Best Sicilian Restaurants in National City

24 restaurants available nearby

1. Barbusa

4.6

Exceptional(4279)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Little Italy

Booked 68 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.

2. Lala

4.5

Awesome(121)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Little Italy

Booked 8 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

3. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

4.8

Exceptional(609)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • North Park

Booked 3 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 Mimmo's Italian Village restaurant

4. Mimmo's Italian Village

4.6

Exceptional(620)

Price: Expensive

• Sicilian • Little Italy

Booked 5 times today

Mimmo's Italian Village in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy stands as a beacon of Sicilian cuisine, deeply rooted in authenticity and tradition. Established in 1973, this family-owned gem has consistently delighted diners with its homemade dishes, crafted from scratch using only the freshest local produce. A standout favorite, as one diner vividly shares, is the Campanelle Sausage, which they reminisce about "almost every day" due to its divine taste. The restaurant's atmosphere enhances the dining experience, making guests feel as though they've stepped into a quaint Sicilian village. With its impressive dedication to quality and originality, Mimmo's offers an unforgettable slice of Sicily, right in the heart of San Diego.

A photo of Il Fornaio - Coronado restaurant

5. Il Fornaio - Coronado

4.7

Exceptional(5818)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Coronado

Booked 33 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. Il Fornaio means "the Baker" in Italian. This award-winning restaurant offers an authentic and unique Italian dining experience. 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.

A photo of Garage Buona Forchetta restaurant

6. Garage Buona Forchetta

4.6

Exceptional(870)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Coronado

Booked 13 times today

Garage Buona Forchetta in Coronado, San Diego, is a gem for anyone craving authentic Neapolitan pizza. Praised for its “consistently great” culinary delights, this pizzeria stands out with its “amazing and gluten-free crispy thin crust pizza,” as one reviewer highlighted its exceptional quality. The restaurant’s atmosphere is equally lauded, with its inviting ambiance and efficient service that make each visit memorable. Patrons repeatedly commend the “outstanding pricing for oceanfront dining,” ensuring a delightful experience that combines both supreme quality and value. Whether it’s the “terrifically helpful waiter” or the “endless creative topping choices” on the pizzas, Garage Buona Forchetta consistently impresses, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors in Coronado.

A photo of Trattoria Da Sofia restaurant

7. Trattoria Da Sofia

4.6

Exceptional(170)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Kensington

Booked 14 times today

Trattoria Da Sofia, nestled in the charming Kensington neighborhood of San Diego, is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. This delightful establishment has quickly become a favorite, praised for dishes that exude the heart and soul of Italy. Guests rave about the "creamy Spaghetti Carbonara" and the "divine Risotto ai Funghi," which are just a few examples of the menu's authentic offerings. The ambiance, described as "cozy and authentic," enhances each dining experience, making it feel like a "mini vacation to Italy." Regulars adore the "table side tiramisu," highlighting it as a must-try. With glowing reviews stating it's the "best Italian food in San Diego," Trattoria Da Sofia is undoubtedly a gem worth visiting for anyone seeking genuine Italian fare combined with warm hospitality.

8. RustiCucina

4.7

Exceptional(1125)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Hillcrest

Booked 17 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.

9. Siamo Napoli

4.6

Exceptional(1297)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • North Park

Booked 8 times today

Siamo Napoli in North Park, San Diego, stands out as a haven for authentic Napolitano style pizza, celebrated for its exceptional quality and the authenticity of its cuisine. Patrons rave about the "absolutely amazing pizzas" and the atmosphere that captures the essence of Italy. With ingredients sourced to reflect the richness of Napoli, the restaurant crafts dishes that are both traditional and innovative. Reviewers consistently praise not only the food but also the "excellent service" and the warm, inviting ambiance. A standout comment notes, "The pizza was killer, some of the best dough I’ve had outside of Napoli," highlighting the genuine Italian experience Siamo Napoli offers. Whether it's the Burrata pizza or a classic Margherita, each bite promises a slice of Naples right in San Diego.

10. Osteria Panevino

4.3

Awesome(1738)

Price: Moderate

• Sicilian • Downtown

Booked 13 times today

Nestled in the historic Gaslamp Quarter of Downtown San Diego, Osteria Panevino stands out as a culinary gem renowned for its exquisite Steak cuisine. This restaurant, the oldest in the area, brings a slice of Italy to San Diego, championing authenticity with its rustic, Tuscan ambiance. Chef Vincenzo Lo Verso, with over 25 years of culinary experience, masterfully prepares Sicilian recipes that make their steaks a must-try. Diners rave about the authenticity and quality, noting dishes that "remind me of being in Italy." Osteria Panevino holds the prestigious titles of Best Family Restaurant and Best Italian Cuisine in San Diego, making it a top destination for steak lovers seeking a memorable dining experience with a touch of Italian 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

A
Annettevip
New York City •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
After a recent trip to Italy, we were craving authentic pasta dishes. Trattoria da Sofia did not disappoint! Each of our dishes was delicious. My dish (our table favorite!) was the Pistacciosa. Great wine selections, spritzers and best, simple, authentic tiramisu prepared table side. We’ll be back!
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Trattoria Da SofiaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Kensington
•
4.6
L
Lisa
San Diego •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Service was top notch and the food delectable. I will absolutely be back.
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Cacio E Pepe Trattoria RomanaPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Park
•
4.3
E
Estrella
San Diego •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
They are amazing! My FAVORITE server Jacob is so attentive and makes sure that our drinks NEVER hits the bottom of the glass! I've NEVER had a bad plate. From the full entrees, appetizers, pizza and their salads it has ALL been so good. Great ingredients and so flavorful. They have the BEST espresso martitinis. Soooo good! Giuseppe the owner is always there ensuring that he helps his staff run the place so smoothly and checking in on all customers. Thank so much!!
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VinariusPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown
•
4.9
G
Girija
Corpus Christi / McAllen •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 19, 2024
Great food, great service and beautiful decor! Came here for my birthday and loved it. So happy I did! :)
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Trattoria Don PietroPrice: Moderate• Italian• Old Town
•
4.5
G
Gail
Denver / Colorado •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 13, 2024
The food selection at Mimmo’s Italian Village was outstanding! We ordered a Pastrami sandwich and the Fettuccine with clams and don’t forget the cheese bread! All was wonderful and made our last meal in San Diego before our flight a very memorable one.
More info
Mimmo's Italian VillagePrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6

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National City

Sicilian

Best Sicilian Restaurants in National City

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Award-winning

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24 restaurants available nearby

1. Barbusa

2. Lala

3. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

4. Mimmo's Italian Village

5. Il Fornaio - Coronado

6. Garage Buona Forchetta

7. Trattoria Da Sofia

8. RustiCucina

9. Siamo Napoli

10. Osteria Panevino

See what locals rave about

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