Best of 23 restaurants in Little Italy San Diego

Discover our curated list of top-ranked restaurants in Little Italy San Diego, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Mona Lisa Italian Foods, The Crack Shack - Little Italy, Landini's Pizzeria, Mimmo's, Bencotto. Let's explore together!

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1. Mona Lisa Italian Foods

Cozy family-owned restaurant with authentic Italian food

  • Time:

    9 AM to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (4075 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2061 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Italian dishes, friendly service, generous portions
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, limited vegetarian options, hit-or-miss quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Lasagna, Margherita pizza, Eggplant parmesan
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in the mouthwatering offerings at Mona Lisa Italian Foods, where every bite is a tantalizing escape to the streets of Italy. Delight in the savory meatball sandwich, generously layered with cheese, and though the peppers and onions may have been amiss, the flavors danced harmoniously on your palate. The accompanying salad provided a refreshing counterpart, adding a crisp and zesty note to your meal. While the dining experience may not embody the essence of an authentic Italian eatery as anticipated, the charming ambiance and warm vibes of the place offer a cozy retreat for a delicious meal with friends.
Step into Mona Lisa Italian Foods and unearth a culinary journey brimming with delectable delights that ignite the senses. From the hearty fare like the sumptuous meatball sandwich to the fresh and vibrant salad, each dish is a testament to the kitchen's dedication to flavor and quality. Though the authenticity may not meet traditional standards, the inviting atmosphere and intimate setting provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. Let Mona Lisa Italian Foods transport you to a gastronomic paradise where every bite tells a story of passion and culinary craftsmanship.

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

Relate link

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2. The Crack Shack - Little Italy

High-quality, free-range chicken sourced from renowned farms in the Pacific Northwest

  • Time:

    10 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (5590 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2266 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Known for its delicious and juicy chicken dishes, offers catering services, spacious outdoor seating with a fun atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, may have long wait times during peak hours, some condiments can be overly salty
  • Popular Menu:

    Fried chicken sandwiches, deviled eggs, and biscuits
  • Price Range:

    $10-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Lunch
  • Downtown Spots

3. Landini's Pizzeria

Serving coal-fired brick oven pizza since 1996

  • Time:

    11 AM to 11 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1672 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1827 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Laid-back pizzeria with a lively atmosphere, extensive menu, and excellent cocktails.
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, limited seating, cash-only policy may be inconvenient for some customers.
  • Popular Menu:

    New York-style pizza, calzones, and stromboli.
  • Price Range:

    $10-$30
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in the mouthwatering slices at Landini's Pizzeria, your go-to spot for a quick and delicious pizza fix. Say goodbye to long waiting times; here, piping hot slices are ready to be savored without delay. As you bite into these flavorful treats, you can't help but notice the authentic New York-style charm that sets Little Italy's top-rated pizzeria apart. Every slice boasts a tantalizing blend of ingredients that are as visually appealing as they are delicious, leaving you craving more with each bite. Don't miss your chance to experience the perfect balance of gooey cheese, savory toppings, and that unmistakable, satisfying drip of oil that signifies a truly fantastic slice.

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

4. Mimmo's

Family-owned restaurant with a long history in San Diego

  • Time:

    11 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1521 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1743 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Excellent service, delicious food, authentic Italian atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can be noisy and crowded, prices on the higher side, limited parking
  • Popular Menu:

    Margherita pizza, spaghetti carbonara, lasagna
  • Price Range:

    $20-$40
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in a culinary paradise at Mimmo's, where every sip from the exquisite wine selection and every bite of the flavorful linguine feels like a dream. The charming servers and inviting outdoor seating only add to the experience, leaving you captivated by the perfection of it all. From the fresh focaccia to the impeccable service, this hidden gem in downtown San Diego promises a dining experience that will linger in your memory long after you've left.
Embark on a romantic journey at Mimmo's in Little Italy, where the delightful blend of authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance sets the stage for a memorable date night. Immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere and let the delectable dishes transport you to the heart of Italy. With each bite, you'll savor the passion and dedication that go into creating such an exceptional dining experience, making Mimmo's a must-visit destination in San Diego.

