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Best Italian Restaurants in Downtown

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A photo of Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant
1. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego
4.7
Exceptional(955)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 21 times today
At Provisional Restaurant in the heart of Downtown San Diego, pizza lovers are in for a true delight. The restaurant's Pizza Bar stands out with its woodfire-oven baked pizzas that are a testament to authentic Italian craftsmanship. Diners rave about the quality and flavor, with one guest exclaiming the experience as “fantastic,” especially praising the ambiance that complements the dining experience. The pizzas here are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each pie is both visually appealing and bursting with flavors. Whether you're a local or visiting, Provisional’s Pizza Bar is a culinary gem in San Diego that promises an exceptional pizza experience.
A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant
2. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge
4.5
Awesome(625)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 9 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 Asti Ristorante restaurant
3. Asti Ristorante
4.6
Exceptional(1747)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 4 times today
Asti Ristorante in Downtown San Diego has been a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine since 1994, delighting diners with its vibrant atmosphere and exquisite dishes. Known for its generous portions and true Italian flavors, Asti offers a menu that celebrates the essence of Northern Italy, from handmade pastas to fresh seafood and quality steaks. Patrons consistently rave about their experiences, noting the "best Italian I’ve had in SD" and praising specific dishes like the "lobster fettuccine with pesto sauce" that is "literally to die for." The attentive service, led by praised staff members like Saini, and the restaurant’s ability to make everyone "feel like family" further enhance the dining experience, making Asti Ristorante a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Italian meal in San Diego.
A photo of Operacaffe restaurant
4. Operacaffe
4.7
Exceptional(1346)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 12 times today
At Operacaffe we are passionate about our culinary business and our customers. The reputation for excellent cuisine, top-notch service, the quality and freshness of ingredients are the reasons we are so proud of our brand new restaurant!
A photo of The Desmond restaurant
5. The Desmond
4.4
Awesome(149)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
We're California born and bred. Best in the world? Yeah. We’ve got that. These are year-round farms. Lifelong fishermen. Orchards that thrive well beyond the fall. Our ingredients here in Southern California are the very best, and we treat them with the respect that they deserve. Join us for an experience that showcases the best of the bounty, with flavors that are truly memorable.
A photo of Pizza On 5th restaurant
6. Pizza On 5th
3.2
Good(14)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, Pizza On 5th, or PO5 Pizza Lounge, offers an authentic slice of Italian delight that locals and visitors alike rave about. This family-owned gem stands out for its commitment to quality, using only the freshest ingredients and finest cheeses to craft pizzas that are both comforting and exciting. Patrons consistently praise the restaurant's inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, with one reviewer exclaiming, "Best pizza in town!" and another noting the "amazing pizza thanks to the help of our waitress." Whether it's the beautifully melted cheese or the perfectly balanced sauce, Pizza On 5th delivers an Italian dining experience that is genuinely remarkable and memorable.
A photo of Seneca restaurant
7. Seneca
4.7
Exceptional(4164)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 142 times today
Seneca, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offers a splendid Italian dining experience that captures the essence of Roman simplicity and culinary excellence. The restaurant brilliantly merges traditional Roman cooking techniques with San Diego's rich ingredient palette, creating a "True Roman Holiday in SD." Diners consistently praise its authentic Italian offerings, with one visitor remarking, "Visiting from Italy, good food selection and octopus tasted beautifully :)." The atmosphere is equally lauded, from its stunning downtown harbor views to its vibrant ambiance, making every visit memorable. Whether celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual meal, Seneca stands out as a top choice for authentic Italian cuisine in San Diego.
A photo of Barbusa restaurant
8. Barbusa
4.6
Exceptional(4294)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 80 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 Cesarina restaurant
9. Cesarina
4.9
Exceptional(5482)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 186 times today
Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
10. Roman Wolves
4.6
Exceptional(307)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 34 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.

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Discover best Italian restaurants in Downtown

Explore the vibrant Italian dining scene in downtown San Diego, where each restaurant offers a unique slice of Italy's rich culinary tradition. From the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter to Little Italy, discover a variety of establishments that celebrate authentic Italian flavors through expertly crafted dishes, from traditional pasta and pizza to innovative seafood creations. Embrace the ambiance that ranges from rustic, family-friendly atmospheres to sophisticated, modern settings, all designed to enhance your dining experience. These Italian eateries are not only beloved for their delicious menus but also for their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and providing exceptional service. The dining scene in downtown San Diego is a testament to the area's appreciation for fine Italian cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively venue for a group gathering, downtown San Diego's Italian restaurants promise a memorable meal that captures the essence of Italy's gastronomic excellence.

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