Best of 21 Pasta restaurants in San Diego
When it comes to dining in San Diego, pasta enthusiasts are in luck. The city is home to a variety of pasta restaurants, each offering their unique spin on classic Italian cuisine. From cozy trattorias to upscale eateries, pasta restaurants in San Diego showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this beloved dish. Whether you're craving traditional spaghetti Bolognese or a more adventurous dish like squid ink pasta, these establishments have got you covered. Come and indulge in the authentic flavors of Italy right here in San Diego.
- 1. Buona Forchetta - South Park
- 2. Piacere Mio
- 3. Bencotto
- 4. Buon Appetito Restaurant
- 5. Nonna + Zucchero
- 6. Davanti Enoteca
- 7. Monello
- 8. The Godfather
- 9. RustiCucina
- 10. Osteria Panevino
- 11. Pastalini
- 12. Siamo Napoli Restaurant
- 13. La Pastaia Italian
- 14. Enoteca Adriano
- 15. Civico 1845
- 16. Baci Restaurant
- 17. The Old Spaghetti Factory
- 18. Ristorante Illando
- 19. Al Dente
- 20. Jack & Giulio's Italian Restaurant
- 21. Giovanni's Italian Restaurant
1. Buona Forchetta - South Park
Wood-fired oven, homemade pasta, extensive wine list
The pasta dishes at this establishment are truly exceptional, featuring standout options such as the homemade pappardelle. The generously sized portions ensure that you'll leave satisfied, and the authentic flavors will transport you straight to Italy.
A must-try pasta dish is the Buona Forchetta, which boasts fresh homemade egg pappardelle. The sauce is a delicious combination of cream, egg, parmesan, spicy marinara, and black pepper, resulting in a delightful pink sauce. This exquisite sauce pairs perfectly with the exceptional homemade egg pappardelle, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
2. Piacere Mio
Family-owned, homemade pasta, supports local businesses
Upon visiting South Park, a decision was made to dine at a restaurant without a reservation around 5:30 pm. The meal began with an order of Prosciutto & Burrata, which was delightful. A bottle of Chianti Classico Reserva was also enjoyed, providing a nice complement to the meal. The waiter's suggestion of splitting the Orechiette pasta dish proved to be an excellent choice, as the portion was generous and well-suited for sharing between two people.
During the dining experience, the service was commendable. The pasta dishes, including the Orechiette, were tasty and skillfully prepared. The server was friendly and courteous, offering attentive yet unobtrusive service. Overall, the meal was enjoyable and the restaurant's ambiance created a pleasant dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
3. Bencotto
Features a lively atmosphere with communal dining
The pasta at this establishment is made fresh daily in-house and varies each day. Some reviews of the pasta offerings have been positive, with diners praising the rich and creamy textures and perfectly cooked noodles. However, there have been some criticisms of certain dishes, such as the bolognese sauce being deemed lacking in flavor, or the cream and parmesan pasta being deemed inedible due to its texture.
One of the standout dishes at this restaurant is the cheesewheel pasta, which is delivered to the table and rotated weekly. This pasta dish is known for its rich and creamy sauce, which is made even more indulgent by the freshly grated cheese from the cheese wheel. The spaghetti noodles in this dish are cooked to perfection, providing a satisfying bite to each mouthful. Overall, while there have been some mixed reviews on other pasta dishes, the cheesewheel pasta has received high praise from diners.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
4. Buon Appetito Restaurant
Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, using recipes passed down through generations.
The pasta at this establishment is truly exceptional. The spaghetti carbonara stands out, with its perfectly cooked pasta and well-seasoned sauce. The pasta dishes in general are a delight, offering a wide variety of options, generous portions, and smooth noodles. Another highlight is the white sauce, which is not overly creamy but manages to coat the linguine pasta evenly and deliciously.
The culinary experience at this restaurant is heightened by the quality of its pasta dishes. One standout is the spaghetti carbonara, which features expertly cooked pasta and a well-balanced sauce. The menu offers a range of pasta options, all of which come in generous portions and are made with smooth noodles. The white sauce is particularly noteworthy, as it is flavorful and creamy without being overwhelming, perfectly coating the linguine pasta.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
5. Nonna + Zucchero
Family-owned, homemade pasta, extensive wine list
The service at the establishment was exceptional, creating a memorable dining experience. The seafood pasta offered was particularly delicious, showcasing the quality of the dishes available. For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert bar was equally impressive, providing a range of options whether dining in or taking out.
The portions of food served are generous, adding value to the overall experience. The chicken parmigiana and garlic-flavored pizza stood out as exceptional choices, demonstrating the skill and dedication of the kitchen in creating tasty and enjoyable meals.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
Relate link
6. Davanti Enoteca
Features a unique reverse happy hour with discounted drinks and small plates starting at 10 PM.
