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Best Casual Restaurants in Little Italy

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123 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lala restaurant
1. Lala
4.6
Exceptional(139)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 26 times today
From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.
A photo of Civico 1845 restaurant
2. Civico 1845
4.4
Awesome(2424)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 32 times today
A new generation of Italian cuisine - fresh, light and authentic. By using proper cooking techniques, our flavors are natural and pure. Our menu is a homage to our region Calabria and southern Italian roots reflecting what is being served in Italy today. You can also find an extensive vegan menu that incorporates many of the best Italian dishes. We have been the first restaurant in the USA to have a full Italian Vegan menu since 2015! We believe in sustainability, both in our food and in the design of our restaurant. While our menu focuses on locally grown and seasonal ingredients, our bar and dining areas were created using reclaimed, natural materials. Nothing goes to waste at Civico 1845!
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
3. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1374)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Little Italy
Booked 74 times today
Kettner Exchange boasts two levels of indoor/outdoor drinking and dining and Little Italy’s only rooftop patio with spanning harbor views. We feature Progressive American cuisine from critically acclaimed Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. In 2019, Kettner Exchange was named to Michelin Guide's prestigious Bib Gourmand list. Kettner Exchange has proudly maintained this award every year thereafter. Originally introduced in 1997, the Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less.
A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
4. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.5
Awesome(4571)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Little Italy
Booked 127 times today
Little Italy was built by the fishing industry. Ironside attempts to continue that narrative. It's our contemporary interpretation of the classic fish house and oyster bar. Located in a historic auction house on India St we did a full comprehensive restoration of the building, with three open-air culinary hubs featuring an expansive raw bar, chefs table, and bakery. We tried to be mindful of the past while looking towards the future. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks.Ironside is now taking reservations for patio and dining room seating. We are now offering Happy Hour MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 3:00PM - 5:00PM.
A photo of Basta! restaurant
5. Basta!
4.4
Awesome(55)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 10 times today
Join us at Basta!, Sam the Cooking Guy's newest Italian Inspired restaurant. Basta! San Diego is the Best Italian Restaurant in Little Italy, serving Brunch, Everyday Happy Hour, Weekly Specials, and a full bar with cocktails. Check us out on social at @bastaeats or www.bastasd.com
A photo of Nonna restaurant
6. Nonna
4.7
Exceptional(958)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 15 times today
Many restaurants in Little Italy have become destinations, among them the Busalacchi family's Nonna. The rustic décor features a relaxed country-style feel throughout the restaurant, including the delightful patio. The wonderfully welcoming atmosphere celebrates yet another delicious Sicilian food lineup, including pizzas and all that you would expect from an authentic Italian menu. The terrific entrées show the Sicilian influence, and fill the restaurant with great aromas.We would love to hear your feedback on your experience.
A photo of Ristorante Illando restaurant
7. Ristorante Illando
4.6
Exceptional(818)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 14 times today
From the owner Leonardo Landini "When I decided to open Ristorante Illando, I had a vision in my head...my cozy house back in Firenze, Italy; my family dining table filled with the food I grew up with. Now I can surround you with the warmth of my Italian home and an authentic Italian meal here at Illando. Benvenuti e buon appetito a tutti!!"
A photo of Isola Little Italy restaurant
8. Isola Little Italy
4.8
Exceptional(758)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 9 times today
My Nonna's name was Isola, a wonderful cook who gave me a passion for food and fresh, simple ingredients.I have vivid memories of my grandmother turning plain bread into amazing desserts, simple apples into incredible fritters sprinkled with a little sugar and honey, and even treating my sunburns with olive oil. Thirty years later, I still savor every meal and moment.Isola is proud to serve the finest local ingredients, dalla vite, from the vine. I hope you enjoy every bite, plucked from my family tree for your table. Buon appetito!
