Best of 19 salads in Little Italy
In the heart of Little Italy, salads take on a whole new meaning. Here, salads are not just a side dish but a culinary experience, showcasing fresh, local ingredients and bold, authentic flavors. From classic Italian salads to innovative creations, salads in Little Italy are a must-try for any food lover. Indulge in a refreshing Caprese or a traditional Cesar, and discover the unique twist that Little Italy brings to these classic dishes.
- 1. Civico 1845
- 2. Buon Appetito Restaurant
- 3. Mona Lisa Italian Foods
- 4. Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy
- 5. Davanti Enoteca
- 6. Little Italy Food Hall
- 7. Nonna + Zucchero
- 8. Monello
- 9. Barbusa
- 10. Petrini's San Diego
- 11. Bencotto
- 12. RoVino Restaurant + Bar
- 13. Ambrogio15 Little Italy
- 14. Nolita Hall
- 15. Prepkitchen Little Italy in Little Italy
- 16. Napizza in Little Italy
- 17. Roman Wolves
- 18. Vincenzo Cucina and Lounge in Little Italy
- 19. La Casa Verde
1. Civico 1845
Contemporary Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients

The focaccia, served with a delicious pesto dipping oil, was a standout dish. Another hit was the Caesar salad, which was not only tasty but also generously sized, making it a great option for sharing between two people.
One aspect of the Caesar salad that particularly impressed was the high-quality Parmesan cheese that topped it. The rich and tangy flavor of the cheese elevated the salad to a new level, making it the best Caesar salad I have ever tasted.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. Buon Appetito Restaurant
Come for the delicious Italian food, stay for the warm and inviting atmosphere

We enjoyed a tasty burrata appetizer, which was served with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of excellent extra virgin olive oil. The dish was delightful and set a positive tone for the meal.
The salad course featured a vibrant beet salad, which was a fresh and colorful addition to our meal. To finish, I chose the lamb shank, which was tender and full of flavor. Both dishes were very satisfying.
Combined Paragraph: We enjoyed a delicious burrata appetizer, served with lettuce, tomatoes, and excellent extra virgin olive oil, which set a positive tone for our meal. The salad course featured a vibrant beet salad, and I finished with a flavorful and tender lamb shank that was very satisfying.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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3. Mona Lisa Italian Foods
Family-owned business with a cozy and inviting atmosphere

The deli in Little Italy offers delicious sandwiches, featuring fresh Italian meats and cheeses that are truly outstanding. In addition to their sandwiches, their Caesar salad is fresh and crisp. The market is also a great resource for hard-to-find authentic Italian foods. Just a short walk away from the main row of restaurants, this hidden gem serves food that is well worth the trip.
On a recent visit, I enjoyed their Chicken Marsala, which was tender and flavorful, and a mista salad. The waiter provided excellent service and added to the overall enjoyable dining experience. Although there was a brief wait for a table, browsing the adjacent Italian grocery store made the time pass quickly. I would highly recommend a visit to this establishment for anyone looking for delicious Italian cuisine.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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4. Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy
Family-owned Italian restaurant with a romantic and cozy atmosphere, located in Little Italy

Our group's dinner consisted of a variety of dishes, including antipasto, ravioli, Caesar salad with chicken, penne marinara, and an unspecified drink. The antipasto was a substantial serving, and another table had also ordered a large cheese pizza.
However, there was a mix-up with the order as the antipasto salad was not initially intended for our table. This resulted in some confusion, but it was eventually sorted out. The rest of the order arrived as expected, and the meal was enjoyed despite the slight hiccup.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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5. Davanti Enoteca
Seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, house-made dressing

The dinner experience was delightful, with the Caesar salad being a particular highlight. The salad was generously sized and topped with a few anchovies, although these can be omitted if requested. Before the salad, we enjoyed a burrata salad that was equally impressive. This salad featured fresh mozzarella, whole roasted tomatoes, and basil pesto. The tomatoes were incredibly fresh and warm, providing a perfect complement to the mozzarella and pesto.
In summary, the dinner consisted of two salad dishes, both of which were standouts. The Caesar salad was ample and could be made without anchovies, while the burrata salad boasted fresh mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, and basil pesto. The tomatoes in the burrata salad were especially noteworthy, as they were fresh and warm, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
6. Little Italy Food Hall
Artisanal food hall with a focus on local vendors and sustainable ingredients

