Our Italian Heritage

Dining with us is like an escape to Italy. Al Dente showcases Neapolitan pizza from the restaurant’s centerpiece oven. Guests can enjoy fresh house-made pasta, fresh fish and meat offerings along with Italian desserts and a selection of gelato.

Happy Hour specials at Al Dente are offered daily from 4 pm to 7 pm. Happy hour specials include $5 glasses of wine, $4 beers, $10 pizzas, and more!

Looking to enjoy Al Dente at home? Order takeout from the restaurant or delivery to the Washington area from one of the platforms we partner with!

Special Events and Catering

Allow our Italian cuisine to make your next event special. Our restaurant is available for private dining, weddings, business lunches, dinners, cocktail receptions, and more. Our staff works to make sure that your event exceeds all expectations. We would love to discuss how to be a part of your celebration.

Learn More

Hakan Ilhan

President

Hakan Ilhan is a Washington restaurateur, with 30 years of experience owning and operating concepts in the Metropolitan area.

He currently has four restaurants around the city: Brasserie Liberté in Georgetown, Ottoman Taverna in Mount Vernon Triangle, Al Dente near American University, and Il Piatto, located two blocks from the White House. His Turkish concept, Ottoman Taverna, has been awarded with a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition since the list’s inception in 2017.

Our Italian Heritage

Special Events and Catering

Hakan Ilhan

Reserve a Table