A photo of Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room restaurant
9. Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room
4.9
Exceptional(143)
Price: Moderate
• Wine Bar • Little Italy
Booked 3 times today
Pali Wine Co. is located in famous Little Italy, San Diego, steps from the main strip. The family-owned winery highlights the diversity and nuanced qualities of the California Central Coast wine-growing area. From our Pali Pinot Noirs & Chardonnays, to our Tower 15 bold, nuanced wines, and Neighborhood zippy, natural cuvées, our three wine labels are sure to please any pallet. Stop in for a tasting flight where you can sample wines from our portfolio, step up to the bar for a customized guided tasting or grab a bottle to-go. Our menu features small and sharable plates with locally sourced ingredients ideal for sharing and sipping, including our best-selling burger, charcuterie boards, and seasonal specials. Join our wine club to enjoy complimentary tastings, receive 20% off all wine, & more exciting benefits!Weekly events include Comedy Night on Wednesdays, Trivia on Thursdays, as well as live music Friday and Saturday nights. Plus, happy hour deals weekdays 4-6pm!
A photo of Petrini's restaurant
10. Petrini's
4.6
Exceptional(431)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 3 times today
Petrini's, in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy neighborhood, serves homemade Italian dishes with a traditional authentic dishes. If you go to Music box, stop by for a dinner and a cup of wine before the show. We offer Brunch, Lunch and Dinner menus 7 days a week.The diablo shrimp in spicy wing sauce with lemon and cream, served with garlic cheese bread makes the perfect starter to your meal. Some of Petrini's' specialty entrée dishes include the smoked salmon alfredo sautéed with tomatoes and basil, garlic and rosemary served with spaghetti with tangy Pomodoro sauce and the baked white fish coated in seasoned bread crumbs in wine, butter and garlic sauce with Tuscan vegetables. Handhelds, such as the classic meatball hoagie, the vegetarian caponata sandwich with tomato-stewed eggplant and the craft-your-own pizzas, are other diner favorites.For a sweet end to your meal at Petrini's, enjoy a homemade classic Italian dessert, the layered tiramisu cake.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MellonyVIP
    Asheville / Western North Carolina •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Our very first visit was a tastebud journey down the road of a perfect dinner experience!!!!! Perfection!!! Our waiter was so awesome and fun!!! Loved it!!!
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • MatthewG
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Love the $1 oyster Mondays! Can’t beat the price and atmosphere.
    More info
    Ironside Fish & OysterPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Little Italy
    •
    4.5
  • Emily
    Dallas - Fort Worth •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We had a spectacular time at Civico 1845 for a Sunday night date! Having never been, we chose to make a reservation just to be sure. Upon arrival, we were seated right away and saw the restaurant was about half empty. Our table was in a cozy corner of the restaurant next to an open window - it was very peaceful and romantic. We loved the interior decor; it felt well curated and authentic without trying too hard. My husband ordered an amaretto sour and I ordered a Bellini. Both drinks were delicious! The server brought out the complimentary focaccia and pesto, both of which were super fresh and tasty. The bread was soft, chewy, and the outside was perfectly oiled and crispy. I could've eaten the pesto with a spoon. We also had the "pompette" meatball appetizer. This was just divine. Three large, perfectly cooked meatballs in a simply delicious tomato sauce with whipped ricotta. YUM! For entrees, I had the fusilli alla norma and my husband ordered the pappardelle brasato. I loved how simple my dish was, yet so full of flavor. The short rib ragu that covered my husband's pasta was so tender and again, simply delicious. Every staff member we interacted with from start to finish was friendly, kind, and attentive. We just could not believe what a great meal and time we had a Civico 1845! We are not local, so we don't know when we'll be back, which is a shame because we already are craving it again!
    More info
    Civico 1845Price: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.4
  • Kim
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 28, 2024
    The staff and the GM are nothing short of amazing! True reflection of Sam, their leader. The food was fresh and tasty. All 6 of us loved what we ordered. Location on a Saturday…prime time people watching during the farmers market. Chefs kiss to Basta!! Thank you!!
    More info
    Basta!Price: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.4
  • 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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