Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Pacific Beach

25 restaurants available nearby

1. Marisi

4.6

Exceptional(1060)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 45 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.

2. Catania

4.8

Exceptional(2069)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 17 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.

A photo of Ambrogio by Acquerello restaurant

3. Ambrogio by Acquerello

4.6

Exceptional(85)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Experience Michelin Star Chef Silvio Salmoiraghi’s Iconic 8 Course Tasting Menus in our charming La Jolla restaurant, recently included in the Michelin Guide.Signature Tasting Menu - $159/person. Vegetarian Tasting Menu - $139/person. A La Carte Menu: From Tuesday through Thursday, you get to enjoy the Great Classics of Italian Cuisine through the lenses of Chefs Silvio Salmoiraghi and Enea Sintoni on this special A La Carte Menu. It includes two (2) courses of choice + dessert for $99/person. Not sharable and not combinable with Tasting Menus.We seek to operate within the frame of a New Italian Cuisine. Italy, France, Korea, Japan and California: the five places that define our cuisine and allow us to create a unique set of masterpieces.Reservations require a $20/person deposit, fully refundable up to 24h in advance.We gently require a 48h notice for allergies and dietary restrictions. A full Vegan Menu is available only upon request.

A photo of Candor by Giuseppe restaurant

4. Candor by Giuseppe

4.8

Exceptional(791)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 1 time today

Candor by Giuseppe in La Jolla is a standout destination for those seeking a truly international dining experience. This neighborhood gem consistently impresses with its "familiar tastes with global twists," making every dish an adventure. Praised for its high-quality ingredients and exceptional service, guests rave about the diverse offerings, from the "delicious and perfectly cooked" Poached Chicken Salad to the globally inspired Lamb Pappardelle and Fisherman's Stew. Reviewers consistently highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the attentive staff, noting that "Guillermo made our dining experience!" and the ambiance is "always fantastic." Candor by Giuseppe isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey that celebrates global flavors with every dish.

5. La Pastaia

4.3

Awesome(300)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Bay Park

Booked 11 times today

La Pastaia, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Bay Park, San Diego, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine that promises an authentic and delightful dining experience. The restaurant is celebrated for its "homemade pasta tossed in flavorful sauces" and "wood-fired pizzas topped with the freshest ingredients," crafted with a modern twist. Guests often rave about the quality of the dishes, such as the "delicious Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe" and the "pasta with zucchini cream," highlighting their authentic and innovative flavors. The atmosphere is described as "a beautiful spot with amazing food and wonderful service," making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine Italian culinary journey. The consistently "excellent service and food," along with glowing reviews like "the best homemade pasta we have ever tried," underscore why La Pastaia stands out as a top destination for Contemporary Italian fare in San Diego.

A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant

6. Bernini's Bistro & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(590)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 9 times today

Bernini's Bistro & Bar in La Jolla, San Diego, is a treasure trove of Contemporary American cuisine, delighting locals and visitors alike for over 24 years. Known for its "incredible" Lasagna and wood-fired pizzas, Bernini's offers a menu that is both diverse and bursting with flavor. Reviewers rave about the “delicious” and “well-prepared” meals, highlighting dishes like the blackened salmon and cioppino as must-tries. The restaurant's ambiance is consistently praised, creating the perfect backdrop for dining experiences that are as memorable as they are delicious. With "excellent service" and a "warm" atmosphere, Bernini's stands out as a top choice for those seeking authentic and high-quality Contemporary American fare in a charming neighborhood setting.

7. Seneca

4.7

Exceptional(4195)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 77 times today

Seneca, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offers a splendid Italian dining experience that captures the essence of Roman simplicity and culinary excellence. The restaurant brilliantly merges traditional Roman cooking techniques with San Diego's rich ingredient palette, creating a "True Roman Holiday in SD." Diners consistently praise its authentic Italian offerings, with one visitor remarking, "Visiting from Italy, good food selection and octopus tasted beautifully :)." The atmosphere is equally lauded, from its stunning downtown harbor views to its vibrant ambiance, making every visit memorable. Whether celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual meal, Seneca stands out as a top choice for authentic Italian cuisine in San Diego.

