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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

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35 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Lucrezia restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1048)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • La Jolla
Booked 37 times today
Fantastic atmosphere and delicious food. We love their pasta and pizza.
A photo of Marisi restaurant
Icon
4.6
Exceptional(1880)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • La Jolla
Booked 88 times today
Had a wonderful time as usual. The menu is always amazing. Sitting on the patio is my husband and I’s favorite. We were able to bring our new puppy with us so that was really exciting for all of us. The staff were so welcoming to our puppy and to us.
A photo of Catania restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2449)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • La Jolla
Booked 30 times today
Isabella was a great hostess. I requested a standard table and we sat right at the front in a booth. Our server Kevin remembered my dessert order! I tried the corn saccetti and had my favorite - the Tagliatelle alla Portofino. It was divine. Can’t wait to go back!
A photo of Nolita Hall restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1075)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy
Booked 39 times today
Will definitely come back! Food was amazing. Ambience was good as well. Nice separation between tables and bar, which keeps noise and traffic down even on a Saturday night.
A photo of Lala restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(423)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy
Booked 19 times today
From the service, food and the music 10/10! Best experience and amazing staff
A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3213)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • Mission Valley
Booked 47 times today
Lovely outdoor setting, great service. Group get together with lots of choices for everyone.
A photo of Cardellino restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(321)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • Mission Hills
Booked 69 times today
I wished I could give them more stars . Food was amazing , the whole team was great. Will be coming back for sure
A photo of North Italia San Diego - One  Paseo restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1908)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • Del Mar
Booked 38 times today
Staff and menu are always amazing. Came in for my MIL’s bday and they treated her great
A photo of Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge restaurant
4.3
Awesome(589)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy
Booked 10 times today
Bernardo and the whole staff were fantastic. Food and drinks were amazing. I would definitely recommend
A photo of Barbusa restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4896)
$$$$
• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy
Booked 71 times today
Best garlic bread 🥖 I have ever had! I also loved the pepperoni pizza 🍕

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • EdmundGold
    San Diego •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Fantastic atmosphere and delicious food. We love their pasta and pizza.
    More info
    Lucrezia$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.5
  • DeborahGold
    San Diego •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Had a wonderful time as usual. The menu is always amazing. Sitting on the patio is my husband and I’s favorite. We were able to bring our new puppy with us so that was really exciting for all of us. The staff were so welcoming to our puppy and to us.
    More info
    Marisi$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • AnnieGold
    San Diego •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Isabella was a great hostess. I requested a standard table and we sat right at the front in a booth. Our server Kevin remembered my dessert order! I tried the corn saccetti and had my favorite - the Tagliatelle alla Portofino. It was divine. Can’t wait to go back!
    More info
    Catania$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.9
  • Tim
    Las Vegas •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    The gluten free pizza was awesome. Crust was on the burnt side, but if you know you know. We had a wonderful meal.
    More info
    Ambrogio15$$$$• Pizzeria• Pacific Beach
    •
    4.8
  • AnnGold
    San Diego •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Oct 2026
    As always - excellent food, staff and ambiance -
    More info
    Candor by Giuseppe$$$$• Contemporary Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.9

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the vibrant neighborhood of University City/Golden Triangle, San Diego. This area is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse array of Italian dining options that cater to enthusiasts of modern and innovative Italian dishes. From expertly crafted pasta to gourmet pizzas with unique toppings, each restaurant in this locale showcases a commitment to authenticity while embracing a contemporary twist. The dining scene here is dynamic, reflecting a blend of casual eateries and upscale establishments, all maintaining a high standard of quality and service. Patrons can expect a memorable dining experience with menus that are both inventive and deeply rooted in traditional Italian cooking techniques. As a hub for both locals and visitors, University City/Golden Triangle provides an ideal backdrop for those seeking to indulge in the best of contemporary Italian fare in San Diego. This area not only promises delicious food but also an inviting atmosphere that complements every meal.

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