Best Italian Restaurants in Old Town

Price: Moderate (217)Price: Expensive (127)Price: Very Expensive (29)

76 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Trattoria Don Pietro restaurant

1. Trattoria Don Pietro

4.6

Exceptional(787)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Old Town

Booked 10 times today

Trattoria Don Pietro in Old Town, San Diego, is a gem for authentic Italian cuisine with a modern flair. Chef Pietro, with years of experience in LA's top Italian eateries, brings a menu that marries traditional Italian recipes with contemporary twists, making it a culinary hotspot. Diners rave about the "authentic and delicious arancini" and the "sexy creamy spaghetti," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to genuine Italian flavors. The ambiance, enhanced by a beautiful wisteria garden patio, sets the stage for an Instagram-worthy dining experience. Guests consistently praise the warm service and innovative dishes, ensuring a memorable visit with every plate served. Whether you are a local or a visitor, Trattoria Don Pietro promises an exceptional Italian dining adventure right in the heart of San Diego.

A photo of Jack & Giulio's Italian Restaurant restaurant

2. Jack & Giulio's Italian Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(1150)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Old Town

Booked 2 times today

Jack and Giulio's Italian restaurant has remained a favorite of San Diegans for many years. This popular restaurant, formerly known as Giulio's of Pacific Beach, has proudly served the "Best Scampi" since 1961. In addition to this popular dish, this family-owned and operated restaurant offers many homemade pastas, veal, poultry, beef, and seafood specialties.

A photo of Pizza Bella Italian Bistro restaurant

3. Pizza Bella Italian Bistro

4.4

Awesome(8)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Old Town

Booked 3 times today

At Pizza Bella Italian Bistro in Old Town, San Diego, you'll discover a slice of Italy in every bite. Celebrated as "Old Town’s Best Kept Secret," this beloved spot serves up authentic Italian flavors that have captivated both locals and national food critics. With over forty years of culinary tradition, Pizza Bella offers an array of classic Italian dishes, from their award-winning pizza to delectable fettuccine Alfredo, all praised for their freshness and authenticity. Diners rave about the "amazing pizza that felt like we were in a small pizza villa in Italy" and commend the "authentic Italian food" that makes every meal memorable. This gem provides not just a meal but a genuine Italian experience right in the heart of San Diego.

4. Cesarina

4.8

Exceptional(5358)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Ocean Beach

Booked 187 times today

Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.

5. Seneca

4.7

Exceptional(4003)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 114 times today

Seneca, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offers a splendid Italian dining experience that captures the essence of Roman simplicity and culinary excellence. The restaurant brilliantly merges traditional Roman cooking techniques with San Diego's rich ingredient palette, creating a "True Roman Holiday in SD." Diners consistently praise its authentic Italian offerings, with one visitor remarking, "Visiting from Italy, good food selection and octopus tasted beautifully :)." The atmosphere is equally lauded, from its stunning downtown harbor views to its vibrant ambiance, making every visit memorable. Whether celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual meal, Seneca stands out as a top choice for authentic Italian cuisine in San Diego.

6. Barbusa

4.6

Exceptional(4234)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 82 times today

Barbusa, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy in San Diego, offers a slice of Sicily with its authentic and modern Italian cuisine. Praised for its "excellent food" and "lively atmosphere," this gem stands out for its handcrafted pastas, stone-fired pizzas, and the freshest seafood. A favorite among locals, Barbusa is celebrated for its distinctive dishes like the Sicilian Ribeye and short rib lasagna, which are consistently lauded by diners. Guests rave about the "fantastic food" and "incredible ambiance," making it a must-visit for anyone craving a true Italian experience. With options for gluten-free and vegan diners, Barbusa ensures a delightful dining experience for all.

