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Best Italian Restaurants in Cardiff By The Sea

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(601)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 30 times today
Buona Forchetta Encinitas is a standout Pizza Bar in the heart of Encinitas, known for its "authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas" that have diners raving. The gilded oven here crafts pizzas with a crust that's "oh so yummy," delighting both gluten-free and traditional pizza lovers alike. This charming Italian eatery offers more than just incredible pizza; it provides a "family-friendly, approachable" atmosphere with attentive service. Many reviews highlight the "phenomenal experience," praising the "excellent gluten-free options" and the "deliciously crafted" dishes. Whether you're enjoying a meal inside or on the cozy patio, Buona Forchetta promises a memorable dining experience that keeps guests coming back.
A photo of North Italia San Diego - One  Paseo restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1557)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 51 times today
North Italia San Diego - One Paseo offers a delightful journey into Contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of Del Mar. Known for its exceptional handmade pastas and pizzas, this restaurant crafts each dish with inventive flavors and seasonal ingredients, ensuring a “delicious” experience every time. The menu is well-rounded with fresh flavors from garden, farm, and sea, making it a “go-to spot” for many. Guests rave about the “excellent service” and “warm hospitality,” which elevate the dining experience to a whole new level. Whether it's a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner, North Italia promises an authentic modern Italian escape.
A photo of Cucina Enoteca - Del Mar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(2744)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 19 times today
Cucina Enoteca in Del Mar shines as a beacon of exceptional Californian cuisine, blending Italian classics with a contemporary twist using the freshest local and organic ingredients. Diners rave about their "fantastic food and service," highlighting the exquisite wine selection that perfectly complements each dish. The ambiance is described as lively and inviting, making it a popular spot for both romantic evenings and family gatherings. Standout dishes like the corn casoncelli and squash blossoms have left a lasting impression on guests. With its commitment to quality and authenticity, Cucina Enoteca offers a delightful dining experience that beautifully captures the essence of Californian cuisine.
A photo of Firenze Trattoria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1767)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 19 times today
OPEN FOR DINE IN~ We are accepting online and phone reservations. Please be patient with wait times **IF YOU HAVE A SEATING PREFERENCE FOR EITHER THE INSIDE DINING ROOM OR OUTSIDE HEATED PATIO, PLEASE SPECIFY WHEN MAKING YOUR RESERVATION. **SEATING PREFERENCES CANNOT BE GUARANTEED** Sun-splashed by day and romantically lantern-lit at night, Firenze's flower-bedecked patio, with it's gentle fountain, is like a private courtyard in some romantic Italian villa. Come see what all the buzz is about we are certain that you will enjoy this one of a kind experience in this beautiful San Diego Italian restaurant.
A photo of Il Fornaio - Del Mar restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2381)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 10 times today
Step inside Il Fornaio and take a culinary journey through Italy. Early mornings bring rustic, crisp crusted bread hot from the oven accompanied by the scent of fresh brewed espresso. During lunch and dinner hours, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while meats and vegetables roast over hot coals. Bottles of wine from small, regional wineries are uncorked to complement the dishes, which have been crafted in the custom of Italy's chefs, bakers and homemakers. Specialties include wood-fired rotisserie and grilled meats, poultry and game; house made pastas; pizzas from an oak wood burning oven; fresh salads and house made soups; a wide variety of desserts; and fresh baked bread made daily from scratch. Repeat winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
A photo of Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1347)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 9 times today
Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana in Encinitas is a seafood lover's paradise, offering the freshest and most exquisite seafood dishes that are sure to delight. Diners frequently rave about their "absolutely phenomenal" seafood creations, with the cioppino being hailed as "beyond amazing." Each seafood dish is crafted with precision and served at the perfect temperature, ensuring an exceptional dining experience. With over 25 years of culinary excellence, Vigilucci's ensures that every dish reflects authenticity and superior quality. Whether you're enjoying a seafood pasta or the catch of the day, the restaurant's commitment to fresh, flavorful seafood is evident in every bite.
A photo of Nick & G's Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(940)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Rancho Santa Fe
Booked 3 times today
Nick & G's Restaurant in Rancho Santa Fe is a true gem for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine. Its modern Italian-American dishes are crafted with a delicate balance of flavors that delight the palate. Glowing reviews highlight the restaurant's consistent quality, with one diner exclaiming, "You can’t ever go wrong by dining here!" The menu features favorites like short ribs and chicken Parm, alongside tantalizing seafood and pasta dishes. Guests rave about the attentive service and inviting ambiance, where live music enhances the dining experience. Nick & G's is not just a restaurant; it's a "fabulous" celebration of Italian culinary artistry.
A photo of Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad restaurant
3.3
Good(460)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 1 time today
If you are looking for an Italian Restaurant in Carlsbad, CA then come to Buca. Our Italian Restaurant serves Authentic Family Style Italian Food. Located near the Forum of Carlsbad, your Carlsbad, CA Buca is ready to serve you all your favorite Italian specialties for lunch or dinner all week long. It's easy to see why we are everyone's favorite Italian restaurant. Our chefs create delicious, authentic Italian pastas, entrees, and pizzas and our attentive staff serves them up family style. From the moment you walk into your Carlsbad Buca, you know you are going to be well taken care of. You'll feel like family because we treat you like family. We love celebrations so be sure to book our semi-private dining rooms or set up catering for your next special event. Make your reservations or simply stop by to enjoy a meal today. We can't wait to see you!
A photo of Davanti Del Mar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(450)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 10 times today
Davanti Del Mar is a delightful haven for Modern European cuisine enthusiasts located in the heart of Del Mar, San Diego. Praised for its "authentic Italian food" and vibrant atmosphere, this restaurant stands out with its chef-driven menu featuring shareable plates, homemade pastas, and pizzas. Diners often rave about the "amazing food, ambience, and service," making it an ideal spot for any occasion, from romantic dinners to family gatherings. The "cheese-stuffed honey focaccia" is a must-try, leaving guests eager to return. With friendly staff and a warm, inviting atmosphere, Davanti Del Mar is a top choice for a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Rosina's Italian Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1218)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Poway / Rancho Bernardo
Booked 24 times today
Rosina's Italian Restaurant in Poway/Rancho Bernardo, San Diego, is a hidden gem for Mediterranean enthusiasts. With over 30 years of experience, Rosina's delivers authentic Italian cuisine straight from the heart of Italy, emphasizing fresh, homemade ingredients. Guests rave about the "amazing" sweet potato soup and "best Italian food in town," with standout dishes like lasagna and fusilli fungi. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service make every meal feel like a special occasion. Rosina herself is often present, chatting with patrons and ensuring a personal dining experience. Perfect for family dinners or date nights, Rosina's is a must-visit for genuine Mediterranean flavors.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Lynn
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Everything was great! Just as I remembered. Food is always good with service.
    More info
    Cucina Enoteca - Del MarPrice: Moderate• Italian• Del Mar
    4.5
  • OpenTable DinerVIP
    Tampa / Central Florida West •4 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Most everything about this dinner was exceptional, but the service was a bit spotty, slow, and inconsistent. It appeared that they were short staffed, and although our server was pleasant, and very knowledgeable, she appeared to have too many tables. We will definitely try this restaurant again as the food was great!
    More info
    Firenze TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Encinitas
    4.7
  • Debbie
    San Diego •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Best waitress ever!! Great energy and suggestions.
    More info
    North Italia San Diego - One PaseoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Del Mar
    4.6
  • HelenVIP
    San Diego •56 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Came here with another couple that we hadn't seen in a long time. Hadn't been to this specific location in years so it was nice to come back. We were seated within 5 min of our reservation time and was seated on the covered patio (but luckily there were strong heat lamps). We were served right away with waters and bread for the table. We started by splitting a margherita pizza for the table as an appetizer. It was delicious and cooked to perfection. I love that the crust was nice and chewy and was wondering if it was a sourdough crust but it was really lovely. for our dinner we ordered pappardelle carbonara (mine), pesto linguine with chicken (my husband), lasagna bolognese (our friend's husband), and spaghetti (can't recall exactly what my friend ordered but it was something with spaghetti). Everything was delicious! Our friend who ordered the lasagna said it was okay but he would have preferred a bit more acidity in the sauce as he claimed it was "too sweet". We all tried the sauce and liked it so I think it's likely personal preference. My carbonara was amazing! I'm sure it was super fattening but it was so good! the only comment I have is that it was a bit salty (I think from the bacon). My husband loved his pesto with chicken dish and my friend devoured her spaghetti dish. We were offered dessert but we were too full to eat anything else. I am curious if their cannoli's are made fresh as our Italian friend said that you should never order cannolli unless they make it in front of you. (how is that possible)? Definitely a gem of a place and one of San Diego's finest Italian Restaurants. Great place for date night or a double date. The place is small and intimate so likely not the best place for a large group.
    More info
    Buona Forchetta EncinitasPrice: Moderate• Italian• Encinitas
    4.7
  • Pete
    San Diego •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 5, 2025
    We had an amazing experience. The food was delicious, service even better and loved the piano music making this one of our favorites in North County.
    More info
    Vigilucci's Trattoria ItalianaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Encinitas
    4.8
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