The Absolute Best Italian Restaurant in Arlington VA [Updated 2025]

After diving into the flavors of 12 top-notch Italian restaurants around Arlington, I’ve tasted everything from creamy pastas to wood-fired pizzas that transport you straight to Italy. Trust me, I didn’t just pop in for a quick bite—I savored every dish, chatted with passionate chefs, and soaked up the ambiance, ensuring I’ve got the scoop on where to find the most authentic Italian experience in town.

Whether you're a fellow Arlingtonian or just passing through, I’m here to help you navigate the delicious choices. Get ready to uncover hidden gems and beloved classics that will make your taste buds sing!

Pines of Florence

Highlights
Delicious food and desserts
Huge menu with diverse options
Tender lamb chops with sauce
Fantastic linguini Florence
Relaxed atmosphere and vibe

Pines of Florence Review

Visiting Pines of Florence was like stepping into a charming Italian postcard. As I walked in, I was greeted by a relaxed atmosphere that instantly transported me to the heart of Italy. Their huge menu boasted a plethora of options, making it a culinary adventure just to decide what to order!

I finally settled on their fantastic linguini Florence, which was absolutely divine. The noodles were cooked to perfection, lightly tossed in a flavorful sauce that danced on my palate. But my meal didn't stop there; I couldn’t resist diving into the tender lamb chops, generously drizzled with a sauce that made each bite taste like a warm embrace.

And the desserts? Oh my! The sweetness was the final flourish on this delightful meal. Each course was a testament to their commitment to delivering authentic Italian cuisine with passion.

If you’re in Arlington and craving Italian fare that is both delicious and satisfying, I wholeheartedly recommend heading to Pines of Florence. It’s a culinary gem that promises to keep you coming back for more!

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Mazaro Italian Restaurant

Highlights
Beautiful, clean ambiance
Attentive and friendly staff
Delicious pasta and pizza
Perfect for large parties
Great holiday dining experience

Mazaro Italian Restaurant: A Taste of Italy in Arlington

Stepping into Mazaro Italian Restaurant felt like being whisked away to a charming trattoria in Tuscany. The ambiance is not just beautiful but also impeccably clean, which set the perfect backdrop for my culinary adventure. From the moment I was greeted by the friendly staff, it was clear that customer service was a top priority — their attentiveness made me feel right at home.

Now, let’s talk about the food! Oh, the pasta! Each dish was a delightful blend of flavors, really bringing out the best of traditional Italian cuisine. The pizza, with its crisp crust and fresh ingredients, was nothing less than a slice of heaven. I couldn’t help but savor every bite.

Mazaro is perfect for large gatherings, making it an excellent choice for celebrations or family dinners. I can only imagine how wonderful the holiday dining experience must be here. If you're looking for an authentic Italian meal in Arlington, I wholeheartedly recommend Mazaro. It’s not just dinner; it’s an experience that transports you straight to Italy with every delicious bite!

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Carbonara

Highlights
Attentive and friendly service
Perfectly cooked pasta
Welcoming and warm atmosphere
Great for special occasions

Review of Carbonara in Arlington VA

Tucked away in a charming corner of Arlington, Carbonara is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience that envelops you the moment you step inside. Upon entering, the warmth of the ambiance immediately embraces you, creating a cozy backdrop for a delightful meal. The staff is remarkably attentive and friendly, ensuring that every guest feels right at home.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the pasta. Oh, the pasta! Each dish is crafted to perfection; I could genuinely taste the love and care that goes into every twirl of fettuccine and every bite of rigatoni. The flavors burst with authenticity, reminding me of an evening in Italy. It was comforting yet sophisticated—a true testament to Italian cuisine.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in something exquisite, Carbonara checks all the boxes. The experience leaves you satiated and yearning to return. In Arlington, this gem shines brightly in the realm of Italian dining, standing as a testament to all that makes Italian food so wonderfully unforgettable.

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Mele Bistro

Highlights
Exceptional service
Commitment to ingredient quality
Personal touch from owner
Beautifully presented dishes
Unforgettable dining experience

Mele Bistro in Arlington, VA, is truly a hidden gem that dazzles with its Italian flair! From the moment I stepped inside, I felt an immediate warmth—a delightful ambiance that sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience. What I enjoyed most was the personal touch from the owner, who clearly imbues every corner of this establishment with passion and care.

As I perused the menu, I could see the commitment to ingredient quality jump out at me. Every dish felt like a celebration of flavors, beautifully presented to entice both the eyes and the palate. I savored a plate of homemade pasta that left me reminiscing long after I finished. Each bite was a delightful journey, showcasing the freshness and authenticity that Italian cuisine is famed for.