7. Roman Wolves

4.5

Awesome(262)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 38 times today

At Roman Wolves, located in the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood of San Diego, diners are treated to a sublime Contemporary Italian culinary experience that's rooted in Rome's illustrious traditions. With a menu that boasts the ever-popular cheese wheel pasta, described as "the best thing ever," and dishes like the oxtail ragu and guanciale & pepper bucatini, the authenticity and innovation are palpable. Reviewers rave about the "amazing quality food" and the atmosphere that makes every meal memorable. One diner enthused, "If you want true Italian food like Italy, this is the place to go." Whether it's the impeccable service, the thoughtful dishes, or the vibrant ambiance, Roman Wolves represents the pinnacle of Contemporary Italian cuisine in San Diego.

8. Madison

4.4

Awesome(2971)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • University Heights

Booked 35 times today

Madison, nestled in the vibrant University Heights of San Diego, is a jewel of Californian cuisine that resonates with authenticity and culinary excellence. Praised for its "amazing food and drinks," Madison showcases the creativity of Michelin recognized Chef Mario Cassineri. Patrons consistently rave about experiences that go beyond dining, highlighting the superb service and vibrant atmosphere, especially during their themed nights like the lively 'Dinner with Dogs' and enchanting live jazz evenings. The carefully curated menu features standout dishes like the Pistachio Pesto Pasta and the Zucchini fries with spicy marinara, making every meal a celebration of California's rich flavors and innovative spirit. As one reviewer puts it, Madison is "definitely a must" for anyone seeking a quintessential Californian dining experience in San Diego.

A photo of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant restaurant

9. Farmer's Bottega Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(1575)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Mission Hills

Booked 32 times today

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant, a beacon of French culinary excellence nestled in the heart of Mission Hills, San Diego. Celebrated for its authentic farm-to-table approach, this quaint eatery offers a slice of French countryside with its fresh, vibrant flavors and impeccable craftsmanship. Patrons rave about the "unforgettable and flavorful dishes," such as the tender short rib entree and the sophisticated limoncello dessert, each a testament to the chef's dedication to quality. With its cozy European bistro ambiance and stellar service, Farmer's Bottega isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey through the heart of France, earning glowing reviews for creating memorable dining experiences. Don't miss the chance to indulge in their celebrated Cacio E Pepe or the exquisite salmon with lemon risotto. As one diner puts it, "You need to go."

10. The Red Door

4.7

Exceptional(2951)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Mission Hills

Booked 14 times today

Nestled in the heart of Mission Hills, San Diego, The Red Door shines as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence. This charming eatery is dedicated to sustainable, responsibly-sourced fare, highlighted by Chef/Owner Luciano Cibelli's daily ritual of hand-selecting the freshest local ingredients. Patrons rave about the "expertly crafted cocktails, tender and smoky grilled octopus, and a rich, creamy risotto," which underscore the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The handmade gluten-free bucatini and nightly specials like Beef Wellington receive high praise, with many noting the "memorable" dining experience fostered by attentive service and a cozy ambiance. Enthusiastic diners recommend The Red Door for anyone seeking authentic, meticulously prepared Italian and modern European dishes, making it a must-visit culinary destination in San Diego.

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Discover best Italian restaurants in Old Town

Explore authentic Italian dining in the heart of Old Town, San Diego, where a variety of restaurants offer a genuine taste of Italy. Each venue brings a unique flair to traditional Italian cuisine, utilizing both local ingredients and imported specialties from Italy to craft dishes that satisfy both classic and innovative culinary preferences. Patrons can expect a range of options, from wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas to meticulously crafted pastas and delightful gluten-free choices, all served in atmospheres that blend Italian charm with local culture. The dining scene in Old Town is noted for its high-quality service and inviting ambiance, making it a prime destination for both casual diners and food connoisseurs. These restaurants are celebrated for their commitment to authenticity, with chefs who boast extensive experience in Italian culinary traditions, ensuring every meal is both delicious and memorable. Ideal for family outings, romantic dinners, or a night out with friends, Old Town’s Italian eateries promise an exceptional dining experience that brings a slice of Italy to San Diego.

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