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The Amalfi Llama - San Diego, San Diego, CA

The Amalfi Llama - San Diego

4.5 (521)
$50 and over
Steakhouse
4575 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 73 times today
Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

  • Good for special occasions
  • Fancy
  • Lively
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.

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Elegant Dining
  • Price
    $50 and over
  • Cuisines
    Steakhouse, Italian, South American
  • Hours of operation
    Lunch Daily 11:30 am–4:00 pm Happy Hour Mon–Thu 3:00 pm–6:00 pm Daily 9:00 pm–11:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (858) 224-9606
  • Website
    http://amalfillama.com/
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Executive chef
    Jaime Chavez
  • Private party facilities
    Host your next event with us! Our private dining room seats up to 10 guests and is complete with AV capabilities, making it perfect for board meetings or intimate celebrations. For larger groups, our semi-private covered and heated patio spaces are ideal. Ask about our private event packages, with prix fixe and family style options for every event.
  • Location
    4575 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
  • Neighborhood
    University City/Golden Triangle
  • Parking details
    Private Lot
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • Chef's Table

    $1,000.00 per party

    Multiple dates available
    Elevate your next event with an unforgettable experience at The Amalfi Llama's exclusive Chef's Table. Our private event room offers an intimate setting where you and your guests can indulge in a curated menu crafted by our renowned chefs. Perfect for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or special occasions, this unique dining experience combines exceptional cuisine with personalized service, all set against the backdrop of our elegant and vibrant atmosphere. Host your next event with us and make it truly memorable. *Food & Beverage minimum is $1000 for the room before service fees and tax. Your event manager will reach out to you after booking to confirm menu details.
    Chef's Table Photo

  • Father's Day 2025

    $95.00 per person

    Prepaid

    Jun 15, 2025 only
    Indulge in a dining experience unlike any other for Father's Day. This three-course prix fixe menu is $95 per person, and available until 3pm. First Course (choice of one) Caesar Salad | Arugula Artichoke Short Rib Empanadas | Calamari Second Course (choice of one) Center Cut Filet | Branzino Wood-Grilled Half Chicken | Scottish Salmon Shrimp Scampi | Rib Eye New York Strip Third Course (choice of one) Chocolate Sin Cake | Tiramisu Fire-roasted Cheesecake
    Father's Day 2025 Photo

Offers

  • Happy Hour // Bar Only // Daily 3p-6p // 9p-Close

    Multiple dates available
    Sun - Thu - 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM,Fri - Sat - 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    The Amalfi Llama, an elevated coastal-themed steakhouse, offers a delightful happy hour experience every day from 3 PM to 6 PM and 9 PM to close. Guests can enjoy an array of specially priced appetizers and pizzas paired with signature cocktails, featuring refreshing options like Aperol Spritz and Peach Bellini. With its vibrant ambiance, The Amalfi Llama's happy hour is the perfect spot to unwind and socialize. Whether you're savoring wood-fired bites or toasting with friends, this happy hour promises a relaxing and enjoyable time for all.

    Happy Hour // Bar Only // Daily 3p-6p // 9p-Close Photo

Menu

The Amalfi Llama - San Diego's menu was last updated on 1/6/2025.

