Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Diego

Best Italian Restaurants in Vista

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

114 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant
1. Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse
4.7
Exceptional(4952)
$$$$
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 44 times today
Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse in Carlsbad offers an exceptional seafood dining experience that is both authentic and exquisite. Known for its fresh seafood towers brimming with oysters, clams, mussels, crab, lobster, and jumbo prawns, it's no wonder diners rave about the "truly 5-star" quality of the dishes. The cioppino is often described as "beyond delicious," making it a must-try for seafood lovers. With its stunning oceanfront location and impeccable service, this restaurant not only delivers a visual feast but a culinary delight as well. Dining here is an "outstanding experience in every regard," perfect for any occasion.
A photo of 264 Fresco restaurant
2. 264 Fresco
4.5
Awesome(2841)
$$$$
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 48 times today
Nestled in the heart of Carlsbad, 264 Fresco is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine, consistently impressing diners with its emphasis on quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the "outstanding" Chilean sea bass and branzino, which are expertly prepared to highlight the fresh, delicate flavors of the sea. The calamari, often praised as a perfect starter, sets the tone for a sublime dining experience. With a commitment to using only the finest ingredients, 264 Fresco delivers dishes that are both fresh and flavorful. The warm, lively atmosphere and attentive service make it a top choice for seafood lovers seeking an unforgettable meal.
A photo of Verise restaurant
3. Verise
4.1
Excellent(45)
$$$$
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 10 times today
Verise is a declaration of Italian romance, rooted in authenticity, shaped by seasonality, and devoted to the quiet pleasure of slowing down. Conceived by Chefs Riccardo Bilotta, the restaurant draws from the soul of Central Italy while embracing the ease of Southern California. Bilotta brings experience from two Michelin star Il Pellicano and three Michelin star El Celler de Can Roca, while Chef de Cuisine Kevin Martinez leads with clarity, technique, and peak season ingredients. Each morning begins with pastas made in house, and the menu shifts with the market. Guests can expect moments of delight, from a tableside cheese wheel to a cocktail program built around seasonal spritzes. Just beyond the dining room, a sun warmed olive grove evokes a quiet corner of the Italian countryside, inviting guests to linger, savor, and embrace Italian romance made real.
A photo of Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana restaurant
4. Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana
4.7
Exceptional(2931)
$$$$
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 23 times today
Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana in downtown Carlsbad is a seafood lover's paradise, renowned for its "fresh and delightful" seafood offerings that consistently impress. Reviewers rave about the "incredible cioppino" and "out of this world Alaskan Halibut," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. The seafood dishes are beautifully prepared, capturing the essence of Northern Italian cuisine with every bite. With attentive service and a charming ambiance, Vigilucci's provides an exceptional dining experience where each seafood dish is crafted with precision and passion. It's no wonder patrons declare it one of Carlsbad's finest dining destinations.
A photo of Gregorio's Restaurant restaurant
5. Gregorio's Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(467)
$$$$
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 19 times today
Gregorio's Restaurant in the heart of Carlsbad is a hidden gem for seafood lovers, renowned for its exceptional Italian flair. The seafood offerings are consistently praised for their fresh and authentic taste, with many reviewers singling out the "best cioppino seafood dish in town!" This popular dish exemplifies Gregorio's commitment to quality and authenticity, drawing patrons back time and again. The restaurant's dedication to maintaining the essence of family recipes while incorporating their own unique touches ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a local or visiting Carlsbad, Gregorio's is a must-visit for an unforgettable seafood meal.
A photo of Buona Forchetta - San Marcos restaurant
6. Buona Forchetta - San Marcos
4.5
Awesome(553)
$$$$
• Italian • San Marcos
Booked 30 times today
Buona Forchetta - San Marcos is a beacon of authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, perfectly nestled in San Marcos' vibrant North City. Known for its luxurious yet welcoming ambiance, this Pizza Bar excels in delivering "hands-down the best most authentic Naples style pizza you can get anywhere outside of Southern Italy." The gilded oven is the heart of the restaurant, consistently producing pizzas that delight patrons with their authentic flavors and impeccable quality. Guests rave about the "outstanding food" and "consistent quality," making it a must-visit for pizza lovers. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this charming spot promises a delightful dining experience.
A photo of Amalfi Cucina Italiana Oceanside restaurant
