Northern Virginia’s appetite for Italian food keeps growing, and so does the number of restaurants answering the call. Across the region, a new crop of trattorias, pasta bars, and pizza spots is opening its doors. Whether it’s a longtime favorite making a comeback in Tysons or an ambitious newcomer debuting in Arlington, these are the Italian restaurants generating buzz across NoVA.
Alexandria
Hank’s Pasta Bar
Hidden above Hank’s Oyster Bar in Old Town, this new pasta-focused concept from chefs Jamie Leeds and Darren Norris brings handmade pasta, customizable bowls, and cozy trattoria vibes to Alexandria. Signature dishes include pistachio pesto fusilli, rigatoni Bolognese, and four-cheese lasagna, all served in an intimate upstairs dining room that feels tucked away from the bustle below. 600 Montgomery St., Alexandria
Floriana
Old Town Alexandria is set to welcome a new Italian destination in late July when Floriana debuts inside the Atrium building. The beloved DC restaurant will bring its signature Northern Italian style south of the river with a menu centered on fresh pasta, hearty entrees, and classic hospitality. Unlike the original location, the Alexandria outpost will operate as an all-day neighborhood restaurant, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. 277 S. Washington St., Alexandria
Arlington
Altitude
Coming soon to Crystal City, Altitude is a chef-driven Italian restaurant, wine bar and listening lounge featuring a large vinyl collection and an onsite sommelier. The menu from chefs Mariela Pacheco and Andres Lopez will include house made pastas, grilled branzino with shaved fennel salad and citrus, and other contemporary Italian dishes. 2011 Crystal Dr., Arlington
Zesto Pizza
This longtime Arlington pizza spot has reinvented itself under new ownership. The new concept focuses on naturally fermented New York-style pizza made with organic flour and San Marzano tomato sauce. Specialty pies range from classic pepperoni to more adventurous options like Korean Beef Bulgogi topped with kimchi and gochujang sauce. Garden City Shopping Center, 5127 Langston Blvd., Arlington
Ashburn
Capellini’s Italian Restaurant
Expected to open by early July, Capellini’s Italian Restaurant comes by way of Chef Mike Cordero, of Carbonara fame. Located in Brambleton Town Center, the coming spot promises classic comfort dishes, warm hospitality, and a neighborhood atmosphere aimed at Loudoun County families looking for approachable Italian dining. The eatery is a sister concept to Carbonara. 22850 Brambleton Plz., Ashburn
Gainesville
Carbonara
The fast-growing Carbonara brand is preparing to expand past its Arlington hub with a planned Gainesville location. Known for elevated Roman-inspired dishes, handmade pasta and a memorable dining experience, the restaurant has quickly built a devoted following. 14081 Promenade Commons St., Gainesville
Herndon
Gigi Urbano’s Italian Kitchen
Herndon continues its restaurant renaissance with Gigi Urbano’s Italian Kitchen, a contemporary concept bringing approachable pasta dishes to the area. It’s the next endeavor for the Sterling-based Urbano Modern Italian, with plans to open this summer. Woodland Crossing Dr., Herndon
Tysons
Maggiano’s Little Italy
After nearly 30 years at Tysons Galleria, Maggiano’s Little Italy closed last September. Now, the Italian-American favorite is preparing for a comeback. The redesigned restaurant is slated to reopen June 15 at Tysons Corner Center, featuring refreshed interiors alongside the chain’s signature oversized portions of classics like chicken parmesan, rigatoni “D,” and veal marsala. Tysons Corner Center, Tysons
Feature image of Capellini’s Italian Restaurant courtesy Connor Reed
