Best Italian Restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

Price: Moderate (155)Price: Expensive (65)Price: Very Expensive (16)

47 restaurants available nearby

1. Lucrezia

4.4

Awesome(509)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 45 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 The Amalfi Llama - San Diego restaurant

2. The Amalfi Llama - San Diego

4.5

Awesome(257)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • University City/Golden Triangle

Booked 54 times today

The Amalfi Llama reimagines the culinary landscape by seamlessly merging the allure of a rustic live-fire steakhouse with the flavors of Italian cuisine, a culinary haven where genuine cooking, down-to-earth cuisine and stylish flair intertwine. Guests embark on a journey from Southern Patagonia to the Mediterranean coast of Italy as they indulge in a multisensory experience that transcends boundaries – from the soothing cream decor to the intimate ambiance of crackling embers accompanied by the melodies of vintage Italian vinyls. Embracing the essence of a modern farmhouse, The Amalfi Llama revolves around an open parrilla grill and wood-burning oven, harnessing fire, smoke, coals and embers to craft dishes. The restaurant’s ethos also meets design with Latin American and Mediterranean influences, resulting in an inviting environment adorned with light woods, natural light and subtly elegant finishes, defying traditional steakhouse and Italian restaurant conventions.

3. Marisi

4.6

Exceptional(972)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 60 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.

4. Piatti - La Jolla

4.7

Exceptional(4963)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 72 times today

Centrally located in La Jolla, Piatti offers a remarkable culinary experience, with customers often praising its authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. The restaurant's popularity is evident in the 35-year patronage of some diners, who find the service efficient and dining atmosphere cozy. Reviews highlight Piatti’s solid good old-fashioned Italian fare, offering excellent value for money. Dishes such as the signature lemon sauce ravioli, grilled romaine salad wrapped in prosciutto, and Penne Bolognese have been frequently described as “the best outside of Italy.” Customers also commend the thoughtful service, consistent food quality, and the pleasant ambiance of their garden area. Despite minor critiques such as parking issues and a 4% surcharge, Piatti remains a beloved choice for both locals and tourists, earning its reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in San Diego.

5. Catania

4.7

Exceptional(2010)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 43 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 La Dolce Vita Ristorante restaurant

6. La Dolce Vita Ristorante

4.7

Exceptional(1054)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 19 times today

La Dolce Vita Ristorante, nestled in La Jolla, offers a memorable dining experience characterized by authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its incredible food, with dishes described as "authentic and amazing," as well as its personable and attentive service staff. Not only has it established itself as a beloved local gem for "real world Italian" experience, but it has also captivated visitors from afar, with customers recommending the establishment for anyone looking for a wonderful Italian dinner. Reviewers praised the pasta, particularly the lobster ravioli, and the homemade ingredients, as well as the vast wine selection. Notably, one Italian reviewer expressed their satisfaction, passionately endorsing La Dolce Vita as their only go-to for Italian food.

7. Piazza 1909

4.6

Exceptional(782)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 13 times today

Piazza 1909 is a hidden gem in the realm of Italian cuisine and has won the hearts of many with its authentic recipes, exquisite wine list, and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the fantastic vegan options, the homemade pastas with true Italian roots, and the specially crafted dishes like the gnocchi and the duck Ragu. Many hail Piazza 1909 as "one of the best Italian spots in town", praising the superb service and pleasant ambiance suitable for both family gatherings and date nights. It has often been described as a 'delightfully authentic' Italian restaurant delivering consistently excellent food and service, with a vivid Italian ambiance that truly makes the dining experience memorable.

A photo of Manhattan of La Jolla restaurant

8. Manhattan of La Jolla

4.7

Exceptional(1695)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 17 times today

Manhattan of La Jolla is a highly recommended Italian restaurant, celebrated for its service, ambiance, and above all, its sumptuous cuisine. Located in San Diego, this gem is frequented by locals and visitors alike for its genuine old school service and "East coast Italian ambience". Customers laud its "consistently tasty food and great service", with specific mentions of the complimentary fresh bread and the remarkable variety of "tasty options". Some even consider it a step "back to a better time, to an upscale New York restaurant", where the dining experience is always top-notch. The restaurant's live music adds to its charm and energetic atmosphere. The reviews validate the Manhattan of La Jolla as a notable destination for "great Italian food".

9. Isola La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(766)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 17 times today

Isola La Jolla, located in the charming coastal town of La Jolla, is hailed for its exceptional Italian cuisine. Customers commend the restaurant for its authentic Italian dishes, crafted with the utmost care and quality. Highlights include the garbanzo fries, traditional pizzas, and homemade pasta dishes, with some claiming it's the best pasta they've ever had. The interior exudes a cozy ambiance, accentuated by real candles and fresh flowers. Isola is not only great for an everyday dining experience but also for a romantic date night. The restaurant's wine selection, which includes vintages from their family vineyard in Italy, is also widely praised. Renowned for its attentive staff, unique flavors, and speedy service, Isola La Jolla is a must-visit dining spot for Italian food lovers in San Diego.

A photo of The Godfather Restaurant restaurant

10. The Godfather Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(1810)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Kearny Mesa

Booked 11 times today

Godfather Restaurant in San Diego is highly praised for its authentic Italian cuisine. Many reviewers declare it their favorite Italian restaurant in town, and with good reason. Diners champion their offerings as "excellent," "superb," and "second to none." The restaurant has earned a reputation for its eggplant parmigiana and marinara sauce, described as "fantastic." Special mentions also go to their tiramisu, touted as the "best in town," and their ravioli a la Godfather. The sterling reviews uniformly highlight hospitable service and a charming, old-school Italian ambiance. With numerous recommendations, Godfather Restaurant is a must-visit for a delightful traditional Italian meal experience.

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Discover best Italian restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

Discover the essence of Italian cuisine in the University City/Golden Triangle area of San Diego, where you can indulge in a wide range of Italian eateries offering everything from traditional dishes to inspired modern fare. These restaurants are celebrated for their authentic flavors, with menus brimming with artisanal pizzas, exquisite pasta dishes, and gourmet seafood that capture the culinary spirit of Italy. Each establishment provides a unique ambiance, from cozy, family-friendly settings to more sophisticated, upscale dining experiences, ensuring an atmosphere that compleverts any dining preference. The dining scene in University City/Golden Triangle is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the area's dynamic culture and the culinary expertise of its restaurants. Patrons can expect top-notch service and a welcoming environment, making each meal a delightful experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Italian restaurants in this part of San Diego promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey with every bite. This area not only satisfies your cravings for great Italian food but also serves as a culinary landmark in San Diego, renowned for its commitment to quality and authenticity.

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