This establishment is an excellent choice for a satisfying yet swift meal. The salads they offer are not only healthy but also packed with flavor, making them an ideal option for a nutritious lunch. One such salad is the Caesar salad, which I had the pleasure of trying. The dressing was expertly prepared, providing just the right amount of tanginess, while the croutons added a satisfying crunch.
In summary, this location is a fantastic option for those seeking a delicious and healthy meal on-the-go. Among the salads offered, the Caesar salad is a standout, boasting a perfectly balanced dressing and crispy croutons. This dish is a must-try for any salad enthusiast.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
7. Nonna + Zucchero
Cozy atmosphere with a spacious patio, and housemade pastas

The arugula salad and gamberri shrimp meal were standouts during our dining experience. The salad, with its peppery arugula, was refreshing and flavorful. The shrimp dish impressed us with its generous portion and well-seasoned flavors. Accompanying our meal was a basket of focaccia bread, which was a delightful addition to our meal.
Moving on to the Caesar salad, there are three photos available to view and 13 reviews to provide insight on this dish. The salad, a classic favorite, is likely to have been prepared with romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese. Despite its simplicity, the Caesar salad can vary in taste and quality depending on the restaurant. Fortunately, this salad appears to have satisfied 13 previous customers, as reflected in the reviews.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
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8. Monello
House-made pastas, Italian-focused cocktails, cozy ambiance

The butternut squash salad was a delightful and satisfying dish. Its hearty composition, combined with delightful flavors, made it a memorable part of the meal. The salad was expertly prepared, resulting in a perfect balance of textures and tastes that left a lasting impression.
Similarly, the Caesar salad showcased the kitchen's ability to create fresh, well-balanced dishes. The salad featured a great balance of flavors, exhibiting a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory tastes. This must-try salad is sure to impress with its impeccable presentation and delightful flavor profile.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
- Vegetarian Options
9. Barbusa
Spacious patio, extensive wine list, authentic Italian cuisine

The Caesar salad served at this establishment is a must-try. Its freshness and delicious taste made it the perfect start to our meal. We were pleased with the salad and the overall ambiance of the restaurant. The restaurant is a great option for a mid-week dinner with its welcoming atmosphere.
Our dinner began with a fresh and delightful Caesar salad. Its taste satisfied our palates and left us eager for the rest of our meal. The restaurant offered a mid-week dinner experience that was made better by its comfortable and inviting ambiance. Out of all the options for dinner, this location stood out for its tasty salad and welcoming environment.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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10. Petrini's San Diego
Unique brick oven pizzas, extensive wine list, and warm atmosphere

The two of us opted for meals that included a soup or salad, accompanied by garlic bread. Our dinner plates were part of the restaurant's specials, and we both chose the salad with house dressing, specifically olive oil. We shared four pieces of garlic bread between us. I decided on the Veal Parmesan with Spaghetti, while my partner's selection was a Canneloni.
Our dishes were generously portioned, particularly the salads and garlic bread, much to my husband's delight. The variety of offerings allowed us to sample and enjoy multiple aspects of the menu. Our individual entrees catered to our differing tastes, enabling us to both relish our meal selections.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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11. Bencotto
Handmade pasta, authentic Italian cuisine, romantic atmosphere

The restaurant offered an excellent selection of freshly made pastas that were enjoyed by all. The salad was also a hit, with its fresh and delicious taste. A notable mention is the calamari, which stood out for its freshness. It was a successful dinner with everyone satisfied with their chosen dishes.
The salads served in this restaurant are commendable. Of particular note is the Caesar salad, which was a perfect balance of creamy dressing and crisp lettuce. Its flavorful and fresh ingredients made it a crowd favorite.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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12. RoVino Restaurant + Bar
RoVino has a cozy and elegant atmosphere, perfect for special occasions or a night out

