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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Old Town, San Diego

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37 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Lala restaurant
1. Lala
4.6
Exceptional(367)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 34 times today
Lala, nestled in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy, offers an enchanting experience of Contemporary Italian cuisine that captivates with its modern flair and timeless flavors. This chic eatery perfectly marries tradition with innovation, presenting dishes like the inventive loaded potato gnocchi and the exquisite squid ink pasta with lobster. Guests rave about the "incredible ambiance" and "stellar service," with standout cocktails like the "Lala Martini" elevating the dining experience. The cozy, romantic setting, coupled with a commitment to sustainability, ensures that every visit is both memorable and meaningful. Join Lala for a true celebration of Italian culinary excellence.
A photo of Nolita Hall restaurant
2. Nolita Hall
4.4
Awesome(1009)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 36 times today
Nolita Hall, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Pizza Bar experience that transports diners straight to the heart of Italy. Known for its Fiori woodfire oven, this beloved spot crafts pizzas that are nothing short of spectacular. Patrons rave about the "pepperoni pizza with honey" as being "awesome," highlighting the unique and delightful flavor combinations that set Nolita Hall apart. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of fun and elegance, with many calling it a "great place to watch a sports game" while indulging in top-quality pizzas. It's a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking authentic taste and vibrant ambiance.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
3. Roman Wolves
4.6
Exceptional(647)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 33 times today
Roman Wolves in Little Italy, San Diego, is a shining gem for Cocktail Bar enthusiasts. This vibrant establishment is celebrated for its exquisite cocktails, with the Hugo Spritz receiving rave reviews as "incredible" and leaving patrons eager for more. The talented bartenders at Roman Wolves ensure that each drink is a masterpiece, complementing the rich Italian culinary experience. Diners frequently commend the bar's atmosphere, describing it as lively and welcoming, perfect for both intimate gatherings and spirited celebrations. If you're seeking a memorable cocktail experience in the heart of San Diego, Roman Wolves is the place to be!
A photo of Cardellino restaurant
4. Cardellino
4.7
Exceptional(212)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Mission Hills
Booked 30 times today
Cardellino Italian Chophouse is a story steeped in fire, char, steak—and red sauce, parmesan, and truffles. A blend of Midwest chophouse and Italian trattoria, the restaurant reflects Chef Brad Wise’s culinary ethos and TRUST Restaurant Group’s signature style. Live-fire cooking anchors the menu, melding a Tuscan stone hearth with an all-American Big Green Egg. Drawing inspiration from northern Italy - Umbria, Piedmont - Cardellino offers housemade pastas and traditional antipasti, but the spotlight is on the meat. The signature Bistecca Fiorentina, a 38 oz charcoal-grilled steak, arrives sliced and reassembled on a custom mahogany board. Pork Osso Bucco and Salt-Baked Branzino round out the chophouse-style offerings. Pastas are bold, sides are built for sharing, and the experience is best with Barolo. For a deeper dive, the Tuscan Experience invites guests to enjoy a four-course, chef-curated journey inspired by what Brad’s loving in the moment.
A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant
5. North Italia - Fashion Valley
4.6
Exceptional(3058)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Mission Valley
Booked 40 times today
North Italia - Fashion Valley in Mission Valley, San Diego, offers a “fantastic” Contemporary Italian dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Known for its “authentically prepared” dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients, North Italia excels in providing a modern twist on classic Italian cuisine. Guests rave about the “delicious” handmade pastas and pizzas, with standout flavors like the ‘Hot Honey & Smoked Prosciutto’ pizza, lauded for its perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and salty notes. The warm atmosphere and “excellent service” complete the experience, making it a “staple” for both locals and visitors seeking genuine Italian flavors.
A photo of Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge restaurant
6. Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge
4.0
Excellent(511)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 8 times today
Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that will leave your taste buds singing. Renowned as the city's first cheese wheel bar, this modern chic restaurant draws diners in with "the irresistible sight and smell of authentic Italian flavors." Guests rave about the "mind-blowing" carbonara and the "exceptional" cheese wheel dishes that are both a visual and flavorful delight. The ambiance is lively yet intimate, providing a perfect backdrop for savoring dishes that "taste just like Italy." From outstanding service to exquisite cuisine, Vincenzo's is a must-visit for any Italian food enthusiast.
