Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Downtown Crossing

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

Boston

Neighborhoods

Back BayCambridgeCharlestownFenway–KenmoreFinancial DistrictMilton

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for fine wines

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

29 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. The Red Fox

4.7

Exceptional(500)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 34 times today

The Red Fox, nestled in the vibrant North End of Boston, is a gem for contemporary Italian cuisine enthusiasts. This restaurant seamlessly blends Italian-American classics with innovative dishes, showcasing the best of handmade pasta and exquisite flavors. Customers rave about the "hands down best lasagna" they've ever had, and the carbonara is considered "the best in the North End." The ambiance is described as "moody and cozy," perfect for a date night or a gathering with friends. With attentive service and a cocktail menu that delights with nostalgic martinis, The Red Fox is a must-visit for any Italian cuisine lover.

2. Villa Francesca

4.5

Awesome(2068)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 33 times today

Villa Francesca, nestled in the heart of Boston's North End, is celebrated for its authentic and exquisite Seafood dishes that promise to delight any palate. Diners rave about the "out of this world" Lobster Fra Diablo, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The seafood platter, often highlighted in glowing reviews, showcases a variety of flavors that transport you straight to the Italian coast. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with an attentive staff that ensures every visit is memorable. Villa Francesca is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking truly exceptional Seafood cuisine in Boston.

3. Prima

4.8

Exceptional(1439)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • Charlestown

Booked 107 times today

Prima, nestled in the historic Charlestown neighborhood of Boston, offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that captivates with its reimagined classics. Diners rave about the "absolutely incredible meal" and "flavors that are incredible," highlighting the restaurant's dedication to quality and authentic Italian cuisine. The beautifully restored grand bar and dining room provide a "stunning interior," making it the perfect backdrop for relishing dishes like the highly-praised Prosciutto and Burrata. With top-notch service and an inviting atmosphere, Prima stands out as a memorable destination for anyone seeking the best of Contemporary Italian dining in a picturesque setting.

A photo of Bacco Ristorante & Bar restaurant

4. Bacco Ristorante & Bar

4.5

Awesome(1165)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 20 times today

This spacious, romantic eatery pairs contemporary Italian cuisine with immaculate views of Boston's historic North End. Bacco's first floor is home to a lively yet cozy bar, where customers can explore an extensive wine list, sip on craft cocktails, and embrace the neighborhood charm. Come summertime, the restaurant's French doors open up, allowing guests to soak up the summer air, and absorb the hustle and bustle of Salem Street. Just upstairs, diners can indulge in an elegant meal with flavorful dishes like scallop puttanesca, chicken parmigiana, lobster ravioli, and salmon piccata, while taking in the magical city views. End the night with a rich and delicious espresso martini, enjoy some lively music, and experience a night to remember, surrounded by quality company.

A photo of Tuscan Kitchen - Seaport restaurant

5. Tuscan Kitchen - Seaport

4.4

Awesome(2085)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • Seaport

Booked 24 times today

Originally opened in 2010 as the first authentic Artisan Italian restaurant in Salem, NH, Tuscan Kitchen is now one of the most beloved restaurants in New England. Founder Joe Faro, the son of Sicilian immigrants, had the vision to share his love for Italian heritage with his guests. Tuscan Kitchen has locations in Salem, New Hampshire, and Boston, Massachusetts.

6. MIDA - South End

4.8

Exceptional(3061)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • South End

Booked 38 times today

MIDA - South End offers an unparalleled experience in Contemporary Italian cuisine, blending the traditional flavors of Italy with modern culinary innovation. Nestled in Boston's charming South End, MIDA has become a neighborhood gem, earning rave reviews for its “fantastic service” and “outstanding” food. Diners are particularly wowed by the “perfect pasta” and unique twists, such as the homemade carbonara with a delightful lemon sauce. The warm ambiance and attentive service make every visit memorable. With its commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and a menu that celebrates Italian culture, MIDA stands out as a must-visit destination for Italian food enthusiasts.

7. Libertine

4.4

Awesome(429)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 13 times today

Libertine, nestled in Boston's vibrant North End, offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience that stands out for its quality and authenticity. With a menu that embraces the rich flavors of both Italian and Portuguese cuisines, patrons rave about the "absolutely delicious" dishes that cater to diverse palates, including those with gluten allergies. The restaurant's commitment to a 98% gluten-free menu ensures that everyone can savor their delectable offerings without compromise. Guests praise the "amazing food" and "outstanding service," creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Discover why Libertine is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mediterranean delights in Boston.

8. Cafe Amaro

4.5

Awesome(172)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 16 times today

At Cafe Amaro, the heart of North End, Boston, you'll discover an exceptional Pizza Bar experience that combines authenticity with culinary perfection. Known for its Italian brick-oven pizzas, Cafe Amaro creates a delightful dining atmosphere with its cozy, intimate setting and open windows overlooking Hanover Street. Guests rave about the "fantastic pizza" with a crust that is "thin but has enough structure," and a "delicious" tomato sauce that strikes the perfect balance. This charming spot offers not only great food but also exemplary service, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. "Loved the food and atmosphere," is a sentiment echoed by many, and one that ensures diners will return.

9. Assaggio

4.7

Exceptional(1211)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 11 times today

Assaggio is the newest addition to the Depasquale Ventures family. Offering valuable favorites from our groups menus, and a late-night lounge open on the weekends.

A photo of Serafina - Boston Back Bay restaurant

10. Serafina - Boston Back Bay

4.6

Exceptional(710)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • Back Bay

Booked 36 times today

Serafina - Boston Back Bay is a gem of Contemporary Italian cuisine, nestled in the heart of Boston's bustling Back Bay. With its inviting atmosphere and prime location on Newbury Street, this restaurant offers a delightful blend of authentic Italian flavors and modern culinary twists. Diners rave about the "seriously delicious" food, highlighting dishes like the "best pasta I've ever had" and the creatively prepared "limoncello bow tie with shrimp." The menu caters to diverse palates, offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. With "excellent service" and a cozy ambiance, Serafina promises a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying.

‘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

A
Alex
Greater Boston •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Amazing staff, great food, and excellent ambiance!
More info
The Red Fox$$$$• Italian• North End
•
4.7
R
RobertGold
San Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Fantastic dining experience with a varied menu and an amazing wine selection! Will be back for a repeat performance in the future.
More info
MIDA - South End$$$$• Italian• South End
•
4.8
R
RobertaGold
Greater Boston •82 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Wonderful dining experience! Service is impeccable. The Bolognese is delicious- beef & pork ragu, rigatoni and parmigiano!
More info
Tuscan Kitchen - Seaport$$$$• Italian• Seaport
•
4.4
R
Robert
Southwest Florida •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
We had friends visiting from Wisconsin and they wanted a true North End experience and meal. Assaggio was the perfect choice and it did not disappoint. The wait staff was amazing and the food was delicious. Cool vibe inside as it was filled with a mix of locals and tourists. Highly recommend!
More info
Assaggio$$$$• Italian• North End
•
4.7
A
Amy
Greater Boston •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 27, 2026
There is nothing to dislike about this place! The food, the drinks, the decor and the vibe. It’s a 10 out of 10! Always!!!
More info
Prima$$$$• Italian• Charlestown
•
4.8

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