The Arugula Salad was a standout dish, with its light and refreshing qualities making it a joy to consume. Its freshness was evident in each bite, making it a memorable part of the meal.
The Caesar Salad was another highlight, with a perfect balance of flavors that made it a treat to eat. The freshness of the ingredients was apparent, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience. Together, the Arugula and Caesar Salads showcased a delightful combination of flavors and textures that were sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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13. Ambrogio15 Little Italy
Local ingredients, house-made pastas, welcoming atmosphere

Both the House Salad and Caprese Salad include mixed greens and heirloom cherry tomatoes as key ingredients. The House Salad is topped with multigrain croutons and shaved Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, while it is dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette. On the other hand, the Caprese Salad features Mozzarella Fiordilate cheese and is lightly seasoned with a balsamic glaze.
The House Salad is a vegetarian-friendly option, as it does not contain any meat or animal products besides the cheese. The Caprese Salad also does not contain meat, but it includes a type of cheese, making it suitable for vegetarians who consume dairy. Both salads provide a fresh and flavorful start to a meal, with the House Salad offering a more substantial and filling base with its croutons and hearty cheese, and the Caprese Salad presenting a lighter, more delicate option with its glaze.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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14. Nolita Hall
Spacious and trendy location, pet-friendly, extensive drink menu

The restaurant primarily offers pizzas and salads on its menu. The pizzas are generously sized, making them suitable for sharing, but due to their delicious taste, you might want to consider getting your own. One of the salads available is the Nancy Chop Salad, which has received positive feedback with 6 photos and 9 reviews.
Moving forward, the restaurant focuses on serving pizzas and salads. These pizzas are not only large but also flavorful, encouraging customers to have their own pie. A specific salad called Nancy Chop Salad has been well-received by customers, as evidenced by the 6 photos and 9 reviews it has garnered.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
15. Prepkitchen Little Italy in Little Italy
They offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients.

Prep Kitchen Little Italy, located in the vibrant neighborhood, is a popular choice for urbanites seeking a hip and casual atmosphere with a gourmet menu. The restaurant, which has an architectural salvage-inspired design, offers generously sized dishes that are perfect for sharing. Standout options include spicy Carlsbad mussels, fusilli Bolognese, and a variety of seasonal farmers' market flatbreads. The WNL Burger, topped with bacon and an egg, is a crowd favorite for lunch, brunch, and dinner.
One of the must-try dishes at Prep Kitchen Little Italy is the Cutting Board. This visually appealing platter features an array of meats, including Sopressata, pork rillettes, and pâté de champagne, accompanied by Garrotxa and Red Dragon cheeses. The spreads, which offer a mix of flavors, include whole grain mustard, orange mostarda, and spicy salsa delle erbe. To complement the meats and cheeses, the Cutting Board also comes with a variety of pickled vegetables, marinated olives, mogave raisins, and toasted walnuts. The dish is a delightful assortment of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any visitor to the restaurant.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
16. Napizza in Little Italy
Features a unique ordering system where customers can build their own pizzas with a variety of fresh toppings, as well as a selection of delicious pre-designed pizzas and salads.

Napizza provides a wide selection of fresh salads with generous portions. Two standout options are the kale salad and the Caesar salad. The kale salad is a customer favorite, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to using fresh ingredients. On the other hand, the Caesar salad is praised for its well-balanced dressing and crispy croutons.
In summary, Napizza offers a variety of fresh and delicious salads. The kale salad and Caesar salad are two outstanding choices. The kale salad features fresh ingredients, while the Caesar salad boasts a perfect balance of flavors with its well-balanced dressing and crispy croutons.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
17. Roman Wolves
Family-owned restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and daily specials

The Burrata Salad was a standout dish during our dining experience. Its ingredients were fresh and of high quality, making for a truly enjoyable and delicious meal. The presentation of the salad was also visually appealing, adding to the overall positive experience.
In addition to the Burrata Salad, the service and ambiance of the dining establishment were also noteworthy. The staff provided excellent service, ensuring a pleasant and seamless experience for all diners. The ambiance was lovely, creating a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere in which to enjoy our meal. I would highly recommend giving this salad a try and visiting this establishment for a meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
18. Vincenzo Cucina and Lounge in Little Italy

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- High-End
- Hidden Gems
19. La Casa Verde

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats