Romantic Italian Restaurants in DC

Osteria Morini brings the warmth and charm of a true Italian osteria to Washington, DC’s Navy Yards, offering a cozy, informal atmosphere where guests feel like cherished friends. Specializing in the rustic, flavor-packed cuisine of Emilia-Romagna — Italy’s beloved “bread basket” — the restaurant delights diners with authentic regional favorites and an open kitchen experience.

Recommended For: Italian food lovers, romantic diners, culinary explorers, and anyone seeking an authentic Emilia-Romagna dining experience in a welcoming, intimate setting.

• Savor regional Italian staples like balsamic vinegar, prosciutto, and handcrafted pastas.
• Enjoy the inviting osteria spirit, where the owner hosts guests with warmth and charm.
• Watch your meal come to life from the open kitchen as chefs craft each dish with care.
• Discover why The Washington Post and Washingtonian Magazine have praised this culinary gem.
• Dine in a friendly, informal atmosphere where Italian hospitality takes center stage.

Osteria Morini, 301 Water Street Southeast, Suite 109, Washington, DC 20003
Phone: 202-484-0660

Red Hen is a lively, youthful Italian-American restaurant nestled in Washington, DC’s Bloomingdale neighborhood. Unlike traditional Italian spots, Red Hen creatively fuses Italian techniques with American cuisine, blending unexpected ingredients into dishes that surprise and delight with unique flavor profiles. Founded by three friends, the restaurant radiates a warm, gregarious vibe that welcomes both casual diners and families alike.

Recommended For: Food adventurers, Italian-American cuisine fans, families, and anyone seeking a relaxed yet innovative dining experience in a vibrant setting.

• Experience inventive dishes that mix Italian culinary roots with a bold American twist.
• Enjoy a lively, welcoming atmosphere inspired by the friendship and creativity of its three founders.
• Dine on unique plates crafted from a wide range of global ingredients, not limited to classic Italian staples.
• Gather with friends or family in a neighborhood favorite that feels both casual and refined.
• Visit any night of the week — Red Hen offers dinner service seven days a week.

Red Hen, 1822 First Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-525-3021

Masseria is a Michelin-starred gem in Washington, DC, born from Chef Nicholas Stefanelli’s deep ties to Italy’s Puglia region. Located near Union Market, this fine-dining destination offers an elegant yet laid-back atmosphere where guests embark on a curated culinary journey through the chef’s exceptional multi-course tasting menus.

Recommended For: Fine-dining enthusiasts, tasting menu lovers, special occasion diners, and anyone seeking a refined yet unpretentious Michelin-starred experience.

• Experience the best of Puglian-inspired cuisine through carefully crafted four- to six-course tasting menus.
• Indulge in Michelin-starred excellence recognized since 2016 for its innovation and mastery.
• Relax in an elegant, welcoming space that blends sophistication with approachable charm.
• Discover an ever-evolving range of textures and flavors that showcase Chef Stefanelli’s culinary artistry.
• Dine in a distinctive location at Union Market, where fine dining meets creative spirit.

Masseria, 1340 4th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
Phone: 202-608-1330

Date Ideas:

Alta Strada is a beloved Washington, DC Italian eatery, part of the City Vista development and a proud member of Michael Schlow’s family of restaurants across the country.

Recommended For: Italian food lovers, brunch seekers, late-night diners, and anyone looking for a welcoming spot with classic pastas, pizzas, and more.

• Savor oven-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and satisfying cheese plates that embody Italian comfort.
• Enjoy separate services for lunch, dinner, brunch, happy hour, and even late-night weekend bites.
• Relax in a lively atmosphere perfect for casual get-togethers or a cozy date night.
• Explore a menu designed by Michael Schlow, a celebrated chef with restaurants nationwide.
• Visit for a midnight snack or Saturday night indulgence thanks to the weekend late-night menu.

Alta Strada, 465 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-629-4662

Filomena Ristorante was founded by JoAnna Filomena, a New York City transplant who wanted to bring to DC the joy of relaxing over a slow, heartfelt Italian meal. Inspired by her mother’s cooking and rooted in the family’s Abruzzi heritage, Filomena offers guests the warm experience of dining at a close friend’s or relative’s home — complete with homey touches, antiques, and festive holiday decorations.

Recommended For: Lovers of traditional Italian cuisine, families, romantic diners, and anyone seeking a cozy, old-world atmosphere with authentic charm.

• Indulge in classic Abruzzi-inspired dishes, crafted from cherished family recipes.
• Relax in a home-like setting filled with antiques and personal touches that exude warmth.
• Celebrate the seasons — Filomena decorates extensively for every major holiday.
• Enjoy an atmosphere designed for lingering, conversation, and savoring every bite.
• Visit a beloved Georgetown staple where Italian hospitality and tradition shine.

Filomena Ristorante, 1063 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202-338-8800

Fiola, perfectly positioned between the Capitol Building and the White House, is a premier destination for Washington, DC’s elite, including diplomats and politicians. With an unwavering commitment to quality, Fiola offers a daily changing menu of meticulously crafted Italian dishes, set in a space that beautifully blends glamorous accents with rustic charm.

Recommended For: Fine-dining enthusiasts, political and diplomatic circles, Italian cuisine connoisseurs, and anyone seeking a luxurious yet welcoming dining experience.

• Savor an ever-evolving selection of Italian specialties, with a menu updated daily for peak freshness and creativity.
• Enjoy diverse dining opportunities, including happy hour, afternoon patio bites, Sunday family table, and dessert and cheese menus.
• Admire a stylish interior where glamorous sparkle meets rustic exposed brick for an unforgettable atmosphere.
• Indulge in elegant lunches or dinners crafted with precision and passion.
• Experience one of DC’s top-tier dining spots where excellence is the standard at every turn.

Fiola, 601 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-628-2888

Floriana, an independent Italian café nestled in the heart of Dupont Circle, brings passion, fun, and culinary adventure to Washington, DC. Known for its dedication to using only locally sourced, in-season ingredients, Floriana crafts unforgettable dining experiences, earning recognition as one of DC’s most romantic restaurants in 2015.

Recommended For: Romantic diners, Italian food lovers, brunch enthusiasts, and anyone seeking fresh, inventive takes on classic Italian dishes.

• Savor creative, risk-taking Italian cuisine made with ultra-fresh ingredients and homemade pasta.
• Enjoy a charming atmosphere in Dupont Circle, perfect for date nights and special occasions.
• Indulge in a brunch menu full of treats ideal for a relaxed weekend morning.
• Experience a restaurant driven by passion, fun, and a commitment to quality.
• Discover why Floriana stands out among DC’s most romantic and memorable Italian dining spots.

Floriana, 1602 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: 202-667-5937