Starters

  • Focaccia$14.00

    Olive Oil, Rosemary

    • Oysters on the Half Shell$28.00

      Half Dozen

      • Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail$27.00

        Cocktail Sauce

        • Short Rib Empanada$19.00

          Chimichurri

          • Shishito Peppers$14.00

            Lemon, EVOO, Avocado Mousse

            • Squash Blossoms$19.00

              Mascarpone, Pistachio

              • Calamari$21.00

                Fresno, Tartar, Spicy Aioli

                • Prosciutto San Daniele$32.00

                  Aged Parmigiano Reggiano

                  • Tuna Tartare$29.00

                    Avocado, Ponzu

                    • Hamachi Crudo$29.00

                      Serrano, Yuzu

                      • Roasted Burrata$25.00

                        Cherry Tomato, Focaccia

                        • Crab Cake$32.00

                          Citrus Aioli

                          • Ossetra Royal Caviar$145.00

                            Blini, Chives, Crème Fraîche

                            Salad

                            • Roasted Beet$21.00

                              Citrus, Goat Cheese, Toasted Almond

                              • Arugula Artichoke$24.00

                                Mushroom, Pistachio, Parmigiano Reggiano

                                • Caesar$19.00

                                  Romaine, Parmigiano Reggiano, Crouton

                                  • House Chopped$21.00

                                    Arugula, Romaine, Tomato, Red Onion, Avocado, Herb Vinaigrette

                                    Wood Fire

                                    • Center Cut Filet$59.00

                                      8 oz.

                                      • Prime Ribeye$75.00

                                        16 ounces

                                        • Prime New York Strip$66.00

                                          12 ounces

                                          • Tomahawk$195.00

                                            Serves Two 32 ounces

                                            • A5 Wagyu$140.00

                                              3 ounces

                                              • Milamessi$48.00

                                                Crispy Beef Filet, Pomodoro Sauce, Mozzarella, French Fries

                                                • Lamb Chops$68.00

                                                  18 ounces

                                                  • Wood-Grilled Half Chicken$39.00

                                                    Roasted Potatoes, Chimichurri

                                                    • Scottish Salmon$46.00

                                                      Asparagus, Arugula, Roasted Tomatoes

                                                      • Branzino$58.00

                                                        Lemon, Capers, Olive Oil

                                                        • Twin Maine Lobster Tails$92.00

                                                          19 ounces, Clarified butter, Charred Lemon

                                                          Sandwiches

                                                          • Amalfi Burger$22.00

                                                            American Swiss, Red Onion, Lettuce, Tomato, Amalfi Sauce

                                                            • Maine Lobster Roll$35.00

                                                              Chimichurri Aioli, Chives

                                                              • Prime French Dip$28.00

                                                                Shaved Ribeye, Horseradish Cream, Arugula, Au Jus

                                                                • Chicken Pesto$19.00

                                                                  Sun Dried Tomatoes, Gruyere, Pesto Aioli

                                                                  Pasta

                                                                  • Spaghetti$24.00

                                                                    Tomato, Parmigiano Reggiano

                                                                    • Cacio e Pepe$28.00

                                                                      Spaghetti, Pecorino

                                                                      • Baked Carbonara$29.00

                                                                        Tagliolini, Ham

                                                                        • Lobster Arrabbiata$52.00

                                                                          Spaghetti, Spicy Tomato

                                                                          • Truffle Tagliatelle$38.00

                                                                            Black Truffle, Parmigiano Reggiano

                                                                            • Shrimp Scampi$36.00

                                                                              Garlic, Butter

                                                                              Pizza Fina

                                                                              • Margherita$23.00

                                                                                Mozzarella, Tomato, Basil

                                                                                • Positano$28.00

                                                                                  Soppressata, Finocchiona, Hot Honey

                                                                                  • Truffle & Mushroom$37.00

                                                                                    Truffle Oil

                                                                                    • Prosciutto & Arugula$36.00

                                                                                      Prosciutto, Arugula, Artichoke, Goat Cheese

                                                                                      Last updated: January 6, 2025

                                                                                      What 521 people are saying

                                                                                      The Amalfi Llama - San Diego reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

                                                                                      Overall ratings and reviews

                                                                                      Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

                                                                                      4.5
                                                                                      4.5 based on recent ratings
                                                                                      • 4.5Food
                                                                                      • 4.5Service
                                                                                      • 4.6Ambience
                                                                                      • 4.0Value

                                                                                      Noise • Moderate

                                                                                      Loved For

                                                                                      • San Diego

                                                                                        Most Booked 1000-Point Tables

                                                                                      • San Diego

                                                                                        Most Booked 1000-Point Tables

                                                                                      Review summary

                                                                                      AI-generated from verified diner reviews
                                                                                      The Amalfi Llama in San Diego offers a "unique dining experience" with "delicious food" and a "beautiful ambiance." Guests rave about the "amazing service" and the attentive staff, particularly servers like Eugene and Brian. The restaurant is praised for its "fantastic" dishes, including crab cakes and pizza, making it a "must-visit" spot for memorable occasions.
                                                                                      521 Reviews

                                                                                      1. David

                                                                                        Los Angeles19 reviews

                                                                                        5.0

                                                                                        Dined 5 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 5
                                                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                                                        Ambiance was great. Sergio was a complete delight with exceptional service. The food, oh boy!! The food was savory and fantastic! I will definitely go back.

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                                                                                      2. Tamara VIP

                                                                                        San Diego4 reviews

                                                                                        1.0

                                                                                        Dined 6 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 1
                                                                                        2. Food 4
                                                                                        3. Service 1
                                                                                        4. Ambience 1
                                                                                        We waited 15 min before we were helped. We also had to flag several people down. Our server was nice but not super attentive. The food was decent. Want to know what the worst part is? Our bill was $285 I tipped $55 and this morning my card shows being charged for almost $500. I will be calling for a manager immediately.

                                                                                        1 person found this helpful

                                                                                      3. Terry

                                                                                        New York City2 reviews

                                                                                        1.0

                                                                                        Dined 6 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 1
                                                                                        2. Food 2
                                                                                        3. Service 2
                                                                                        4. Ambience 1
                                                                                        The steaks were not cooked properly. The cuts of meat were of poor quality. The service was lacking, the music was what you would hear at a dance club and played at a volume level that a dance club would have, making the overall experience miserable. Additionally, everything was overpriced for what you received. There are far better options in San Diego for half of the price!

                                                                                        1 person found this helpful

                                                                                      4. lilian

                                                                                        San Diego7 reviews

                                                                                        5.0

                                                                                        Dined 6 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 4
                                                                                        4. Ambience 4
                                                                                        Excellent wood fire grilled steaks! We enjoyed the music but it was a bit loud.

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                                                                                      5. Erik

                                                                                        San Diego1 review

                                                                                        5.0

                                                                                        Dined 6 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 5
                                                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                                                        The restaurant was beautiful. We sat on the patio and it was quieter out there than inside. Sergio was our server and gave great menu and wine recommendations. So many great options and everything we tried was delicious.

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                                                                                      6. Jill VIP

                                                                                        San Diego7 reviews

                                                                                        4.0

                                                                                        Dined 6 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 4
                                                                                        2. Food 4
                                                                                        3. Service 3
                                                                                        4. Ambience 3
                                                                                        Where to begin - ok the good first: crab cake Is very large and true lump crab, jumbo shrimp are three very large shrimp, very good, beet salad is NOT large (per the waiter) but a decent appetizer size, overall good. Now for the not so good: the waiter automatically brought my husband the 9 oz pour of wine vs standard 6oz without asking. The tajin on the side of my rocks glass was all the way to the bottom and flaked off on the table and my skirt. No one needs this much tajin with their margarita! My husband ordered the Cacio e Pepe pasta listed under pasta entrees for us to share. It was a ridiculously small amount of pasta - more of an appetizer size and when we complained, our waiter said most people order this has an appetizer and then told us their pasta dishes used to be much larger. The other waiter came by and asked us for Parmesan cheese which my husband said yes, then he proceeded to grate the cheese from above the plate with it flying onto my husband’s sweater and pants - the waiter didn’t even notice. Then the DJ music started at 7pm with club thump, thump music and very loud. The crowd is older, families, no one is rocking out at 7pm. I can see them starting this music at 9pm but it was totally inappropriate and irritating. Finally, I ordered, while waiting for the pasta, a flute of champagne and specifically said a 6 oz pour which they did bring but when we received the final bill, they listed 6oz champagne but charged for the 9oz pour! I mentioned to the waiter and he said it was a 6 oz glass but I had to point to the price on the menu to show him they charged for the 9oz pour. Things like this drive me crazy- I wonder how many guests don’t check their bill and restaurants get away with overcharging. I would come back for lunch to avoid the DJ and heads up warning to everyone to check their bill.

