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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Mission Beach

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23 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Marisi restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1297)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 102 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 Catania restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2182)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 57 times today
Catania, nestled in the scenic La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic Contemporary Italian cuisine. Inspired by an Italian road trip, Catania stands out with its commitment to authenticity, boasting wood-burning ovens and grills that bring the vibrant flavors of Italy's coastal cuisine to life. Guests rave about the "amazing dining experience," highlighting dishes like the "crispy octopus" and "duck sugo pasta" as must-tries. The restaurant's all-Italian wine list and exclusive craft beer program further enhance the authenticity, making each visit not just a meal, but a tasteful journey to Italy.
A photo of Candor by Giuseppe restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(840)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 6 times today
Candor by Giuseppe in La Jolla offers a delightful Bistro experience that combines familiarity with global flair. With dishes like poached chicken salad and Valencia Orange arugula salad, it’s no wonder diners describe the food as "delicious" and "outstanding." The restaurant’s dedication to quality shines through in its use of the "highest quality ingredients," ensuring every bite is fresh and flavorful. The inviting and approachable atmosphere, coupled with exemplary service from staff like Guillermo, makes it a "go-to" spot for locals and visitors alike. Candor’s commitment to authenticity and community has rightfully earned it the reputation of being a "true neighborhood gem."
A photo of La Pastaia restaurant
4.3
Awesome(357)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Bay Park
Booked 4 times today
La Pastaia in Bay Park, San Diego is a hidden gem for authentic American cuisine, delivering a dining experience that diners rave about. From the moment you step inside, you're embraced by an inviting and warm atmosphere that sets the stage for a delightful meal. "What a gem! Such a beautiful spot with amazing food and wonderful service," one guest exclaims. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in every dish, from perfectly cooked ribeye steaks to creative American-inspired appetizers. With an attentive staff that goes above and beyond—"Sergio's service was beyond anything"—La Pastaia is a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional American dining experience.
A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(666)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 11 times today
Bernini's Bistro & Bar in La Jolla is a true gem for those who appreciate exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. With over 24 years of culinary excellence, it's no wonder it remains a neighborhood favorite. Guests rave about the “excellent food” and “consistently good” dishes that showcase the restaurant's passion for quality and authenticity. The inviting atmosphere, complete with cozy fire pits and a vibrant patio, enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Bernini's dedication to impeccable service and their standout dishes, such as the cioppino and wood-fired pizzas, ensures a memorable visit every time.
A photo of Nolita Hall restaurant
4.5
Awesome(873)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 76 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(4504)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 96 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 Lucrezia restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(720)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 36 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.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(450)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 24 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 Alexander's on 30th restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3241)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • North Park
Booked 43 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.
‘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
  • Ericka
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We went last night to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and everything was absolutely perfect. Every staff member who came to our table congratulated us, and they even surprised us with wine, dessert, and a special card on the table just for us. The food was delicious, and we were seated right on time no waiting at all, which we really appreciated. The whole experience felt thoughtful and elegant. Thank you for making our celebration so memorable!
    More info
    MarisiPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    4.6
  • Chee
    San Diego •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Service was excellent, but it was oddly louder than usual in there. My girlfriends and I went for their “girl dinner” special and everything came out pretty quickly. Vodka pasta was kinda bland, but the espresso martini was great. We also ordered the brussel sprouts which was the best thing we ate. But overall good price, great service and fun time!
    More info
    Nolita HallPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    4.5
  • Rewa
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Candor has been a local stand out, and a favourite since the day it opened its doors. Giuseppe‘s team does an amazing job with seafood; the seafood stew is the best I’ve eaten anywhere in the world, and the broth is incredibly flavourful! The summer appetizers are innovative, light, and refreshing. The wines are expertly curated, and well priced. The impeccable service rounds out a delightful dining experience - Bravo Team Giuseppe!
    More info
    Candor by GiuseppePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• La Jolla
    4.8
  • Syndi
    Houston •49 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We dined outside on the patio. Started with tuna crudo, excellent, refreshing! Summer salad also fresh and light! We shared some garlic focaccia which was delicious and the crust crusty! Bucatini with spicy pork guanciale and added shrimp! Very good and well balanced with some acidity, smokiness and sweetness! Highly recommend this restaurant!
    More info
    CataniaPrice: Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    4.8
  • GraceVIP
    San Diego •76 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Jun 28, 2025
    Always a good experience at La Pastaia. We come here on a regular basis and take all our friends that have never been here. Everyone that we've taken enjoy the experience. Service: The service is welcoming, energetic and fun. Love the Italian authenticity of the service. Tatiana is our favorite server. Atmosphere: Open concept and lots of seating inside and outside. I am surprised about the change in seating decor. Really loved the original chairs, booth cover, design and motif...it was swankier, but can understand that toning it down makes it more relaxed for all crowds and families. And I'm sure there are a fair share of customers that get pizza and pasta sauce on the beautiful decor. Food: Is always solid. The calamari are nice and tender and not too breaded. Oysters were medium sized and good...firm. Artichokes are always good, and I like you serve them as not many restaurants offer them. Meatballs are good but smaller than we used to remember them. The Bolognese seemed different than what we've had in the past. The carbonara was tasty. We missed the basil and tomatoes on the margarita pizza. And the sausage and potato pizza was different. The crust of the pizza is great. The other great thing about this restaurant is that they serve Italian wines. One of our favorites is the Super Tuscan (the more expensive one), and we just tried the Valpolicella, which we will have again. Overall: We keep coming back, so that says something special about this place especially with all the choices in SD. Grazi La Pastaia...keep up the quality and excellent service!
    More info
    La PastaiaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Bay Park
    4.3
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