Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Mission Valley

28 restaurants available nearby

A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant

1. North Italia - Fashion Valley

4.7

Exceptional(2611)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Mission Valley

Booked 73 times today

North Italia in Fashion Valley, Mission Valley - San Diego, is a shining star in the realm of authentic Italian cuisine, especially noted for its exceptional Pizzeria. Patrons rave about their experiences, emphasizing the high quality and deliciousness of dishes like the prosciutto pizza and the spicy meatball pizza. One guest joyfully shares, “I love this place! The truffle bread is incredible along with the chicken pesto pasta, the margarita pizza, and the salads!” The restaurant crafts its pizzas with a commitment to authenticity, using fresh, seasonal ingredients that bring bursts of flavor in every bite. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special celebration, North Italia’s vibrant ambiance and consistent, top-notch service make it a must-visit for pizza lovers and Italian food enthusiasts alike.

2. Seneca

4.7

Exceptional(4108)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 103 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.

3. Roman Wolves

4.6

Exceptional(294)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 58 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.

4. Barbusa

4.6

Exceptional(4273)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 63 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.

5. Nolita Hall

4.4

Awesome(723)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 76 times today

Nolita Hall, nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy in San Diego, offers a fresh and modern take on Italian cuisine that dazzles with authenticity and innovation. Since its grand opening in 2018, Nolita Hall has become a culinary landmark, celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and a menu that features delights from a Fiori woodfire oven, which is the heart of their Italian-inspired offerings. Patrons rave about the "best hot honey pizza" and the meticulously crafted cocktails, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and the integrity of ingredients. With accolades like the Orchid Award for its stunning interior, Nolita Hall is the go-to destination for those seeking a contemporary Italian feast in a chic and inviting setting. Whether it's for a game night or a sophisticated dinner, every visit is an experience to remember, making it a must-visit in San Diego's Little Italy.

6. RustiCucina

4.7

Exceptional(1115)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Hillcrest

Booked 47 times today

At RustiCucina in Hillcrest, San Diego, contemporary Italian cuisine takes center stage, wowing diners with its authenticity and innovation. The restaurant's charm lies in its dedication to farm-to-neighborhood sourcing, ensuring every dish, from the "hearty, rustic" pasta to the diverse and sumptuous entrées, bursts with freshness and flavor. Patrons rave about their culinary experiences, noting dishes like the Pappardelle Al Brasato as "the most flavorful and delicious pasta I’ve ever eaten." The ambiance, described as warm and inviting, complements the top-notch service, making every visit memorable. Whether it's the handcrafted cocktails or the impressive cheese wheel pasta, RustiCucina stands out as a beacon of exemplary contemporary Italian dining in San Diego.

A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant

7. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge

4.5

Awesome(619)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 13 times today

Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge in Downtown San Diego is a gem for those seeking exceptional Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. Situated near the marina district, this restaurant offers a "multi-sensory culinary sanctuary" that combines the freshness of Californian ingredients with the bold flavors of Mediterranean and Italian cooking. Guests rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes. One delighted diner exclaimed, "THE BEST RESTAURANT EVER!!! I am obsessed with this place!!! Their food, service, and ambiance is by far like no other!!!!" From the "fried gnocchi" to the "yummy seafood pasta," every dish is crafted to perfection, highlighting the fresh and flavorful ethos of Californian cuisine. Salvatore's not only promises a delightful meal but also an enchanting atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in San Diego.

8. Lala

4.5

Awesome(121)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 18 times today

Lala, nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy in San Diego, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine with a delightful modern twist. Celebrated for its "sexy-chic ambiance," Lala offers an extraordinary dining experience, blending classic Italian dishes like stuffed shells with innovative creations such as loaded potato gnocchi. Patrons rave about the "amazing flavors" and the handcrafted cocktails, particularly the signature "Lala Martini." The commitment to sustainability and a cozy, intimate setting make Lala a community favorite. As one customer put it, "The food, drinks, and vibes were immaculate. The cutest restaurant in Little Italy for sure." Lala is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey wrapped in the warmth of Italian hospitality.