The pasta dishes at the restaurant were made fresh on the spot, but one of them fell short of expectations. The Gamberetti pasta dish was disappointing due to its lack of shrimp and flavor, which was unexpected. On the other hand, the cacio e pepe pasta dish stood out with its perfectly cooked noodles and well-balanced seasoning of pecorino and black pepper.
However, the Gamberetti pasta dish was found to be overpriced given the small portion and lack of flavor. Fortunately, the cacio e pepe pasta dish was more satisfying in terms of taste and quality, making up for the shortcomings of the other dish. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the seasoning was on point, providing a delightful dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
7. Monello
House-made pasta, urban chic ambiance, sustainable seafood
The pasta at this establishment is made fresh in-house, providing a delicious and authentic experience. The cheese wheel pasta is a standout, with the dish being prepared right at your table by the skilled chef. It's a unique and entertaining experience that adds to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
The service at this restaurant is consistently praised by reviewers. They describe it as lovely, quick, and helpful, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience. The service is impeccable, attentive, and top-notch, making it a standout feature of the restaurant.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
- Vegetarian Options
8. The Godfather
Family-owned and operated, extensive wine list, outdoor seating
Pasta is a popular dish that often accompanies various entrees and is well-regarded for its taste and versatility. Its appeal lies in its ability to complement a wide range of main courses, making it a staple in many dining experiences.
During a recent dining occasion, the pasta dish chosen was the Linguine Ai Frutti Di Mare. This particular pasta selection featured a medley of seafood, including shrimp, calamari, and clams, cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The pasta was cooked to perfection, with each strand possessing a desirable al dente texture that enhanced the overall flavor profile of the dish. The seafood was cooked just right, and the tomato sauce was rich and well-seasoned, making for an exceptional culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
9. RustiCucina
Family-owned and operated, focused on traditional Italian cuisine.
The beet salad served was delicious and enjoyable. Unfortunately, the cioppino did not meet the expectations set by its description in the menu. What was served was a bowl of clams, mussels, and crab legs in a tomato broth. Although the broth was packed with flavor, the crab legs were disappointing and not as impressive as one might have hoped.
The restaurant's menu prides itself on offering hearty, rustic dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, in-house made pasta and a variety of satisfying entrees, as well as an assortment of pizzas and flatbreads. However, the cioppino did not live up to the high standards set by the rest of the menu.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
10. Osteria Panevino
Family-owned Italian restaurant in the heart of San Diego
The pasta dishes at the restaurant were truly exceptional. The Pappardelle al Ragú and Lasagna Bolognese were both cooked to perfection and packed full of flavor. Any pasta lover should be sure to give them a try.
We sat at an outdoor table for two hours, enjoying a Salumi pizza to start followed by shared pasta dishes. The squid ink seafood, beef ravioli, and sausage penne were all standouts. The extensive wine list featured moderately priced Italian wines, which we greatly enjoyed. Our servers, Julia and Maria, added to the enjoyable atmosphere with their friendly and attentive service.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
11. Pastalini
Handmade pasta, vegetarian and gluten-free options
The quality of the food at this establishment is generally described as good, but there are a few issues that hold it back from being excellent. Some customers have reported that certain dishes, particularly those that are served with sauce, can become soggy quickly. Additionally, there have been complaints about the saltiness of some dishes being too overwhelming, which can detract from the overall taste.
Despite these occasional issues, the food at this establishment is consistently great, and the kitchen staff manages to prepare and serve meals quickly, even during peak hours. This combination of quality and speed makes it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable and satisfying meal. The wide variety of dishes on the menu ensures that there is something for everyone, and the fast and efficient service means that you won't have to wait long to enjoy your meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
Relate link
12. Siamo Napoli Restaurant
Friendly atmosphere, extensive wine list, traditional wood-fired oven
This establishment specializes in Napolitano style pizza and pasta, taking pride in using fresh and clean ingredients sourced from their homeland. The focus is on simple foods that let the high-quality ingredients shine.
The owner, Giovanni, is known for his precision, punctuality, and politeness. His ability to make customers feel welcome adds to the overall positive atmosphere. The pizza and fried foods are delicious, but the standout is the exceptional pistachio dessert.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
Relate link
13. La Pastaia Italian
Family-owned Italian restaurant since 1990
La Pastaia welcomes guests with a combination of modern elegance and rustic charm, creating a cozy and friendly atmosphere that is perfect for a magical dining experience. The menu features a variety of classic Italian dishes prepared with a contemporary twist, including fresh homemade pasta and wood-fired pizzas topped with high-quality ingredients.
Diners can enjoy a wide selection of Italian favorites, such as pasta dishes with flavorful sauces and pizzas cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. La Pastaia's menu is designed to offer something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
Relate link
14. Enoteca Adriano
Family-owned since 1994, warm and inviting ambiance
Enoteca Adriano is a popular Italian restaurant known for its delicious and satisfying dishes. The menu offers a variety of pasta dishes, as well as regional specialties that showcase the flavors of Italy. Customers rave about the generous portions and the spot-on flavors, making it a go-to spot for Italian cuisine.
