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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in La Mesa

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19 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Antica Trattoria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2386)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • La Mesa
Booked 26 times today
Antica Trattoria in La Mesa is not just renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine but also stands out as an exceptional cocktail bar. Patrons rave about the ambience that complements their drink experience, with one guest stating, "Always a wonderful experience... cocktails, appetizers, and entrees." The bar is celebrated for its skilled bartenders who craft each cocktail with precision, ensuring a delightful sip every time. Whether it's a beautifully made Lemon Drop or the refreshing Red Sangria, the quality of their cocktails consistently impresses guests. Moreover, the friendly and attentive service adds to the charm, making Antica Trattoria a must-visit for both exquisite meals and outstanding cocktails in La Mesa.
A photo of Limoncello La Mesa restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(306)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • North Park
Booked 21 times today
Limoncello La Mesa offers an authentic slice of contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of La Mesa. Celebrated for its "delicious and very authentic" dishes, this charming restaurant has quickly become a cornerstone of the local dining scene. Patrons rave about the "outstanding mushroom & cream Marsala wine sauce" and the "homemade pasta" that remind them of upscale Italian eateries reminiscent of childhood. The ambiance at Limoncello, described as a "light, airy, modern, gardenlike" environment, complements its culinary offerings, making every meal a delightful experience. Notably, the service is consistently praised, with staff like Roberto and Francesca providing "excellent service" that enhances the dining experience. Whether it's the handcrafted Limoncello Martini that comes with a lemon popsicle or the meticulously prepared lobster ravioli, Limoncello La Mesa stands out as a gem in North Park, offering a true taste of Italy with every dish.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(318)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 66 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 Nolita Hall restaurant
4.3
Awesome(772)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 87 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 Barbusa restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4312)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 91 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 RustiCucina restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1153)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Hillcrest
Booked 57 times today
At RustiCucina in Hillcrest, San Diego, contemporary Italian cuisine takes center stage, wowing diners with its authenticity and innovation. The restaurant's charm lies in its dedication to farm-to-neighborhood sourcing, ensuring every dish, from the "hearty, rustic" pasta to the diverse and sumptuous entrées, bursts with freshness and flavor. Patrons rave about their culinary experiences, noting dishes like the Pappardelle Al Brasato as "the most flavorful and delicious pasta I’ve ever eaten." The ambiance, described as warm and inviting, complements the top-notch service, making every visit memorable. Whether it's the handcrafted cocktails or the impressive cheese wheel pasta, RustiCucina stands out as a beacon of exemplary contemporary Italian dining in San Diego.
A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant
4.4
Awesome(631)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 29 times today
Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge in Downtown San Diego is a gem for those seeking exceptional Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. Situated near the marina district, this restaurant offers a "multi-sensory culinary sanctuary" that combines the freshness of Californian ingredients with the bold flavors of Mediterranean and Italian cooking. Guests rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes. One delighted diner exclaimed, "THE BEST RESTAURANT EVER!!! I am obsessed with this place!!! Their food, service, and ambiance is by far like no other!!!!" From the "fried gnocchi" to the "yummy seafood pasta," every dish is crafted to perfection, highlighting the fresh and flavorful ethos of Californian cuisine. Salvatore's not only promises a delightful meal but also an enchanting atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in San Diego.
A photo of Lala restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(135)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 31 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 Cori Pastificio Trattoria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(619)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • North Park
Booked 29 times today
At Cori Pastificio Trattoria in North Park, San Diego, seafood lovers are in for a treat. Under the helm of the acclaimed Sicilian Chef Accursio Lota, the restaurant serves up authentic Italian dishes that beautifully incorporate fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Critics and patrons alike rave about the seafood offerings; one standout review highlighted the "signature seafood carbonara" as being "absolutely delicious," and another celebrated the "scallops with risotto" for being "perfectly prepared and delicious." These dishes showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity, making Cori Pastificio Trattoria a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier seafood dining experience.
A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3307)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 78 times today
Bencotto Italian Kitchen in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy offers a dining experience that captures the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine with unparalleled authenticity and flair. With 75 different pasta recipes, all fresh and hand-crafted daily, Bencotto epitomizes the meaning of its name, "cooked well." The restaurant's dual dining areas—a modern kitchen-esque bar and a cozy upstairs space—provide the perfect backdrop for savoring dishes that "taste as they should in Italy." Highlighted by glowing reviews, patrons rave about the truffle ravioli and the cheese wheel pasta, describing them as "AMAZING" and "worth the trip." The dedication to quality and a warm, inviting atmosphere make Bencotto a must-visit for anyone seeking the best of Italian cuisine.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Kateryna
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    It’s was exciting to still catch holidays decorated indoors and outdoor. Food is great! We’ve had HALIBUT PUTTANESCA entree, MISO POMODORO pasta, WOOD FIRED BRUSSELS SPROUTS as shared. Big plus is that they still have seasonal cocktails. Our waitress didn’t offer us any water, but it’s was something we didn’t notice until the end. No a big deal. 10/10 in overall
    More info
    Nolita HallPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    4.3
  • PatriciaVIP
    Mexico City •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Service was excellent! Our waiter that night was very friendly and made us feel very welcomed. The food was delicious, it tasted homemade we had the a la matriciana pasta and the lamb. The Tiramissu was also very good.
    More info
    Roman WolvesPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    4.6
  • JeanVIP
    Fort Lauderdale •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great food at reasonable prices. Good service, floor was a bit cold initially but we eventually got used to it.
    More info
    BarbusaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    4.6
  • Jim
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Limoncello's was such a wonderful surprise. We heard great things, but it was even better than we expected. The decor and ambiance were so charming. The food was unbelievably delicious. One of the biggest standouts was the Ossobuco Di Maile, but there were 7 of us and we all loved what we had. The homemade pasta and the sauces were out of this world. Our server, Miguel, was so friendly and attentive. It was a wonderful night!
    More info
    Limoncello La MesaPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Park
    4.6
  • TyroneVIP
    Houston •91 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 14, 2024
    Everything was great! The Sea Bass special is always out of this world and service is always fantastic... thanks to waitstaff like Levi & Heather
    More info
    Antica TrattoriaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• La Mesa
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in La Mesa

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the heart of East County, La Mesa, San Diego. This region boasts a selection of restaurants that masterfully blend traditional Italian techniques with modern culinary innovations, offering a sophisticated dining experience that caters to refined palates. Each establishment features a menu rich in fresh, high-quality ingredients, with dishes that highlight the depth and diversity of contemporary Italian cooking. From artisanal pastas to inventive seafood preparations, diners can expect beautifully plated meals that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. The dining scene in La Mesa is vibrant and eclectic, providing a perfect backdrop for those seeking a memorable meal in a charming suburban setting. These restaurants not only prioritize the authenticity and flavor of their dishes but also emphasize a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making each dining experience unique. Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visitor looking to indulge in Italian culinary delights, La Mesa's contemporary Italian restaurants promise an exceptional gastronomic journey.

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