Best Italian Restaurants in La Mesa

Price: Moderate (140)Price: Expensive (85)Price: Very Expensive (18)

51 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Limoncello La Mesa restaurant

1. Limoncello La Mesa

4.4

Awesome(257)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Park

Booked 6 times today

Welcome to Limoncello, your go-to destination for authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of La Mesa. At Limoncello, we pride ourselves on delivering a true taste of Italy with our carefully curated menu inspired by traditional family recipes passed down through generations. Our dishes showcase the rich flavors of Italy, crafted using only the finest and freshest ingredients sourced locally and from Italy. From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas and delectable desserts, each plate is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage. Come savor the warmth and hospitality of Italy right here in La Mesa at Limoncello, where every meal is a journey to the heart of Italian flavors.

2. Antica Trattoria

4.8

Exceptional(2336)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Mesa

Booked 12 times today

Antica Trattoria is a beloved destination for contemporary Italian cuisine. Their extensive menu, featuring authentic dishes from salads to desserts, has been praised by guests. Stand-out choices include their Chef Special and their range of Italian red wines. Reviewers laud the exceptional food and service, with the Chef Franco regularly interacting with diners to ensure a satisfactory experience. Some even consider this gem to be the best Italian restaurant in San Diego due to its authentic dishes and excellent service. Despite a somewhat hidden location in a strip mall, the beautiful interior and top-notch service make Antica Trattoria a must-visit for all Italian food lovers.

A photo of Aromi Italian Cuisine restaurant

3. Aromi Italian Cuisine

4.5

Awesome(212)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Mesa

Booked 6 times today

Aromi Italian Cuisine enjoys a high reputation for offering some of the best and most authentic Italian dishes. Located just off Hwy 8, Aromi is known for its excellent service, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional food quality. A review stated, "Great food and lovely atmosphere. Service was excellent", echoing the sentiments of many other satisfied customers. Many have praised the restaurant's attention to detail in creating an authentic Italian dining experience, with one reviewer highlighting, "The food was delicious, even better than I hoped. We will absolutely come back." Another customer noted that the restaurant, "made me feel like I was in Italy". From the decor to staff professionalism, Aromi Italian Cuisine consistently impresses for its dedication to delivering a memorable dining experience.

A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant

4. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

4.8

Exceptional(1038)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Lemon Grove

Booked 10 times today

Giardino Neighborhood Cucina is highly praised by customers for its top-notch Italian cuisine and exceptional service. Located in San Diego, this hidden gem offers a variety of delicious traditional Italian foods. Their pasta, especially the penne salsiccia and risotto, are said to be "one to die for." Reviewers also rave about the restaurant's pizza, spaghetti, and meatballs, claiming them to be the best in San Diego. They also commend the friendly and attentive service and the warm and inviting ambiance created by the fabulous decor. The consensus is clear: if you're looking for excellent Italian cuisine, Giardino Neighborhood Cucina is the place to be.

A photo of Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley restaurant

5. Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley

4.5

Awesome(29)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Mission Valley

Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley, located in the vibrant heart of San Diego, is recognized for its excellent Italian cuisine. Praised for its flavorful food, the restaurant is highly recommended by regular visitors, many of whom have been loyal patrons for decades. Key highlights noted in the reviews are the meatball appetizers and Chicken Marsala, hailed as particularly delectable. The acclaimed family atmosphere contributes to the authenticity of the Italian dining experience. Management and staff, such as Mark, Lucas, Jessica, and Sebastian, are repeatedly singled out for providing exceptional service, making patrons feel welcome and valued. Whether for a large gathering or a quiet dinner for two, Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley continues to impress, solidifying its reputation as a quintessential Italian restaurant.

6. Seneca

4.6

Exceptional(3916)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 112 times today

Seneca restaurant is consistently praised for its excellent authentic Italian cuisine, served in a unique environment with stunning views of the San Diego Bay. The eatery has garnered numerous positive reviews for its vibrant atmosphere, attentive service, and delectable dishes such as their praised 30-layer oxtail lasagna and delectable tiramisu. Besides the top-notch food, the restaurant's unique location on the 19th floor offers breathtaking views that enhance the overall dining experience, earning it the title of "one of the best restaurants" in San Diego. Customers have noted that despite being in the heart of the city, the ambiance of Seneca gives you the feeling of dining in Rome, Italy. This testifies to the authenticity of their food selection and dining experience.

