Best of 23 BYOB restaurants in Little Italy
"Little Italy" is a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood that's home to some of the best Italian cuisine in the country. Among the many dining options available, BYOB restaurants in Little Italy have gained popularity for offering a unique and personalized dining experience. These establishments allow patrons to bring their own wine or beer, giving them the freedom to pair their meal with their favorite beverages. BYOB restaurants in Little Italy cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, making them an ideal choice for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike.
- 1. Buon Appetito Restaurant
- 2. Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy
- 3. Nonna + Zucchero in Little Italy
- 4. Davanti Enoteca
- 5. Barbusa
- 6. Monello
- 7. Civico 1845
- 8. Bencotto
- 9. Mimmo's
- 10. Sorrento Ristorante in Little Italy
- 11. Ristorante Illando
- 12. Herb & Wood
- 13. Mona Lisa Italian Foods in Little Italy
- 14. Sogno Di Vino
- 15. Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant
- 16. Allegro Restaurant and Bar
- 17. Solunto Restaurant & Bakery
- 18. Petrini's San Diego in Little Italy
- 19. Landini's Pizzeria
- 20. Ambrogio15 Little Italy
- 21. RoVino Restaurant + Bar
- 22. Isola Pizza Bar
- 23. Roman Wolves
1. Buon Appetito Restaurant
Known for its intimate atmosphere, attentive service, and delicious Italian cuisine

Buon Appetito is a notable restaurant known for its BYOB (bring your own bottle) policy, allowing guests to bring their favorite wine to enjoy with their meal. The food served at Buon Appetito is delicious and has received positive reviews. The atmosphere of the restaurant is ideal for a night out, making it a popular choice for diners.
In addition to its BYOB policy and tasty food, Buon Appetito offers a great ambiance for guests. On a recent visit, I appreciated being able to bring my own wine and savor it with the restaurant's delicious offerings. The cozy and inviting atmosphere of Buon Appetito made for an enjoyable dining experience. Overall, the restaurant is a fantastic choice for those seeking a delicious meal and a welcoming atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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2. Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy
Family-owned and operated since 1950, located in Little Italy with a cave-like ambiance

Filippi's is a popular establishment in Little Italy, known for its exceptional Italian cuisine and Bring Your Own Bottle (BYOB) policy. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a casual dinner with friends.
The menu features delicious pizza and pasta dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. With the ability to bring your own wine, Filippi's provides a unique and cost-effective dining experience. This BYOB feature sets Filippi's apart, making it a standout option in Little Italy for those seeking excellent Italian food and a welcoming environment.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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3. Nonna + Zucchero in Little Italy
Featuring an array of crafted desserts with a full coffee bar, specialty cocktails, and wine options
This establishment's BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) policy is a popular feature among patrons. The pasta dishes served here are truly exceptional, making it an ideal location for a dinner with friends. Another standout offering is the garlic-flavored pizza, which is a must-try for any pizza lover.
Beyond the impressive food menu, the atmosphere of the restaurant is both cozy and welcoming. Diners can enjoy their meal in a comfortable setting, making it a great place for a gathering with loved ones. Whether you're in the mood for pasta or pizza, this restaurant is sure to deliver a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
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4. Davanti Enoteca
Rustic Italian dishes, craft cocktails, and a unique bring-your-own-bottle option

My boyfriend and I stumbled upon Davanti Enoteca, a new restaurant in Little Italy, while searching for a dinner spot. The upscale casual ambiance offered both indoor and outdoor dining options, with the outdoor patio providing a pleasant experience under pyramid-shaped heaters. Davanti specializes in wine and modest-sized dishes meant for sharing.
The lively atmosphere at Davanti Enoteca was filled with energy, although it was a bit loud. Our service had some issues, with slow and uneven service, but we made allowances due to current staffing shortages in the foodservice industry. We tried several dishes, including the Orecchiette, and found them to be good, if not exceptional.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
5. Barbusa
Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood, rustic and elegant ambiance

Barbusa, located in Little Italy, does not offer a BYOB (bring your own bottle) option. However, this restriction is offset by their impressive selection of Italian wines. The wine list is extensive, providing customers with a wide range of choices to accompany their meals.
At Barbusa, the wine list is not only extensive but also reasonably priced. This affordability makes it possible for patrons to enjoy a great bottle of wine without breaking the bank. Overall, while the no BYOB policy may initially be disappointing, the excellent wine list makes up for it, making Barbusa a great spot for both dining and wine enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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6. Monello
Authentic Italian food, chef-driven menu, handmade pasta

Monello is a restaurant that offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a BYOB dinner. The food served at the restaurant is top-notch, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The staff at Monello is happy to accommodate customers who bring their own wine, providing a welcoming and flexible service. The author had a fantastic dinner at Monello and plans to return in the future.
In summary, Monello offers a cozy atmosphere and excellent food for a BYOB dinner, and the restaurant staff is accommodating to customers who bring their own wine. The author had a positive dining experience and looks forward to returning.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
- Vegetarian Options
7. Civico 1845
Located in Little Italy with outdoor seating and a cozy atmosphere

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Bencotto
Offers house-made pasta and a cozy, romantic atmosphere.

