Best Italian Restaurants in San Marcos

Price: Moderate (54)Price: Expensive (21)Price: Very Expensive (14)

10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Buona Forchetta - San Marcos restaurant

1. Buona Forchetta - San Marcos

4.5

Awesome(424)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • San Marcos

Booked 20 times today

Buona Forchetta - San Marcos, located in San Diego County, has forged a sterling reputation for delivering authentic Italian cuisine. Rave reviews underscore the restaurant's remarkable expertise in balancing seasonings and presenting fresh, flavorful dishes that satiate both classic and modern palates. Praised as likely the "best Italian food in the county," the menu's standouts include buratta, pesto gnocchi, and risotto with Osso Bucco. Guests commend the extensive selection of Italian wines and the knowledgeable, exceptional service. This dining experience is further enhanced by accommodating vegan and gluten-free options. Indeed, Buona Forchetta - San Marcos is an Italian delight in North County San Diego.

A photo of Giaola Italian Kitchen restaurant

2. Giaola Italian Kitchen

4.5

Awesome(436)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Carlsbad

Booked 2 times today

Known for its premium Italian cuisine, Giaola Italian Kitchen has been lauded by patrons for its outstanding service, generous portions, and authentic recipes. Rave reviews highlight the broad menu, noted for dishes ranging from classic polenta with meatballs to the unique Scarface pizza, as well as delectable drinks like the lavender martini. The restaurant's careful consideration of special dietary needs was praised, with gluten-free and dairy-free options available. Moreover, the establishment's ability to create a comfortable, lively environment with regular live music has also been admired. Finally, the welcoming and accommodating staff, particularly for patrons with special needs, underscores the restaurant's commitment to remarkable service.

A photo of Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant

3. Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse

4.7

Exceptional(4494)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Carlsbad

Booked 52 times today

Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse is renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, boasting fresh seafood dishes, and a vast wine selection. Reviewers praise it highly, lauding the seafood risotto, Italian white wines, and Chicken Parmigiano as must-try items. They also applaud the "exceptional service", "successful business" operation, and the many non-pasta options. Its prime steaks, traditional Italian recipes, and perfectly prepared fish have earned it a reputation as a "first-class experience". The guests feel the owners are dedicated to creating memorable dining experiences, with several customers looking forward to returning. Moreover, the impressive ocean view and the "5-star service" make Vigilucci's a top Italian restaurant selection.

A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant

4. Buona Forchetta Encinitas

4.7

Exceptional(554)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Encinitas

Booked 38 times today

Buona Forchetta Encinitas is an authentic Italian restaurant in Southern California. Despite its bustling location, what sets it apart is its consistency in delivering high-quality food and service, as reflected in numerous positive reviews. As one reviewer attested, “The food at Buona Forchetta is the most authentic Italian cuisine you will find in Southern California!!!” The cuisine is highlighted by the immaculate pasta dishes and the gluten-free pizza which is hailed as the "BEST" by one patron. Customers also recommend the cannoli and artisanal Italian wines. It's not just the food, but the exceptional service that has customers returning, as one noted, "service was excellent".

5. 264 Fresco

4.6

Exceptional(2560)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Carlsbad

Booked 31 times today

264 Fresco has consistently been praised for its exemplary Italian cuisine, set near the beach in Carlsbad. Many reviewers have raved about the high-quality ingredients used in their dishes, which include classics like lasagna, fettuccine con pollo and a variety of pizzas. There are also mentions of the restaurant’s fantastic service and pleasant atmosphere, with one reviewer noting the exceptional efforts of Gaetano, an Italian waiter. Other highlights from the reviews include the flavorful rigatoni and the wood-fired oven pizzas. The restaurant’s wine list is extensive, featuring a range of selections from Italy and beyond. To sum up, 264 Fresco is a gem worth visiting for an authentic Italian dining experience.

