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

Best Authentic Restaurants in Little Italy

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating options
Award-winning
Accessibility

111 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
1. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1409)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Little Italy
Booked 51 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 Cloak + Petal restaurant
2. Cloak + Petal
4.7
Exceptional(994)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Little Italy
Booked 61 times today
WELCOME TO CLOAK & PETAL!Where we invite you to journey into a place of both intimacy and companionshipOur concept is drawn from our name. The word “cloak” implies secrecy, inspiring our concept of a social sphere humming beneath the levels of ordinary life. “Petal” alludes to the Japanese tradition of “hanami,” when family and friends gather under blooming cherry blossoms to savor food, drinks and fellowship.Enter our space and travel underground to décor reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, a stratum of society all its own, an artist’s dream. Cross the threshold into a mystically transformed Japanese social dining lounge which appears to be an outdoor seating area, similar to a waiting platform. Sit beneath a trellis of draping vines and teardrop lights in the intimate space we’ve thoughtfully created, and feast on authentic Japanese sushi, appetizers, small plates and drinks with family and friends.Journey down to Cloak + Petal… and come unwind your soul.
A photo of Civico 1845 restaurant
3. Civico 1845
4.4
Awesome(2451)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 31 times today
Civico 1845 is an authentic Italian restaurant located in Little Italy, San Diego. The menu is a homage to the Calabria region of Italy and incorporates sustainable practices. Reviews rave about the fresh, light, and delectable dishes, with one reviewer claiming it's 'untouched by American ignorance'. The restaurant is also praised for its friendly staff, good atmosphere, and amazing vegan menu.
A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant
4. Bencotto Italian Kitchen
4.6
Exceptional(3339)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 64 times today
Bencotto Italian Kitchen serves up authentic Italian dishes with a modern twist. With 75 kinds of pasta recipes, it's no wonder customers rave about the 'authentic and delicious' food. The ambiance is described as having 'old-world charm and warmth', capturing the essence of Italy. The reviews consistently praise the food, service and ambiance, making it clear that Bencotto is a genuine Italian dining experience.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
5. Roman Wolves
4.6
Exceptional(371)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy
Booked 49 times today
"Roman Wolves is more than a bar and restaurant; it's a celebration of epicurean tapestry of what Italians call the Eternal City" said Nino Cusimano. "We've created our own take on the enduring essence of Rome's legacy and it's significant historical, cultural, and culinary impacts on the Italian food scene"
A photo of Ristorante Illando restaurant
6. Ristorante Illando
4.6
Exceptional(827)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 15 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 Barbusa restaurant
7. Barbusa
4.6
Exceptional(4358)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 88 times today
Barbusa is an authentic Italian restaurant in Little Italy, San Diego. It's praised for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food, with reviewers stating 'Food is amazing…authentic, and delicious' and 'Amazing meal and service!! An authentic Sicilian feeling'. The restaurant's attention to detail in presentation and its handmade pastas, freshest seafood, and stone-fired oven pizza add to the authenticity. It's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Queenstown Public House restaurant
8. Queenstown Public House
4.4
Awesome(577)
Price: Moderate
• Organic • Little Italy
Booked 10 times today
We are a New Zealand inspired whimsical restaurant set in a craftsman house that dates back to 1905. We are one block off the main drag in Little Italy. Sink your teeth into one of our organic beef or lamb burgers. We also have many salads and dinner entrees to try. Portions are generous, and prices are reasonable. For parties of 8 or more please visit our website!
A photo of Rovino restaurant
9. Rovino
4.6
Exceptional(1060)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 5 times today
Ciao Amici- We can't wait to see you!AL FRESCO Dining in the Heart of Little Italy! Small indoor restaurant with covered patio and outdoor patio! Rovino, located in San Diego, California, offers Italian cuisine for dinner. Rovino features an extensive wine selection and a knowledgeable staff who can help pair wine with each entrée. We also feature a wonderful creative selection of Craft Cocktails. Try the fried calamari or the saffron rice balls filled with ground beef, peas and mozzarella cheese to start out your meal at Rovino. Choose from dinner entrées like the prosciutto and arugula flatbread or the pasta al sugo. Top off your Italian experience with a cup of specialty coffee and a dessert such as the tiramisu or the cannoli.
A photo of Mimmo's Italian Village restaurant
10. Mimmo's Italian Village
4.4
Awesome(654)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 23 times today
Mimmo's Italian Village has been serving authentic Italian dishes since 1973. Reviews rave about its 'bomb' taste of Italy, 'classic' Italian food portions, and 'authentic' ambiance. The fact that it's one of the original Italian restaurants in Little Italy also adds to its authenticity. The food is homemade daily using quality ingredients and fresh local produce.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Discover best authentic restaurants in Little Italy

Discover the heart of authentic Italian cuisine right in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy. This bustling neighborhood is renowned for its array of restaurants that serve genuine Italian fare, drawing inspiration directly from Italy's rich culinary traditions. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on delivering not only traditional flavors but also a unique dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors. From handmade pastas and stone-fired pizzas to sustainable practices and locally sourced ingredients, the emphasis on authenticity and quality is evident in every dish served. Whether you're seeking a classic Italian meal or a modern twist on old favorites, Little Italy in San Diego caters to all palates, maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere that's steeped in Italian charm. Dive into a culinary journey where each meal is a celebration of authentic Italian culture, right here in the heart of San Diego. Experience the dining scene in Little Italy—it's a vibrant testament to Italy's gastronomic legacy, tailored to offer a genuinely delightful experience to everyone who visits.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Restaurant Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - 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