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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Seaside Park

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41 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Aqua Blu Kitchen & Cocktails restaurant
1. Aqua Blu Kitchen & Cocktails
4.5
Awesome(1228)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Toms River
Booked 31 times today
Owners Vincenzo and Caterina Varriale redefine hospitality by welcoming you to their newest venture, Aqua Blu Kitchen &Cocktails. This one of a kind bar and restaurant offers an eclectic variety of dishes, uniquely vibrant and friendly service in a chic yet family friendly atmosphere. Our menu offers a seasonal modern twist on Italian cuisine. The invigorating space is made up of multiple dining rooms, three full service bars and a lounge. The restaurant is situated at 3410 Route 37 east Toms River, NJ, right at the foot of the Seaside bridge.
A photo of Olea - Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
2. Olea - Restaurant & Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(327)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Spring Lake
Booked 46 times today
Executive Chef and Partner Brandon “Bud” Carter, the visionary behind The Butcher’s Block, has ventured off to open his own restaurant — Olea. Showcasing his signature culinary style, Olea offers a coastal-Mediterranean inspired menu featuring premium steaks, house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and more.The name Olea, meaning “olive” in European roots, embodies the restaurant’s spirit — a place of friends, family, and unforgettable gatherings. Designed to reflect a contemporary Mediterranean feel, Olea surrounds guests with natural textures, warm lighting, and olive trees throughout the space.Located in the heart of the Jersey Shore’s beautiful Spring Lake, Olea features a gorgeous dining room, cozy lounge, and inviting bar—the perfect setting for a night to remember.
A photo of Flavia's Cucina Romana restaurant
3. Flavia's Cucina Romana
4.7
Exceptional(649)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Asbury Park
Booked 18 times today
Flavia's Cucina Romana in Asbury Park offers an exceptional Vegetarian experience, with dishes that truly capture the essence of authentic Roman cuisine. Guests rave about the "light, crunchy and delectable fried artichoke hearts" and the "melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi," which are consistently highlighted as must-try items. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in their use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, creating flavors that are both rich and satisfying. The ambiance complements the culinary journey, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. With such glowing reviews and an unwavering commitment to authentic Italian flavors, Flavia's is a delightful destination for Vegetarian enthusiasts.
A photo of La Lupa restaurant
4. La Lupa
4.8
Exceptional(1621)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Manalapan
Booked 23 times today
La Lupa in Manalapan Township offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience, where Chef Giorgio’s mastery of old-world techniques shines through in every dish. Known for its “consistently delicious” menu, La Lupa’s offerings such as handmade pastas and Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas are a testament to authentic Italian cooking with a modern twist. Diners rave about the “amazing” food and commend the restaurant for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and inventive preparation. The intimate ambiance, combined with “outstanding service” and a welcoming staff, ensures a memorable visit. As one reviewer exclaims, “This is the best Italian restaurant in NJ.”
A photo of Carmine's - Atlantic City restaurant
5. Carmine's - Atlantic City
4.6
Exceptional(11956)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Atlantic City
Booked 118 times today
Carmine's - Atlantic City is a standout destination for exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine, capturing the essence of an Italian American wedding feast. With its family-style dining, diners are treated to "plentiful portions" of delicious dishes, making every meal a joyous celebration. The menu offers a diverse array of mouthwatering options, from "baked clams" that are hailed as the best ever to "vodka pasta" that leaves guests eager to return. The restaurant's atmosphere is cozy and charming, complemented by "impeccable service" that consistently earns praise. Carmine's truly embodies the warmth and authenticity of Italian dining, making it a must-visit in Atlantic City.
A photo of Trama's Trattoria restaurant
6. Trama's Trattoria
4.9
Exceptional(2745)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Long Branch
Booked 69 times today
Trama's Trattoria in Long Branch, NJ offers an exquisite journey into Contemporary Italian cuisine, celebrated for its "amazing food" and "wonderful service." Chef Trama's commitment to quality is evident in the fresh, farm-to-table ingredients that make each dish sing with seasonal flavor. Diners rave about the "luxurious" butternut squash on whipped ricotta and the "amazing" seven fishes fra diavolo. The restaurant's inviting ambiance and attentive service, often highlighted by standout staff like Sean and Andrew, ensure that every visit feels like a cherished gathering among friends. Trama's Trattoria is "hands down the best kept secret at the Jersey shore," offering a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Semolina Restaurant restaurant
7. Semolina Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3520)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Red Bank
Booked 28 times today
Semolina Restaurant in Red Bank is a gem of Contemporary Italian cuisine, praised for its inventive use of local, fresh ingredients that elevate traditional Italian dishes to new heights. The farm-to-table approach ensures every dish bursts with flavor and authenticity, with "pasta dishes that are particularly fantastic," as diners rave. Guests highlight the "outstanding" service and the cozy, welcoming BYO atmosphere that complements the dining experience. The menu, which rotates seasonally, keeps patrons excited with each visit. Semolina's commitment to quality and creativity makes it a standout choice for anyone eager to indulge in exceptional Contemporary Italian dining.
A photo of Whispers restaurant
8. Whispers
4.9
Exceptional(2151)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Spring Lake
Booked 7 times today
Nestled in the charming town of Spring Lake, Whispers offers a dining experience that truly embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. Known for its "outstanding food" and "exquisite service," this elegant restaurant delights guests with authentic, high-quality Italian dishes. From perfectly cooked salmon and halibut to succulent Maine lobster and filet mignon, each plate is a testament to the chef's dedication to excellence. Reviewers rave about the "wonderful atmosphere" and the "romantic setting," making it an ideal spot for special occasions. With attentive service and a BYOB policy, Whispers ensures a memorable Italian dining experience that diners are eager to return to.
A photo of Gargiulos Tinton Falls restaurant
9. Gargiulos Tinton Falls
4.7
Exceptional(1484)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Tinton Falls
Booked 29 times today
Gargiulos Tinton Falls is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, seamlessly blending tradition with modern flair. This family-owned gem, steeped in over 50 years of culinary heritage, offers diners in Tinton Falls, NJ, a genuine taste of Italy without the need for a transcontinental journey. Guests rave about the "fantastic food," which consistently delivers delightful surprises from appetizers to desserts. The stuffed artichoke and scallop appetizers are especially praised as "phenomenal" by patrons. The ambiance is inviting, with an old-world charm that complements the exquisite dishes. Experience their "excellent service" and "authentic" flavors that make every meal memorable and satisfying.
A photo of A Salute restaurant
10. A Salute
4.6
Exceptional(895)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Matawan
Booked 20 times today
A Salute, nestled in the charming borough of Matawan, NJ, offers an unparalleled Contemporary Italian dining experience that truly stands out. Housed in a stunning 1850s church, its unique ambiance perfectly complements the exceptional cuisine. Voted #1 for Best Italian Food on the East Coast by BayCitizen.org, A Salute has earned stellar reviews for its "delicious and inventive menu" and "impeccable service." Guests rave about the "phenomenal" dishes, including the rigatoni with short ribs and the chicken parmigiana cooked to perfection. With its inviting outdoor patio and full-service cocktail bar, A Salute is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and high-quality Italian flavors.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • BethGold
    New York City •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This was our 3 time eating and the food was excellent. We sat at the counter and watched the food being made and made our selection that way. The broccoli presto fusible was delicious and had the pistachio cake for desert and I could not stop eating it was so good.
    More info
    Flavia's Cucina Romana$$$$• Italian• Asbury Park
    •
    4.7
  • AmandaGold
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    la lupa is seriously AMAZING!!! the food is outstanding every single item we ordered from top to bottom it only keeps getting better. the staff is 100000000/10 they are fantastic and make this place such a phenomenal experience. I can not wait to dine here again and again and again!!
    More info
    La Lupa$$$$• Italian• Manalapan
    •
    4.8
  • Sarah
    New York City •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Had a great first experience here. Both the food and service were fantastic! Devin was our server and he was friendly, informative, and made the experience even better. All the food was fresh and flavorful. The crudo was a 10/10. Their desserts also were amazing, highly recommend the olive oil cake and rice pudding. We will be back to see Devin again! A great BYOB spot in the area.
    More info
    Semolina Restaurant$$$$• Farm-to-table• Red Bank
    •
    4.6
  • JosephGold
    New Jersey •63 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Absolutely Magnificent as always. Ryan is a knowledgeable and friendly server. Always good to see him. Great specials, strong drinks, superb apps, four excellent entrees and very nice chef/owner pouring comp white port. Our go to local Italian restaurant and where we bring friends and visiting relatives for a great meal and great vibes. Never rushed, this place oozes family and friendliness.
    More info
    Piccola Italia$$$$• Contemporary Italian• Asbury Park
    •
    4.9
  • Louis
    Greater Boston •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    food quality was excellent shareable portions, don't over order Caesar Salad, Grilled Octopus, mains were Pork with Brown Butter and Lobster Fra Diavolo Only negative was that the small tables for two were entirely too close together. Would we come back, absolutely!
    More info
    Olea - Restaurant & Lounge$$$$• Contemporary American• Spring Lake
    •
    4.6

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