The pasta dishes at Enoteca Adriano are a definite highlight. With a variety of options to choose from, including gluten-free and eggless varieties, there is something for everyone. Customers describe the pasta as flavorful and delicious, leaving them feeling fulfilled and satisfied. Overall, Enoteca Adriano is a great choice for anyone looking for a taste of Italy in a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
15. Civico 1845
Housed in a historic building with beautiful interior design
The pasta served was cooked to perfection with a delightful taste that enhanced the overall dining experience. One notable dish was the Linguine Alla Pescatora, which stood out for its exceptional flavor and presentation.
My pasta experience was exceptional, with the right texture that added to the enjoyable dining moment. The Linguine Alla Pescatora was a highlight, boasting of impressive flavors that made it a must-try for any pasta lover.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
16. Baci Restaurant
Authentic Italian food, family-owned
The service provided by this establishment is highly regarded by customers, with many praising it as excellent, superb, and top-notch. Customers have commented on the professional and attentive staff who go above and beyond to provide a positive dining experience.
The restaurant offers old school Italian cuisine, with a menu featuring real Italian dishes prepared by a real Italian chef. While some customers have noted the food to be average, they still enjoy the comfortable and quiet atmosphere that makes them feel at home. Overall, the combination of real Italian food, a comfortable environment, and exceptional service contribute to a positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
Relate link
17. The Old Spaghetti Factory
Housed in a historic trolley barn built in 1902, Victorian decor, free bread and salad with meals
The food quality at this establishment is average, with some customers reporting unsatisfactory dishes that lack seasoning. The pasta, in particular, has received mixed reviews, with some diners praising its perfection and others comparing it to canned stewed tomatoes with basil.
In terms of service, customers have had a range of experiences. Some have described it as exceptional, with reports of speedy, excellent, and even spectacular service. However, others have found it to be merely adequate or poor, indicating a discrepancy in the quality of service provided.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
18. Ristorante Illando
Family-owned, uses authentic Italian recipes, offers gluten-free pasta
The service at this establishment is highly regarded by customers, who often comment on the friendly and swift service provided. This positive feedback highlights the commitment to customer satisfaction.
In terms of the food, the pasta offerings are a standout feature. The pasta is freshly made in-house and comes in a range of sauces, with diners praising the generous portion sizes. The pappardelle pasta, in particular, is often noted for its surprising softness, although there are occasional reports of dishes being made with boxed pasta. Overall, the pasta selection is a highlight of the menu.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
19. Al Dente
Handmade pasta, authentic Italian ambiance, friendly service
Al Dente is a cozy Italian restaurant with a dog-friendly patio, known for its unique dining experience. The service at this establishment is exceptional, with friendly and attentive staff who provide great service to their customers. One of the most popular dishes on the menu is the signature cheese wheel pasta, which is freshly made and cooked tableside to perfection. The food at Al Dente is worth the mid-range prices, which are reasonable considering the quality and style of the dishes.
After spending five weeks in Italy, one might find themselves craving the flavors of Sicilian and Neapolitan cuisine. Recently, I had the opportunity to dine at Al Dente, a restaurant that has been open for several months. I was immediately drawn to their menu, which is both alluring and inviting. The restaurant offers a taste of Italy, with dishes that are both delicious and authentic.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
Relate link
20. Jack & Giulio's Italian Restaurant
Homemade pasta, brick oven pizza, extensive wine list
The pasta at this establishment is truly delightful. One standout dish is the Tortelloni Verdi, which features homemade pasta cooked to perfection. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that is sure to satisfy. Another must-try is the Lasagne della Casa, which is also made in-house. This lasagna is rich, hearty, and full of flavor, making it a crowd favorite.
From the Tortelloni Verdi to the Lasagne della Casa, the homemade pasta here is a highlight. The Tortelloni Verdi is cooked just right, with a perfect texture that complements its delicious filling. Meanwhile, the Lasagne della Casa boasts a rich and savory taste that is simply irresistible. Both dishes are standouts in their own right, showcasing the quality and care that goes into each and every plate.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
21. Giovanni's Italian Restaurant
Family-owned since 1977, homemade pasta, extensive wine list
Giovanni's Italian Restaurant is a family-friendly dining spot with a variety of options for all ages and diets. The staff is courteous and efficient, ensuring that food comes out at a good pace even for larger parties. Appetizers such as calamari, caprese, and asparagus/zucchini were tasty, and dinner options including pizza, pastas, baked dishes, and sautéed plates were delicious with generous helpings.
Giovanni's Italian Restaurant is a hidden gem in a strip mall, known for its terrific food, great service, and nice atmosphere. Despite limited parking, the new location is gorgeous and wheelchair accessible. Prices are reasonable and the menu is beloved by many. The restaurant's sauce, served with bread, is a highlight, and dishes like grilled chicken with tomatoes and mushrooms over penne are delicious. Everyone at the table was delighted with their dinner and complimented the choice of spot.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
Relate link