Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Encanto

21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Cori Pastificio Trattoria restaurant

1. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

4.7

Exceptional(626)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • North Park

Booked 33 times today

Nestled in the heart of North Park, San Diego, Cori Pastificio Trattoria is a seafood haven that promises an extraordinary culinary experience. Acclaimed chef Accursio Lota, known for his authentic Sicilian flair, creates masterpieces that captivate the palate with the freshest seafood and local ingredients. Diners rave about the "spectacular seafood pasta" and "craveable scallops with risotto," praising the restaurant's ability to flawlessly combine traditional Italian techniques with a California twist. The cozy, intimate atmosphere enhances the dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers seeking both quality and authenticity in every bite.

2. RustiCucina

4.6

Exceptional(1164)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Hillcrest

Booked 46 times today

RustiCucina in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a beacon of authentic Californian cuisine with a delightful touch of Sicilian flair. This charming eatery captivates food enthusiasts with its commitment to "locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes," ensuring every bite is fresh and vibrant. The fusion of American and Sicilian tastes offers an unparalleled farm-to-neighborhood experience, making it a community favorite. Diners rave about the "amazing food and dining experience," with standout dishes like the "cheese wheel pasta" and "pesto pasta creamy and delicious." With a warm ambiance and a pet-friendly outdoor space, RustiCucina is a must-visit for those seeking quality Californian cuisine.

A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant

3. Alexander's on 30th

4.8

Exceptional(3103)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • North Park

Booked 52 times today

Alexander's on 30th in North Park, San Diego, is renowned for its exquisite Italian-inspired Seafood cuisine. The restaurant seamlessly blends gourmet flair with homestyle comfort, creating a truly unique dining experience. Diners rave about the Chilean Sea Bass, with one review calling it "delicious" and recommending it highly. Another standout dish is the seafood stuffed mushrooms, described as "to die for." The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, promising a memorable meal with every visit. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or a curious first-timer, Alexander's is a must-visit for an unforgettable culinary journey.

4. Ciccia Osteria

4.7

Exceptional(190)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Barrio Logan

Booked 54 times today

Ciccia Osteria in Barrio Logan, San Diego, offers an authentic Italian dining experience that delights both vegetarian and vegan palates. This Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand-awarded gem stands out for its commitment to quality, using the freshest ingredients to craft memorable dishes. Diners rave about the "squash blossoms and mushroom flan," highlighting their exquisite taste and presentation. The restaurant's cozy, intimate atmosphere and attentive service make it a perfect spot for savoring "the sights, smells, and exquisite tastes of Italy." Chef Mario Cassineri's passion for authentic cuisine ensures that every dish is a "must-try" for vegetarian and vegan food lovers.

5. Monzu Fresh Pasta

4.9

Exceptional(631)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 14 times today

Monzu Fresh Pasta in San Diego's vibrant East Village has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional Contemporary Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its "authentic Italian made fresh daily," Monzu offers a taste of Italy with its hand-crafted fresh pasta dishes that resonate with tradition and innovation. Diners rave about the "first-class pasta" and "exquisite sauces," with standout dishes like lamb ragu with bucatini and Scarpariello Piccante. The restaurant’s warm and inviting ambiance, complemented by "impeccable service" from attentive staff like Alberto, makes every visit special. Perfect for pasta lovers, Monzu Fresh Pasta is a culinary gem not to be missed.

A photo of Farmer's Table - Chula Vista restaurant

6. Farmer's Table - Chula Vista

4.6

Exceptional(377)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Chula Vista / Bonita

Booked 9 times today

Excited to announce that we officially have four locations open in San Diego including Bay Park, Little Italy, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. As a family run operation we believe every good neighborhood deserves an eatery where locals and visitors can enjoy “honest food done right”. Here at Farmers Table, we specialize in farm-to-fork cuisine that focuses on bringing locally sourced organic ingredients together to be savored in an inviting family-friendly atmosphere, where adults and children can enjoy many different food options that are just right for them. If you are looking for a magical brunch this week, come stop by for an unforgettable night.

