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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Clairemont

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26 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lucrezia restaurant
1. Lucrezia
4.5
Awesome(617)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 46 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, Lucrezia offers an exquisite journey through Contemporary Italian cuisine that is nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant is celebrated for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes that transport diners straight to the heart of Italy. Guests rave about the "amazing" pastas, with standout mentions for the Cacio e Pepe and Lobster Fra Diavolo. The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making it perfect for any special occasion. Lucrezia promises an unforgettable culinary voyage, with every dish telling a story of Italian summers, curated with passion and authenticity.
A photo of La Pastaia restaurant
2. La Pastaia
4.3
Awesome(334)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Bay Park
Booked 9 times today
La Pastaia in Bay Park, San Diego is a hidden gem for authentic American cuisine, delivering a dining experience that diners rave about. From the moment you step inside, you're embraced by an inviting and warm atmosphere that sets the stage for a delightful meal. "What a gem! Such a beautiful spot with amazing food and wonderful service," one guest exclaims. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in every dish, from perfectly cooked ribeye steaks to creative American-inspired appetizers. With an attentive staff that goes above and beyond—"Sergio's service was beyond anything"—La Pastaia is a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional American dining experience.
A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant
3. North Italia - Fashion Valley
4.7
Exceptional(2704)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Mission Valley
Booked 69 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 Marisi restaurant
4. Marisi
4.6
Exceptional(1153)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 78 times today
Marisi, nestled in the charming locale of La Jolla, offers an unparalleled experience in Contemporary Italian cuisine that transports diners straight to the Amalfi coast. With an unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, Marisi delights with "authentic pasta" crafted daily and a menu that evolves with the seasons to present the freshest Italian delights. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "a warm, charming villa," offers a perfect setting for enjoying the "amazing food, service, and ambiance." Guests rave about the "extraordinary culinary innovation" and impeccable service, making every visit to Marisi a memorable exploration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
A photo of Nolita Hall restaurant
5. Nolita Hall
4.3
Awesome(809)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 37 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.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
6. Roman Wolves
4.6
Exceptional(376)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 38 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!
A photo of Barbusa restaurant
7. Barbusa
4.7
Exceptional(4366)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 76 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.
A photo of Catania restaurant
8. Catania
4.8
Exceptional(2106)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 34 times today
Catania, nestled in the scenic La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic Contemporary Italian cuisine. Inspired by an Italian road trip, Catania stands out with its commitment to authenticity, boasting wood-burning ovens and grills that bring the vibrant flavors of Italy's coastal cuisine to life. Guests rave about the "amazing dining experience," highlighting dishes like the "crispy octopus" and "duck sugo pasta" as must-tries. The restaurant's all-Italian wine list and exclusive craft beer program further enhance the authenticity, making each visit not just a meal, but a tasteful journey to Italy.
A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant
9. Alexander's on 30th
4.8
Exceptional(3141)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • North Park
Booked 83 times today
Alexander's on 30th in North Park, San Diego, is renowned for its exquisite Italian-inspired Seafood cuisine. The restaurant seamlessly blends gourmet flair with homestyle comfort, creating a truly unique dining experience. Diners rave about the Chilean Sea Bass, with one review calling it "delicious" and recommending it highly. Another standout dish is the seafood stuffed mushrooms, described as "to die for." The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, promising a memorable meal with every visit. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or a curious first-timer, Alexander's is a must-visit for an unforgettable culinary journey.
A photo of RustiCucina restaurant
10. RustiCucina
4.6
Exceptional(1196)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Hillcrest
Booked 18 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.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Diner
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great service and food. Highly recommend for a casual dinner or formal occasion.
    More info
    North Italia - Fashion ValleyPrice: Expensive• Italian• Mission Valley
    •
    4.7
  • Marques
    Phoenix / Arizona •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food: phenomenal. The atmosphere: outstanding. Service: memorable. Would highly recommend. Our server May C was locked in.
    More info
    MarisiPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • Mel
    Orange County •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Arron and Leo are exceptional hosts who provided an unforgettable experience at Nolita Hall. We arrived before 4 pm and were delighted by the extensive happy hour menu. We opted for the cheese board, which featured pepperoni pizza, and it was an exceptional pairing. To complement our meal, we enjoyed a “Where is my passport?” cocktail and a blonde beer. The overall experience was exceptional, and the hosts left a lasting impression. We highly recommend visiting Nolita Hall and will certainly return with friends and family. -Mel
    More info
    Nolita HallPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.3
  • Jason
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 16, 2025
    My partner and I had an amazing experience. There were absolutely no complaints whatsoever from the service to the food which by the way, spectacular. I don’t think anything was wrong with it and will definitely come back again.
    More info
    LucreziaPrice: Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.5
  • Janey
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 16, 2025
    Amazing food and loved our waiter. He was so nice and accommodating. Will be back if ever back in town.
    More info
    La PastaiaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Bay Park
    •
    4.3

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