Best Italian Restaurants in Cardiff By The Sea

Price: Moderate (64)Price: Expensive (27)Price: Very Expensive (15)

14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant

1. Buona Forchetta Encinitas

4.7

Exceptional(564)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Encinitas

Booked 39 times today

Buona Forchetta Encinitas stands out as a gem in Encinitas for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, crafted in a gilded oven that consistently delivers perfection. Celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere and exceptional Italian cuisine, this vibrant pizza bar captures the essence of traditional Italian dining. Guests rave about the "best gluten-free pizza crust ever" and the classic Margherita pizza, praising its "perfect crust" and "high-quality toppings." The glowing reviews highlight not only the delicious food but also the fantastic service, making Buona Forchetta Encinitas a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Pizza Bar experience in a welcoming setting.

A photo of North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant

2. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo

4.5

Awesome(1515)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Del Mar

Booked 65 times today

At North Italia in Del Mar, every dish promises a slice of Italian heaven, meticulously handcrafted from scratch. Celebrated for its authenticity, the restaurant offers a menu that boasts seasonally inspired dishes with a modern twist, from divine handmade pastas and pizzas to innovative cocktails perfectly paired for an elevated dining experience. Patrons rave about the quality, with one declaring the funghi pizza "the best pizza I’ve ever had." Another highlighted the restaurant's consistent excellence, noting, "Every time I eat at this restaurant I become more impressed." North Italia stands out not just for its exceptional food but also for the vibrant atmosphere and outstanding service, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian cuisine in San Diego.

A photo of Il Fornaio - Del Mar restaurant

3. Il Fornaio - Del Mar

4.5

Awesome(2354)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Del Mar

Booked 14 times today

Step inside Il Fornaio and take a culinary journey through Italy. Early mornings bring rustic, crisp crusted bread hot from the oven accompanied by the scent of fresh brewed espresso. During lunch and dinner hours, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while meats and vegetables roast over hot coals. Bottles of wine from small, regional wineries are uncorked to complement the dishes, which have been crafted in the custom of Italy's chefs, bakers and homemakers. Specialties include wood-fired rotisserie and grilled meats, poultry and game; house made pastas; pizzas from an oak wood burning oven; fresh salads and house made soups; a wide variety of desserts; and fresh baked bread made daily from scratch. Repeat winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

A photo of Cucina Enoteca - Del Mar restaurant

4. Cucina Enoteca - Del Mar

4.6

Exceptional(2725)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Del Mar

Booked 15 times today

Cucina Enoteca in Del Mar is a gem for lovers of Californian cuisine, offering a delightful blend of Italian classics with a local twist that celebrates the freshest organic and sustainable ingredients. Praised for its "amazing food" and "beautiful atmosphere," this restaurant provides a culinary experience that is both authentic and innovative. Guests rave about dishes like the "corn casoncelli stuffed with pecorino cream" and the "grilled octopus," highlighting the unique and flavorful menu options. With a vibrant ambiance and exceptional service, Cucina Enoteca stands out as a top choice for those seeking a true taste of California, enhanced by an impressive selection of wines. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this restaurant consistently delivers an outstanding dining experience that keeps guests returning.

5. Firenze Trattoria

4.8

Exceptional(1732)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Encinitas

Booked 12 times today

OPEN FOR DINE IN~ We are accepting online and phone reservations. Please be patient with wait times **IF YOU HAVE A SEATING PREFERENCE FOR EITHER THE INSIDE DINING ROOM OR OUTSIDE HEATED PATIO, PLEASE SPECIFY WHEN MAKING YOUR RESERVATION. **SEATING PREFERENCES CANNOT BE GUARANTEED** Sun-splashed by day and romantically lantern-lit at night, Firenze's flower-bedecked patio, with it's gentle fountain, is like a private courtyard in some romantic Italian villa. Come see what all the buzz is about we are certain that you will enjoy this one of a kind experience in this beautiful San Diego Italian restaurant.

