring every meal is not just eaten but savored. Explore this culinary landscape where each restaurant strives to offer a memorable and enriching dining experience that captures the true spirit of contemporary Italian cooking.

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