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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in National City

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19 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Farmer's Table - Chula Vista restaurant
4.5
Awesome(378)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Chula Vista / Bonita
Booked 6 times today
Excited to announce that we officially have four locations open in San Diego including Bay Park, Little Italy, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. As a family run operation we believe every good neighborhood deserves an eatery where locals and visitors can enjoy “honest food done right”. Here at Farmers Table, we specialize in farm-to-fork cuisine that focuses on bringing locally sourced organic ingredients together to be savored in an inviting family-friendly atmosphere, where adults and children can enjoy many different food options that are just right for them. If you are looking for a magical brunch this week, come stop by for an unforgettable night.
A photo of Ciccia Osteria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(201)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Barrio Logan
Booked 39 times today
Ciccia Osteria in Barrio Logan, San Diego, offers an authentic Italian dining experience that delights both vegetarian and vegan palates. This Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand-awarded gem stands out for its commitment to quality, using the freshest ingredients to craft memorable dishes. Diners rave about the "squash blossoms and mushroom flan," highlighting their exquisite taste and presentation. The restaurant's cozy, intimate atmosphere and attentive service make it a perfect spot for savoring "the sights, smells, and exquisite tastes of Italy." Chef Mario Cassineri's passion for authentic cuisine ensures that every dish is a "must-try" for vegetarian and vegan food lovers.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(349)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 49 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 Nolita Hall restaurant
4.3
Awesome(790)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 64 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 Barbusa restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4334)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 89 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 Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant
4.4
Awesome(637)
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.
A photo of Lala restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(147)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 22 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
4.6
Exceptional(3323)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 48 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 RustiCucina restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1174)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Hillcrest
Booked 73 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 Cori Pastificio Trattoria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(636)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • North Park
Booked 36 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
From verified diners like you
  • PeterVIP
    San Diego •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    It was fantastic!! The food was incredibly delicious and we sampled many items off of the menu. We chose to sit at the bar because rain was forecasted and outdoor seating was not a good option. Initially we were disappointed, but Jorge the bartender ,made the experience so wonderful and went above and beyond taking care of us. We ended up having the best dining experience we could’ve asked for.
    More info
    Roman WolvesPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    4.6
  • Chan
    San Diego •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This place never disappoints! Rosanna was the nicest server and took care of us perfectly. The service and the food was wonderful like always. We couldn’t have picked a better place to spend our anniversary.
    More info
    BarbusaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • ElizabethVIP
    California Central Coast •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Ciccia Osteria is our go to for a delicious meal made with love and care. Mario sees to every detail of the entire experience himself. ALWAYS delicious. With every visit, I leave satisfied and happy---happier than when I arrived. The food and atmosphere is a bit of an elixir. I highly recommend you give it a try if you haven't yet. If you have, I'm sure you return often as we do.
    More info
    Ciccia OsteriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Barrio Logan
    4.7
  • Edward SafaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    It was great all the way around just one thing it’s supposed to be a sports bar. We’re there to watch sports and have good food but then they put a two hour limit on the tables which is unusual. Large groups of people are there to watch a specific game, they made the reservations to watch the game at a place where there’s good food and atmosphere. You simply cannot kick them out after two hours ?
    More info
    Nolita HallPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    4.3
  • GerardVIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 25 Dec 2024
    Breakfast was really good and our server super nice and attentive. I had the poblano chilaquiles, spicy and good! The regular coffee was good too. We’ll come back to try chilaquiles verdes..
    More info
    Farmer's Table - Chula VistaPrice: Moderate• American• Chula Vista / Bonita
    4.5
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