8. Roman Wolves

4.6

Exceptional(312)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 57 times today

At Roman Wolves, located in the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood of San Diego, diners are treated to a sublime Contemporary Italian culinary experience that's rooted in Rome's illustrious traditions. With a menu that boasts the ever-popular cheese wheel pasta, described as "the best thing ever," and dishes like the oxtail ragu and guanciale & pepper bucatini, the authenticity and innovation are palpable. Reviewers rave about the "amazing quality food" and the atmosphere that makes every meal memorable. One diner enthused, "If you want true Italian food like Italy, this is the place to go." Whether it's the impeccable service, the thoughtful dishes, or the vibrant ambiance, Roman Wolves represents the pinnacle of Contemporary Italian cuisine in San Diego.

9. Nolita Hall

4.3

Awesome(762)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 61 times today

Nolita Hall, nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy in San Diego, offers a fresh and modern take on Italian cuisine that dazzles with authenticity and innovation. Since its grand opening in 2018, Nolita Hall has become a culinary landmark, celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and a menu that features delights from a Fiori woodfire oven, which is the heart of their Italian-inspired offerings. Patrons rave about the "best hot honey pizza" and the meticulously crafted cocktails, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and the integrity of ingredients. With accolades like the Orchid Award for its stunning interior, Nolita Hall is the go-to destination for those seeking a contemporary Italian feast in a chic and inviting setting. Whether it's for a game night or a sophisticated dinner, every visit is an experience to remember, making it a must-visit in San Diego's Little Italy.

10. Lucrezia

4.5

Awesome(573)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 44 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of La Jolla, San Diego, Lucrezia offers a refreshing contemporary twist on Italian cuisine that is both innovative and deeply rooted in authenticity. Guests are transported to the Amalfi Coast with dishes that evoke the mystique of Italian summers, using fine ingredients to craft meals that are "spectacular" and reminiscent of the beautiful Italian countryside. Reviewers rave about the "amazing service" and the uniquely delicious offerings like the mussels in white wine sauce and Calabrese pizza with hot honey sauce. As one diner put it, "The whole experience was fantastic," making Lucrezia a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional Contemporary Italian fare.

‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

R
Richelle
California Central Coast •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We went for my birthday with my parents and in-laws! It was our first time but we heard good things. I’m so happy we tried it out! Phenomenal food and service! I am pregnant so I couldn’t drink, but the non alcoholic options are actually really good! Thank you!
More info
MarisiPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
•
4.6
J
JohnVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •31 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Food is always great and the staff are super friendly. Just a great all around atmosphere on a cold winters night
More info
CataniaPrice: Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
•
4.8
M
mariza
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
This is a great neighborhood gem! The ambience and service (and authentic cuisine) you would find in La Jolla But in our own backyard :)
More info
La PastaiaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Bay Park
•
4.3
CC
CathieCVIP
San Diego •10 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 15, 2024
The food was delicious! I had the salmon, my husband had the short ribs. My sister had the burger and her husband had the chicken Milanese. We started with the sausage flatbread. Everything was really nicely prepared . The service was excellent and all the wine choices were great. We will definitely return!
More info
Candor by GiuseppePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• La Jolla
•
4.8
E
Ed
San Diego •47 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 8, 2024
If you are expecting a typical restaurant meal you will not get it here. If you a looking for a true dining experience I highly recommend Ambrogio by Acquerello. 8 courses of extraordinary food, wine pairings and top notch service. The surprise “breakfast” as the third or fourth course is fun. Playing the “guess the ingredients” game is challenging. Bon appetite.
More info
Ambrogio by AcquerelloPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Italian• La Jolla
•
4.6

Explore OpenTable

Pacific Beach

Contemporary italian

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Pacific Beach

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

25 restaurants available nearby

1. Marisi

2. Catania

3. Ambrogio by Acquerello

4. Candor by Giuseppe

5. La Pastaia

6. Bernini's Bistro & Bar

7. Seneca

8. Roman Wolves

9. Nolita Hall

10. Lucrezia

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable