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Best Fun Restaurants in Little Italy

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244 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Juniper & Ivy restaurant
1. Juniper & Ivy
4.6
Exceptional(8000)
Price: Expensive
• Unspecified • Little Italy
Booked 58 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 Barbusa restaurant
2. Barbusa
4.6
Exceptional(4278)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 102 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 Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
3. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.4
Awesome(4532)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Little Italy
Booked 78 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 Kettner Exchange restaurant
4. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1328)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Little Italy
Booked 39 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 Herb & Wood restaurant
5. Herb & Wood
4.7
Exceptional(6427)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 72 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 Cloak + Petal restaurant
6. Cloak + Petal
4.6
Exceptional(947)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Little Italy
Booked 31 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 Roman Wolves restaurant
7. Roman Wolves
4.6
Exceptional(297)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy
Booked 33 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 Lala restaurant
8. Lala
4.5
Awesome(121)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 20 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 Civico 1845 restaurant
9. Civico 1845
4.4
Awesome(2393)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 22 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!
A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant
10. Bencotto Italian Kitchen
4.6
Exceptional(3287)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 52 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • JAMES
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We were seated immediately. The table they sat us at was great and very comfortable. The food was excellent but the real star was our server Mandy. She went the extra mile to make our anniversary dinner special and memorable. It was a great experience.
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • Sandy
    Oxford/Oxfordshire •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food and service were both exceptional. Highly recommended and worth five stars. Only issue was noise since we were seated outside (planes fly very close overhead). Also a bit chilly sitting next to the screen, which doesn’t go down all the way so cold air comes in underneath. Better to sit inside at the high tops if tables aren’t available.
    More info
    Juniper & IvyPrice: Expensive• undefined• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • Andy
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Wow this place was REALLY good. Highly recommend it. And one of the most knowledgeable waitresses I’ve ever had at a restaurant. Wish I could remember her name but she was fabulous.
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • Monica
    Las Vegas •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    One of the best in Downtown Little Italy! Food was delicious and you must try the Garlic Bread..so good!! Rosanna was our server and she was the absolute best -Very attentive. The vibe was electric on a Tuesday and we can't wait to go back!
    More info
    BarbusaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • Nataliavip
    San Diego •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    What can I say? This is easily one of the best happy hour spots in San Diego! The ambiance is stunning, the service is outstanding, and the food is absolutely incredible. We had yet another fantastic experience here, this time for an early dinner to celebrate my kid’s birthday. The oysters were incredibly fresh, the Japanese sweet potatoes are a must-try, the fish and chips were amazing—so fresh and moist—and the clam chowder was perfection. The smoked trout dip wasn’t my favorite this time, but it was still a solid appetizer. Our server, Mike, was exceptional—attentive, polite, and spot-on with his food recommendations. We’ll definitely be back, and if you’ve never been to this place, make a reservation now. You can thank me later!
    More info
    Ironside Fish & OysterPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Little Italy
    •
    4.4

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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