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Best Date Night Restaurants in Little Italy

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232 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Born & Raised restaurant
1. Born & Raised
4.6
Exceptional(6861)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Little Italy
Booked 151 times today
Born & Raised is a top-notch steakhouse in Little Italy, San Diego. It's a go-to date night destination, as quoted in multiple reviews. The upstairs dining has been praised for its beautiful architecture and romantic setting. The food, with a particular emphasis on dry-aged beef, has been described as 'amazing', 'fantastic' and 'delicious'. The ambiance is consistently rated highly, with the service also getting a big thumbs up. It's the perfect place for a special date or occasion.
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
2. Herb & Wood
4.7
Exceptional(6761)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 64 times today
A timeless, sought-after dining escape, celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood to instant acclaim over four years ago. In that time, the restaurant has become an icon, a dining destination that has helped to propel San Diego's culinary reputation to new heights. By focusing on rustic, wood-fired dishes, Chef Malarkey's menu elevates humble ingredients such as carrots, beets, and chicken, incorporating Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability.
A photo of Barbusa restaurant
3. Barbusa
4.7
Exceptional(4500)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 108 times today
Barbusa Local Modern Sicilian Restaurant.Lively atmosphere with our craft cocktails, handmade pastas, freshest seafood, delicate pizza, and our famous Sicilian Ribeye.Pizza Served from our stone fired oven.Gluten free and Vegan Items AvailableWHILE WE VALUE THE TIME OF ALL OUR LOYAL GUEST AND SMILING FACES, WE KINDLY REQUEST YOU LIMIT THE TIME SPENT AT YOUR TABLE TO 1 HOUR AND 30 MIN DUE TO MANDATED REDUCTION IN CAPACITY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING AND SUPPORT, WE COULDNT BE MORE THRILLED TO HAVE YOU DINE WITH US!
A photo of Lala restaurant
4. Lala
4.7
Exceptional(233)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 33 times today
From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.
A photo of Juniper & Ivy restaurant
5. Juniper & Ivy
4.8
Exceptional(8321)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Little Italy
Booked 66 times today
Juniper & Ivy is the perfect date night spot. With its beautifully decorated ambiance and top-notch, locally sourced food, it sets a romantic vibe. As one reviewer noted, 'Such great service and ambiance. Set a great vibe for a great night.' The innovative, stylish, and delicious dishes, along with an award-winning wine list, make it a go-to for couples celebrating anniversaries or just looking for a special evening out.
A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
6. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.7
Exceptional(4721)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Little Italy
Booked 87 times today
Little Italy was built by the fishing industry. Ironside attempts to continue that narrative. It's our contemporary interpretation of the classic fish house and oyster bar. Located in a historic auction house on India St we did a full comprehensive restoration of the building, with three open-air culinary hubs featuring an expansive raw bar, chefs table, and bakery. We tried to be mindful of the past while looking towards the future. Groups of 6 or more will be charged an automatic 20% gratuity. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks. For group reservations of 7 guests or more, please contact the restaurant at 619-269-3033 or via email to info@ironsidefishandoyster.com.Ironside is now taking reservations for patio and dining room seating. We are now offering Happy Hour MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 3:00PM - 5:00PM.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
7. Roman Wolves
4.7
Exceptional(448)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy
Booked 29 times today
"Roman Wolves is more than a bar and restaurant; it's a celebration of epicurean tapestry of what Italians call the Eternal City" said Nino Cusimano. "We've created our own take on the enduring essence of Rome's legacy and it's significant historical, cultural, and culinary impacts on the Italian food scene"
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
8. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1497)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Little Italy
Booked 43 times today
Kettner Exchange boasts two levels of indoor/outdoor drinking and dining and Little Italy’s only rooftop patio with spanning harbor views. We feature Progressive American cuisine from critically acclaimed Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. In 2019, Kettner Exchange was named to Michelin Guide's prestigious Bib Gourmand list. Kettner Exchange has proudly maintained this award every year thereafter. Originally introduced in 1997, the Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less.
A photo of Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge restaurant
9. Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge
4.4
Awesome(367)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 13 times today
Founder and restaurateur, Vincenzo Loverso, invites guests to savor a groundbreaking experience at San Diego’s first ever cheese wheel bar. This unique concept will invite guests to sit at a one of a kind cheese wheel pasta bar (reservation only) in the heart of San Diego.Located on the best corner of Little Italy (India & Date St), step into the modern chic restaurant as the sight and smell of irresistible Italian flavors ignite your senses.
A photo of Cloak + Petal restaurant
10. Cloak + Petal
4.6
Exceptional(1075)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Little Italy
Booked 54 times today
WELCOME TO CLOAK & PETAL!Where we invite you to journey into a place of both intimacy and companionshipOur concept is drawn from our name. The word “cloak” implies secrecy, inspiring our concept of a social sphere humming beneath the levels of ordinary life. “Petal” alludes to the Japanese tradition of “hanami,” when family and friends gather under blooming cherry blossoms to savor food, drinks and fellowship.Enter our space and travel underground to décor reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, a stratum of society all its own, an artist’s dream. Cross the threshold into a mystically transformed Japanese social dining lounge which appears to be an outdoor seating area, similar to a waiting platform. Sit beneath a trellis of draping vines and teardrop lights in the intimate space we’ve thoughtfully created, and feast on authentic Japanese sushi, appetizers, small plates and drinks with family and friends.Journey down to Cloak + Petal… and come unwind your soul.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • William
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Every aspect of my dinner was perfect. Knowledgeable bar and wait staff. Offered a lot of information without being overly pushy. Chris was amazing!
    More info
    Born & RaisedPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • SamVIP
    Los Angeles •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great restaurant and location. Appealing menu, good food.
    More info
    LalaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • LeslieVIP
    San Diego •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We were a group of 8 and we ordered a bunch of appetizers for all to share. They were all delicious! I had the chicken which was flavorful and very good. There was also a delicious pasta that my son in law ordered. The issue was the branzino which 3 of us had and was just not good as well as one totally flavorless pasta. So mixed reviews on the mains. We loved the desserts specially the date cake and service was very good.
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • Scott
    Phoenix / Arizona •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Barbusa delivered an exceptional dining experience. From the moment we sat down, everything impressed us—especially the food. The French bread served with the meatball appetizer was absolutely out of this world—perfectly crusty on the outside and soft inside, soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce. The chicken Parmesan was also a standout, especially the cheese—melty, rich, and packed with flavor. If I had one suggestion, the gnocchi could’ve been swapped for standard spaghetti noodles but that’s just a personal preference. All in all, Barbusa hits the mark in every category. Great ambiance, friendly service, and most importantly, outstanding food. Highly recommend dining here if you’re in San Diego!
    More info
    BarbusaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • DanielVIP
    Greater Boston •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jul 1, 2025
    One of the best meals I’ve ever had. We were up top on the roof at a large table. Music was bumping and service was friendly. Food outstanding. A bit pricey but overall great experience.
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.7

Discover best date night restaurants in Little Italy

Looking for the perfect date night destination in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy? Our comprehensive guide showcases top restaurants that promise a romantic evening with a variety of culinary delights. Whether it's the cozy and intimate settings, innovative menus, or panoramic views, each spot offers a unique ambiance that caters to a memorable date night. From upscale steakhouses to trendy rooftop bars, and charming Italian kitchens, the options are diverse, ensuring there's something to suit every couple's taste. Little Italy, San Diego is renowned for its dynamic dining scene, blending traditional charm with modern sophistication. This neighborhood is a culinary hotspot that provides not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delightful atmosphere for lovebirds seeking a special night out. Rest assured, each restaurant has been selected based on its high-quality service, exceptional food, and the romantic vibe that makes them perfect for couples. Dive into the local flavors and enjoy a date night that you'll cherish!

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