Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Dorchester, Greater Boston

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

BostonBoston Metro South

Areas

Back BayCambridgeCharlestownDedhamFenway–KenmoreFinancial District

Top Rated

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

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

31 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Prima

4.8

Exceptional(1443)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • Charlestown

Booked 81 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.

2. MIDA - South End

4.7

Exceptional(3064)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • South End

Booked 40 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.

3. The Red Fox

4.7

Exceptional(503)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 46 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.

A photo of Tuscan Kitchen - Seaport restaurant

4. Tuscan Kitchen - Seaport

4.4

Awesome(2087)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • Seaport

Booked 18 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.

5. Villa Francesca

4.5

Awesome(2073)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 10 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.

A photo of Serafina - Boston Back Bay restaurant

6. Serafina - Boston Back Bay

4.6

Exceptional(711)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • Back Bay

Booked 39 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.

7. Madre Osteria

4.6

Exceptional(530)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • Milton

Booked 14 times today

Madre Osteria in Milton, MA, offers an extraordinary Contemporary Italian dining experience that has diners raving about its authenticity and modern twist on classic dishes. With a scenic location overlooking the Neponset River, this restaurant seamlessly blends elegance with a casual vibe, creating the perfect setting for enjoying Chef Sam Curtis's culinary creations. Diners have described the food as "fresh, tasty, and plenty," praising standout dishes like the Wild Boar Ragú and Truffle Risotto. The "perfect portions" and "creative" menu options, including gluten-free and vegetarian choices, ensure a delightful experience for everyone. Madre Osteria promises a memorable dining adventure filled with exceptional food and service.

A photo of Bacco Ristorante & Bar restaurant

8. Bacco Ristorante & Bar

4.5

Awesome(1165)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 4 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.

9. Fox & The Knife

4.8

Exceptional(168)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • South Boston

Booked 64 times today

Fox & the Knife is a vibrant Enoteca & Restaurant by Chef Karen Akunowicz in the heart of Boston. Nominated for the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in 2020 and awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2025, Fox & the Knife embraces the concept and spirit of aperitivo - a communal gathering place where guests come together to celebrate the everyday joys of good company and great food. It is a casual, contemporary homage to the food, wine, culture, and spirit of Modena, presented in a warm, welcoming, high-energy atmosphere. The menu highlights Akunowicz’s flair for soul-satisfying Italian food, perfected during her years in Italy as a chef and pasta maker. In her hands, the bold flavors of exceptional ingredients shine through both traditional and modern techniques, introducing fresh expressions of beloved classics.

10. Assaggio

4.7

Exceptional(1212)

$$$$

• Contemporary italian • North End

Booked 4 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.

‘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

D
David
Greater Boston •44 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Always delicious food. Service was great. Will be back.
More info
Assaggio$$$$• Italian• North End
•
4.7
J
Jennifer
New York City •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We had an amazing time here! we just wish we planned to be there longer, but we had to catch a sunset boat. Edison was absolutely amazing, super funny but very attentive. We wish him the best of luck! Food was incredible, our overall favorite was the octopus! Not super chewy, it was cooked to perfection! We will definitely be back the next time we come to Boston!
More info
Tuscan Kitchen - Seaport$$$$• Italian• Seaport
•
4.4
A
AnnaGold
New York City •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Pasta dishes are amazing and generous portions, great wine, good service! The mushroom pappardelle was incredible. Great ambiance inside and outside.
More info
MIDA - South End$$$$• Italian• South End
•
4.7
R
RichardGold
Chicago / Illinois •13 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
We LOVE Madre Osteria… Actually, Osteria Madre! The food is over-the-top delicious and great drinks from the bar. We’ve now been several times and the quality and presentation of the food and drink along with the high level of attentive but unobtrusive service is consistent. Everything we have ordered has been superb and cooked as requested. You will not be disappointed. We can’t say enough about Tammy who has been our server on our last few visits. She is so welcoming, attentive and has provided great menu and drink recommendations. We will continue to request her tables. Thanks!!!
More info
Madre Osteria$$$$• Italian• Milton
•
4.6
A
Alex
Greater Boston •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Amazing staff, great food, and excellent ambiance!
More info
The Red Fox$$$$• Italian• North End
•
4.7

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