Best Italian Restaurants in Mission Bay

Price: Moderate (213)Price: Expensive (126)Price: Very Expensive (30)

74 restaurants available nearby

1. Cesarina

4.8

Exceptional(5335)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Ocean Beach

Booked 169 times today

Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.

2. Elvira

4.7

Exceptional(367)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Ocean Beach

Booked 44 times today

Welcome to Elvira, where every slice of pizza tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship, nestled in the vibrant Ocean Beach neighborhood of San Diego. This beloved pizzeria stands out not just for its authentic Italian flavors but for the love and passion that can be tasted in every bite. Customers rave about the "authentic handmade pasta and pizza Roma style - delicious!" and declare Elvira's offerings as "the best pizza!!!" including praise for their vegan and gluten-free options. The ambiance is consistently described as cozy and inviting, making every dining experience memorable. With glowing testimonials like "Great authentic Italian food with al dente pasta and great specials!" and "The pizza was great! We tried the Super Arrabbiata, yumminess," it's clear that Elvira is a cornerstone for those seeking genuine Italian cuisine in San Diego. Whether it's the welcoming service or the meticulously crafted dishes, Elvira promises an impeccable dining experience that keeps patrons coming back.

A photo of Baci Restaurant - San Diego restaurant

3. Baci Restaurant - San Diego

4.9

Exceptional(1865)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Old Town

Booked 8 times today

Baci Ristorante offers diners a hint of old world Italian charm, with plush booths, white tablecloths, and gracious servers clad in tuxedos. While the decor is subtly modern, the menu is classic, celebrating Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. Specialties include classic pasta dishes, veal, and fresh seafood, with especially tempting daily specials offered by Executive Chef Domenico Alioto. In addition to the cuisine, the restaurant's charming and welcoming features--include an extensive wine list, elegant patio setting, and romantic main dining room--have made Baci a consistent favorite among locals for over 30 years.

4. Scuderie Italia

4.8

Exceptional(335)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Pacific Beach

Booked 13 times today

Scuderie Italia in Pacific Beach, San Diego, is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, where the spirit of Italian culinary artistry shines through every dish. Patrons rave about their experience, with one guest exclaiming, "I have never had such delicious pasta ever before in my life" and another declaring, "Hands-down, the best gluten-free pizza in all of San Diego county!" The restaurant's master certified pizzaiolo, Johncarlo "JC" Ferraiuolo, crafts famous Napoletana pizzas that have diners proclaiming it "the best pizza in PB!" Every meal, from the handmade pastas like rigatoni alla bolognese to the gnocchi formaggi, is a testament to traditional Italian flavors. Scuderie Italia is not just a meal; it's an experience of heartwarming authenticity and culinary excellence, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian fare.

5. The Red Door

4.7

Exceptional(2942)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Mission Hills

Booked 17 times today

Nestled in the heart of Mission Hills, San Diego, The Red Door shines as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence. This charming eatery is dedicated to sustainable, responsibly-sourced fare, highlighted by Chef/Owner Luciano Cibelli's daily ritual of hand-selecting the freshest local ingredients. Patrons rave about the "expertly crafted cocktails, tender and smoky grilled octopus, and a rich, creamy risotto," which underscore the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The handmade gluten-free bucatini and nightly specials like Beef Wellington receive high praise, with many noting the "memorable" dining experience fostered by attentive service and a cozy ambiance. Enthusiastic diners recommend The Red Door for anyone seeking authentic, meticulously prepared Italian and modern European dishes, making it a must-visit culinary destination in San Diego.

A photo of Officine Buona Forchetta restaurant

6. Officine Buona Forchetta

4.6

Exceptional(469)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Point Loma

Booked 64 times today

At Officine Buona Forchetta in the vibrant Liberty Station neighborhood of Point Loma, San Diego, diners are treated to an authentic slice of Italy with its award-winning Neapolitan-style pizza. Renowned for its dedication to quality and authenticity, guests rave about the “heavenly crust” and toppings that create a “perfect combination of flavors” making it “the best pizza in San Diego.” The restaurant's rustic yet modern ambiance adds to the allure, where every pizza is a testament to Italian culinary traditions. As one reviewer puts it, “if you want a true pizza experience, go no further.” Officine Buona Forchetta not only promises but delivers a delightful dining experience with its stellar pizza and exceptional service, making it a must-visit for pizza aficionados and casual diners alike.

A photo of La Dolce Vita Ristorante restaurant

7. La Dolce Vita Ristorante

4.8

Exceptional(1071)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 44 times today

La Dolce Vita is located in a European courtyard setting at International Shops off Prospect St. Loyal to its name La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life), is a place to sit back and relax in our cozy and romantic indoor dining room or our charming outdoor patio to enjoy a hearty meal along with a bottle of wine while listening to Italian tunes. We serve genuine Italian cuisine in a fine dining setting at affordable prices.

A photo of Solare Ristorante Lounge restaurant

8. Solare Ristorante Lounge

4.6

Exceptional(2403)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Point Loma

Booked 21 times today

Solare Ristorante is in the Michelin Guide, and is also named Best Italian and one of the Top 5 restaurants in all of San Diego by San Diego Magazine 2024. Solare just celebrated its 11th anniversary as an authentic Italian restaurant. Family-owned and operated, the Smerik Family and their team are dedicated to providing an amazing Italian dining experience for you. Our Executive Chef is Denice Grande. Pasta from scratch made every day. Solare is open 7 days a week. Solare has a full bar and a deep wine selection. Both indoor and heated covered patio dining. Dining in the Solare Wine Room or Solare Chef's Table is amazing. Private room available - Solare is available for weddings, private, and corporate events. Parking is free and easy."

A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant

9. North Italia - Fashion Valley

4.7

Exceptional(2564)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Mission Valley

Booked 89 times today

North Italia in Fashion Valley, Mission Valley - San Diego, is a shining star in the realm of authentic Italian cuisine, especially noted for its exceptional Pizzeria. Patrons rave about their experiences, emphasizing the high quality and deliciousness of dishes like the prosciutto pizza and the spicy meatball pizza. One guest joyfully shares, “I love this place! The truffle bread is incredible along with the chicken pesto pasta, the margarita pizza, and the salads!” The restaurant crafts its pizzas with a commitment to authenticity, using fresh, seasonal ingredients that bring bursts of flavor in every bite. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special celebration, North Italia’s vibrant ambiance and consistent, top-notch service make it a must-visit for pizza lovers and Italian food enthusiasts alike.

A photo of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant restaurant

10. Farmer's Bottega Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(1575)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Mission Hills

Booked 34 times today

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant, a beacon of French culinary excellence nestled in the heart of Mission Hills, San Diego. Celebrated for its authentic farm-to-table approach, this quaint eatery offers a slice of French countryside with its fresh, vibrant flavors and impeccable craftsmanship. Patrons rave about the "unforgettable and flavorful dishes," such as the tender short rib entree and the sophisticated limoncello dessert, each a testament to the chef's dedication to quality. With its cozy European bistro ambiance and stellar service, Farmer's Bottega isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey through the heart of France, earning glowing reviews for creating memorable dining experiences. Don't miss the chance to indulge in their celebrated Cacio E Pepe or the exquisite salmon with lemon risotto. As one diner puts it, "You need to go."

‘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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