What truly sets Mele Bistro apart is the exceptional service. The staff navigate the dining room with charm and grace, making each guest feel like family. I left with a full belly and a happy heart, convinced that I had encountered one of the best Italian restaurants in Arlington. If you’re looking for a delightful adventure through Italian flavors, Mele Bistro is a must-visit destination!

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Fiola Mare

Highlights
Beautiful riverfront dining
High-quality seafood ingredients
Thoughtful and welcoming service
Amazing outdoor seating experience
Unique and flavorful dishes

Fiola Mare is a delightful gem that truly captures the essence of Italian cuisine, all while offering a beautiful view of the Potomac River. As I entered the restaurant, the ambiance immediately enveloped me in warmth, setting the stage for a remarkable dining experience. The outdoor seating is nothing short of enchanting—imagine indulging in exquisite dishes while basking in the gentle breeze and the sight of boats drifting across the water.

But it’s not just the scenery that dazzles; the seafood-inspired menu is a testament to quality and flavor. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing the freshest ingredients. I tried the spaghetti alle vongole, which was a symphony of taste—perfectly al dente pasta, briny clams, and a subtle hint of garlic that danced on my palate.

The service at Fiola Mare was another highlight, with staff who were attentive yet unpretentious, making my visit feel special without being overbearing.

In short, Fiola Mare isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience that I highly recommend for anyone seeking the best Italian fare in Arlington. Bold flavors, gorgeous views, and stellar service—what more could you ask for?

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La Bettola Italiano

Highlights
Homemade pasta dishes
Friendly and attentive staff
Delicious seasoned meatballs
Amazing chicken fettuccine
Great portion sizes

La Bettola Italiano quickly stole my heart, and my taste buds, during my visit to this delightful Arlington gem. Upon entering, I was welcomed by the friendly and attentive staff, who effortlessly created a warm and inviting atmosphere that felt like a comforting embrace. As I scanned the menu, I couldn't resist the call of their homemade pasta, which promises an authentic Italian experience.

I opted for the amazing chicken fettuccine, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular! The fettuccine was rich and creamy, perfectly paired with succulent pieces of chicken. Each bite transported me to a charming trattoria in Italy, leaving me longing for more. And to kick off my meal, I indulged in their delicious seasoned meatballs, bursting with flavor and served in a robust marinara sauce—simply divine!

The portion sizes at La Bettola are impressively generous, ensuring you leave with a full stomach and a happy heart. All in all, with its delightful dishes and welcoming vibe, it's easy to see why La Bettola is among the best Italian restaurants in Arlington. I'm already daydreaming about my next visit!

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Troy's Italian Kitchen

Highlights
Vegan-friendly options
Nostalgic Italian atmosphere
Generous portion sizes
Mixed reviews on traditional dishes
Great for diverse dietary needs

Troy's Italian Kitchen is a delightful gem nestled in Arlington, VA, and I must say, it offers a heartwarming blend of tradition and creativity. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was enveloped in a nostalgic Italian atmosphere that whisked me back to my favorite family gatherings. The décor—charming, cozy, and almost too inviting—sets the perfect backdrop for a lovely evening.

One of the standout features of Troy's is their commitment to inclusivity, as they offer an array of vegan-friendly options that cater to all dietary needs. Whether you're a hearty meat lover or a veggie enthusiast, there’s something on the menu for everyone. The generous portion sizes left my table looking like a delightful banquet, which only added to the experience.

I did notice some mixed reviews about their traditional dishes, but I found the food to be both satisfying and delightful—I think that’s part of the charm! Next time I’m craving comforting Italian, Troy's will certainly be at the top of my list. If you’re in Arlington and looking for a taste of Italy with a twist, make sure to stop by Troy’s Italian Kitchen! You won’t regret it.

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pie-tanza

Highlights
Excellent lasagna
Fresh, huge garden salad
Unique pepperoni pizza style
Welcoming restaurant atmosphere
Creative window paintings

At pie-tanza, I found myself delightfully enveloped in an inviting atmosphere that felt both casual and charming. The moment I walked in, the creative window paintings captured my attention, instantly sparking excitement about what was to come.

I decided to kick things off with their huge garden salad, which was a refreshing burst of freshness. Each ingredient felt vibrant and perfectly complemented the light dressing. As I savored every bite, I knew I was in for a treat. Now, let's talk about the pièce de résistance: the lasagna! Oh, where do I begin? This dish was rich, layered heaven that left me dreaming of the Italian countryside with every forkful.

