Best of 17 chicken nuggets in Little Italy
In the heart of Little Italy, a surprising culinary fusion has taken place - chicken nuggets. This American favorite has made its way into the vibrant Italian community, adding a unique twist to traditional cuisine. Chicken nuggets in Little Italy are a testament to the area's culinary diversity and innovation. They offer a delightful blend of comfort food and Italian flair, creating a memorable dining experience.
- 1. The Crack Shack - Little Italy
- 2. Shake Shack Little Italy in Little Italy
- 3. Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy
- 4. Little Italy Food Hall in Little Italy
- 5. Mimmo's
- 6. Landini's Pizzeria
- 7. Mona Lisa Italian Foods
- 8. Buon Appetito Restaurant
- 9. RoVino Restaurant + Bar
- 10. Barbusa
- 11. Petrini's San Diego in Little Italy
- 12. Civico 1845
- 13. Mr. Moto Pizza Little Italy
- 14. CooCoo's Nest
- 15. Roman Wolves
- 16. Vincenzo Cucina and Lounge
- 17. Ambrogio15 Little Italy
1. The Crack Shack - Little Italy
Features a dog-friendly patio, locally sourced ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.

The chicken nuggets were impressively large and cooked to perfection, with a crispy and well-seasoned breading that made them a favorite among the entire family. Our meal, the "big flock" option, included a 10-piece serving of breast nuggets, mini biscuits, and fries. The chicken had a satisfying crunch and the breading was light yet flavorful, indicating a skillful hand in the kitchen.
Our 10-piece chicken nugget meal also came with a heap of mini biscuits and fries. The breading on the nuggets was crispy and expertly seasoned, while the chicken itself was tender and juicy. The mini biscuits were a pleasant addition to the meal, and the fries were hot and crispy, making for a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
- Downtown Spots
2. Shake Shack Little Italy in Little Italy
Located in the heart of Little Italy, locally sourced ingredients, supports sustainable practices

The chicken nuggets I received were crispy and delicious, making for a satisfying snack. I had them delivered, and they arrived hot and fresh, retaining their crispy exterior.
I highly recommend ordering chicken nuggets for delivery. Upon arrival, they were still crispy and tasted amazing. This experience has shown that chicken nuggets can be a great choice for a convenient and tasty snack.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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3. Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy
Family-owned Italian restaurant in Little Italy since 1950, known for its rustic charm and homemade recipes

Pizza receives high praise in reviews for its flavorful cheese, diverse toppings, and tasty sauce. Some reviewers compare it to Italian-style pizza, while others find it to be unremarkable. The menu at this establishment is limited, but the pizza, calzone, and pasta dishes are highly favored among diners.
The spaghetti with meat sauce is singled out for its sauce, which meets expectations and satisfies taste buds. While options are limited, the focus on a few key dishes pays off, with the pizza and pasta dishes earning particular acclaim. The overall impression is positive, with the pizza and sauce being particular highlights.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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4. Little Italy Food Hall in Little Italy
Features local San Diego vendors and a large outdoor patio.

The chicken nuggets from CooCoo's Nest inside Little Italy Food Hall are a standout dish. They are crispy on the outside with a flavorful coating, while the inside is perfectly cooked and seasoned. These nuggets are a must-try for anyone visiting the food hall.
CooCoo's Nest's chicken nuggets are delicious and well-cooked. The exterior is crispy and well-seasoned, while the interior is tender and juicy. The quality of the chicken nuggets makes them a satisfying and enjoyable dish for any meal.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
5. Mimmo's
Family-owned restaurant since 1993, using fresh ingredients and homemade recipes

The atmosphere at the establishment was very pleasant, providing a nice setting for the meal. The food served was delicious, with particular praise given to the chicken Parmesa's pasta sauce. The calamari was also a standout dish. The customer service was excellent and contributed to an overall positive dining experience.
The food was a highlight of the evening, with the quality and flavor impressing the diners. One individual even had the pleasure of sitting in a wine cellar. The team hosting the dinner was friendly and attentive, making for a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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6. Landini's Pizzeria
Family-owned and operated pizzeria serving authentic New York-style pizza since 1995.

