Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Hawthorne | Upscale Italian Food

17 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Hawthorne | Upscale Italian Food

• Caseus Diem — Italian · rated 5/5: Caseus Diem invites diners into a world of artisanal curation, where the rustic charm of perfectly aged cheeses meets the delicate saltiness of premium charcuterie. Each meticulously assembled box and snack plate serves as a canvas of textures and flavors, balancing creamy wedges with the crunch of Marcona almonds, the brine of plump olives, and the sweet whisper of honey-drizzled crackers. Whether shared among friends or enjoyed as a solitary indulgence, the experience is a celebration of the slow, sensory pleasure found in every savory slice and thoughtful pairing.
• The Side Street Tavern — American · rated 4/5: Tucked away from the bustle, this inviting neighborhood haunt wraps guests in the warm, nostalgic glow of a classic tavern where the intoxicating aroma of bubbling cheese and toasted crust fills the air. The kitchen turns out playfully named, artisanal pizzas like the garden-fresh Vegetable Crossing and the bold Heart’s Content, each striking a perfect harmony between crispy, golden edges and inventive toppings. This vibrant social hub pairs a laid-back charm with a creative spirit, making every meal feel like a well-kept local secret.
• Portland Cider House — American · rated 4/5: Brimming with the convivial energy of a neighborhood hub, this vibrant taproom invites guests to settle in amidst the crisp, orchard-fresh aromas of rotating local ciders. The kitchen turns out elevated comfort classics designed for sharing, from golden Scotch eggs to pillowy soft pretzels that find their perfect match in a rich, cider-infused fondue. Whether tucked into a bubbling, thin-crust pizza or a plate of salt-dusted fries, diners find a relaxed sanctuary where every bite celebrates the simple joy of good company and craft-driven flavors.
• New Cascadia Traditional — American · rated 4/5: This inviting artisanal hub hums with the comforting scent of toasted bagels and savory cheddar-chive biscuits, creating a warm sanctuary for breakfast lovers and pizza enthusiasts alike. Sunlight dances across tables where guests enjoy vibrant seasonal salads and personal pizzas topped with bubbling cheeses and herb-flecked crusts, all crafted with a soulful dedication to traditional baking. It is a welcoming neighborhood gem where the simple joy of a perfectly golden crust meets a modern, inclusive approach to classic comfort food.
• Greater Trumps — American · rated 4/5: Steeped in the cozy, storied charm of the Pacific Northwest, this inviting pub wraps guests in a warm embrace of dark wood and the irresistible aroma of golden tater tots and hand-tossed pizzas. The bar serves as a vibrant centerpiece where iconic pints of Ruby Ale and robust Terminator Stout meet the sophisticated notes of Black Rabbit Red, creating a sanctuary for those seeking a relaxed, authentic neighborhood escape.
• Pinolo — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a bright, artisanal sanctuary where the air is sweet with the scent of roasted nuts and rich espresso, inviting guests to discover the velvety artistry of authentic Italian gelato. Each scoop is a masterclass in texture and taste, ranging from the pure, milky simplicity of Fior di Latte to the sophisticated crunch of toasted pistachio and the deep, swirling ribbons of Amarena cherry. Whether enjoying a classic Bacio or a fragrant Almond Fig, every bite transports you to a sun-drenched piazza, celebrating the timeless joy of handcrafted frozen treats.
• Ken's Artisan Pizza — Italian: The air inside this rustic sanctuary is thick with the comforting scent of toasted grain and wood-fired warmth, where shelves groan under the weight of dark-crusted boules and flour-dusted ciabatta. Every bite reveals a mastery of fermentation and fire, from the shatteringly crisp exterior of a hand-shaped baguette to the delicate, buttery layers of a perfectly golden croissant.
• Baby Doll Pizza — Italian: The air at Baby Doll Pizza is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted flour and bubbling mozzarella, drawing diners into a space where massive 18-inch pies and soulful, thick-cut Nonna squares take center stage. From the classic snap of a pepperoni slice to thoughtfully crafted vegan and gluten-free options, every bite celebrates the art of the perfect crust in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
• Ava Gene's — Italian: This lively Roman-inspired destination pulses with energy, where the gleam of marble counters and the smoky scent of a wood-fired hearth create an atmosphere of rustic sophistication. The kitchen transforms the Pacific Northwest’s seasonal harvest into a vibrant tapestry of vegetable-forward plates and soul-warming pastas, each dish singing with bright acids and bold, sun-drenched flavors.
