Best Italian Restaurants in Pacific Beach

Price: Moderate (216)Price: Expensive (129)Price: Very Expensive (31)

74 restaurants available nearby

1. Cesarina

4.9

Exceptional(5354)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Ocean Beach

Booked 174 times today

Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.

2. Scuderie Italia

4.8

Exceptional(337)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Pacific Beach

Booked 10 times today

Scuderie Italia in Pacific Beach, San Diego, is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, where the spirit of Italian culinary artistry shines through every dish. Patrons rave about their experience, with one guest exclaiming, "I have never had such delicious pasta ever before in my life" and another declaring, "Hands-down, the best gluten-free pizza in all of San Diego county!" The restaurant's master certified pizzaiolo, Johncarlo "JC" Ferraiuolo, crafts famous Napoletana pizzas that have diners proclaiming it "the best pizza in PB!" Every meal, from the handmade pastas like rigatoni alla bolognese to the gnocchi formaggi, is a testament to traditional Italian flavors. Scuderie Italia is not just a meal; it's an experience of heartwarming authenticity and culinary excellence, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian fare.

3. Marisi

4.6

Exceptional(992)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 83 times today

Marisi, nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of La Jolla, is a gem that brings the heart of Italy to the Californian coast. Celebrated for its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine, Marisi offers an exceptional array of handmade pastas, which are crafted daily to ensure the freshest experience. The restaurant’s ambiance, reminiscent of a charming villa by the Amalfi coast, complements its culinary offerings, creating a dining environment that feels like "coming home." Critics and patrons alike rave about the diverse menu and the high-quality ingredients, with a recent review highlighting, “The rigatoni dish is probably the best pasta dish I’ve ever had.” Recognized as the best new restaurant by San Diego Magazine, Marisi is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic, memorable Italian dining experience.

A photo of La Dolce Vita Ristorante restaurant

4. La Dolce Vita Ristorante

4.8

Exceptional(1078)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 28 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.

5. Catania

4.7

Exceptional(2021)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 32 times today

At Catania in La Jolla, San Diego, diners are consistently wowed by the authentic Italian Coastal Cuisine, crafted with passion and a commitment to tradition. A standout for its use of wood-burning ovens and a meticulously curated all-Italian wine and craft beer list, Catania captures the essence of Italy's coastal flavors. Guests rave about dishes like the "best pizza they had ever had" and the "delicious pasta and wine." The restaurant's setting, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, complements its culinary delights, creating a perfect dining experience. Reviewers frequently mention the exceptional service and atmosphere, making Catania a beloved spot among locals and a must-visit for those seeking genuine Italian cuisine in a breathtaking locale.

6. Piatti - La Jolla

4.7

Exceptional(4986)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 68 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.

7. Elvira

4.7

Exceptional(373)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Ocean Beach

Booked 55 times today

Welcome to Elvira, where every slice of pizza tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship, nestled in the vibrant Ocean Beach neighborhood of San Diego. This beloved pizzeria stands out not just for its authentic Italian flavors but for the love and passion that can be tasted in every bite. Customers rave about the "authentic handmade pasta and pizza Roma style - delicious!" and declare Elvira's offerings as "the best pizza!!!" including praise for their vegan and gluten-free options. The ambiance is consistently described as cozy and inviting, making every dining experience memorable. With glowing testimonials like "Great authentic Italian food with al dente pasta and great specials!" and "The pizza was great! We tried the Super Arrabbiata, yumminess," it's clear that Elvira is a cornerstone for those seeking genuine Italian cuisine in San Diego. Whether it's the welcoming service or the meticulously crafted dishes, Elvira promises an impeccable dining experience that keeps patrons coming back.

A photo of Baci Restaurant - San Diego restaurant

8. Baci Restaurant - San Diego

4.9

Exceptional(1869)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Old Town

Booked 14 times today

Baci Ristorante offers diners a hint of old world Italian charm, with plush booths, white tablecloths, and gracious servers clad in tuxedos. While the decor is subtly modern, the menu is classic, celebrating Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. Specialties include classic pasta dishes, veal, and fresh seafood, with especially tempting daily specials offered by Executive Chef Domenico Alioto. In addition to the cuisine, the restaurant's charming and welcoming features--include an extensive wine list, elegant patio setting, and romantic main dining room--have made Baci a consistent favorite among locals for over 30 years.

9. Piazza 1909

4.6

Exceptional(789)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 17 times today

Dive into the heart of La Jolla at Piazza 1909, where the essence of Italian coastal cuisine is brought to life with sublime seafood offerings. Guests rave about the authenticity and exceptional quality of dishes like the spaghetti with squid ink and scallops, noting how each bite transports them to the Italian seaside. One diner exclaimed, "The fresh wild salmon was so good," highlighting the freshness that Piazza 1909 prides itself on. Perfectly complemented by the restaurant's charming Mediterranean ambiance, the seafood at Piazza 1909 is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey to Italy, crafted with passion and served with a touch of La Jolla's seaside charm.

A photo of Manhattan of La Jolla restaurant

10. Manhattan of La Jolla

4.7

Exceptional(1704)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 19 times today

Nestled in the heart of La Jolla, Manhattan of La Jolla brings a slice of New York's Italian flair to San Diego. Celebrating its 36th year, this award-winning restaurant is renowned for its impeccable Italian cuisine, featuring a Zagat Award-winning veal chop and a host of authentic dishes like the house specialty Cannelloni and sumptuous shrimp scampi. Patrons rave about the "melt in your mouth tender flambeed peppercorn steak" and the "incredible Caesar salad made tableside," highlighting both the quality and the dining experience. With its elegant atmosphere and live piano music, Manhattan of La Jolla promises not only a meal but a memorable Italian dining experience, making it a must-visit destination in the Village of La Jolla.

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Discover best Italian restaurants in Pacific Beach

Discover the vibrant Italian dining scene in San Diego's Pacific Beach, where a variety of restaurants offer authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. Whether you're craving handcrafted pastas, traditional wood-fired pizzas, or innovative Italian-inspired dishes, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your palate. Each restaurant in this area emphasizes the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, promising a truly authentic experience. The dining atmosphere ranges from casual and family-friendly to sophisticated and romantic, catering to all types of occasions. With their commitment to culinary excellence and genuine Italian hospitality, these establishments ensure a memorable dining experience. Visitors and locals alike praise the excellent service and the inviting ambiance, making Pacific Beach a top destination for Italian food enthusiasts. Enjoy the flavors of Italy right here in San Diego, as you explore the best Italian eateries in Pacific Beach.

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