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Best Italian Restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

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49 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Lucrezia restaurant
1. Lucrezia
4.6
Exceptional(715)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 58 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, Lucrezia offers an exquisite journey through Contemporary Italian cuisine that is nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant is celebrated for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes that transport diners straight to the heart of Italy. Guests rave about the "amazing" pastas, with standout mentions for the Cacio e Pepe and Lobster Fra Diavolo. The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making it perfect for any special occasion. Lucrezia promises an unforgettable culinary voyage, with every dish telling a story of Italian summers, curated with passion and authenticity.
A photo of The Amalfi Llama - San Diego restaurant
2. The Amalfi Llama - San Diego
4.5
Awesome(535)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • University City/Golden Triangle
Booked 33 times today
The Amalfi Llama in San Diego masterfully blends the vibrant flavors of South American cuisine with an Italian twist, creating an unparalleled dining experience. The restaurant's open parrilla grill and wood-burning oven bring to life the authentic essence of South American cooking, crafting dishes that are both "delicious and bursting with flavor." Guests rave about the "incredible wood-fire cooked steaks" and the perfect ambiance that transports you from Southern Patagonia to Italy's Mediterranean coast. The welcoming staff and inviting atmosphere make each visit memorable. As one satisfied diner remarked, "The whole experience was one of a kind every time."
A photo of Marisi restaurant
3. Marisi
4.6
Exceptional(1287)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 63 times today
Marisi, nestled in the charming locale of La Jolla, offers an unparalleled experience in Contemporary Italian cuisine that transports diners straight to the Amalfi coast. With an unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, Marisi delights with "authentic pasta" crafted daily and a menu that evolves with the seasons to present the freshest Italian delights. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "a warm, charming villa," offers a perfect setting for enjoying the "amazing food, service, and ambiance." Guests rave about the "extraordinary culinary innovation" and impeccable service, making every visit to Marisi a memorable exploration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
A photo of Piatti - La Jolla restaurant
4. Piatti - La Jolla
4.8
Exceptional(5210)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 74 times today
Established in 1987, Piatti offers finely crafted fresh Italian cuisine. The soul of the menu is our housemade pasta that we roll, cut and cook by hand everyday. Offering a fresh take on the neighborhood Italian trattoria, Piatti combines a warm, inviting atmosphere, seamless service and an immersive market experience so you can enjoy Piatti at home. Whether dining in or taking home, Piatti brings friends and family together.
A photo of Catania restaurant
5. Catania
4.8
Exceptional(2176)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 34 times today
Catania, nestled in the scenic La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic Contemporary Italian cuisine. Inspired by an Italian road trip, Catania stands out with its commitment to authenticity, boasting wood-burning ovens and grills that bring the vibrant flavors of Italy's coastal cuisine to life. Guests rave about the "amazing dining experience," highlighting dishes like the "crispy octopus" and "duck sugo pasta" as must-tries. The restaurant's all-Italian wine list and exclusive craft beer program further enhance the authenticity, making each visit not just a meal, but a tasteful journey to Italy.
A photo of La Dolce Vita Ristorante restaurant
6. La Dolce Vita Ristorante
4.7
Exceptional(1243)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 55 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 Piazza 1909 restaurant
7. Piazza 1909
4.7
Exceptional(880)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 32 times today
Piazza 1909 in La Jolla is a seafood lover's paradise, offering a fresh and authentic taste of the ocean. Praised for its "fresh wild salmon" and "sea bass," the seafood dishes here are crafted with care and attention to detail, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Diners marvel at the "Cioppino," brimming with seafood in a perfectly spiced tomato-based broth, making it a standout choice for those seeking a rich and satisfying meal. Chef Stefano's commitment to using organic and fresh ingredients elevates each dish, creating a memorable culinary journey that beautifully captures the essence of the sea.
A photo of Isola La Jolla restaurant
8. Isola La Jolla
4.8
Exceptional(828)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 37 times today
Isola La Jolla is a true gem for Pizzeria cuisine, capturing the essence of authentic Italian flavors with every bite. Located in the picturesque neighborhood of La Jolla, this beloved spot is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas that are "11 out of 10!" Diners rave about the "perfect pizza dough" and the "amazing crust and flavors" that make each slice unforgettable. The restaurant's commitment to using the finest local ingredients, inspired by the owner’s Nonna, ensures an authentic and delightful dining experience. With its lively atmosphere and exceptional service, Isola La Jolla promises a vibrant and satisfying meal for all pizza lovers.
A photo of Manhattan of La Jolla restaurant
9. Manhattan of La Jolla
4.8
Exceptional(1812)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 19 times today
Manhattan of La Jolla, nestled in the Empress Hotel on Fay Avenue, is a seafood lover's dream, offering an authentic taste of the ocean that is second to none. This award-winning restaurant has been delighting diners for 36 years with its exquisite selection of seafood dishes. The "incredibly fresh and vibrant" flavors of their seafood are a standout feature, with dishes like the signature scampi and fresh branzino leaving guests in awe. The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to its professional service and elegant ambiance, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable seafood dining experience in La Jolla.
A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant
10. Bernini's Bistro & Bar
4.8
Exceptional(663)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 22 times today
Bernini's Bistro & Bar in La Jolla is a true gem for those who appreciate exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. With over 24 years of culinary excellence, it's no wonder it remains a neighborhood favorite. Guests rave about the “excellent food” and “consistently good” dishes that showcase the restaurant's passion for quality and authenticity. The inviting atmosphere, complete with cozy fire pits and a vibrant patio, enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Bernini's dedication to impeccable service and their standout dishes, such as the cioppino and wood-fired pizzas, ensures a memorable visit every time.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • EduardoVIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This is a great restaurant for any occasion... food and service are phenomenal... and all thanks to a great manager, Ivika, who runs this place flawless.... thank you again!
    More info
    LucreziaPrice: Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • Teri
    Orange County •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We sat under the huge beautiful tree out back and had a lovely dinner. From the hostess to our waiter and servers, the service was perfect.
    More info
    Piatti - La JollaPrice: Moderate• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.8
  • Belinda
    New Orleans / Louisiana •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Marisi was the perfect place to celebrate my birthday! They left me a birthday card & brought a dessert & sparkler to celebrate. Our waiter was attentive & pleasant. Will be back!!
    More info
    MarisiPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • JohnVIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Wonderful experience at Amalfi Llama! We celebrated our friend's birthday and everything was fantastic. This was our first time there. The ambiance was nice, the service was A+, and the food was Delicious! We ordered the crab cakes, burrata, and prosciutto pizza to start. And for dinner we had the lamb chops, T-bone steak, branzino, filet and chicken. All were amazing food!! Our server was Brian. And he was absolutely Amazing!! Top notch service! Can't wait to go back again.
    More info
    The Amalfi Llama - San DiegoPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• University City/Golden Triangle
    •
    4.5
  • Mary
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 28, 2025
    The staff went above and beyond to make this a special night for my out-of-town family visiting La Jolla for the first time. We had a lovely table on the patio with a great view of the ocean. The service was consistently friendly, accommodating, efficient, and first rate all around. The cocktails were superb; appetizers delicious; lovely home-made pastas and pizza. Thanks for a special evening, Catania!!
    More info
    CataniaPrice: Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.8

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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