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Best Italian Restaurants in Clairemont

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81 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Amalfi Llama - San Diego restaurant
1. The Amalfi Llama - San Diego
4.5
Awesome(368)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • University City/Golden Triangle
Booked 57 times today
The Amalfi Llama in San Diego's University City melds the rustic charm of a live-fire steakhouse with the rich flavors of authentic Italian cuisine, creating a dining experience that's both unique and memorable. With an open parrilla grill and wood-burning oven at its heart, this restaurant masterfully uses fire and smoke to elevate traditional Italian dishes, delighting guests with its innovative approach. Reviewers rave about the ambiance and the quality of the food, with one guest exclaiming, “The food was so good. Service was the classiest and highest level.” Another emphasized the authenticity and unique flavor profiles, noting “The Roasted Mushroom Pizza and the Wood-Fired Cheesecake with Berry Compote were among the most amazing flavors I've had in a very long time." The Amalfi Llama's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a standout in San Diego's culinary scene, perfect for anyone seeking an exceptional Italian meal.
A photo of Lucrezia restaurant
2. Lucrezia
4.5
Awesome(577)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 78 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of La Jolla, San Diego, Lucrezia offers a refreshing contemporary twist on Italian cuisine that is both innovative and deeply rooted in authenticity. Guests are transported to the Amalfi Coast with dishes that evoke the mystique of Italian summers, using fine ingredients to craft meals that are "spectacular" and reminiscent of the beautiful Italian countryside. Reviewers rave about the "amazing service" and the uniquely delicious offerings like the mussels in white wine sauce and Calabrese pizza with hot honey sauce. As one diner put it, "The whole experience was fantastic," making Lucrezia a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional Contemporary Italian fare.
A photo of Madison restaurant
3. Madison
4.5
Awesome(3024)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • University Heights
Booked 100 times today
Madison, nestled in the vibrant University Heights of San Diego, is a jewel of Californian cuisine that resonates with authenticity and culinary excellence. Praised for its "amazing food and drinks," Madison showcases the creativity of Michelin recognized Chef Mario Cassineri. Patrons consistently rave about experiences that go beyond dining, highlighting the superb service and vibrant atmosphere, especially during their themed nights like the lively 'Dinner with Dogs' and enchanting live jazz evenings. The carefully curated menu features standout dishes like the Pistachio Pesto Pasta and the Zucchini fries with spicy marinara, making every meal a celebration of California's rich flavors and innovative spirit. As one reviewer puts it, Madison is "definitely a must" for anyone seeking a quintessential Californian dining experience in San Diego.
A photo of The Godfather Restaurant restaurant
4. The Godfather Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1879)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Kearny Mesa
Booked 37 times today
Indulge in the quintessential seafood experience at Godfather Restaurant, a gem nestled in Kearny Mesa, San Diego. Celebrated for its authenticity and dedication to Italian culinary traditions, this restaurant presents seafood dishes that transport diners straight to the coasts of Italy. Critics and guests alike rave about the freshness and expert preparation of dishes such as the Blue Crab Ravioli with Shrimp and the delectable SeaBass. One diner exclaimed, "The seafood is always fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked!" The commitment to maintaining high standards since 1974 has made Godfather Restaurant a beloved destination for seafood lovers seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of San Diego.
A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant
5. North Italia - Fashion Valley
4.7
Exceptional(2648)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Mission Valley
Booked 111 times today
North Italia in Fashion Valley, Mission Valley - San Diego, is a shining star in the realm of authentic Italian cuisine, especially noted for its exceptional Pizzeria. Patrons rave about their experiences, emphasizing the high quality and deliciousness of dishes like the prosciutto pizza and the spicy meatball pizza. One guest joyfully shares, “I love this place! The truffle bread is incredible along with the chicken pesto pasta, the margarita pizza, and the salads!” The restaurant crafts its pizzas with a commitment to authenticity, using fresh, seasonal ingredients that bring bursts of flavor in every bite. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special celebration, North Italia’s vibrant ambiance and consistent, top-notch service make it a must-visit for pizza lovers and Italian food enthusiasts alike.
A photo of La Pastaia restaurant
6. La Pastaia
4.3
Awesome(309)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Bay Park
Booked 12 times today
La Pastaia, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Bay Park, San Diego, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine that promises an authentic and delightful dining experience. The restaurant is celebrated for its "homemade pasta tossed in flavorful sauces" and "wood-fired pizzas topped with the freshest ingredients," crafted with a modern twist. Guests often rave about the quality of the dishes, such as the "delicious Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe" and the "pasta with zucchini cream," highlighting their authentic and innovative flavors. The atmosphere is described as "a beautiful spot with amazing food and wonderful service," making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine Italian culinary journey. The consistently "excellent service and food," along with glowing reviews like "the best homemade pasta we have ever tried," underscore why La Pastaia stands out as a top destination for Contemporary Italian fare in San Diego.
A photo of Piatti - La Jolla restaurant
7. Piatti - La Jolla
4.7
Exceptional(5053)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 97 times today
Established in 1987, Piatti offers finely crafted fresh Italian cuisine. The soul of the menu is our housemade pasta that we roll, cut and cook by hand everyday. Offering a fresh take on the neighborhood Italian trattoria, Piatti combines a warm, inviting atmosphere, seamless service and an immersive market experience so you can enjoy Piatti at home. Whether dining in or taking home, Piatti brings friends and family together.
A photo of La Dolce Vita Ristorante restaurant
8. La Dolce Vita Ristorante
4.8
Exceptional(1119)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 41 times today
La Dolce Vita is located in a European courtyard setting at International Shops off Prospect St. Loyal to its name La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life), is a place to sit back and relax in our cozy and romantic indoor dining room or our charming outdoor patio to enjoy a hearty meal along with a bottle of wine while listening to Italian tunes. We serve genuine Italian cuisine in a fine dining setting at affordable prices.
A photo of Baci Restaurant - San Diego restaurant
9. Baci Restaurant - San Diego
4.9
Exceptional(1904)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Old Town
Booked 18 times today
Baci Ristorante offers diners a hint of old world Italian charm, with plush booths, white tablecloths, and gracious servers clad in tuxedos. While the decor is subtly modern, the menu is classic, celebrating Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. Specialties include classic pasta dishes, veal, and fresh seafood, with especially tempting daily specials offered by Executive Chef Domenico Alioto. In addition to the cuisine, the restaurant's charming and welcoming features--include an extensive wine list, elegant patio setting, and romantic main dining room--have made Baci a consistent favorite among locals for over 30 years.
A photo of Scuderie Italia restaurant
10. Scuderie Italia
4.8
Exceptional(353)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Pacific Beach
Booked 10 times today
Scuderie Italia in Pacific Beach, San Diego, is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, where the spirit of Italian culinary artistry shines through every dish. Patrons rave about their experience, with one guest exclaiming, "I have never had such delicious pasta ever before in my life" and another declaring, "Hands-down, the best gluten-free pizza in all of San Diego county!" The restaurant's master certified pizzaiolo, Johncarlo "JC" Ferraiuolo, crafts famous Napoletana pizzas that have diners proclaiming it "the best pizza in PB!" Every meal, from the handmade pastas like rigatoni alla bolognese to the gnocchi formaggi, is a testament to traditional Italian flavors. Scuderie Italia is not just a meal; it's an experience of heartwarming authenticity and culinary excellence, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian fare.
‘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.

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