Best Italian Restaurants in College Area

Price: Moderate (186)Price: Expensive (97)Price: Very Expensive (21)

66 restaurants available nearby

1. Aromi Pizzeria

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Mesa

Nestled in the heart of La Mesa, Aromi Italian Restaurant invites diners on a culinary journey through the flavors of Italy. With a charming ambiance and a menu curated to perfection, Aromi stands out as a haven for those seeking an authentic Italian dining experience. Among the many exquisite dishes that grace their menu, the Carbonara Pasta steals the spotlight with its rich and creamy perfection, showcasing the culinary expertise that defines Aromi. The star of the show is the cheese wheel itself, an impressive wheel of Parmesan, where the hot pasta is tossed, allowing the cheese to melt and envelop the noodles in a creamy embrace..We offer both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing you to enjoy our delightful dishes in the ambiance of your preference. Our outdoor seating area, in particular, is highly favored, providing a sunny haven to relish your meal while basking in the warm California weather.

A photo of Aromi Italian Cuisine restaurant

2. Aromi Italian Cuisine

4.6

Exceptional(218)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Mesa

Booked 10 times today

Discover the delightful flavors of Italy right in the heart of La Mesa at Aromi Italian Cuisine. Known for its authenticity and affordability, Aromi offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere where every dish promises a slice of Italy. Patrons rave about the "Cheese Wheel Pasta," describing it as "delicious and really fancy," and the service as "premium." Aromi's dedication to genuine Italian dining is evident, with reviews highlighting the "exceptional service" and "truly original" food that "brought me back to Italy, my home country." Whether it's the handcrafted pastas or the engaging tableside preparations, Aromi stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic Italian experience in La Mesa.

3. Antica Trattoria

4.8

Exceptional(2355)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Mesa

Booked 14 times today

Antica Trattoria in La Mesa is not just renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine but also stands out as an exceptional cocktail bar. Patrons rave about the ambience that complements their drink experience, with one guest stating, "Always a wonderful experience... cocktails, appetizers, and entrees." The bar is celebrated for its skilled bartenders who craft each cocktail with precision, ensuring a delightful sip every time. Whether it's a beautifully made Lemon Drop or the refreshing Red Sangria, the quality of their cocktails consistently impresses guests. Moreover, the friendly and attentive service adds to the charm, making Antica Trattoria a must-visit for both exquisite meals and outstanding cocktails in La Mesa.

A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant

4. Alexander's on 30th

4.7

Exceptional(3054)

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.

5. Siamo Napoli

4.7

Exceptional(1278)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Park

Booked 47 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 Cori Pastificio Trattoria restaurant

6. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

4.7

Exceptional(583)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Park

Booked 26 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 Limoncello La Mesa restaurant

7. Limoncello La Mesa

4.5

Awesome(271)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Park

Booked 14 times today

Limoncello La Mesa offers an authentic slice of contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of La Mesa. Celebrated for its "delicious and very authentic" dishes, this charming restaurant has quickly become a cornerstone of the local dining scene. Patrons rave about the "outstanding mushroom & cream Marsala wine sauce" and the "homemade pasta" that remind them of upscale Italian eateries reminiscent of childhood. The ambiance at Limoncello, described as a "light, airy, modern, gardenlike" environment, complements its culinary offerings, making every meal a delightful experience. Notably, the service is consistently praised, with staff like Roberto and Francesca providing "excellent service" that enhances the dining experience. Whether it's the handcrafted Limoncello Martini that comes with a lemon popsicle or the meticulously prepared lobster ravioli, Limoncello La Mesa stands out as a gem in North Park, offering a true taste of Italy with every dish.

A photo of Trattoria Da Sofia restaurant

8. Trattoria Da Sofia

4.6

Exceptional(146)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Kensington

Booked 21 times today

Trattoria Da Sofia, nestled in the charming Kensington neighborhood of San Diego, is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. This delightful establishment has quickly become a favorite, praised for dishes that exude the heart and soul of Italy. Guests rave about the "creamy Spaghetti Carbonara" and the "divine Risotto ai Funghi," which are just a few examples of the menu's authentic offerings. The ambiance, described as "cozy and authentic," enhances each dining experience, making it feel like a "mini vacation to Italy." Regulars adore the "table side tiramisu," highlighting it as a must-try. With glowing reviews stating it's the "best Italian food in San Diego," Trattoria Da Sofia is undoubtedly a gem worth visiting for anyone seeking genuine Italian fare combined with warm hospitality.

A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant

9. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

4.8

Exceptional(1048)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Lemon Grove

Booked 9 times today

Nestled in the heart of Lemon Grove, Giardino Neighborhood Cucina offers a slice of Italy with its authentically inspired Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its "amazing food" and "exceptional service," this local gem creates a vibrant ambiance reminiscent of Little Italy. Diners rave about the fresh seafood, homemade pastas, and the signature Cheese Wheel Pasta, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to fresh, quality ingredients and traditional Italian techniques. The glowing reviews often mention the "outstanding" Chicken Parmigiana and the tender calamari, offering a "great experience" that keeps locals and visitors coming back. Whether it's Wine Wednesday or a family celebration, Giardino promises an unforgettable Italian dining experience right in Lemon Grove.

10. Truffle

3.9

Excellent(178)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • North Park

Truffle, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of North Park in San Diego, offers a Breakfast experience that is as delightful as it is unique. This Italian gem stands out not just for its charismatic ambiance but also for its commitment to authentic and high-quality breakfast offerings. Diners rave about the "mind-blowing" cheese wheel pasta and the "flavorful" gnocchi that "literally MELTED IN MY MOUTH." Another highlight is the "amazing" Caesar salad, which has been described as a "must to share." The service is consistently praised, with patrons noting the attentive and friendly staff, making every breakfast visit a memorable one. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Truffle's breakfast is a culinary delight not to be missed in San Diego.

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