7. Madison

4.4

Awesome(2949)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • University Heights

Booked 40 times today

Madison, a celebrated restaurant in San Diego, is hailed for its brilliant fusion of Modern European and Mexican cuisines. Patrons commend the establishment for its tasty and fresh meals, such as the Mediterranean breakfast, which stands as a testament to their allegiance to quality. The restaurant's ambiance is also highly appreciated by diners, with many enjoying the outdoor seating and tastefully designed interiors. Furthermore, the eatery's service is frequently applauded, contributing to its reputation as a dining destination that offers "wonderful experiences." Madison's extensive drink menu has also received rave reviews, solidifying its spot as a go-to restaurant for food and drink connoisseurs alike.

8. Barbusa

4.6

Exceptional(4204)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 92 times today

Barbusa is a revered Italian restaurant that has garnered a glowing reputation from both local and visiting patrons. Nestled in the heart of Little Italy, San Diego, it boasts an inviting ambiance that perfectly marries modern decor with traditional Italian heritage. As noted in several reviews, the food at Barbusa is nothing short of exceptional; dishes like the ribeye, the rigatoni with eggplant, and the pesto gnocchi have been pointed out as exquisite highlights of the menu. Customers have also commended the exceptional and attentive service, making special mention of waiters like Paolo and Diego Silva, who elevate dining experiences through their passion and knowledge. One reviewer described a visit to Barbusa as an "unforgettable journey into the heart of Italy," which speaks volumes about the authenticity and quality of its culinary offerings. Overall, the combinative experience of the food, service, and ambiance make Barbusa a must-visit spot in San Diego for any lover of fine Italian cuisine.

A photo of Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

9. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.6

Exceptional(917)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 28 times today

The Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego is a widely praised locale renowned for its exceptional American cuisine. Dedicated to delivering a satisfying dining experience, the restaurant continuously receives commendations for its outstanding service, inviting ambience, and mouthwatering menu options. Visitors highly recommend the brunch offerings, emphasizing the perfection of their omelets and breakfast potatoes. The diverse menu also offers hearty meals including New York steak and rack of lamb, which are commendably cooked to perfection. Many guests consider Provisional one of the best brunch or breakfast spots in the city. A testament to its stellar reputation, one review stated, "After arriving by Amtrak from Fresno, I knew that we needed a hearty meal...The service was outstanding and the atmosphere was memorable." This sentiment is mirrored in many other reviews and reinforces Provisional's status as a must-visit gem in San Diego's vibrant culinary scene.

10. Roman Wolves

4.4

Awesome(207)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 18 times today

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, The Heights has swiftly garnered a reputation for providing an authentic contemporary Italian culinary experience. Patrons praise its excellent service and quality, with standout dishes such as the Buffalo Eggplant and Raviolone earning rave reviews. The seafood, including calamari and Chilean Seabass, is applauded for its top-notch quality, as is the signature fettuccine served in a cheese wheel. The inviting ambiance combined with a great selection of drinks and gourmet cuisine, makes The Heights a 'must-try' for locals and tourists alike. As one reviewer succinctly puts it, "It's an elegant yet comfortable place to meet your friends and/or family."

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Discover best Italian restaurants in La Mesa

Discover the essence of Italian dining in the heart of East County, La Mesa, San Diego, where a selection of restaurants offers an authentic Italian culinary experience. These establishments are celebrated for their commitment to traditional Italian cooking techniques and the use of fresh, quality ingredients. Patrons can indulge in a variety of classic Italian dishes, from perfectly cooked pasta to heavenly tiramisu, all served in settings that echo the warm, inviting atmosphere of Italy itself. The dining scene in La Mesa is a vibrant blend of local charm and international flavors, making it a prime destination for food enthusiasts. Each restaurant strives to provide a memorable dining experience, highlighting homemade recipes and the rich, robust flavors typical of Italian cuisine. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Italian restaurants in La Mesa promise a delightful culinary journey that brings the spirit of Italy right to your table, ensuring every meal is both satisfying and authentic.

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