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Best Italian Restaurants in Ocean Beach

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74 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Cesarina restaurant
1. Cesarina
4.9
Exceptional(5444)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 187 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.
A photo of Elvira restaurant
2. Elvira
4.8
Exceptional(397)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 56 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 Seneca restaurant
3. Seneca
4.7
Exceptional(4108)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 101 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.
A photo of Barbusa restaurant
4. Barbusa
4.6
Exceptional(4275)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 58 times today
Barbusa, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy in San Diego, offers a slice of Sicily with its authentic and modern Italian cuisine. Praised for its "excellent food" and "lively atmosphere," this gem stands out for its handcrafted pastas, stone-fired pizzas, and the freshest seafood. A favorite among locals, Barbusa is celebrated for its distinctive dishes like the Sicilian Ribeye and short rib lasagna, which are consistently lauded by diners. Guests rave about the "fantastic food" and "incredible ambiance," making it a must-visit for anyone craving a true Italian experience. With options for gluten-free and vegan diners, Barbusa ensures a delightful dining experience for all.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
5. Roman Wolves
4.6
Exceptional(295)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 51 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.
A photo of Solare Ristorante Lounge restaurant
6. Solare Ristorante Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(2427)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Point Loma
Booked 22 times today
Family-owned and operated, Randy Smerik and his team are dedicated to providing an amazing dining experience for you. Our authentic Italian cuisine features a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. including fresh pasta made each morning and organic produce, wild fish, and hormone free meat.
A photo of Officine Buona Forchetta restaurant
7. Officine Buona Forchetta
4.7
Exceptional(486)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Point Loma
Booked 51 times today
At Officine Buona Forchetta in the vibrant Liberty Station neighborhood of Point Loma, San Diego, diners are treated to an authentic slice of Italy with its award-winning Neapolitan-style pizza. Renowned for its dedication to quality and authenticity, guests rave about the “heavenly crust” and toppings that create a “perfect combination of flavors” making it “the best pizza in San Diego.” The restaurant's rustic yet modern ambiance adds to the allure, where every pizza is a testament to Italian culinary traditions. As one reviewer puts it, “if you want a true pizza experience, go no further.” Officine Buona Forchetta not only promises but delivers a delightful dining experience with its stellar pizza and exceptional service, making it a must-visit for pizza aficionados and casual diners alike.
A photo of Nolita Hall restaurant
8. Nolita Hall
4.4
Awesome(723)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 70 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.
A photo of Lala restaurant
9. Lala
4.5
Awesome(121)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 17 times today
Lala, nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy in San Diego, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine with a delightful modern twist. Celebrated for its "sexy-chic ambiance," Lala offers an extraordinary dining experience, blending classic Italian dishes like stuffed shells with innovative creations such as loaded potato gnocchi. Patrons rave about the "amazing flavors" and the handcrafted cocktails, particularly the signature "Lala Martini." The commitment to sustainability and a cozy, intimate setting make Lala a community favorite. As one customer put it, "The food, drinks, and vibes were immaculate. The cutest restaurant in Little Italy for sure." Lala is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey wrapped in the warmth of Italian hospitality.
A photo of The Red Door restaurant
10. The Red Door
4.8
Exceptional(2968)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Mission Hills
Booked 19 times today
Nestled in the heart of Mission Hills, San Diego, The Red Door shines as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence. This charming eatery is dedicated to sustainable, responsibly-sourced fare, highlighted by Chef/Owner Luciano Cibelli's daily ritual of hand-selecting the freshest local ingredients. Patrons rave about the "expertly crafted cocktails, tender and smoky grilled octopus, and a rich, creamy risotto," which underscore the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The handmade gluten-free bucatini and nightly specials like Beef Wellington receive high praise, with many noting the "memorable" dining experience fostered by attentive service and a cozy ambiance. Enthusiastic diners recommend The Red Door for anyone seeking authentic, meticulously prepared Italian and modern European dishes, making it a must-visit culinary destination in San Diego.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jessica
    Greater Boston •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Top tier customer service, delicious food, and great place to celebrate a special occasion! Restaurant was quite loud but it was also peak dinner time on a Friday night. Overall great experience!
    More info
    Roman WolvesPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • Marissa
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I got the pasta with vodka sauce, mini lobster and shrimp, It was absolutely delicious!! The ambiance was amazing and our waitress was great! They did take our food on the extra plate without asking first.. but other than that it was amazing!!
    More info
    CesarinaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Ocean Beach
    •
    4.9
  • Monica
    Las Vegas •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    One of the best in Downtown Little Italy! Food was delicious and you must try the Garlic Bread..so good!! Rosanna was our server and she was the absolute best -Very attentive. The vibe was electric on a Tuesday and we can't wait to go back!
    More info
    BarbusaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • Mvip
    San Diego •63 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Love the ambience, service and food and wine! The food that was good when first opened has gotten better! Thoroughly enjoyable as we ate salad, polpette, pizza, chicken, lamb and pasta carbonara. The Italian red wine was perfect for us. Thanks and see you again to the team at Elvira including Nick and Andrea and the rest of the team who was awesome:)
    More info
    ElviraPrice: Moderate• Italian• Ocean Beach
    •
    4.8
  • Benyamin
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Absolutely loved the experience, my girlfriend had told me about the restaurant. She loves the early 90s so the vibes of the restaurant was amazing for her, I loved the decor as well as the general ambiance. The vodka pasta was so good, I got the 40oz porterhouse. The outside was grilled perfectly as well as the medium on the inside. The drinks were so good from the Cabernet my girlfriend had to the Gin & Tonic I had were both wonderfully made. 10/10, will absolutely be suggesting this place to every couple we know as THE date night spot in San Diego.
    More info
    SenecaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
    •
    4.7

Discover best Italian restaurants in Ocean Beach

Discover the essence of Italian cuisine in San Diego's Ocean Beach, where a selection of Italian restaurants offers an unforgettable dining experience. These establishments are celebrated for their deep-rooted authenticity, showcasing traditional dishes that promise to transport your palate straight to Italy. Each restaurant is characterized by a warm, inviting atmosphere, ensuring every meal is enjoyed in a setting that feels like home. Ocean Beach itself is a vibrant area, where the dining scene is as lively and welcoming as the locale. Patrons can expect exceptional service, with staff who are attentive and dedicated to making each dining experience unique. The menus across these Italian eateries are rich with options, featuring everything from classic pasta dishes to innovative Italian-inspired creations, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. For those in search of genuine Italian flavors in San Diego, Ocean Beach's Italian restaurants are a must-visit destination.

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