A photo of Marisi restaurant
Icon
7. Marisi
4.6
Exceptional(1614)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 100 times today
Marisi, nestled in the charming locale of La Jolla, offers an unparalleled experience in Contemporary Italian cuisine that transports diners straight to the Amalfi coast. With an unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, Marisi delights with "authentic pasta" crafted daily and a menu that evolves with the seasons to present the freshest Italian delights. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "a warm, charming villa," offers a perfect setting for enjoying the "amazing food, service, and ambiance." Guests rave about the "extraordinary culinary innovation" and impeccable service, making every visit to Marisi a memorable exploration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant
8. Bencotto Italian Kitchen
4.6
Exceptional(3559)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 52 times today
Bencotto Italian Kitchen, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, is a standout spot for authentic Mediterranean cuisine. With a dedication to "75 kinds of different pasta recipes, fresh and hand-crafted 12 hours a day," Bencotto truly honors the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Diners rave about the "incredible cheese wheel pasta" and commend the restaurant for its "exceptional food and service." The intimate, sophisticated atmosphere, coupled with the restaurant's commitment to authenticity, ensures that each dish is a delightful journey to Italy. Whether enjoying a cozy meal upstairs or at the lively bar downstairs, Bencotto offers a quintessential Mediterranean dining experience.
A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant
9. Alexander's on 30th
4.8
Exceptional(3409)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • North Park
Booked 52 times today
Alexander's on 30th in North Park, San Diego, is renowned for its exquisite Italian-inspired Seafood cuisine. The restaurant seamlessly blends gourmet flair with homestyle comfort, creating a truly unique dining experience. Diners rave about the Chilean Sea Bass, with one review calling it "delicious" and recommending it highly. Another standout dish is the seafood stuffed mushrooms, described as "to die for." The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, promising a memorable meal with every visit. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or a curious first-timer, Alexander's is a must-visit for an unforgettable culinary journey.
A photo of Lucrezia restaurant
10. Lucrezia
4.6
Exceptional(933)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 56 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, Lucrezia offers an exquisite journey through Contemporary Italian cuisine that is nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant is celebrated for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes that transport diners straight to the heart of Italy. Guests rave about the "amazing" pastas, with standout mentions for the Cacio e Pepe and Lobster Fra Diavolo. The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making it perfect for any special occasion. Lucrezia promises an unforgettable culinary voyage, with every dish telling a story of Italian summers, curated with passion and authenticity.
‘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
  • Amanda
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Everyone should experience North Italia! The food is outstanding, and the staff is exceptionally attentive and friendly. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving a great meal, this place is a must-visit.
    More info
    North Italia - Fashion Valley$$$$• Italian• Mission Valley
    •
    4.6
  • AlyssaGold
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great food! Fun vibe for energetic parties. Amazing atmosphere.
    More info
    Nolita Hall$$$$• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.4
  • Danielle
    New York City •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great food and service, as always! We booked a last minute reservation to celebrate a birthday and appreciated they were able to get us in and help with our request of indoor seating. When we arrived, there was a hand-signed birthday card waiting - a super thoughtful touch. We were also surprised with an (outstanding) soft serve ice cream with candle to finish our meal. Very special. Thank you very much to the team! We had: tuna tartare, beef carpaccio, lamb chops, chopped salad, lobster ravioli & spicy rigatoni - all were fantastic!
    More info
    Cardellino$$$$• Contemporary Italian• Mission Hills
    •
    4.7
  • Alyssa
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The service was absolutely incredible, the food was really good, and the drinks were even better. Staff was extremely kind and efficient. Over all had a great experience and would go back again!
    More info
    Roman Wolves$$$$• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • Kevin
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Great food, excellent homemade pasta. Service is very good.
    More info
    Lala$$$$• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.6

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