A photo of Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana restaurant

6. Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana

4.7

Exceptional(2687)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Carlsbad

Booked 6 times today

Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana, located in Carlsbad, offers an exceptional dining experience, making it a well-loved spot for those seeking authentic Italian cuisine. As noted in the numerous glowing reviews from satisfied customers, Vigilucci's maintains a high standard of quality in all aspects, mastering both traditional and modern Italian fare. The excellent service and attentive staff ensure a pleasant experience for diners, with many describing it as the best Italian restaurant they've visited. Delighting regulars and visitors alike with its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, Vigilucci's earns its high reputation through unwavering dedication to outstanding service and culinary excellence.

A photo of Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana restaurant

7. Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana

4.7

Exceptional(1315)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Encinitas

Booked 6 times today

Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana in North County has been praised as one of the best Italian restaurants in the area by many reviewers. With its talented team led by chef Pierre, Vigilucci's Trattoria serves creative, authentic, and delicious Italian dishes. From pastas, ribs, chicken and lamb—every dish is cooked to perfection. Their excellent servers also greatly enhance the overall dining experience. As one reviewer said, "Food was nothing short of amazing, service was outstanding, and the ambiance was great!” Another said, “The service is excellent, the whole staff acts as a team to ensure your satisfaction. The food was excellent.” Several reviewers have left the eatery with "great food memory and happily full", praising it as a "fabulous local gem". With these glowing reviews, it's clear that Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana is a beloved Italian restaurant in the community.

8. Firenze Trattoria

4.8

Exceptional(1731)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Encinitas

Booked 4 times today

Firenze Trattoria is a gem of a restaurant offering exquisite Italian cuisine. The extensive menu includes mouth-watering options from delicious appetizers to main courses and delectable desserts, perfectly paired with an incredible array of Italian wines. Many customers describe the food as flavorful with perfectly cooked pasta, praising the unique Italian dishes and impeccable service. Reviews frequently mention the authentic Italian ambiance, making it a perfect venue for special occasions. Notably, the restaurant has been a beloved community staple for over 20 years, captivating patrons with its consistency in delivering outstanding culinary experiences. One reviewer even declared it their 'all-time favorite Italian restaurant.'

A photo of Nick & G's Restaurant restaurant

9. Nick & G's Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(921)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Rancho Santa Fe

Booked 3 times today

Nick & G's Restaurant is widely recognized as a shining star of American cuisine. The high praise it receives in customer reviews reflects its dedication to quality food and service. As one customer enthused, "The food was amazing, the ambiance beautiful, the service impeccable!" Another reviewer labeled the dining experience as "outstanding," with "excellent" wait staff and "top notch" food. Many commentators commend the prime rib dinner and Parmesan chicken, staples of American cuisine. One review even reflected on the professionalism of the staff, "always helping each other out". Nick & G's embodies the essence of excellent American cuisine and service.

A photo of Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad restaurant

10. Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad

3.1

Good(448)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Carlsbad

Booked 5 times today

Buca di Beppo in Carlsbad has proven itself as a restaurant of exceptional Italian cuisine. Reviewers praise the authenticity of the dishes and the fun, Italian-decorated ambiance. Furthermore, customers rave about the quality service, with special mentions for servers Nick, Garrett, Patrick from Ireland, and Mariana. The food is regarded as excellent, with the spaghetti and meatballs and antipasta being standouts. One reviewer highlighted the shrimp scampi as "heavenly delicious". The restaurant's portions are noted for being good value for the price. While some customers suggest improvements in music and pricing, overall, they continue to enjoy their dining experience at Buca di Beppo.

How is content generated

Discover best Italian restaurants in San Marcos

Discover the vibrant Italian dining scene in San Marcos, North San Diego, where culinary tradition meets contemporary flair. Nestled in this scenic locale, a selection of Italian restaurants offers an array of authentic and innovative Italian dishes that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you're craving classic Neapolitan pizzas, meticulously crafted pasta, or gourmet Northern Italian entrées, these establishments promise an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Each restaurant emphasizes the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring every meal is both delicious and sustainably prepared. The dining atmosphere ranges from casual family-friendly settings to more sophisticated, upscale environments, perfect for any occasion. Patrons consistently praise the exceptional service and the knowledgeable staff, enhancing the overall dining experience. Indulge in a culinary journey through Italy right in the heart of North San Diego, where every meal is a celebration of rich flavors and culinary excellence.

Explore OpenTable

San Marcos

Italian