• Pepino's — Italian: Step into a nostalgic haven where the glow of vintage neon and the charm of red-checkered tablecloths set the stage for a quintessential neighborhood feast. The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered marinara and roasted garlic, drawing guests into a lively space where oversized plates of soul-warming pasta and golden-crusted classics take center stage. It is a place where the rhythmic clink of wine glasses and the hum of spirited conversation create a timeless backdrop for an indulgent dining experience that feels like a warm embrace.
• 3 Doors Down Café — Italian: This intimate neighborhood sanctuary invites guests into a space where the air is rich with the aroma of slow-simmered Bolognese and the briny perfume of garlic-scented steamer clams. The kitchen celebrates rustic European elegance, pairing velvety chicken liver pâté and crisp brandade croquettes with soul-warming pastas and tender, salt-cured duck confit. It is a quintessential local gem where sophisticated flavors meet a relaxed, convivial spirit, making every meal feel like a cherished homecoming.
• Cibo — Italian: This lively Italian haunt invites guests to linger over wooden boards piled high with crispy polenta fries, golden gamberi fritti, and pillows of warm, savory coccoli. The air hums with spirited conversation as diners tear into crusty housemade bread and savor the nostalgic, earthy sweetness of "Mom’s carrots," capturing the soulful essence of a sun-drenched Mediterranean afternoon shared among friends.
• Atlas Pizza — Italian: Atlas Pizza transforms the humble slice into a monumental feast, where the golden glow of bubbling mozzarella and the savory aroma of toasted dough evoke the grandeur of an ancient Roman banquet. Guests gather to conquer massive pies named after legendary landmarks like the Circus Maximus and Roman Colosseum, each a sprawling landscape of crisp pepperoni and vibrant specialty toppings designed for epic sharing. The energetic atmosphere pulses with the joy of communal dining, creating a vibrant destination where every meal feels like a historic celebration for families and friends alike.
• Artigiano — Italian: Artigiano pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern workshop, where the scent of toasted flour and savory herbs drifts through an elegantly rustic dining room. The kitchen elevates traditional Italian dining into a sensory journey, guiding guests from delicate, shareable starters to soul-warming pastas and masterfully prepared proteins paired with exceptional regional wines. Every detail, from the textured decor to the carefully paced courses, reflects a deep devotion to the craft of authentic, heartfelt hospitality.
• Straight From New York Pizza — Italian: The air is thick with the irresistible scent of bubbling mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce, capturing the high-energy soul of a classic Manhattan slice shop. Golden, thin-crust pies emerge from the oven with a signature char, boasting vibrant toppings that range from the simple elegance of a Margherita to the hearty, savory layers of the Meat Lovers. Every oversized 18-inch creation delivers that iconic, foldable crunch, inviting diners to savor an authentic, no-nonsense taste of the Big Apple in every bite.
• Rovente Pizzeria — Italian: The air at Rovente Pizzeria is thick with the savory perfume of bubbling cheese and charred crust, drawing guests into a vibrant space where classic comfort meets bold, fiery inspiration. Artisanal pies range from the meat-heavy Carnivore Delite to the zesty kick of the Red Hot Messico, each arriving with a perfect balance of crispy edges and molten toppings. Crisp, vibrant salads like the spinach and cranberry provide a refreshing, garden-fresh counterpoint to the indulgent, oven-fired pizzas, creating a balanced and hearty neighborhood dining experience.
• Casa Italia on Division — Italian: Warm amber lighting and the lively hum of conversation fill this inviting space, where the spirit of a traditional Italian home meets the vibrant energy of the city. Hand-rolled pastas and artisanal pizzas emerge from the kitchen with rustic charm, each plate celebrating the bold, honest flavors of the Mediterranean through time-honored techniques. It is a sanctuary of authentic hospitality, perfect for lingering over a robust red wine and the simple joy of a perfectly executed meal.