But it didn’t stop there. Their unique take on pepperoni pizza had me rethinking everything I knew about this classic favorite. The crust was perfectly crisp, while the toppings sang in harmonious flavor.

Overall, pie-tanza embodies the essence of Italian cuisine with a twist. If you’re in Arlington and craving authentic Italian, this gem should be your first stop! 🍕

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Filomena Ristorante

Highlights
Authentic Italian cuisine
Fantastic desserts selection
Top-notch service
Great dining atmosphere
Large portions, shareable meals

Filomena Ristorante has a charming ambiance that immediately transports you to Italy the moment you walk through its doors. I found the atmosphere delightful—it's convivial yet retains that intimate, cozy feel perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends. The menu is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine; I had a hard time deciding, but the pasta alla vodka was simply irresistible.

The portions are generous—definitely shareable, so bring your appetite! The standout for me was the dessert: an exquisite tiramisu that was rich without being overwhelming, leaving just the right amount of sweetness on my palate.

The service was truly impressive. Each staff member exuded warmth and expertise, ensuring our experience was nothing short of delightful. From recommendations to timely service, Filomena clearly prioritizes customer satisfaction.

If you're in Arlington and craving a slice of Italy, be sure to visit Filomena Ristorante. It's a place where every detail—from the food to the friendly service—invites you to relax and indulge, making it a standout contender for the title of best Italian restaurant in Arlington, VA!

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Floriana

Highlights
Excellent service
Cozy and inviting atmosphere
Delicious lasagna
Impressive cocktail selection
Special occasion treats

Review of Floriana in Arlington, VA

Stepping into Floriana felt like being transported to a quaint corner of Italy. The ambiance is both cozy and inviting, perfect for a dinner date or a special occasion. From the moment I arrived, the excellent service made me feel like part of the family.

I indulged in their famous lasagna, which is nothing short of divine. Layered with rich flavors and baked to perfection, it was a delightful reminder of home-cooked meals. And let me not forget their cocktail selection! Each sip was a celebration, complementing my meal beautifully.

Floriana shines brightly in Arlington's culinary landscape. The warmth of the staff and the delicious food create an experience that goes beyond mere dining. Whether you’re marking a special event or just craving authentic Italian cuisine, this place should be at the top of your list. I found myself smiling throughout the night, reveling in the flavors of Italy right in the heart of Arlington.

In the world of Italian dining, Floriana definitely stands out. If you're searching for a delightful escape, this charming spot should be your next destination. 🍷✨

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The Red Hen

Highlights
Best pasta dishes in Arlington
Cozy and intimate atmosphere
Exceptional service and bartenders
Must-try squid ink linguine
Extraordinary chocolate cake

The Red Hen in Arlington, VA, is truly a gem that deserves every bit of praise I can muster. Walking through its doors, you’re immediately enveloped in a cozy and intimate atmosphere that sets the perfect stage for a delightful meal. The staff exudes warmth and professionalism, making your dining experience feel valued and special.

Now, let’s talk pasta—oh, the pasta! The Red Hen serves up some of the best dishes in Arlington. I absolutely must recommend the squid ink linguine; it’s a dish that dances on your palate, sheer deliciousness with every tantalizing bite.

And if you have any room left after the main course, do not skip the extraordinary chocolate cake. It’s the kind of dessert that demands your attention, rich and decadent, leaving you longing for just one more forkful.

In a city brimming with culinary options, The Red Hen stands tall as a must-visit destination for all lovers of Italian cuisine. Its delightful blend of superb dishes, exemplary service, and wonderful ambiance make it my top pick for the best Italian restaurant in Arlington, VA. 🍝✨

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Fiola

Highlights
Elegant dining environment
Creative and unique dishes
Delicious desserts
Warm and welcoming service
Memorable tasting menu

Fiola in Arlington, VA, is undoubtedly a gem that beckons both local food enthusiasts and curious diners alike. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted with an elegant dining environment that set the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. The ambience radiates warmth, making it an ideal spot for both romantic dinners and celebratory gatherings.

Now, let's talk about the food. The creative and unique dishes are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Each offering showcases the rich flavors of Italy with a contemporary twist, elevating traditional recipes into something spectacular. I can't recommend the tasting menu enough—it's a memorable experience that combines the chef’s passion with artistry.

As for dessert, oh my! The delicious desserts at Fiola are a must-try. They perfectly cap off the meal, leaving you in a blissful state of happiness.

What truly sets this restaurant apart is the warm and welcoming service. The staff is attentive without being intrusive, making sure every need is met. Overall, Fiola is an enchanting gastronomic haven that has left an indelible mark on my culinary journey in Arlington. You owe it to your taste buds to experience this wonderful establishment!

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