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Best Italian Restaurants in Serra Mesa

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79 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Madison restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3016)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • University Heights
Booked 58 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 North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2632)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Mission Valley
Booked 84 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 The Godfather Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1868)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Kearny Mesa
Booked 34 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 Siamo Napoli restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1311)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 41 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.
A photo of RustiCucina restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1134)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Hillcrest
Booked 39 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.
A photo of The Red Door restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2977)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Mission Hills
Booked 18 times today
Nestled in the heart of Mission Hills, San Diego, The Red Door shines as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence. This charming eatery is dedicated to sustainable, responsibly-sourced fare, highlighted by Chef/Owner Luciano Cibelli's daily ritual of hand-selecting the freshest local ingredients. Patrons rave about the "expertly crafted cocktails, tender and smoky grilled octopus, and a rich, creamy risotto," which underscore the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The handmade gluten-free bucatini and nightly specials like Beef Wellington receive high praise, with many noting the "memorable" dining experience fostered by attentive service and a cozy ambiance. Enthusiastic diners recommend The Red Door for anyone seeking authentic, meticulously prepared Italian and modern European dishes, making it a must-visit culinary destination in San Diego.
A photo of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1592)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Mission Hills
Booked 20 times today
Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant, a beacon of French culinary excellence nestled in the heart of Mission Hills, San Diego. Celebrated for its authentic farm-to-table approach, this quaint eatery offers a slice of French countryside with its fresh, vibrant flavors and impeccable craftsmanship. Patrons rave about the "unforgettable and flavorful dishes," such as the tender short rib entree and the sophisticated limoncello dessert, each a testament to the chef's dedication to quality. With its cozy European bistro ambiance and stellar service, Farmer's Bottega isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey through the heart of France, earning glowing reviews for creating memorable dining experiences. Don't miss the chance to indulge in their celebrated Cacio E Pepe or the exquisite salmon with lemon risotto. As one diner puts it, "You need to go."
A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3080)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • North Park
Booked 32 times today
Alexander's on 30th, nestled in the vibrant North Park neighborhood of San Diego, is a culinary treasure that excels in delivering exceptional seafood dishes alongside its Italian specialties. Patrons rave about the "incredible lobster ravioli" and the "best linguini and clams" they've ever had, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. With its romantic ambiance and top-notch service, Alexander's has become a go-to destination for seafood lovers. As noted by a satisfied guest, the "shrimp pasta really enjoyed" and the freshness of the seafood is consistently praised, making every meal here a delightful experience. Whether it's for a special occasion or a casual dinner, Alexander's on 30th offers a seafood feast that's sure to impress.
A photo of Cori Pastificio Trattoria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(612)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 23 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 Baci Restaurant - San Diego restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1901)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Old Town
Booked 5 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.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Ericavip
    Los Angeles •39 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    First, service was as good as it could be, given that they were short-handed and the owners were therefore waiting tables (I ordered a salad, which I eagerly anticipated, but it never arrived; however, it also didn't appear on the bill). We were seated immediately, even though the restaurant was VERY busy. At our server's recommendation, we ordered the special appetizer, a whole artichoke, roasted in the pizza oven, and served with THE most divine garlic-herb oil. The artichoke was already cut into four pieces, so each of us grabbed one. Although it could scarcely be heard over our "oohs," "aahs," and sounds of sopping up oil with the excellent homemade bread, two of us remarked that this appetizer was so delicious, we just might order it instead of salad, and another instead of an entree. Suffice to say, if available, do NOT miss it. We had a bottle of luscious Montepulciano for the table; our friends shared a Burrata pizza, my husband had the Sofia pizza, and I, after consulting with our server, got the ravioli melanzane. Somehow, our friends' pizza had one piece left over, but my husband devoured the entire Sofia, and I ate all but about 1-1/2 ravioli. Yes, I got a to-go box for the ravioli and slice of Burrata pizza, as it would've been criminal to let food this exceptional go to waste (regrettably, we neglected to take the remaining bread from the basket). Siamo Napoli is a self-styled neighborhood spot, casual and unpretentious, but we've had Michelin-starred meals that weren't remotely this exquisite, this perfect, at four times the price, and walked away hungry, to boot. I almost hesitate to properly sing its praises, lest we have to wait months for our next taste of nectar, but it surely deserves to have a months-long waiting list, at least for weekend night tables, and when word gets out, they can probably fill a space 2-3 times as large. We drove 2-1/2 hours each way for this meal, and it was truly worth every second. We cannot WAIT to go again!
    More info
    Siamo NapoliPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Park
    4.7
  • Ciaravip
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Had an awesome brunch experience, usually only come here for dinner but the brunch menu was tasty and the mimosa pitcher is such a great deal especially for a big group, shout out to our server Brittany she took such great care of us!
    More info
    MadisonPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• University Heights
    4.5
  • Dennis
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Group of 4 got right in as we showed early to our reserve time. The Service was the main concern, our server was really friendly and gave us recommendations but she missed a requested meal and brought dishes that was not ordered. 3 of us ate our meals so they would not get cold, lasagna takes time and so that meal pretty late, then came really rough so that was a big miss and they did comp the meal. Also little touches were missed like Parm chese. So service was spotty
    More info
    RustiCucinaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Hillcrest
    4.7
  • Georgianavip
    San Diego •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We had a variety of dishes, all were deliciously created and served with our efficient friendly Alexandra
    More info
    North Italia - Fashion ValleyPrice: Expensive• Italian• Mission Valley
    4.7
  • Destination
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Simply lovely little place, beautiful ambiance for the holidays with white lights and greenery, classy, European vibe. We ordered all of the bruschetta options, the cheese board, pizzas, lobster ravioli, the chef's special, filet mignon, wine, and most of the desserts for a holiday company dinner. Everything was delicious and beautifully presented, and our server was attentive and thoughtful. It can get a little loud and difficult to hear when the tables are full, but otherwise it was cozy even at a long dining table, and exactly what I hoped for when I booked the reservation. We will be back, thank you!
    More info
    Alexander's on 30thPrice: Expensive• Italian• North Park
    4.8
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