The author and their group brought their own wine to Bencotto and enjoyed a wonderful meal there. The staff was accommodating, and the food was of high quality. The author highly recommends this BYOB establishment.
Bencotto's policy of allowing customers to bring their own wine was appreciated by the author, making the dinner more affordable and enjoyable. The handmade pasta, in particular, was a standout dish. The author was very pleased with their experience at Bencotto.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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9. Mimmo's
Mimmo's has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients

This place is a great option for those looking to enjoy a delicious Italian meal while bringing their own wine. The staff is very welcoming of the BYOB policy, making it a perfect spot for a dinner with friends. The food is a highlight, with a variety of Italian dishes that are sure to satisfy. The atmosphere is cozy, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience.
For those looking for a spot to enjoy a BYOB dinner with friends, this is the perfect choice. The food is a standout, with a focus on Italian cuisine. One of the benefits of dining here is the ability to bring your own wine, which the accommodating staff is happy to serve. The intimate atmosphere makes it an ideal location for a gathering with friends.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Sorrento Ristorante in Little Italy
Offers a prix fixe menu that changes weekly, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Sorrento Ristorante is a restaurant that offers a BYOB (bring your own bottle) policy, which many customers appreciate. The corkage fee is reasonably priced at $15, making it an affordable option for those who want to enjoy their own wine with their meal. By bringing their own wine, diners can pair their preferred drinks with the restaurant's delicious Italian dishes, enhancing their overall dining experience.
In summary, Sorrento Ristorante is a great place to bring your own wine and enjoy a meal. The BYOB policy is popular among customers, and the reasonable corkage fee of $15 makes it a cost-effective option. By allowing customers to bring their own wine, the restaurant provides a more personalized dining experience that can be tailored to individual preferences.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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11. Ristorante Illando
Offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere with an outdoor patio, perfect for date night or special occasions

Ristorante Illando is a delightful BYOB restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a romantic date night. The staff is known for their friendliness, adding to the overall welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. One of the standout features of this restaurant is their delicious pasta, which adds to the authentic Italian culinary experience.
Visiting Ristorante Illando is a great idea if you're looking for a place to Bring Your Own Bottle (BYOB). The food is delicious, and the restaurant has a warm and inviting ambiance, making it perfect for any special occasion or a night out with friends and loved ones. The combination of friendly staff and delicious pasta makes Ristorante Illando a must-visit spot for any Italian food lover.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
12. Herb & Wood
Rustic yet upscale atmosphere, farm-to-table ingredients, open kitchen concept, and wood-fired cooking techniques.

Herb & Wood is a restaurant that offers a complete dining experience with style and substance. It is a confident and inviting space that encourages guests to have a good time and enjoy delicious food. The restaurant has become a sought-after dining escape since its opening over four years ago and has contributed to San Diego's growing reputation as a culinary destination.
Celebrated chef Brian Malarkey's Herb & Wood is known for its flavorful and innovative dishes. The restaurant has received critical acclaim and has become a staple for food lovers in San Diego. Its success has helped to elevate the city's culinary scene and establish it as a destination for food enthusiasts. With its timeless decor and delicious food, Herb & Wood continues to be a popular choice for those looking for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
13. Mona Lisa Italian Foods in Little Italy
Family-owned for over 30 years with gluten-free pasta available

Mona Lisa is a fantastic restaurant that allows guests to bring their own wine, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends. The staff at Mona Lisa are incredibly accommodating, ensuring that every guest has a positive dining experience. The food served at the restaurant is top-notch, with delicious options that are perfect for sharing with a group.
As a BYOB establishment, Mona Lisa provides a great opportunity to enjoy a dinner with your own wine of choice. The restaurant itself has a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for a relaxed dinner. The menu offers a variety of delicious dishes, all made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that every meal is satisfying and flavorful. Whether you're looking for a casual night out with friends or a cozy dinner with a loved one, Mona Lisa is the perfect choice.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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14. Sogno Di Vino
Cozy atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and extensive wine list

Sogno Di Vino is a restaurant that offers a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) policy, which many customers, including myself, appreciate. This option makes the dinner experience even more enjoyable, as you can pair your meal with your favorite wine. Upon visiting, I found that the staff is very welcoming of this policy and will accommodate your needs. The food served at Sogno Di Vino is also delicious, making it a great location to enjoy a meal with your own bottle of wine.
For those who enjoy bringing their own wine to restaurants, Sogno Di Vino is a fantastic option. The staff is not only accepting of this request, but they also make it a seamless part of the dining experience. In addition to the accommodating staff, the food served is delicious and sure to satisfy. Therefore, if you're looking for a restaurant where you can enjoy your own wine with a meal, Sogno Di Vino is a top choice.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Weekend Dining
15. Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant
Intimate Italian wine bar and restaurant in downtown San Diego

Vinarius offers an exceptional dining experience that keeps customers returning. The service is wonderful and the food and beverage options are outstanding, making it a true gem of a restaurant. The Italian cuisine served at Vinarius is the best in Little Italy, and it is highly recommended for any Italian food lovers.
If you appreciate fine Italian dining, Vinarius is a must-visit restaurant in Little Italy. With exceptional service, delicious food, and an extensive beverage menu, it is easy to see why this restaurant receives such high praise. Don't miss out on the opportunity to taste some of the best Italian food in town.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
16. Allegro Restaurant and Bar
Offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with excellent service and high-quality, seasonally-driven cuisine.

