Best Italian Restaurants in Clairemont

83 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Amalfi Llama - San Diego restaurant

1. The Amalfi Llama - San Diego

4.4

Price: Moderate

• Italian • University City/Golden Triangle

Booked 46 times today

The Amalfi Llama in San Diego's University City melds the rustic charm of a live-fire steakhouse with the rich flavors of authentic Italian cuisine, creating a dining experience that's both unique and memorable. With an open parrilla grill and wood-burning oven at its heart, this restaurant masterfully uses fire and smoke to elevate traditional Italian dishes, delighting guests with its innovative approach. Reviewers rave about the ambiance and the quality of the food, with one guest exclaiming, “The food was so good. Service was the classiest and highest level.” Another emphasized the authenticity and unique flavor profiles, noting “The Roasted Mushroom Pizza and the Wood-Fired Cheesecake with Berry Compote were among the most amazing flavors I've had in a very long time." The Amalfi Llama's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a standout in San Diego's culinary scene, perfect for anyone seeking an exceptional Italian meal.

A photo of The Godfather Restaurant restaurant

2. The Godfather Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(1859)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Kearny Mesa

Booked 20 times today

Indulge in the quintessential seafood experience at Godfather Restaurant, a gem nestled in Kearny Mesa, San Diego. Celebrated for its authenticity and dedication to Italian culinary traditions, this restaurant presents seafood dishes that transport diners straight to the coasts of Italy. Critics and guests alike rave about the freshness and expert preparation of dishes such as the Blue Crab Ravioli with Shrimp and the delectable SeaBass. One diner exclaimed, "The seafood is always fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked!" The commitment to maintaining high standards since 1974 has made Godfather Restaurant a beloved destination for seafood lovers seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of San Diego.

3. Lucrezia

4.4

Awesome(549)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 55 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.

4. Madison

4.5

Awesome(2998)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • University Heights

Booked 40 times today

Madison, nestled in the vibrant University Heights of San Diego, is a jewel of Californian cuisine that resonates with authenticity and culinary excellence. Praised for its "amazing food and drinks," Madison showcases the creativity of Michelin recognized Chef Mario Cassineri. Patrons consistently rave about experiences that go beyond dining, highlighting the superb service and vibrant atmosphere, especially during their themed nights like the lively 'Dinner with Dogs' and enchanting live jazz evenings. The carefully curated menu features standout dishes like the Pistachio Pesto Pasta and the Zucchini fries with spicy marinara, making every meal a celebration of California's rich flavors and innovative spirit. As one reviewer puts it, Madison is "definitely a must" for anyone seeking a quintessential Californian dining experience in San Diego.

A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant

5. North Italia - Fashion Valley

4.7

Exceptional(2617)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Mission Valley

Booked 52 times today

North Italia in Fashion Valley, Mission Valley - San Diego, is a shining star in the realm of authentic Italian cuisine, especially noted for its exceptional Pizzeria. Patrons rave about their experiences, emphasizing the high quality and deliciousness of dishes like the prosciutto pizza and the spicy meatball pizza. One guest joyfully shares, “I love this place! The truffle bread is incredible along with the chicken pesto pasta, the margarita pizza, and the salads!” The restaurant crafts its pizzas with a commitment to authenticity, using fresh, seasonal ingredients that bring bursts of flavor in every bite. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special celebration, North Italia’s vibrant ambiance and consistent, top-notch service make it a must-visit for pizza lovers and Italian food enthusiasts alike.

6. La Pastaia

4.3

Awesome(292)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Bay Park

Booked 3 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.

7. Piatti - La Jolla

4.7

Exceptional(5037)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 36 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.

A photo of Baci Restaurant - San Diego restaurant

8. Baci Restaurant - San Diego

4.9

Exceptional(1888)

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.

A photo of La Dolce Vita Ristorante restaurant

9. La Dolce Vita Ristorante

4.8

Exceptional(1103)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Jolla

Booked 19 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.

10. Scuderie Italia

4.8

Exceptional(351)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Pacific Beach

Booked 14 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.

‘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

G
Gary
Los Angeles •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We ended up sitting at the bar by choice since there was a game on that we wanted to see. Dining room looked nice but we didn’t really see it too closely. The bar was nice. High end decor. Friendly servers. A little pricey for a restaurant attached to a mall but it did back up the prices with quality.
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The Amalfi Llama - San DiegoPrice: Moderate• Steakhouse• University City/Golden Triangle
•
4.4
W
Wendyvip
San Diego •42 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Fantastic server, great food, good company! Left some decisions up to the server and she did not disappoint.
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North Italia - Fashion ValleyPrice: Expensive• Italian• Mission Valley
•
4.7
N
Navarro
San Diego •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Amazing service. Beautiful inside. Even the bathroom smelled amazing. The food was excellent and I loved the dessert! I would definitely come back again.
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LucreziaPrice: Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
•
4.4
J
Jessica
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The ambiance here is so unique and beautiful! Airy, romantic, stylish and peaceful. And they let us bring our puppy. The food is simple but tasty and the value is one of the best in the city! We have been many times and will continue to come for brunch OR dinner! Today I loved the chai latte and white bean shakshuka. I always bring out of town guests to show it off.
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MadisonPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• University Heights
•
4.5
J
Jennifer
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Last night we celebrated my fiance's birthday and we had a FANTASTIC Time. We checked in with the hostess, she was welcoming and we noticed that special menus had been printed and personalized for our special birthday dinner together; that is ABOVE and BEYOND. We enjoyed starter bread with the amazing dipping sauce, wonderful entrees, desserts and ended the night with cappuccinos. The food was spectacular, the service was unparalleled and the night was very memorable. I am so grateful to Piatti...for a dinner we will always remember. I am so grateful to all the staff; thank you so much.
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Piatti - La JollaPrice: Moderate• Italian• La Jolla
•
4.7

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Clairemont

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Best Italian Restaurants in Clairemont

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83 restaurants available nearby

1. The Amalfi Llama - San Diego

2. The Godfather Restaurant

3. Lucrezia

4. Madison

5. North Italia - Fashion Valley

6. La Pastaia

7. Piatti - La Jolla

8. Baci Restaurant - San Diego

9. La Dolce Vita Ristorante

10. Scuderie Italia

See what locals rave about

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