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Best Italian Restaurants in Santee

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Antica Trattoria restaurant
1. Antica Trattoria
4.8
Exceptional(2386)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Mesa
Booked 17 times today
Antica Trattoria in La Mesa is not just renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine but also stands out as an exceptional cocktail bar. Patrons rave about the ambience that complements their drink experience, with one guest stating, "Always a wonderful experience... cocktails, appetizers, and entrees." The bar is celebrated for its skilled bartenders who craft each cocktail with precision, ensuring a delightful sip every time. Whether it's a beautifully made Lemon Drop or the refreshing Red Sangria, the quality of their cocktails consistently impresses guests. Moreover, the friendly and attentive service adds to the charm, making Antica Trattoria a must-visit for both exquisite meals and outstanding cocktails in La Mesa.
A photo of Limoncello La Mesa restaurant
2. Limoncello La Mesa
4.5
Awesome(302)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 17 times today
Limoncello La Mesa offers an authentic slice of contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of La Mesa. Celebrated for its "delicious and very authentic" dishes, this charming restaurant has quickly become a cornerstone of the local dining scene. Patrons rave about the "outstanding mushroom & cream Marsala wine sauce" and the "homemade pasta" that remind them of upscale Italian eateries reminiscent of childhood. The ambiance at Limoncello, described as a "light, airy, modern, gardenlike" environment, complements its culinary offerings, making every meal a delightful experience. Notably, the service is consistently praised, with staff like Roberto and Francesca providing "excellent service" that enhances the dining experience. Whether it's the handcrafted Limoncello Martini that comes with a lemon popsicle or the meticulously prepared lobster ravioli, Limoncello La Mesa stands out as a gem in North Park, offering a true taste of Italy with every dish.
A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant
3. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina
4.8
Exceptional(1065)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Lemon Grove
Booked 30 times today
Nestled in the heart of Lemon Grove, Giardino Neighborhood Cucina offers a slice of Italy with its authentically inspired Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its "amazing food" and "exceptional service," this local gem creates a vibrant ambiance reminiscent of Little Italy. Diners rave about the fresh seafood, homemade pastas, and the signature Cheese Wheel Pasta, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to fresh, quality ingredients and traditional Italian techniques. The glowing reviews often mention the "outstanding" Chicken Parmigiana and the tender calamari, offering a "great experience" that keeps locals and visitors coming back. Whether it's Wine Wednesday or a family celebration, Giardino promises an unforgettable Italian dining experience right in Lemon Grove.
A photo of Trattoria Da Sofia restaurant
4. Trattoria Da Sofia
4.6
Exceptional(182)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Kensington
Booked 35 times today
Trattoria Da Sofia, nestled in the charming Kensington neighborhood of San Diego, is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. This delightful establishment has quickly become a favorite, praised for dishes that exude the heart and soul of Italy. Guests rave about the "creamy Spaghetti Carbonara" and the "divine Risotto ai Funghi," which are just a few examples of the menu's authentic offerings. The ambiance, described as "cozy and authentic," enhances each dining experience, making it feel like a "mini vacation to Italy." Regulars adore the "table side tiramisu," highlighting it as a must-try. With glowing reviews stating it's the "best Italian food in San Diego," Trattoria Da Sofia is undoubtedly a gem worth visiting for anyone seeking genuine Italian fare combined with warm hospitality.
A photo of Aromi Italian Cuisine restaurant
5. Aromi Italian Cuisine
4.7
Exceptional(241)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Mesa
Booked 18 times today
Discover the delightful flavors of Italy right in the heart of La Mesa at Aromi Italian Cuisine. Known for its authenticity and affordability, Aromi offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere where every dish promises a slice of Italy. Patrons rave about the "Cheese Wheel Pasta," describing it as "delicious and really fancy," and the service as "premium." Aromi's dedication to genuine Italian dining is evident, with reviews highlighting the "exceptional service" and "truly original" food that "brought me back to Italy, my home country." Whether it's the handcrafted pastas or the engaging tableside preparations, Aromi stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic Italian experience in La Mesa.
A photo of Buca di Beppo - Mira Mesa restaurant
6. Buca di Beppo - Mira Mesa
4.1
Excellent(857)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Mira Mesa
Booked 22 times today
Nestled in the heart of Mira Mesa, San Diego, Buca di Beppo delights diners with its exceptional Italian cuisine, served up in a vibrant, family-style atmosphere. Guests rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with one patron exclaiming, "The Eggplant Parmigiana and spaghetti with meat sauce were all very delicious, and I always did favor their pasta sauce" and another applauding the "incredible experience" and "absolutely delicious" lasagna perfect for sharing. The restaurant's decor, featuring whimsical Italian-American memorabilia, enhances the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Whether it's the hearty portions, the attentive service, or the delightful ambiance, Buca di Beppo in Mira Mesa is a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian fare.
A photo of The Godfather Restaurant restaurant
7. The Godfather Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1877)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Kearny Mesa
Booked 19 times today
Indulge in the quintessential seafood experience at Godfather Restaurant, a gem nestled in Kearny Mesa, San Diego. Celebrated for its authenticity and dedication to Italian culinary traditions, this restaurant presents seafood dishes that transport diners straight to the coasts of Italy. Critics and guests alike rave about the freshness and expert preparation of dishes such as the Blue Crab Ravioli with Shrimp and the delectable SeaBass. One diner exclaimed, "The seafood is always fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked!" The commitment to maintaining high standards since 1974 has made Godfather Restaurant a beloved destination for seafood lovers seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of San Diego.
A photo of Pizza by Aromi restaurant
8. Pizza by Aromi
4.8
Exceptional(7)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Mesa
Booked 1 time today
Your Slice of Sicily in La Mesa.Andrea and Francesco, cousins with deep roots in Sicilian traditions, bring their love of authentic Italian flavors next door from Aromi Italian Cuisine to Pizza by Aromi. Growing up in Sicily, they learned the art of gathering friends and family around a table to enjoy simple yet unforgettable meals. Here, they recreate that same warmth and charm in every pizza.At Pizza by Aromi, Francesco brings his Italian culinary training to every fresh, daily-made dough, using high-quality Sicilian ingredients. Andrea’s warm hospitality makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in. Whether you’re enjoying a quick slice or sharing a full pie, savor the taste of Sicily in La MesaJoin us at Pizza by Aromi—where good food and good company are always on the menu!
A photo of Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley restaurant
9. Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley
4.5
Awesome(31)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Mission Valley
Booked 1 time today
We invite you all to join us at our Italian family restaurant! Whether it's a romantic date for two, a family gathering, or a work event--we want you to enjoy our vintage atmosphere of hanging wine baskets and famous murals that harken back to the restaurants inception in 1950! Come and enjoy our traditional recipes that consist of fresh mixed pizza dough, homemade marinara sauce, homemade meatballs and sausages, and much more!One thing is for certain--you will taste the quality and enjoy our friendly wait staff! Book your reservation today and experience 73 years in the making of incredible pizza and traditional Italian recipes!
A photo of DiLeone's Italian Restaurant restaurant
10. DiLeone's Italian Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Rancho San Diego
Nestled in the heart of Rancho San Diego, DiLeone's Italian Restaurant is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. For over 35 years, this family-owned gem has been celebrated for its "old world sauce recipes and hearty portions." Regulars rave about the "mouth-watering" flavors of their pizzas and calzones, and the Chicken Marsala has been described as "bursting with flavor." The atmosphere adds to its charm, making diners feel like they're stepping into a slice of Italy. As one satisfied patron noted, "the authentic atmosphere of the restaurant added greatly to the overall experience." With generous portions and a welcoming vibe, DiLeone's is highly recommended for anyone seeking the best Italian food in the county. Whether it's your first visit or your hundredth, DiLeone's promises an unforgettable dining experience.

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Discover best Italian restaurants in Santee

Discover the charm of Italian dining in Santee, East County, San Diego, where the flavors of Italy come alive in a variety of restaurants. Whether you're craving authentic pasta dishes, traditional pizzas, or innovative Italian gastronomy, Santee offers a delightful array of options to satisfy your Italian cuisine desires. Each establishment reflects a deep respect for culinary traditions, often incorporating locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both authentic and uniquely Californian. The dining scene in Santee is vibrant and diverse, with Italian restaurants providing a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere ideal for family dinners, romantic evenings, or casual meet-ups with friends. These restaurants stand out not only for their exquisite menus but also for their commitment to quality and service, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all. Dive into the rich tapestry of flavors that these Italian eateries in Santee have to offer, where every meal is a celebration of food and culture.

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