Allegro Restaurant and Bar is a dining establishment that provides a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, making it an excellent spot for a romantic dinner. The menu includes a burrata salad, pasta in a cheese wheel, seafood pasta, and salmon. One dish that stands out is the limoncello cake, which is a must-try. However, some diners have experienced long wait times for their meals and issues with service.
Due to its popularity, it is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially during weekends. The restaurant offers tasty seafood pasta and salmon dishes. But the star of the menu is the limoncello cake, which is a must-try for all diners. Despite some diners reporting long wait times and issues with service, Allegro Restaurant and Bar remains a great dining option with a diverse menu that offers something for everyone.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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17. Solunto Restaurant & Bakery
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Sicilian cuisine with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Solunto is a wonderful restaurant that welcomes guests to bring their own bottle of wine. This BYOB policy adds a unique and personal touch to the dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy their favorite wines with their meals. The staff at Solunto are accommodating and contribute to the enjoyable atmosphere.
For those who love Italian cuisine, Solunto is an excellent choice. Their dishes are delicious and are perfectly complemented by a bottle of wine. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a night out, Solunto is a great place to indulge in delicious food and your favorite wine. Overall, Solunto is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
18. Petrini's San Diego in Little Italy
Family-owned and operated since 1998, Petrini's offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

Petrini's is a restaurant that offers the unique feature of allowing customers to bring their own wine, making for a special dining experience. During a family dinner, the author's group took advantage of this BYOB policy, adding to the memorable evening. The food served at Petrini's is also noteworthy, with delicious dishes that pleased everyone in the group.
If you're looking for a great place to have a BYOB dinner, Petrini's is highly recommended. The author's group enjoyed their meal with the wine they brought, enhancing the overall dining experience. The service at Petrini's was also excellent, making it a well-rounded and positive restaurant to visit.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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19. Landini's Pizzeria
Thin crust pizza cooked in a coal-fired oven, brought to San Diego from New York's Little Italy

Landini's Pizzeria is a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a casual night out with their own bottle of wine. The BYOB (bring your own bottle) policy makes it a great place to savor delicious pizza while enjoying your favorite wine.
During our visit to Landini's Pizzeria, we took advantage of the BYOB policy and brought our own wine. The result was a wonderful evening filled with great food, good wine, and excellent company. The delicious pizza and the ability to bring our own wine made for an enjoyable and relaxing experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
20. Ambrogio15 Little Italy
Authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Little Italy, Brick oven pizzas, Homemade pastas

Ambrogio15, located in Little Italy, offers a fantastic BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) option, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening. The restaurant is well-known for its exceptional hospitality, with staff going out of their way to accommodate customers. It's a great place to enjoy some delicious pizza and unwind in a casual setting.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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21. RoVino Restaurant + Bar
A combination of Italian and Spanish cuisine, utilizing fresh and local ingredients, in a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

RoVino is a restaurant that welcomes guests to bring their own wine, making it a great BYOB spot. The food served is delicious, and the staff is known for being accommodating and helpful. The option to bring your own wine contributes to a memorable dining experience.
At RoVino, the quality of the food is top-notch, and the service is excellent. The BYOB policy adds to the positive atmosphere, as guests can enjoy their own wine with their meal. Overall, RoVino provides a fantastic dining experience with delicious food, great service, and the added benefit of a BYOB option.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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22. Isola Pizza Bar
Features local ingredients, pet-friendly patio, and artisanal pizzas

Isola Pizza Bar is a well-known bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) spot located in the heart of Little Italy. This establishment is popular for its delicious pizza and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a casual dinner out.
During a visit to Isola Pizza Bar, customers can expect attentive and friendly service from the staff. They are accommodating to those who choose to bring their own alcohol, and the food offerings are consistently excellent. The establishment's pizza is a standout, with a perfectly crispy crust and a delicious selection of toppings. Overall, Isola Pizza Bar is a great choice for a BYOB dinner with friends or family.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
23. Roman Wolves
Authentic Italian Cuisine in a Cozy, Casual Atmosphere

Roman Wolves is a modern restaurant and bar that celebrates the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Rome, Italy. The establishment aims to capture the essence of the city's enduring legacy and its significant impact on Italian food culture. The restaurant's menu is filled with delicious pasta dishes, and patrons rave about the Great Carbonara. A highlight of the dining experience is the cheese wheel show, which adds to the restaurant's lively atmosphere.
The staff at Roman Wolves, including servers Gianluca and Vincenzo, are known for their exceptional service and kindness. They are attentive and provide great recommendations, contributing to the restaurant's warm and welcoming ambiance. The restaurant is modern, clean and pretty, making it a popular spot for Italian food lovers. Overall, Roman Wolves has earned high praise from satisfied customers, who recommend it as a must-visit destination, worthy of a perfect 10/10 score.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- High-End
- Downtown Spots