A photo of Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana restaurant

6. Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana

4.7

Exceptional(1319)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Encinitas

Booked 6 times today

At Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana in Encinitas and Leucadia, the seafood cuisine shines with authenticity and unparalleled quality. Celebrated for its "exceptional menu," the restaurant offers the freshest catches, beautifully prepared to delight discerning palates. Reviewers rave about dishes like the "calamari...incredibly tender, with a very thin crispy crust," and the seafood pasta specials that are consistently praised as "very good." The dedication to excellence is evident, with one patron advising, "if there’s a seafood special such as Halibut, do yourself a favor and order that! It’s always amazing." Vigilucci’s has carved out a niche in the local dining scene, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers looking for a culinary experience that combines great flavors with a vibrant atmosphere.

A photo of Nick & G's Restaurant restaurant

7. Nick & G's Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(927)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Rancho Santa Fe

Booked 8 times today

Nestled in the heart of Rancho Santa Fe, Nick & G's Restaurant brings an authentic slice of Italy to the table, expertly blending traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "insane bread" and the intriguing twists on Italian classics, making every meal a delightful exploration of culinary excellence. The ambiance, described as a "beautiful mix of new and old-world luxury," sets the stage for a dining experience that is both comfortable and sophisticated. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional service and the accommodating nature of the staff, making each visit memorable. Whether it's the perfectly prepared prawns, the gluten-free options that actually taste great, or the lively atmosphere accentuated by live music, Nick & G's stands out as a top destination for Italian cuisine lovers in Rancho Santa Fe. As one guest summed it up, "fabulous food, service, and ambience...worth every penny!"

A photo of Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad restaurant

8. Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad

4.0

Excellent(448)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Carlsbad

Booked 2 times today

Buca di Beppo in Carlsbad is a treasure trove for those craving authentic, family-style Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s ambiance, characterized by its unique Italian decor, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience that feels like a warm family gathering. Guests rave about the dishes, with one patron noting, "The food was really amazing and the portions were huge!!!" Highlighted favorites include the Baked Ziti and Baked Rigatoni, praised for their perfect blend of flavors and textures. Service is another high point; Valeria, a server, receives special mention for her energetic and attentive service, making diners feel right at home. Whether it's a casual meal or a special celebration, Buca di Beppo promises a delightful Italian feast in the heart of Carlsbad.

A photo of Rosina's Italian Restaurant restaurant

9. Rosina's Italian Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(1177)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Poway / Rancho Bernardo

Booked 30 times today

For nearly three decades, Rosina's Italian Restaurant has been a culinary treasure in the Poway / Rancho Bernardo area of San Diego, celebrated for its exquisite Mediterranean cuisine. This family-run gem stands out for its dedication to authentic, homemade Italian dishes, crafted with the finest fresh ingredients. Diners consistently rave about the "exceptional food," from the heavenly lasagna to the daily specials like pappardelle with mussels and shrimp, all underscored by glowing reviews that highlight the "friendly and attentive" service. Rosina’s commitment to tradition and quality, offering a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, truly captures the essence of Mediterranean dining, making every meal a delightful experience. Whether it’s a date night or a family gathering, Rosina’s promises an unforgettable taste of Italy right in the heart of San Diego.

10. Davanti Del Mar

4.6

Exceptional(437)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Del Mar

Booked 4 times today

Davanti Enoteca in Del Mar is a treasure trove of Modern European delights, expertly weaving rustic Italian charm with a contemporary twist. Renowned for its family-style shareable plates, the restaurant shines with its homemade pastas, pizzas, and a delectable assortment of meats and cheeses. The ambiance is equally praised, offering a lively wine bar atmosphere that complements the dining experience. A standout favorite among patrons is the Focaccia di Recco, described as “so cheesy and warm, the honey adds the perfect sweetness to it.” Whether it's the creamy polenta, fresh seafood linguine, or the heavenly ricotta-stuffed focaccia with honeycomb, Davanti Enoteca consistently impresses with its authenticity and quality, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the finest in Modern European cuisine in San Diego.

‘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.

Explore OpenTable

Cardiff By The Sea

Italian