7. Amalfi Cucina Italiana Oceanside
4.6
Exceptional(144)
$$$$
• Italian • Oceanside
Booked 23 times today
Indulge in the authentic flavors of Italy at our restaurant, where our world-renowned chefs and seasoned restaurant managers bring over 30 years of international fine dining expertise to every dish. Savor our meticulously crafted pizzas, pastas, and seafood, each prepared with the utmost care and tradition. Enhance your dining experience with our weekly specials, inspired by the culinary genius of Chef Marcello, and discover a new layer of delight with every visit.
A photo of Blade 1936 restaurant
8. Blade 1936
4.5
Awesome(1118)
$$$$
• Italian • Oceanside
Booked 15 times today
Blade 1936 in Oceanside is a haven for those seeking exceptional Vegan cuisine. This modern Italian restaurant offers a dedicated Vegan menu that truly stands out for its authenticity and quality. Diners rave about the "fresh and flavorful" dishes that are crafted with care and expertise, ensuring a delightful experience for every Vegan palate. The use of high-quality ingredients, many of which are imported from Italy, sets Blade 1936 apart as a top choice for Vegan food enthusiasts. The ambiance, coupled with "superb service," makes dining here a memorable occasion. Experience Vegan cuisine at its finest at Blade 1936!
A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant
9. Buona Forchetta Encinitas
4.7
Exceptional(816)
$$$$
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 51 times today
Buona Forchetta Encinitas is a standout Pizza Bar in the heart of Encinitas, known for its "authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas" that have diners raving. The gilded oven here crafts pizzas with a crust that's "oh so yummy," delighting both gluten-free and traditional pizza lovers alike. This charming Italian eatery offers more than just incredible pizza; it provides a "family-friendly, approachable" atmosphere with attentive service. Many reviews highlight the "phenomenal experience," praising the "excellent gluten-free options" and the "deliciously crafted" dishes. Whether you're enjoying a meal inside or on the cozy patio, Buona Forchetta promises a memorable dining experience that keeps guests coming back.
A photo of The Old Spaghetti Factory - San Marcos restaurant
10. The Old Spaghetti Factory - San Marcos
new
4.4
Awesome(10)
$$$$
• Italian • San Marcos
Booked 33 times today
Dining at The Old Spaghetti Factory is an experience. For decades, they have invested meticulous attention to their unique designs and authentic vintage décor. Every location is adorned with antique lighting, intricate stained glass displays, large colorful booths, and an old-fashioned trolley car for guests to dine in. It’s the perfect atmosphere for a family celebration, a large group event, or a special dinner date.A family business since 1969, their founding philosophy — “a memorable dining experience doesn’t have to cost a lot of money” — is perhaps more relevant now than ever. Every entree is a "complete meal," served with hot freshly-baked sourdough bread, soup or salad, and ice cream for dessert at no extra charge.
‘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
  • DavidGold
    Connecticut •50 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Second time here and it did not disappoint. Our server was outstanding and the food was great. Generously sized tables on the patio allowed us to set up a high chair in-between two of our party, rather than out in the aisle. Plus a beautiful sunset.
    More info
    Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse$$$$• Italian• Carlsbad
    •
    4.7
  • NIKKI
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We had a wonderful server and the food was delicious! Great experience.
    More info
    264 Fresco$$$$• Italian• Carlsbad
    •
    4.5
  • TeresaGold
    Orange County •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Staying at the new hotel Solea, we had the pizza for lunch (crisp and delicious). For dinner we opted for the heated patio at sunset- definitely a beautifully designed restaurant and wonderful decor. Annie was a wonderful waitress. Had a bunch of delicious recommendations. The table-side Bread service was a fun note- however when the focaccia was cut it was pressed and smooshed. Delicious tomato butter was a wonderful flavor. Calamari was crisp and the sauce was spicy and a great compliment. Hamachi crudo was fresh and citrusy. Meatballs were great! And promodoro was silky. The branzino was our favorite- crispy skin and the most deliciously cooked tomatoes and beans- don’t miss! Dessert was a salted aramel profiterole and an espresso martini(no baileys!) were a perfect way to end! The staff was so friendly and kind - made it even better. Looking forward to our next meal!c
    More info
    Verise$$$$• Italian• Carlsbad
    •
    4.1
  • Jay
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We had a large group with children, but, it was excellent. From the front door to the table. Excellent service. Our waiter,Fernando, was excellent. We will definitely return!
    More info
    Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana$$$$• Italian• Carlsbad
    •
    4.7
  • Jason
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on May 17, 2026
    Food and Service were excellent as usual. We will always come back!
    More info
    Gregorio's Restaurant$$$$• Italian• Carlsbad
    •
    4.7

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2026 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo