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Best Fun Restaurants in Little Italy

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242 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Barbusa restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4306)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 72 times today
Barbusa Local Modern Sicilian Restaurant.Lively atmosphere with our craft cocktails, handmade pastas, freshest seafood, delicate pizza, and our famous Sicilian Ribeye.Pizza Served from our stone fired oven.Gluten free and Vegan Items AvailableWHILE WE VALUE THE TIME OF ALL OUR LOYAL GUEST AND SMILING FACES, WE KINDLY REQUEST YOU LIMIT THE TIME SPENT AT YOUR TABLE TO 1 HOUR AND 30 MIN DUE TO MANDATED REDUCTION IN CAPACITY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING AND SUPPORT, WE COULDNT BE MORE THRILLED TO HAVE YOU DINE WITH US!
A photo of Juniper & Ivy restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8041)
Price: Expensive
• Unspecified • Little Italy
Booked 57 times today
Juniper & Ivy is a blast, with a menu that's as creative as it is delicious. Reviews rave about the 'inventive food', 'interesting decor', and 'thoughtfully curated ambiance'. It's a spot where you can try new things, like a 'reworking of old culinary favorites'. Plus, the service is top-notch, making it an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients is another feather in its cap. It's a must-visit for foodies and anyone who loves a cool vibe.
A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
4.5
Awesome(4550)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Little Italy
Booked 110 times today
Little Italy was built by the fishing industry. Ironside attempts to continue that narrative. It's our contemporary interpretation of the classic fish house and oyster bar. Located in a historic auction house on India St we did a full comprehensive restoration of the building, with three open-air culinary hubs featuring an expansive raw bar, chefs table, and bakery. We tried to be mindful of the past while looking towards the future. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks.Ironside is now taking reservations for patio and dining room seating. We are now offering Happy Hour MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 3:00PM - 5:00PM.
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6464)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 77 times today
A timeless, sought-after dining escape, celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood to instant acclaim over four years ago. In that time, the restaurant has become an icon, a dining destination that has helped to propel San Diego's culinary reputation to new heights. By focusing on rustic, wood-fired dishes, Chef Malarkey's menu elevates humble ingredients such as carrots, beets, and chicken, incorporating Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1357)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Little Italy
Booked 72 times today
Kettner Exchange boasts two levels of indoor/outdoor drinking and dining and Little Italy’s only rooftop patio with spanning harbor views. We feature Progressive American cuisine from critically acclaimed Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. In 2019, Kettner Exchange was named to Michelin Guide's prestigious Bib Gourmand list. Kettner Exchange has proudly maintained this award every year thereafter. Originally introduced in 1997, the Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(312)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy
Booked 59 times today
"Roman Wolves is more than a bar and restaurant; it's a celebration of epicurean tapestry of what Italians call the Eternal City" said Nino Cusimano. "We've created our own take on the enduring essence of Rome's legacy and it's significant historical, cultural, and culinary impacts on the Italian food scene"
A photo of Cloak + Petal restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(963)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Little Italy
Booked 30 times today
WELCOME TO CLOAK & PETAL!Where we invite you to journey into a place of both intimacy and companionshipOur concept is drawn from our name. The word “cloak” implies secrecy, inspiring our concept of a social sphere humming beneath the levels of ordinary life. “Petal” alludes to the Japanese tradition of “hanami,” when family and friends gather under blooming cherry blossoms to savor food, drinks and fellowship.Enter our space and travel underground to décor reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, a stratum of society all its own, an artist’s dream. Cross the threshold into a mystically transformed Japanese social dining lounge which appears to be an outdoor seating area, similar to a waiting platform. Sit beneath a trellis of draping vines and teardrop lights in the intimate space we’ve thoughtfully created, and feast on authentic Japanese sushi, appetizers, small plates and drinks with family and friends.Journey down to Cloak + Petal… and come unwind your soul.
A photo of Lala restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(131)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 30 times today
From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.
A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3301)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 65 times today
ONLINE RESERVATIONS ARE LIMITED. PLEASE CALL THE RESTAURANT IF YOUR DESIRED TIME IS NOT AVAILABLE.We are proud to offer 75 kinds of different pasta recipe, fresh and hand-crafted 12 hours a day."Bencotto" means cooked well: this is what authentic Italian food is about.It tastes as it should and would in Italy.Bencotto offers two different eating environments: guests can either enjoy their meal at our “kitchen-esque” bar downstairs, or they can relax in the intimate low-ceiling dining area upstairs. The décor creates a clean and sophisticated atmosphere, where old-world charm and warmth blend with contemporary appeal.
A photo of Civico 1845 restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2405)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 28 times today
A new generation of Italian cuisine - fresh, light and authentic. By using proper cooking techniques, our flavors are natural and pure. Our menu is a homage to our region Calabria and southern Italian roots reflecting what is being served in Italy today. You can also find an extensive vegan menu that incorporates many of the best Italian dishes. We have been the first restaurant in the USA to have a full Italian Vegan menu since 2015! We believe in sustainability, both in our food and in the design of our restaurant. While our menu focuses on locally grown and seasonal ingredients, our bar and dining areas were created using reclaimed, natural materials. Nothing goes to waste at Civico 1845!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Callie KuklokVIP
    San Diego •51 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our server Michael was the best! Food and holiday drinks were delicious ❤️💚❤️💚
    More info
    BarbusaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    4.6
  • David
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We have dined at Ironside a number of times and have not been disappointed. The seafood is fresh the service outstanding and the overall ambience enjoyable. Parking is just around the corner, albeit a little expensive for 2 hours. The wine selection is limited, so if you are looking for a variety of fine wine, you may be disappointed. Overall a great dining experience.
    More info
    Ironside Fish & OysterPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Little Italy
    4.5
  • Cedric
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The duck meatballs wasn’t the best , the tomatoes sauce that came with it was just too much and was salty. The shrimp was fabulous, the desert wasn’t too enjoyable, but overall, it was a classy environment with people dressing nice on a Saturday and would definitely go again to try other dishes and for the experience
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Kenneth
    Baltimore / Maryland •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food and service was outstanding. The must have dishes are the pork belly and venison tare tare appetizers, the oxtail gnocchi and Secreto entrees, and the date cake for dessert. The H&W Negron was also a stand out.
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Davi
    Coastal North Carolina •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I had a phenomenal experience at Juniper and Ivy. I made a reservation for my wife’s birthday and once I got there they had valet service for 15$ which for Downtown SD isn’t bad at all. Upon arriving we waited at a very nice, comfortable lounge area by the bar while our table got ready. Once we were seated the server Andrew gave us greeted us phenomenally, remembered the request I made upon making the reservation and fulfilled it expertly. I had initially checked the restaurant’s menu online to have what I wanted to order planned and my only critique is that there was a good amount of menu items in the website that either weren’t available or had different prices however I still rated them 5 stars because all the issues I had related to the website were smoothly resolved by both the manager and the server which easily removed all potential problems both regarding price and the availability of menu items. The food was just as good as the service and I would highly recommend anyone visiting San Diego or looking for a quality dining experience. The price is on the high side but I refuse to call it expensive because the amount you pay is on par with the experience you receive and I will absolutely be dining there again in the future. In conclusion 10/10 to Juniper and Ivy and a special shoutout to the server Andrew and to Whatever manager was on the floor the night of 20Dec2024.
    More info
    Juniper & IvyPrice: Expensive• Unspecified• Little Italy
    4.7

Discover best fun restaurants in Little Italy

Discover the vibrant and eclectic dining scene of Little Italy in San Diego, a neighborhood renowned for its fun and lively restaurant offerings. Whether you're in the mood for innovative fusion cuisine, a unique bar experience, or a classic steakhouse with a modern twist, Little Italy catifies every culinary desire. The restaurants here are celebrated for their energetic atmospheres, exceptional service, and creative menus that promise an unforgettable dining experience. Indulge in hand-crafted cocktails and savor delicious meals while soaking in the area's dynamic vibe and stylish settings. From rooftop bars offering breathtaking city views to intimate spots perfect for special occasions, each establishment in Little Italy adds its own flavor to San Diego's fun dining scene. Perfect for food enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, this locale ensures every visit is filled with joy and gastronomic delight. Join the fun and explore the culinary wonders of Little Italy, where every meal is not just food, but an experience.

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