Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Old Town

24 restaurants available nearby

1. Roman Wolves

4.6

Exceptional(336)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 58 times today

Roman Wolves in Little Italy, San Diego, is a shining gem for Cocktail Bar enthusiasts. This vibrant establishment is celebrated for its exquisite cocktails, with the Hugo Spritz receiving rave reviews as "incredible" and leaving patrons eager for more. The talented bartenders at Roman Wolves ensure that each drink is a masterpiece, complementing the rich Italian culinary experience. Diners frequently commend the bar's atmosphere, describing it as lively and welcoming, perfect for both intimate gatherings and spirited celebrations. If you're seeking a memorable cocktail experience in the heart of San Diego, Roman Wolves is the place to be!

2. Nolita Hall

4.3

Awesome(779)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 57 times today

Nolita Hall, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Pizza Bar experience that transports diners straight to the heart of Italy. Known for its Fiori woodfire oven, this beloved spot crafts pizzas that are nothing short of spectacular. Patrons rave about the "pepperoni pizza with honey" as being "awesome," highlighting the unique and delightful flavor combinations that set Nolita Hall apart. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of fun and elegance, with many calling it a "great place to watch a sports game" while indulging in top-quality pizzas. It's a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking authentic taste and vibrant ambiance.

3. Barbusa

4.6

Exceptional(4325)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 80 times today

Barbusa, located in the vibrant Little Italy of San Diego, stands out as a premier destination for seafood enthusiasts. Known for its "freshest seafood," Barbusa consistently delights guests with its authentic and modern Sicilian flair. Diners rave about the "amazing dishes" and the exceptional service that complements the vibrant atmosphere. The seafood offerings at Barbusa are not just meals; they are culinary experiences, crafted with precision and served with passion. Guests frequently highlight the "delicious food" and "amazing waiter service," making every visit memorable. For those seeking quality seafood with a touch of Sicilian charm, Barbusa is a must-visit.

4. Lala

4.6

Exceptional(139)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 29 times today

Lala, nestled in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy, offers an enchanting experience of Contemporary Italian cuisine that captivates with its modern flair and timeless flavors. This chic eatery perfectly marries tradition with innovation, presenting dishes like the inventive loaded potato gnocchi and the exquisite squid ink pasta with lobster. Guests rave about the "incredible ambiance" and "stellar service," with standout cocktails like the "Lala Martini" elevating the dining experience. The cozy, romantic setting, coupled with a commitment to sustainability, ensures that every visit is both memorable and meaningful. Join Lala for a true celebration of Italian culinary excellence.

A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant

5. Bencotto Italian Kitchen

4.6

Exceptional(3313)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 57 times today

Bencotto Italian Kitchen, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, is a standout spot for authentic Mediterranean cuisine. With a dedication to "75 kinds of different pasta recipes, fresh and hand-crafted 12 hours a day," Bencotto truly honors the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Diners rave about the "incredible cheese wheel pasta" and commend the restaurant for its "exceptional food and service." The intimate, sophisticated atmosphere, coupled with the restaurant's commitment to authenticity, ensures that each dish is a delightful journey to Italy. Whether enjoying a cozy meal upstairs or at the lively bar downstairs, Bencotto offers a quintessential Mediterranean dining experience.

A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant

6. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge

4.4

Awesome(633)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 28 times today

Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge is a standout gem in Downtown San Diego, offering an authentic Californian twist on Mediterranean and Italian classics. Just steps from the marina, this culinary haven is celebrated for its "fantastic Italian food" and "delicious cocktails," creating a "multi-sensory culinary sanctuary" that invites guests to relax and indulge. Diners rave about the vibrant atmosphere, with one delighted guest noting, "Everything about this place was amazing!" The combination of exquisite dishes like the "spicy rigatoni with just the right amount of heat" and impeccable service make Salvatore's a must-visit for those seeking exceptional Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean flair.

