Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Sorrento Mesa

Price: Moderate (4)Price: Expensive (5)Price: Very Expensive (2)

11 restaurants available nearby

1. Lucrezia

4.4

Awesome(506)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 59 times today

Lucrezia is an Italian restaurant highly regarded by its patrons. According to the guests, what makes Lucrezia stand out is the excellent service and delectable Italian dishes. From the classics to creative and innovative options, every dish is crafted with care and authenticity. The pasta, burrata, chicken, and pizza are particularly praised, noted for their freshness, taste, and appropriate seasoning. Customers also applaud the restaurant for its excellent service, with the staff being kind, attentive, and well-versed. The ambiance is classy and well-thought-out, further enhancing the dining experience. Patrons have expressed their desire to return, acknowledging Lucrezia as their go-to Italian restaurant. The overall consensus is that Lucrezia is a restaurant of excellent Italian cuisine.

A photo of North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant

2. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo

4.4

Awesome(1490)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Del Mar

Booked 57 times today

North Italia San Diego - One Paseo is lauded for its diverse array of authentic Italian cuisine. Many patrons have praised its generous servings, flavor-rich dishes, and the freshness of its ingredients. From their renowned meatballs and excellent red sauce to the perfectly seared scallops on creamy risotto, the restaurant's skill is evident in the execution of every dish. Commendations extend beyond the food, with many reviews highlighting the exceptional service as well. Notably, guests appreciate the varied Italian wine selection, especially the whites, which are often lacking in other Italian establishments. The restaurant offers a wonderful blend of traditional Italian and modern American dishes, ensuring universally satisfying dining experiences for all patrons.

A photo of Ambrogio15 Del Mar restaurant

3. Ambrogio15 Del Mar

4.6

Exceptional(205)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Carmel Valley

Booked 8 times today

Ambrogio15 Del Mar has established itself as a staple in authentic Italian cuisine. Patrons rave about the incredible dining experience, citing not only the exceptional food but also the exemplary service. Described as "the best pizza this side of Italy" and worth every penny, it's evident that the quality is top-notch. Reviewers have also noted the versatility of the menu, which offers something for everyone, from risotto with filet mignon to vegetarian tasting menus paired with superb wine selections. Many have stated that the ingredients are sourced directly from Italy, enhancing the authenticity of the dishes. Overall, Ambrogio15 Del Mar's high standards and commitment to an excellent dining experience make it a place that is highly recommended by its customers.

A photo of Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana restaurant

4. Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana

4.6

Exceptional(1299)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Del Mar

Booked 18 times today

Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana stands out as an exceptional Seafood cuisine restaurant. According to the reviews, this place is lauded for its amazing Branzino dishes, superb seafood mixed platters, and outstanding services. Visitors frequently praised their seafood dishes, such as the Seafood Benedict, Spaghetti with Clams, and Healthy Seafood Mix. They also value the variety of seafood options available in both appetizers and entrées, with recommendations for the risotto with scallops and the octopus appetizer. The culinary journey is enhanced with a fantastic view and freshly-prepared food served hot. With a beautiful view from either indoors or the balcony, Aqua Mare is said to offer a peaceful dining experience along with its excellent food.

5. Marisi

4.6

Exceptional(965)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 69 times today

Marisi, located in San Diego, is revered for its authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant has been lauded for its upscale, Mediterranean themed decor and exquisite food presentation, with several patrons labeling it as their favorite restaurant in the city. Critics and diners have noted that Marisi serves "some of the very best Italian food", including fresh, delicious pasta dishes that are comparable to the ones in Italy, as well as a unique and extensive old-world wine list. The service receives consistent praise for being top notch, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. With interior details that are described as "incredible", "gorgeous", and "immaculate", Marisi is renowned for its fantastic ambiance, making it a go-to place for a date night or special occasions.

6. Catania

4.7

Exceptional(2009)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 47 times today

Hailed as a favorite by the locals, Catania is renowned for providing an authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of San Diego. The menu offers an exciting variety of dishes, from Smoked Duck Liver Crostini to Butternut Squash Ravioli, and Crispy Octopus to Grilled Mary's Duck Breast, all prepared to perfection. Patrons have particularly praised the freshness and authenticity of the food that brings back memories of Rome, some even declaring it the best Italian food in San Diego. The restaurant is also known for its rooftop location in downtown La Jolla, providing beautiful ocean views that perfectly complement the delicious fare and friendly service. Whether you're craving for a classic Margherita pizza or savoring the Aglio e Olio Peperoncini, Catania guarantees an incredible experience.

A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant

7. North Italia - Fashion Valley

4.7

Exceptional(2542)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Mission Valley

Booked 74 times today

North Italia - Fashion Valley is highly acclaimed for its Italian cuisine, as attested by numerous positive reviews. Its location is perfect for a nice meal, and the atmosphere - either indoors or on the patio - enhances the dining experience. The restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Italian offerings, with great pizza, pasta, and salads, and the Strozzapreti is a recommended dish. The menu includes a variety of Italian wines, such as Nebbiolo Langhe and Barolo, enhancing the authentic Italian dining experience. As one reviewer noted, the food and service are "always phenomenal," making North Italia a must-visit for Italian dishes.

A photo of Ambrogio by Acquerello restaurant

8. Ambrogio by Acquerello

4.6

Exceptional(82)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 1 time today

Ambrogio by Acquerello in La Jolla is an exquisite restaurant that leaves an indelible mark with its impeccable contemporary Italian cuisine. Widely praised as a hidden gem, this restaurant offers a dining experience that is second to none, with one reviewer predicting that it will soon be considered the best in San Diego. Ambrogio features an innovative menu that astutely blends Italian and South Korean influences, resulting in dishes that are delicate, yet bursting with flavor. The reviews highlight the chef's creativity, as seen in their signature dish from his Michelin-starred Milan restaurant. The restaurant's ambiance is elegant and comfortable, boasting a chic gold and white theme, while the personalized service has been noted as being warm and exceptional. Many reviewers have lauded the unique and perfect wine pairings as well. Ambrogio is indeed making a name for itself as an extraordinary contemporary Italian cuisine destination.

A photo of Candor by Giuseppe restaurant

9. Candor by Giuseppe

4.8

Exceptional(768)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 8 times today

Candor by Giuseppe is a gem of contemporary Italian cuisine. As per the reviews, the restaurant receives high praise for its superb service and the exceptional quality of its meals. The restaurant presents a variety of creative, delicious dishes, from perfectly prepared whole branzino to exquisitely flavored short ribs. Not only the food, but the atmosphere is also highly spoken of; a cozy interior adorned with local art and a charming, socially distanced outdoor seating area. A testament to its authenticity, the pizza and grouper special are cited as highlights of the menu. While ensuring safety, Candor also takes dietary preferences into account, offering gluten-free options with careful cross-contamination prevention.

A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant

10. Bernini's Bistro & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(551)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 18 times today

Bernini's Bistro in La Jolla, California is hailed as a gem of Italian cuisine. Reviews from patrons highlight its excellent Italian food, service, and an atmosphere that makes you forget you're in California. The restaurant consistently impresses with plentiful and tasty pasta dishes, beautifully presented and perfectly cooked meals. It is recognized as a top-notch choice for Italian food lovers, even compared to Italian trattorias in Boston and Italy itself. This locals' favorite is praised for its unique vibe and attentive staff. Frequent customers denote it as their go-to spot for authentic Italian cuisine, always leaving eager to return for more.

‘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.

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