Best of 16 Spanish restaurants in Little Italy
Spanish restaurants in Little Italy bring the vibrant flavors and culture of Spain to the heart of this iconic Italian-American neighborhood. These establishments, nestled amidst traditional Italian eateries, offer a unique dining experience, serving up traditional tapas, pintxos, and paella, all while creating a lively and authentic atmosphere reminiscent of Spain's bustling streets. Come explore the unexpected taste of Spain amidst Little Italy's rich history.
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- 1. Camino Riviera
- 2. Barbusa
- 3. Puerto La Boca
- 4. Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant
- 5. Mona Lisa Italian Foods
- 6. Sogno Di Vino
- 7. Herb & Wood in Little Italy
- 8. Davanti Enoteca
- 9. Ristorante Illando in Little Italy
- 10. Buon Appetito Restaurant
- 11. Monello
- 12. Juniper & Ivy
- 13. Allegro Restaurant and Bar
- 14. Coco Maya
- 15. GlassDoor Restaurant in Little Italy
- 16. RoVino Restaurant + Bar
1. Camino Riviera
Live Spanish music on weekends
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Camino Riviera is highly regarded for its cool, elegant, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular choice among guests. The venue features striking decor and great music, contributing to an overall sophisticated ambiance.
At Camino Riviera, guests can enjoy a unique dining experience that feels like a coastal paradise. The lively and fun ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a romantic date night or a special celebration. The venue's distinctive atmosphere is sure to provide a memorable dining experience.
Camino Riviera is highly regarded for its cool, elegant, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular choice among guests. The venue features striking decor and great music, contributing to an overall sophisticated ambiance.
At Camino Riviera, guests can enjoy a unique dining experience that feels like a coastal paradise. The lively and fun ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a romantic date night or a special celebration. The venue's distinctive atmosphere is sure to provide a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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2. Barbusa
Live Flamenco music and dance performances every weekend
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Barbusa specializes in Italian cuisine, offering a delightful dining experience, contrary to my initial expectations of Spanish tapas. Although the food is enjoyable, it does not feature the desired Spanish flavors.
If you're craving Spanish dishes, it would be best to look for alternatives since Barbusa primarily offers Italian-inspired meals. Nevertheless, the dining experience and food quality still make it a worthwhile option for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
Barbusa specializes in Italian cuisine, offering a delightful dining experience, contrary to my initial expectations of Spanish tapas. Although the food is enjoyable, it does not feature the desired Spanish flavors.
If you're craving Spanish dishes, it would be best to look for alternatives since Barbusa primarily offers Italian-inspired meals. Nevertheless, the dining experience and food quality still make it a worthwhile option for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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3. Puerto La Boca
Traditional Argentine Asado grill, homemade pastas, live Tango dancing
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Puerto La Boca offers a fantastic dining experience, whether you're looking for a quick take-out order or a leisurely sit-down meal. Their empanadas are a popular choice, and the steak dinners are a must-try, reminiscent of a genuine Argentinian steakhouse outside of the country. The service is a standout feature, with friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.
I can confirm that my recent dinner at Puerto La Boca was exceptional. From the moment we were seated, the service was attentive and courteous. The food did not disappoint, with delicious and satisfying options that made for a memorable meal. The overall experience was highly enjoyable, making Puerto La Boca an excellent choice for anyone seeking a authentic Argentinian dining experience.
Puerto La Boca offers a fantastic dining experience, whether you're looking for a quick take-out order or a leisurely sit-down meal. Their empanadas are a popular choice, and the steak dinners are a must-try, reminiscent of a genuine Argentinian steakhouse outside of the country. The service is a standout feature, with friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.
I can confirm that my recent dinner at Puerto La Boca was exceptional. From the moment we were seated, the service was attentive and courteous. The food did not disappoint, with delicious and satisfying options that made for a memorable meal. The overall experience was highly enjoyable, making Puerto La Boca an excellent choice for anyone seeking a authentic Argentinian dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
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4. Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant
Cozy atmosphere, Knowledgeable staff, Outdoor seating
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
5. Mona Lisa Italian Foods
Family-owned and operated, using traditional recipes and ingredients
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Mona Lisa Italian Foods in San Diego's Little Italy is a well-established business, known for serving delicious Italian cuisine at reasonable prices. The establishment has been a consistent presence for 15 years, with a loyal customer base. The family-run team is known for their kindness and approachability, making it a welcoming environment for all.