7. RustiCucina

4.6

Exceptional(1164)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Hillcrest

Booked 46 times today

RustiCucina in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a beacon of authentic Californian cuisine with a delightful touch of Sicilian flair. This charming eatery captivates food enthusiasts with its commitment to "locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes," ensuring every bite is fresh and vibrant. The fusion of American and Sicilian tastes offers an unparalleled farm-to-neighborhood experience, making it a community favorite. Diners rave about the "amazing food and dining experience," with standout dishes like the "cheese wheel pasta" and "pesto pasta creamy and delicious." With a warm ambiance and a pet-friendly outdoor space, RustiCucina is a must-visit for those seeking quality Californian cuisine.

A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant

8. North Italia - Fashion Valley

4.7

Exceptional(2666)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Mission Valley

Booked 91 times today

North Italia - Fashion Valley in Mission Valley, San Diego, offers a “fantastic” Contemporary Italian dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Known for its “authentically prepared” dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients, North Italia excels in providing a modern twist on classic Italian cuisine. Guests rave about the “delicious” handmade pastas and pizzas, with standout flavors like the ‘Hot Honey & Smoked Prosciutto’ pizza, lauded for its perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and salty notes. The warm atmosphere and “excellent service” complete the experience, making it a “staple” for both locals and visitors seeking genuine Italian flavors.

A photo of Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge restaurant

9. Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge

4.2

Awesome(241)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 17 times today

Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that will leave your taste buds singing. Renowned as the city's first cheese wheel bar, this modern chic restaurant draws diners in with "the irresistible sight and smell of authentic Italian flavors." Guests rave about the "mind-blowing" carbonara and the "exceptional" cheese wheel dishes that are both a visual and flavorful delight. The ambiance is lively yet intimate, providing a perfect backdrop for savoring dishes that "taste just like Italy." From outstanding service to exquisite cuisine, Vincenzo's is a must-visit for any Italian food enthusiast.

A photo of Cori Pastificio Trattoria restaurant

10. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

4.7

Exceptional(626)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • North Park

Booked 33 times today

Nestled in the heart of North Park, San Diego, Cori Pastificio Trattoria is a seafood haven that promises an extraordinary culinary experience. Acclaimed chef Accursio Lota, known for his authentic Sicilian flair, creates masterpieces that captivate the palate with the freshest seafood and local ingredients. Diners rave about the "spectacular seafood pasta" and "craveable scallops with risotto," praising the restaurant's ability to flawlessly combine traditional Italian techniques with a California twist. The cozy, intimate atmosphere enhances the dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers seeking both quality and authenticity in every bite.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
JeremyVIP
San Diego •65 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Continues to be reliably one of the best Italian restaurants in San Diego
More info
Bencotto Italian KitchenPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6
L
Lois
Las Vegas •47 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We went to Nolita Hall for dinner, after having their brunch, which was really good. We had the focaccia with burrata appetizer then ordered the hot honey pizza, nidi pasta & pork belly bites; all were delicious.
More info
Nolita HallPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
•
4.3
L
Lindsey
Central Kentucky •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
This was one of the best pasta experiences my husband and I have ever had! All food was delicious however the pastas were extraordinarily delicious. We ordered 3 and ate every bite! Thank you Roman Wolves for an exceptional meal!
More info
Roman WolvesPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6
L
Laura
Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jan 2, 2025
The food, service and atmosphere were all wonderful. Stefano was our server and he was amazing! They were able to accommodate a simple cheese pizza for our kids, Stefano provided an exceptional wine pairing recommendation, and overall a great experience. Can’t wait to return.
More info
BarbusaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6
C
Christopher
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on Dec 25, 2024
Absolutely Beautiful for Christmas Eve dinner!! Decorations were gorgeous, ambiance was intimate, festive, warm, cheerful. Food was delicious loved grilled oysters, bruschetta, fried short rib balls, steak was yummmy!! Drinks were great, and service was on point! Beautiful experience thank You La La!! Merry Christmas Happy Holidays and Happy New Year💗✨
More info
LalaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Old Town

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24 restaurants available nearby

1. Roman Wolves

2. Nolita Hall

3. Barbusa

4. Lala

5. Bencotto Italian Kitchen

6. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge

7. RustiCucina

8. North Italia - Fashion Valley

9. Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge

10. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

See what locals rave about

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