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

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quiche in Little Italy San Diego

5. Bencotto

Authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1831 Review by google)
  • Address:

    750 W Fir St #103, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Spacious and stylish interior, friendly service, popular for private events and group dining
  • Cons:

    Some reviews mention hit-or-miss food quality, can be noisy, parking can be challenging
  • Popular Menu:

    Handmade pasta, risotto, and wood-fired pizzas
  • Price Range:

    $15-$35
Phone Directions Website
Bencotto, a San Diego gem, left me compelled to break my four-star norm for this public service review. A Saturday night visit felt like pure celebration, commemorating my sister’s birthday. Our culinary journey began with a delectable calamari appetizer, leading to my indulgent choice of pasta - a creamy white sauce delicately enveloping ham, served within a Parmesan cheese bowl.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

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kid-friendly restaurants in Little Italy San Diego

6. Herb & Wood

Executive chef Brian Malarkey's culinary expertise and farm-to-table approach

  • Time:

    5 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (2062 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern California-Mediterranean cuisine, open kitchen design, popular happy hour menu
  • Cons:

    Reservations can be hard to get, limited vegetarian options, expensive for some customers
  • Popular Menu:

    Wood-fired seafood, homemade pasta, artisanal cocktails
  • Price Range:

    $$$$
Phone Directions Website
Herb & Wood offers a culinary experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. From the impeccably crafted caulilini salad to the rich and flavorful oxtail gnocchi and the decadent raspberry soufflé, each dish is a masterpiece. The menu is elegant yet approachable, with a variety of vegetarian options and appetizers that delight the senses. The restaurant's ambiance is both sophisticated and inviting, with artistic touches like a whimsical unicorn at the entrance and a striking golden gorilla in the kitchen that add to the overall charm. Don't miss out on this exquisite dining destination in San Diego.

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Asian Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

7. Monello

Seasonal ingredients, house-made pastas, pet-friendly patio

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1466 Review by google)
  • Address:

    750 W Fir St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern Italian cuisine, extensive wine list, lively atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can be noisy, prices on the higher side, limited parking
  • Popular Menu:

    Homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, seafood dishes
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website
For a unique dining experience, head to Monello and indulge in their mouthwatering cheese wheel pasta. Each week, they unveil a new pasta dish served on a giant wheel of cheese, an impressive sight to behold. Watching the pasta gracefully tossed on the wheel adds to the excitement. Visiting on a quieter night like Thursdays ensures a more intimate setting to savor this culinary spectacle. I tried the pasta special, and it exceeded my expectations- a truly unforgettable and delectable meal that ticked off a bucket list item.

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Corporate Events
  • Vegetarian Options

8. Solunto Restaurant & Bakery

Authentic Sicilian cuisine in a family-owned restaurant

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1328 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1643 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Italian dishes, Friendly staff, Cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Parking can be difficult to find, Some dishes may be too salty for some palates, Limited vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Pizza, Pasta, Cannoli
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Solunto Restaurant & Bakery lured me in with its unassuming charm, as the owner casually hyped up the fare. The pasta was a standout, complemented perfectly by the crispy calamari that left me craving for more. The ambiance exuded warmth, with our happy hour cocktails pairing seamlessly with the generous portions. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the friendly staff made our visit to Little Italy a memorable one.

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Gluten-Free
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

9. Buon Appetito Restaurant

Traditional Italian dishes in a romantic setting

  • Time:

    12 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (2652 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1609 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Excellent Italian food, friendly service, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can be crowded and noisy, limited parking, expensive for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Lasagna, Margherita pizza, Tiramisu
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $35
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

10. Davanti Enoteca

Offers a unique Italian enoteca experience

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1803 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1655 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of Italian wines, Cozy and romantic atmosphere, Knowledgeable and attentive staff
  • Cons:

    Menu prices on the higher side, Small portions, Limited vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Charcuterie and cheese board, Bruschetta, Risotto
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Vegan Options
  • Kosher Options

11. Juniper & Ivy

Located in a historic naval hospital, Artistic food presentation, Focus on local and sustainable ingredients

  • Time:

    5 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (2245 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2228 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern California-Coastal cuisine, Innovative cocktails, Upscale ambiance, Farm-to-table approach, Exceptional service
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, Limited vegetarian options, Dress code enforced
  • Popular Menu:

    Uni Carbonara, Duck Confit, Baja Striped Bass, Foie Gras Bon Bons, A5 Wagyu
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Celebrations
  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

12. Little Italy Food Hall

Features local San Diego eateries and authentic Italian dishes

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1265 Review by google)
  • Address:

    550 W Date St suite b, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of food options, modern and clean atmosphere, great for groups and events
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, limited seating, prices slightly higher than some competitors
  • Popular Menu:

    Pizza, pasta, and gelato
  • Price Range:

    $10 - $30 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range
  • Dinner

13. Barbusa

Modern Mediterranean cuisine with a California twist

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (2101 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1917 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of Mediterranean dishes, stylish ambiance, vegetarian and vegan options available
  • Cons:

    Pricey for the portion size, hit-or-miss service, parking can be difficult
  • Popular Menu:

    Charred Octopus, Paella, Branzino
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

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14. Cloak and Petal

Instagrammable decor and unique Japanese-Californian fusion dishes

  • Time:

    4 to 11 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1017 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1953 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers happy hour specials, creative cocktails, and a modern atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Some find the prices a bit high, can get crowded, and limited parking
  • Popular Menu:

    Brussels sprouts, miso-glazed salmon, and crispy rice spam
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

Relate link

fried rice in Little Italy San Diego

15. Civico 1845

Seasonally-driven Italian cuisine in a historic building

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (2606 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1845 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Elegant atmosphere, attentive service, extensive wine list, vegan and gluten-free options available.
  • Cons:

    Some dishes are hit-or-miss, limited parking, slightly higher price point.
  • Popular Menu:

    Brussels sprouts, squash blossoms, risotto, gnocchi, tagliatelle
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegan Options
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

16. Nonna + Zucchero

Authentic Italian cuisine in a charming setting

  • Time:

    9 AM to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1993 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1735 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of Italian dishes, cozy atmosphere, extensive wine list
  • Cons:

    Prices can be on the higher side, limited parking, small portions
  • Popular Menu:

    Margherita pizza, lasagna, tiramisu
  • Price Range:

    $20-$40
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • Mid-Range

Relate link

diners in Little Italy San Diego

17. Ristorante Illando

Contemporary Italian cuisine with a California twist

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (747 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1825 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Outdoor seating, good for groups, offers vegetarian options, stylish decor, attentive service
  • Cons:

    Pricey, limited parking, some dishes may be too rich for some palates
  • Popular Menu:

    Branzino, Risotto, Tiramisu
  • Price Range:

    $31-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Mid-Range
  • Hidden Gems

18. Allegro Restaurant and Bar

A modern Italian restaurant in the Little Italy district with a cozy atmosphere.

  • Rating: 4.1/5 (660 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1536 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a diverse menu, great ambiance, and good cocktails.
  • Cons:

    Some reviews mention slow service and hit-or-miss dishes.
  • Popular Menu:

    Beef Carpaccio, Rigatoni Alla Vodka, and Pan-Seared Scallops.
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $35
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Corporate Events
  • Downtown Spots

19. Coco Maya

Beautiful oceanfront location with a lively atmosphere

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (224 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1660 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a variety of Mexican and seafood dishes, Beautiful ocean views, Live music and entertainment
  • Cons:

    Prices can be on the higher side, Service can be slow during peak hours, Limited vegan and gluten-free options
  • Popular Menu:

    Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos, Carne Asada Burrito, Ceviche Tostada
  • Price Range:

    $20-$40
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

20. RoVino Restaurant + Bar

European-inspired dishes served in a cozy and intimate setting

  • Time:

    5 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (455 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2034 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of wines, friendly and attentive service, pleasant ambiance
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, some dishes are hit-or-miss, parking can be difficult
  • Popular Menu:

    Beef Carpaccio, Rigatoni Alla Vodka, Branzino
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

Relate link

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21. Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant

Extensive Italian wine list and focus on local ingredients

  • Time:

    4 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.9/5 (274 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1445 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of wines, knowledgeable staff, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Pricey food options, limited seating, cash-only policy
  • Popular Menu:

    Cheese and charcuterie boards, pasta dishes, bruschetta
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30 per dish
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Waterfront

22. Sogno Di Vino

Intimate atmosphere with a focus on wine and small plates

  • Time:

    12 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (161 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1607 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Outdoor seating, extensive wine list, knowledgeable staff
  • Cons:

    Prices on the higher side, limited food options, small location
  • Popular Menu:

    Charcuterie Board, Bruschetta, Margherita Pizza
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Downtown Spots
  • Weekend Dining

23. Ambrogio15 Little Italy

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner
  • Mid-Range

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