Best Italian Restaurants in Sorrento Mesa

Price: Moderate (114)Price: Expensive (57)Price: Very Expensive (18)

33 restaurants available nearby

1. Lucrezia

4.4

Awesome(506)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 38 times today

Lucrezia is an Italian restaurant highly regarded by its patrons. According to the guests, what makes Lucrezia stand out is the excellent service and delectable Italian dishes. From the classics to creative and innovative options, every dish is crafted with care and authenticity. The pasta, burrata, chicken, and pizza are particularly praised, noted for their freshness, taste, and appropriate seasoning. Customers also applaud the restaurant for its excellent service, with the staff being kind, attentive, and well-versed. The ambiance is classy and well-thought-out, further enhancing the dining experience. Patrons have expressed their desire to return, acknowledging Lucrezia as their go-to Italian restaurant. The overall consensus is that Lucrezia is a restaurant of excellent Italian cuisine.

A photo of The Amalfi Llama - San Diego restaurant

2. The Amalfi Llama - San Diego

4.5

Awesome(254)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • University City/Golden Triangle

Booked 48 times today

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.

3. Piatti - La Jolla

4.7

Exceptional(4955)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 71 times today

Centrally located in La Jolla, Piatti offers a remarkable culinary experience, with customers often praising its authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. The restaurant's popularity is evident in the 35-year patronage of some diners, who find the service efficient and dining atmosphere cozy. Reviews highlight Piatti’s solid good old-fashioned Italian fare, offering excellent value for money. Dishes such as the signature lemon sauce ravioli, grilled romaine salad wrapped in prosciutto, and Penne Bolognese have been frequently described as “the best outside of Italy.” Customers also commend the thoughtful service, consistent food quality, and the pleasant ambiance of their garden area. Despite minor critiques such as parking issues and a 4% surcharge, Piatti remains a beloved choice for both locals and tourists, earning its reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in San Diego.

A photo of North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant

4. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo

4.4

Awesome(1490)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Del Mar

Booked 71 times today

North Italia San Diego - One Paseo is lauded for its diverse array of authentic Italian cuisine. Many patrons have praised its generous servings, flavor-rich dishes, and the freshness of its ingredients. From their renowned meatballs and excellent red sauce to the perfectly seared scallops on creamy risotto, the restaurant's skill is evident in the execution of every dish. Commendations extend beyond the food, with many reviews highlighting the exceptional service as well. Notably, guests appreciate the varied Italian wine selection, especially the whites, which are often lacking in other Italian establishments. The restaurant offers a wonderful blend of traditional Italian and modern American dishes, ensuring universally satisfying dining experiences for all patrons.

A photo of Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana restaurant

5. Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana

4.6

Exceptional(1298)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Del Mar

Booked 8 times today

Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana stands out as an exceptional Seafood cuisine restaurant. According to the reviews, this place is lauded for its amazing Branzino dishes, superb seafood mixed platters, and outstanding services. Visitors frequently praised their seafood dishes, such as the Seafood Benedict, Spaghetti with Clams, and Healthy Seafood Mix. They also value the variety of seafood options available in both appetizers and entrées, with recommendations for the risotto with scallops and the octopus appetizer. The culinary journey is enhanced with a fantastic view and freshly-prepared food served hot. With a beautiful view from either indoors or the balcony, Aqua Mare is said to offer a peaceful dining experience along with its excellent food.

A photo of Ambrogio15 Del Mar restaurant

6. Ambrogio15 Del Mar

4.6

Exceptional(205)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Carmel Valley

Booked 2 times today

Ambrogio15 Del Mar has established itself as a staple in authentic Italian cuisine. Patrons rave about the incredible dining experience, citing not only the exceptional food but also the exemplary service. Described as "the best pizza this side of Italy" and worth every penny, it's evident that the quality is top-notch. Reviewers have also noted the versatility of the menu, which offers something for everyone, from risotto with filet mignon to vegetarian tasting menus paired with superb wine selections. Many have stated that the ingredients are sourced directly from Italy, enhancing the authenticity of the dishes. Overall, Ambrogio15 Del Mar's high standards and commitment to an excellent dining experience make it a place that is highly recommended by its customers.

7. Davanti Del Mar

4.6

Exceptional(430)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Del Mar

Booked 8 times today

Davanti Del Mar is a beloved gem that guarantees an outstanding Italian cuisine experience. Conveniently located near a mall and theater, the restaurant is praised for its exceptional service, great ambiance, and a variety of authentic Italian dishes. Customers consistently commend their appetizers like the California Caprese and the Focaccia stuffed with cheese and honey, as well as their mains such as the Tagliatelle Bolognese and Cioppino. The restaurant also offers brunch options with a mix of Italian and classic dishes. Whether it's for a date night, family gathering, or business meeting, Davanti Del Mar is highly recommended for its consistent quality and wide selection of delicious Italian food.

8. Marisi

4.6

Exceptional(965)

Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 71 times today

Marisi, located in San Diego, is revered for its authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant has been lauded for its upscale, Mediterranean themed decor and exquisite food presentation, with several patrons labeling it as their favorite restaurant in the city. Critics and diners have noted that Marisi serves "some of the very best Italian food", including fresh, delicious pasta dishes that are comparable to the ones in Italy, as well as a unique and extensive old-world wine list. The service receives consistent praise for being top notch, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. With interior details that are described as "incredible", "gorgeous", and "immaculate", Marisi is renowned for its fantastic ambiance, making it a go-to place for a date night or special occasions.

9. Catania

4.7

Exceptional(2009)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 33 times today

Hailed as a favorite by the locals, Catania is renowned for providing an authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of San Diego. The menu offers an exciting variety of dishes, from Smoked Duck Liver Crostini to Butternut Squash Ravioli, and Crispy Octopus to Grilled Mary's Duck Breast, all prepared to perfection. Patrons have particularly praised the freshness and authenticity of the food that brings back memories of Rome, some even declaring it the best Italian food in San Diego. The restaurant is also known for its rooftop location in downtown La Jolla, providing beautiful ocean views that perfectly complement the delicious fare and friendly service. Whether you're craving for a classic Margherita pizza or savoring the Aglio e Olio Peperoncini, Catania guarantees an incredible experience.

A photo of La Dolce Vita Ristorante restaurant

10. La Dolce Vita Ristorante

4.8

Exceptional(1052)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 26 times today

La Dolce Vita Ristorante, nestled in La Jolla, offers a memorable dining experience characterized by authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its incredible food, with dishes described as "authentic and amazing," as well as its personable and attentive service staff. Not only has it established itself as a beloved local gem for "real world Italian" experience, but it has also captivated visitors from afar, with customers recommending the establishment for anyone looking for a wonderful Italian dinner. Reviewers praised the pasta, particularly the lobster ravioli, and the homemade ingredients, as well as the vast wine selection. Notably, one Italian reviewer expressed their satisfaction, passionately endorsing La Dolce Vita as their only go-to for Italian food.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Sorrento Mesa

Italian