This establishment is perfect for those seeking pizza by the slice, featuring daily specials that are sure to please. Despite the eccentricity of the chef, the food more than makes up for it. They offer excellent New York-style thin crust pizza, which is crispy and fresh, especially for slices. They also have a wide variety of pizza options to choose from, making it a great choice for pizza lovers looking for a late-night bite as they are open later than other restaurants on India St.
The pizza here is a must-try, highly recommended for its freshness and wide variety. If you're in the mood for a late-night snack, this is the place to be as they are open later than other establishments in the area. The crispy, New York-style thin crust pizza is a standout, and their daily specials are definitely worth checking out. Whether you're a pizza aficionado or just looking for a tasty, affordable meal, this place is sure to satisfy your cravings.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
7. Mona Lisa Italian Foods
Family-owned restaurantsince 1989, Known for their homemade sauces

The deli offers a variety of fresh and delicious sandwiches made with top-quality Italian meats and cheeses. The market is a great resource for finding authentic Italian food products that are not readily available in other stores.
The service at the deli is consistently fast, attentive, courteous, and friendly. Customers appreciate the high level of service and the delicious food, making the deli a go-to destination for many.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. Buon Appetito Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant serving classic Italian dishes since 1992

Welcome to a dining experience that combines a welcoming atmosphere with delicious food. The restaurant is connected to a charming wine bar next door, creating a fun and inviting ambiance. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner, this is the perfect spot.
Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the pasta dishes. With an extensive menu, there's something for everyone. Each plate is generously portioned, ensuring you leave satisfied. The linguine pasta is covered in a smooth, non-creamy white sauce that is absolutely delightful. Every bite is a culinary pleasure, making this a must-visit destination for pasta lovers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
9. RoVino Restaurant + Bar
RoVino offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere with a touch of rustic elegance.

The chicken nuggets were a pleasant surprise, offering a delightful taste that exceeded expectations. They are recommended for anyone seeking a satisfying meal option. On the other hand, the chicken nuggets were particularly popular among children. Their crispy exterior and juicy interior made them a perfect choice for a family meal, ensuring everyone would enjoy them.
In summary, the chicken nuggets are a recommended dish for anyone, and they were especially loved by children. Their appealing texture, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, made them a hit for a family meal, offering a satisfying experience for all.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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10. Barbusa
Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients.

Barbusa, the latest culinary project by the Busalacchi family, is a modern Sicilian restaurant located in Little Italy. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including artisan pizzas, handmade pasta, and seafood-centric options, as well as handcrafted Italian cocktails and Southern Italian wines. The atmosphere is described as a place for a festive dining experience.
A self-proclaimed "Italian food Diva" had the opportunity to attend a private event at Barbusa before its official opening. The food was a standout, with dishes that were reminiscent of those made by the attendee's mother in Napoli but with a unique twist. The pesciolino fritto, or fried mixed fish, and arancini with cuddlefish ink and shrimp stuffing were particularly memorable. The waitstaff's Italian accents and accommodating service also added to the authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant is highly recommended for those seeking a cool bar and fresh ambiance in Little Italy.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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11. Petrini's San Diego in Little Italy
Offers a wide variety of dishes, including pasta, burgers, and salads.

The chicken nuggets served at the Italian restaurant were a positive surprise in terms of taste. My kids were particularly fond of this dish and enjoyed it thoroughly.
As for the chicken nuggets, they were satisfactory but not exceptional. The pasta dishes offered by the restaurant were much more impressive and memorable.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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12. Civico 1845
Uses high-quality ingredients and offers vegetarian options.

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
13. Mr. Moto Pizza Little Italy
This location offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options.

Pizza is a popular food choice that many people enjoy. The pizza from this establishment was delicious and had a fresh taste that made it stand out. The staff is one of the highlights of the experience, as they were not only friendly but also had a great sense of humor. They made the atmosphere enjoyable and added to the overall positive experience.
This pizza place is known for having some of the best pizza in town. The delicious taste of the pizza is a major factor in its popularity. The staff is also a highlight, as they are incredibly kind and gentle. Their attentive service and friendly demeanor make the dining experience even more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for great-tasting pizza or warm and welcoming service, this is the place to be.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
14. CooCoo's Nest

TOPICS
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
15. Roman Wolves
Offers a fun and lively atmosphere, with a wide selection of drinks and bar games

The chicken nuggets were a delicious and crispy appetizer that we enjoyed before our main course. They were a popular choice among our group, and in particular, the kids loved them. These nuggets were certainly a great way to start our meal.
As a starter, the chicken nuggets were a crowd-pleaser. They were crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a delightful and tasty snack. The kids were especially fond of them, and they were a big hit with the whole table. These nuggets were a fantastic beginning to our meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
16. Vincenzo Cucina and Lounge

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- High-End
- Hidden Gems
17. Ambrogio15 Little Italy
Uses family recipes from Little Italy in Milan, Modern and cozy ambiance

The margarita pizza is a popular choice, known for its delicious taste and thin, crispy crust. It comes with a variety of toppings, including olives and arugula, allowing customers to customize it to their liking. This pizza is highly regarded, often compared to pizzas made in Italy.
This pizza stands out for its exceptional taste and high-quality ingredients. The crust is thin and crispy, and for those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free options are available. The pizza is often praised for its next-level flavor, and its similarity to traditional Italian pizzas makes it a must-try for pizza lovers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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