Their Italian-style sandwiches, particularly their torpedo sandwich, and pizza are customer favorites. The portions are generous, and the flavors are excellent, making it a great spot for a satisfying meal. As a staple of the San Diego community, Mona Lisa Italian Foods continues to attract customers looking for authentic and delicious Italian food.
Mona Lisa Italian Foods in San Diego's Little Italy is a well-established business, known for serving delicious Italian cuisine at reasonable prices. The establishment has been a consistent presence for 15 years, with a loyal customer base. The family-run team is known for their kindness and approachability, making it a welcoming environment for all.
Their Italian-style sandwiches, particularly their torpedo sandwich, and pizza are customer favorites. The portions are generous, and the flavors are excellent, making it a great spot for a satisfying meal. As a staple of the San Diego community, Mona Lisa Italian Foods continues to attract customers looking for authentic and delicious Italian food.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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6. Sogno Di Vino
Live Spanish guitar music on weekends
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The Italian food at this establishment is excellent, with a quality comparable to renowned Italian restaurants in Baltimore. The staff is highly attentive and work hard to ensure a positive dining experience.
During a recent visit, the opportunity to take advantage of Happy Hour specials was enjoyed. From 2 pm to 5 pm, a limited menu is offered at reduced prices. The Happy Hour Caprese and a glass of Chianti were both delightful choices.
The Italian food at this establishment is excellent, with a quality comparable to renowned Italian restaurants in Baltimore. The staff is highly attentive and work hard to ensure a positive dining experience.
During a recent visit, the opportunity to take advantage of Happy Hour specials was enjoyed. From 2 pm to 5 pm, a limited menu is offered at reduced prices. The Happy Hour Caprese and a glass of Chianti were both delightful choices.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Weekend Dining
7. Herb & Wood in Little Italy
Locally-sourced ingredients, open-concept kitchen, and extensive wine list
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Herb & Wood presents a delightful selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, but patrons should not anticipate a conventional Spanish restaurant atmosphere. The menu features a diverse array of Mediterranean flavors, while refraining from limiting itself to solely Spanish cuisine.
Expect to savor delicious Mediterranean tastes at Herb & Wood, yet do not mistake it for a typical Spanish establishment. This restaurant's wide-ranging menu showcases Mediterranean dishes, without prioritizing Spanish culinary specialties.
Herb & Wood presents a delightful selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, but patrons should not anticipate a conventional Spanish restaurant atmosphere. The menu features a diverse array of Mediterranean flavors, while refraining from limiting itself to solely Spanish cuisine.
Expect to savor delicious Mediterranean tastes at Herb & Wood, yet do not mistake it for a typical Spanish establishment. This restaurant's wide-ranging menu showcases Mediterranean dishes, without prioritizing Spanish culinary specialties.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
8. Davanti Enoteca
Live Spanish guitar music on weekends
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I contacted Davanti in the morning to make a reservation, and the polite young woman who answered the phone assisted me with the process. A few hours before our scheduled time, the restaurant called to confirm the reservation, demonstrating excellent customer service.
The restaurant has an upscale yet casual atmosphere, with the option of dining indoors or outdoors. My party and I were seated in the outdoor patio, which was comfortable and enjoyable on a clear night. The pyramid-shaped heaters provided adequate lighting and a cozy ambiance.
I contacted Davanti in the morning to make a reservation, and the polite young woman who answered the phone assisted me with the process. A few hours before our scheduled time, the restaurant called to confirm the reservation, demonstrating excellent customer service.
The restaurant has an upscale yet casual atmosphere, with the option of dining indoors or outdoors. My party and I were seated in the outdoor patio, which was comfortable and enjoyable on a clear night. The pyramid-shaped heaters provided adequate lighting and a cozy ambiance.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
9. Ristorante Illando in Little Italy
Live Spanish music on weekends, extensive wine list
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The food offerings at this establishment have received high praise from customers, with many raving about the taste and quality of the dishes. Among the most popular choices are Italian specialties such as Bolognese pasta, caprese salad, tender lamb chops, and sausage in vodka sauce.
Customers have consistently rated the service at this establishment highly, with many commending the staff for their friendliness and quick attention to needs. The speed of service has also been a point of praise, with customers noting the efficient and timely manner in which they received their orders.
The food offerings at this establishment have received high praise from customers, with many raving about the taste and quality of the dishes. Among the most popular choices are Italian specialties such as Bolognese pasta, caprese salad, tender lamb chops, and sausage in vodka sauce.
Customers have consistently rated the service at this establishment highly, with many commending the staff for their friendliness and quick attention to needs. The speed of service has also been a point of praise, with customers noting the efficient and timely manner in which they received their orders.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
10. Buon Appetito Restaurant
Live Flamenco music on weekends, cozy and romantic atmosphere
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Pasta dishes at this establishment are a must-try, with a wide variety of menu options and large portion sizes. The linguine pasta is served with a white sauce that is smooth and fully covers the pasta, although it may not be as creamy as some would prefer. Overall, the pasta is a delicious and satisfying choice.
In terms of service, reviewers have described the staff as friendly and attentive. However, some have noted that the service can be slow at times. Despite this, the positive aspects of the service seem to outweigh the negative, as many reviewers have commented on the generally great and welcoming atmosphere provided by the staff.
Pasta dishes at this establishment are a must-try, with a wide variety of menu options and large portion sizes. The linguine pasta is served with a white sauce that is smooth and fully covers the pasta, although it may not be as creamy as some would prefer. Overall, the pasta is a delicious and satisfying choice.
In terms of service, reviewers have described the staff as friendly and attentive. However, some have noted that the service can be slow at times. Despite this, the positive aspects of the service seem to outweigh the negative, as many reviewers have commented on the generally great and welcoming atmosphere provided by the staff.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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11. Monello
Live Spanish guitar music on weekends
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The food served at the restaurant was delicious, with all dishes arriving in a timely manner. The staff were friendly and provided excellent service, which enhanced the dining experience. They even made sure to adjust the outdoor heater to ensure that customers sitting outside were comfortable. Overall, the experience was highly positive, earning a perfect score of 10/10, and the restaurant has become a new favorite.
I loved the restaurant, with exceptional service and great recommendations from the staff. The food we ordered was delicious, and it has quickly become one of our favorite restaurants. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that we were satisfied with our meal, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction made our dining experience truly exceptional.
The food served at the restaurant was delicious, with all dishes arriving in a timely manner. The staff were friendly and provided excellent service, which enhanced the dining experience. They even made sure to adjust the outdoor heater to ensure that customers sitting outside were comfortable. Overall, the experience was highly positive, earning a perfect score of 10/10, and the restaurant has become a new favorite.
I loved the restaurant, with exceptional service and great recommendations from the staff. The food we ordered was delicious, and it has quickly become one of our favorite restaurants. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that we were satisfied with our meal, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction made our dining experience truly exceptional.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
- Vegetarian Options
12. Juniper & Ivy
Features a lively atmosphere with a theatrical open kitchen
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Juniper and Ivy is a top-rated restaurant in San Diego's Little Italy, frequently featured in prestigious lists such as the 'Best of the Best' by San Diego Magazine and the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand. This nationally-acclaimed eatery is widely known as a foodie paradise, offering an exceptional dining experience for all who visit.
The restaurant's reputation is well-deserved, as Juniper and Ivy constantly pushes the boundaries of culinary creativity. Diners can expect a regularly changing menu that features only the freshest ingredients, sourced both locally and from around the world. The talented team of chefs expertly crafts each dish using innovative techniques, resulting in a truly unforgettable meal that satisfies even the most discerning palate.
Juniper and Ivy is a top-rated restaurant in San Diego's Little Italy, frequently featured in prestigious lists such as the 'Best of the Best' by San Diego Magazine and the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand. This nationally-acclaimed eatery is widely known as a foodie paradise, offering an exceptional dining experience for all who visit.
The restaurant's reputation is well-deserved, as Juniper and Ivy constantly pushes the boundaries of culinary creativity. Diners can expect a regularly changing menu that features only the freshest ingredients, sourced both locally and from around the world. The talented team of chefs expertly crafts each dish using innovative techniques, resulting in a truly unforgettable meal that satisfies even the most discerning palate.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
13. Allegro Restaurant and Bar
Rooftop dining with sunset views
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The Spanish-inspired dishes at the restaurant were truly delicious. The grilled octopus stood out as a highlight of the meal, with its perfect cooking and seasoning adding to the exquisite flavor. Another remarkable dish was the seafood paella, which was packed with fresh and tender ingredients, making for a delightful dining experience.
The grilled Spanish octopus was cooked to perfection, with a slight char on the exterior that added a delicious depth of flavor. The seasoning was expertly done, enhancing the natural taste of the octopus without overpowering it. Overall, the dish was a perfect example of how simple, high-quality ingredients can be transformed into something truly special through skilled cooking and seasoning.
The Spanish-inspired dishes at the restaurant were truly delicious. The grilled octopus stood out as a highlight of the meal, with its perfect cooking and seasoning adding to the exquisite flavor. Another remarkable dish was the seafood paella, which was packed with fresh and tender ingredients, making for a delightful dining experience.
The grilled Spanish octopus was cooked to perfection, with a slight char on the exterior that added a delicious depth of flavor. The seasoning was expertly done, enhancing the natural taste of the octopus without overpowering it. Overall, the dish was a perfect example of how simple, high-quality ingredients can be transformed into something truly special through skilled cooking and seasoning.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Downtown Spots
14. Coco Maya
Extensive selection of Spanish wines, Live music on weekends, Beautiful outdoor patio
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Coco Maya is a well-known restaurant located in the downtown area. It has gained a reputation for providing excellent service, with a waitstaff that is both accommodating and attentive, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant's menu features a contemporary twist on classic American dishes, offering a variety of options to choose from.
One notable aspect of Coco Maya's cuisine is its Italian-inspired entrees. In addition, the restaurant boasts a traditional Spanish-style coal-fired Josper oven, which adds to the diversity of its menu. The Josper oven is used to cook a variety of dishes, providing a unique and authentic flavor that is sure to impress. Overall, Coco Maya is a great choice for those seeking a dining experience that combines contemporary and traditional elements.
Coco Maya is a well-known restaurant located in the downtown area. It has gained a reputation for providing excellent service, with a waitstaff that is both accommodating and attentive, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant's menu features a contemporary twist on classic American dishes, offering a variety of options to choose from.
One notable aspect of Coco Maya's cuisine is its Italian-inspired entrees. In addition, the restaurant boasts a traditional Spanish-style coal-fired Josper oven, which adds to the diversity of its menu. The Josper oven is used to cook a variety of dishes, providing a unique and authentic flavor that is sure to impress. Overall, Coco Maya is a great choice for those seeking a dining experience that combines contemporary and traditional elements.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
15. GlassDoor Restaurant in Little Italy
Live Spanish music on weekends
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The GlassDoor restaurant is known for its unique twist on classic Spanish dishes, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the cuisine. Located in a scenic area, the restaurant offers stunning views that add to the dining experience. In addition to the impressive views, The GlassDoor also prides itself on providing top-notch service to all of its customers.
One of the highlights of dining at The GlassDoor is the Spanish-inspired tapas menu, which features a variety of delicious small plates. Diners can expect to enjoy high-quality, flavorful dishes that are perfect for sharing with others. The beautiful harbor view from the restaurant provides a picturesque backdrop to the meal, creating a memorable dining experience. Overall, The GlassDoor offers a great atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service, making it a standout among Spanish restaurants in the area.
The GlassDoor restaurant is known for its unique twist on classic Spanish dishes, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the cuisine. Located in a scenic area, the restaurant offers stunning views that add to the dining experience. In addition to the impressive views, The GlassDoor also prides itself on providing top-notch service to all of its customers.
One of the highlights of dining at The GlassDoor is the Spanish-inspired tapas menu, which features a variety of delicious small plates. Diners can expect to enjoy high-quality, flavorful dishes that are perfect for sharing with others. The beautiful harbor view from the restaurant provides a picturesque backdrop to the meal, creating a memorable dining experience. Overall, The GlassDoor offers a great atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service, making it a standout among Spanish restaurants in the area.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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16. RoVino Restaurant + Bar
Romantic atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and extensive wine list
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The restaurant, while not offering purely Spanish cuisine, excelled in delivering excellent flavors and presentation, making it worth a visit. Upon arriving, I was surprised to find the menu to be more focused on Italian dishes, rather than Spanish. However, despite not getting the Spanish food I was expecting, I was still impressed by the delicious offerings.
The restaurant's strength lies in its ability to serve up delicious food that is skillfully prepared and beautifully presented. The menu may not have been what I was expecting, but the Italian-focused dishes were delightful and expertly crafted. Overall, the experience was enjoyable, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a great meal, regardless of their specific cravings for Spanish cuisine.
The restaurant, while not offering purely Spanish cuisine, excelled in delivering excellent flavors and presentation, making it worth a visit. Upon arriving, I was surprised to find the menu to be more focused on Italian dishes, rather than Spanish. However, despite not getting the Spanish food I was expecting, I was still impressed by the delicious offerings.
The restaurant's strength lies in its ability to serve up delicious food that is skillfully prepared and beautifully presented. The menu may not have been what I was expecting, but the Italian-focused dishes were delightful and expertly crafted. Overall, the experience was enjoyable, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a great meal, regardless of their specific cravings for Spanish cuisine.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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