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                                                                                      7. Hoa

                                                                                        San Diego1 review

                                                                                        5.0

                                                                                        Dined 6 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 5
                                                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                                                        Our newest favorite SD restaurant, we will be back to try the Happy Hour menu.

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                                                                                      8. Carlos VIP

                                                                                        Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities31 reviews

                                                                                        4.0

                                                                                        Dined 7 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 4
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 5
                                                                                        4. Ambience 3
                                                                                        We had happy hour at Amalfi Llama and enjoyed the experience. The happy hour drink selection was good and the four of us found our drink if choice. The happy hour menu was delicious. Oysters, squash blossoms, empanadas were a good start. Two very good wood fired thin style pizzas topped our meal. Service was good with good turn over for food to arrive. We sat near the bar and it gets moderately noisy. The restaurant is in the UTC mall site and parking can be challenging. Cheers.

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                                                                                      9. Kitzia VIP

                                                                                        San Diego7 reviews

                                                                                        4.0

                                                                                        Dined 7 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 4
                                                                                        2. Food 4
                                                                                        3. Service 3
                                                                                        4. Ambience 4
                                                                                        Super cute place I expected a little more tho! The Filet was delicious but the chicken was just eh I felt like it was missing something. Overall the place is really pretty and big 💓

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                                                                                      10. Karen VIP

                                                                                        San Diego23 reviews

                                                                                        3.0

                                                                                        Dined on June 4, 2025

                                                                                        1. Overall 3
                                                                                        2. Food 3
                                                                                        3. Service 3
                                                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                                                        This was my second visit to Amalfi llama. Dinner was excellent last visit but lunch was mediocre. Burrata appetizer is excellent but chopped salad portion was small and side piece of salmon took literally 2 bites to finish. Very expensive lunch for what was provided.

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                                                                                      FAQs

                                                                                      The Amalfi Llama - San Diego is rated 4.5 stars by 521 OpenTable diners.

                                                                                      Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

                                                                                      1. Home
                                                                                      2. United States
                                                                                      3. San Diego
                                                                                      4. San Diego
                                                                                      5. University City/Golden Triangle

                                                                                      Make a reservation

                                                                                      2 people
                                                                                      7:00 PM
                                                                                      Booked 73 times today
                                                                                      Experiences are available.
                                                                                      Google Map for The Amalfi Llama - San Diego

                                                                                      4575 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122

                                                                                      Dining areas

                                                                                      Additional information

                                                                                      • Neighborhood
                                                                                        University City/Golden Triangle
                                                                                      • Hours of operation
                                                                                        Lunch Daily 11:30 am–4:00 pm Happy Hour Mon–Thu 3:00 pm–6:00 pm Daily 9:00 pm–11:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm
                                                                                      • Price
                                                                                        $50 and over
                                                                                      • Cuisines
                                                                                        Steakhouse, Italian, South American
                                                                                      • Dining style
                                                                                        Elegant Dining
                                                                                      • Dress code
                                                                                        Business Casual
                                                                                      • Parking details
                                                                                        Private Lot
                                                                                      • Payment options
                                                                                        AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
                                                                                      • Executive chef
                                                                                        Jaime Chavez
                                                                                      • Additional
                                                                                        Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Wheelchair Access, Wine
                                                                                      • Website
                                                                                        http://amalfillama.com/
                                                                                      • Phone number
                                                                                        (858) 224-9606
                                                                                      • Private party facilities
                                                                                        Host your next event with us! Our private dining room seats up to 10 guests and is complete with AV capabilities, making it perfect for board meetings or intimate celebrations. For larger groups, our semi-private covered and heated patio spaces are ideal. Ask about our private event packages, with prix fixe and family style options for every event.
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