7. Roman Wolves

4.6

Exceptional(336)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 57 times today

Roman Wolves in Little Italy, San Diego, is a shining gem for Cocktail Bar enthusiasts. This vibrant establishment is celebrated for its exquisite cocktails, with the Hugo Spritz receiving rave reviews as "incredible" and leaving patrons eager for more. The talented bartenders at Roman Wolves ensure that each drink is a masterpiece, complementing the rich Italian culinary experience. Diners frequently commend the bar's atmosphere, describing it as lively and welcoming, perfect for both intimate gatherings and spirited celebrations. If you're seeking a memorable cocktail experience in the heart of San Diego, Roman Wolves is the place to be!

8. Nolita Hall

4.3

Awesome(779)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 56 times today

Nolita Hall, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Pizza Bar experience that transports diners straight to the heart of Italy. Known for its Fiori woodfire oven, this beloved spot crafts pizzas that are nothing short of spectacular. Patrons rave about the "pepperoni pizza with honey" as being "awesome," highlighting the unique and delightful flavor combinations that set Nolita Hall apart. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of fun and elegance, with many calling it a "great place to watch a sports game" while indulging in top-quality pizzas. It's a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking authentic taste and vibrant ambiance.

9. Barbusa

4.6

Exceptional(4325)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy

Booked 82 times today

Barbusa, located in the vibrant Little Italy of San Diego, stands out as a premier destination for seafood enthusiasts. Known for its "freshest seafood," Barbusa consistently delights guests with its authentic and modern Sicilian flair. Diners rave about the "amazing dishes" and the exceptional service that complements the vibrant atmosphere. The seafood offerings at Barbusa are not just meals; they are culinary experiences, crafted with precision and served with passion. Guests frequently highlight the "delicious food" and "amazing waiter service," making every visit memorable. For those seeking quality seafood with a touch of Sicilian charm, Barbusa is a must-visit.

A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant

10. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge

4.4

Awesome(633)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown

Booked 28 times today

Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge is a standout gem in Downtown San Diego, offering an authentic Californian twist on Mediterranean and Italian classics. Just steps from the marina, this culinary haven is celebrated for its "fantastic Italian food" and "delicious cocktails," creating a "multi-sensory culinary sanctuary" that invites guests to relax and indulge. Diners rave about the vibrant atmosphere, with one delighted guest noting, "Everything about this place was amazing!" The combination of exquisite dishes like the "spicy rigatoni with just the right amount of heat" and impeccable service make Salvatore's a must-visit for those seeking exceptional Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean flair.

‘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

M
mauro
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
I’ll definitely come back..from the frittura di calamari to the panna cotta with in between maddalene al tartufo it was excellent. Truly a typical Italian restaurant …
More info
Ciccia OsteriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Barrio Logan
•
4.7
R
RUTH
San Diego •1 review
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
The servers were excellent. The pasta meals were lacking. The Cacio e Pepe was too dry and not anything like it was supposed to be. It needed more liquid to make it creamy. The other pasta was just ok. It was supposed to have eggplant, but it was almost non existent. It had only a few very small pieces. The Cheese Wheel meal was excellent! I would have that again.
More info
RustiCucinaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Hillcrest
•
4.6
WA
WillnAliVIP
San Diego •10 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We had an 8:15pm reservation. Had to do a few laps around the block before we landed a spot in back. We still checked in 30 minutes early, but they were very accommodating to seat us right away. They gave us a choice of inside or patio, showed us all the choices, and we picked the patio. The lighting was dim, with a fountain in the middle and heat lamps to make every table a very comfortable temperature. The service was outstanding! The food was delicious! And the price was pleasantly surprising! We will definitely be back soon!!
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Alexander's on 30thPrice: Expensive• Italian• North Park
•
4.8
R
Richard
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
There are a lot of Italian restaurants in San Diego, but this is perhaps one of the best ones I have recently discovered! The flavor and presentation of these dishes were amazing! The service was also incredible, our server was amazing, things were brought to us in a. Timely manner and she made fabulous recommendations! 10/10 would HIGHLY reccomend!
More info
Cori Pastificio TrattoriaPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Park
•
4.7
N
NickVIP
Cincinnati / Dayton •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Alberto was great! Excellent service, great wine selection, delicious pasta.
More info
Monzu Fresh PastaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.9

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Encanto

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21 restaurants available nearby

1. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

2. RustiCucina

3. Alexander's on 30th

4. Ciccia Osteria

5. Monzu Fresh Pasta

6. Farmer's Table - Chula Vista

7. Roman Wolves

8. Nolita Hall

9. Barbusa

10. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge

See what locals rave about

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