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Until recently, tourists who trekked north from the Mall hungry for something more than Smithsonian cafeteria food were stranded Downtown with little but high-end options. Now, young Washingtonians are taking advantage of residential development and moving off Capitol Hill to Downtown, Penn Quarter, and Chinatown, where nothing short of a restaurant revolution has taken shape in the last decade.
L’Ardente serves traditional Italian flavors in a glamorous setting (think Missoni curtains) in the heart of the city. The buzzy restaurant, known for its 40-layer lasagna and tiramisu flambé, is a place to be seen by politicians and celebrities, including former president Barack Obama. The best seats in the house are at the chef's counter, where you can see the team assembling pizzas and crafting their indulgent pasta dishes.
Modena, the Italian restaurant by DC restaurateur Ashok Bajaj, takes power dining to the next level with deliciously beautiful dishes inspired by the Italian region and beyond. Start your meal with a perfectly executed negroni and a starter from the antipasti trolley that stops at each table so diners can choose their favorite starters, from braised artichokes to panzanella salad. Main dishes include handmade pasta and proteins like branzino and pork collar cooked on a charcoal grill.
This bright, airy Italian osteria has an adjoining market and a daily changing menu that is all about locally sourced meats and produce and sustainable fish. Authentic and innovative with pasta and sauces made in-house, and the specials change regularly. Eclectic, fresh, and fun, the restaurant is in the CityCenterDC development near the convention center. There's a fun bar with knowledgeable, friendly bartenders and a casual vibe. There's also a full-service coffee bar. Don't forget to pick up some fresh biscotti or olive oil in the market on your way out.
For those craving authentic Italian pizza, head to Stellina Pizzeria. The latest outpost of this locally owned company is the work of native Italians Antonio Matarazzo and chef Matteo Venini. Start your meal with Italian starters like arancini (fried rice balls) and fried artichokes. The pizzas based on Italian classics such as cacio e pepe and amatriciana are always in demand. Try to grab a seat at the lively bar for more intimate service and a closer look at the bar and kitchen.