A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant

9. Bencotto Italian Kitchen

4.5

Awesome(3284)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 57 times today

Bencotto Italian Kitchen in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy offers a dining experience that captures the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine with unparalleled authenticity and flair. With 75 different pasta recipes, all fresh and hand-crafted daily, Bencotto epitomizes the meaning of its name, "cooked well." The restaurant's dual dining areas—a modern kitchen-esque bar and a cozy upstairs space—provide the perfect backdrop for savoring dishes that "taste as they should in Italy." Highlighted by glowing reviews, patrons rave about the truffle ravioli and the cheese wheel pasta, describing them as "AMAZING" and "worth the trip." The dedication to quality and a warm, inviting atmosphere make Bencotto a must-visit for anyone seeking the best of Italian cuisine.

A photo of Cori Pastificio Trattoria restaurant

10. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

4.7

Exceptional(609)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • North Park

Booked 37 times today

At Cori Pastificio Trattoria in North Park, San Diego, seafood lovers are in for a treat. Under the helm of the acclaimed Sicilian Chef Accursio Lota, the restaurant serves up authentic Italian dishes that beautifully incorporate fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Critics and patrons alike rave about the seafood offerings; one standout review highlighted the "signature seafood carbonara" as being "absolutely delicious," and another celebrated the "scallops with risotto" for being "perfectly prepared and delicious." These dishes showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity, making Cori Pastificio Trattoria a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier seafood dining experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

OT
OpenTable Diner
Mexico City •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Loved the food, cocktails and Christmas decorations!
More info
Nolita HallPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
•
4.4
B
Brianvip
San Diego •58 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
This was a solid place...I wouldn't say anything was outstanding about it other than the great service we received from Lucky who served us at the bar. The menu has a nice variety and everything was well-executed.
More info
Roman WolvesPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6
M
Monica
Las Vegas •12 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
One of the best in Downtown Little Italy! Food was delicious and you must try the Garlic Bread..so good!! Rosanna was our server and she was the absolute best -Very attentive. The vibe was electric on a Tuesday and we can't wait to go back!
More info
BarbusaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6
R
Rachelvip
San Diego •19 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
So much better than my last visit. I chose the Giardino Stromboli, stuffed with lots of cheese and veggies, which was delicious. It was quieter than usual, but it was Tuesday and not crowded. Service was top notch!
More info
North Italia - Fashion ValleyPrice: Expensive• Italian• Mission Valley
•
4.7
P
Phi
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on 13 Nov 2024
The wait staff was very polite and attentive. The food was great. We also got an awesome anniversary celebration courtesy of the chef and waiter. I highly recommend this venue for a nice quiet ambiance Italian dinner.
More info
RustiCucinaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Hillcrest
•
4.7

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Mission Valley

Experience the best of contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of Mission Valley, San Diego. The area is renowned for its vibrant dining scene, featuring a variety of restaurants that masterfully blend traditional Italian techniques with modern culinary innovations. These eateries pride themselves on offering handcrafted dishes that highlight the freshness of locally sourced ingredients. From perfectly cooked pastas to inventive pizzas and signature dishes, each restaurant aims to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. The ambiance in these establishments typically combines modern aesthetics with a warm, inviting atmosphere, making them ideal for both casual lunches and romantic evenings. With a focus on exceptional service and high-quality food, these restaurants in Mission Valley are top destinations for both locals and visitors looking to savor the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine.

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Mission Valley

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28 restaurants available nearby

1. North Italia - Fashion Valley

2. Seneca

3. Roman Wolves

4. Barbusa

5. Nolita Hall

6. RustiCucina

7. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge

8. Lala

9. Bencotto Italian Kitchen

10. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

See what locals rave about

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Mission Valley

Explore OpenTable