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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Rancho Santa Fe

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30 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant
1. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo
4.4
Awesome(1859)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • Del Mar
Booked 72 times today
North Italia San Diego - One Paseo offers a delightful journey into Contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of Del Mar. Known for its exceptional handmade pastas and pizzas, this restaurant crafts each dish with inventive flavors and seasonal ingredients, ensuring a “delicious” experience every time. The menu is well-rounded with fresh flavors from garden, farm, and sea, making it a “go-to spot” for many. Guests rave about the “excellent service” and “warm hospitality,” which elevate the dining experience to a whole new level. Whether it's a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner, North Italia promises an authentic modern Italian escape.
A photo of Lucrezia restaurant
2. Lucrezia
4.5
Awesome(999)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 90 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, Lucrezia offers an exquisite journey through Contemporary Italian cuisine that is nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant is celebrated for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes that transport diners straight to the heart of Italy. Guests rave about the "amazing" pastas, with standout mentions for the Cacio e Pepe and Lobster Fra Diavolo. The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making it perfect for any special occasion. Lucrezia promises an unforgettable culinary voyage, with every dish telling a story of Italian summers, curated with passion and authenticity.
A photo of Nolita Hall restaurant
3. Nolita Hall
4.6
Exceptional(1041)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 67 times today
Nolita Hall, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Pizza Bar experience that transports diners straight to the heart of Italy. Known for its Fiori woodfire oven, this beloved spot crafts pizzas that are nothing short of spectacular. Patrons rave about the "pepperoni pizza with honey" as being "awesome," highlighting the unique and delightful flavor combinations that set Nolita Hall apart. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of fun and elegance, with many calling it a "great place to watch a sports game" while indulging in top-quality pizzas. It's a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking authentic taste and vibrant ambiance.
A photo of Marisi restaurant
Icon
4. Marisi
4.6
Exceptional(1764)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 102 times today
Marisi, nestled in the charming locale of La Jolla, offers an unparalleled experience in Contemporary Italian cuisine that transports diners straight to the Amalfi coast. With an unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, Marisi delights with "authentic pasta" crafted daily and a menu that evolves with the seasons to present the freshest Italian delights. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "a warm, charming villa," offers a perfect setting for enjoying the "amazing food, service, and ambiance." Guests rave about the "extraordinary culinary innovation" and impeccable service, making every visit to Marisi a memorable exploration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
A photo of Catania restaurant
5. Catania
4.9
Exceptional(2398)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 41 times today
Catania, nestled in the scenic La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic Contemporary Italian cuisine. Inspired by an Italian road trip, Catania stands out with its commitment to authenticity, boasting wood-burning ovens and grills that bring the vibrant flavors of Italy's coastal cuisine to life. Guests rave about the "amazing dining experience," highlighting dishes like the "crispy octopus" and "duck sugo pasta" as must-tries. The restaurant's all-Italian wine list and exclusive craft beer program further enhance the authenticity, making each visit not just a meal, but a tasteful journey to Italy.
A photo of Lala restaurant
6. Lala
4.7
Exceptional(399)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 21 times today
Lala, nestled in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy, offers an enchanting experience of Contemporary Italian cuisine that captivates with its modern flair and timeless flavors. This chic eatery perfectly marries tradition with innovation, presenting dishes like the inventive loaded potato gnocchi and the exquisite squid ink pasta with lobster. Guests rave about the "incredible ambiance" and "stellar service," with standout cocktails like the "Lala Martini" elevating the dining experience. The cozy, romantic setting, coupled with a commitment to sustainability, ensures that every visit is both memorable and meaningful. Join Lala for a true celebration of Italian culinary excellence.
A photo of Ambrogio15 Del Mar restaurant
7. Ambrogio15 Del Mar
4.5
Awesome(256)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • Carmel Valley
Booked 7 times today
Ambrogio15 Del Mar in Carmel Valley, San Diego, offers a sublime experience in Contemporary Italian cuisine, crafted with precision and passion by Michelin-starred Milanese chef Silvio Salmoiraghi and his talented team. Diners rave about the "amazing food and great service," with standout dishes like the paper-thin gourmet pizzas and inventive Italian ramen. The restaurant's five-course gourmet tasting menu, complemented by a diverse selection of natural Italian wines and French Champagnes, elevates the dining experience to new heights. Guests describe it as "a real gem," with a "lovely staff and excellent menu," making it a must-visit for authentic, innovative Italian dining.
A photo of Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana restaurant
8. Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana
4.6
Exceptional(1434)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • Del Mar
Booked 11 times today
Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana in Del Mar is a standout destination for Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a blend of authentic flavors and innovative dishes. Nestled beside the Pacific Ocean, this charming eatery is praised for its "amazing food and atmosphere," making it a local gem. With a menu that highlights fresh homemade pasta, risotto, and responsibly sourced seafood, it delivers an authentic taste of Italy while incorporating fresh, local ingredients. Diners are consistently delighted by the "excellent service" and "beautiful setting," complete with sunset views over the Los Penasquitos Lagoon. It's a delightful dining experience that brings a piece of Italy to California's coast.
A photo of Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge restaurant
9. Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge
4.4
Awesome(557)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 22 times today
Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that will leave your taste buds singing. Renowned as the city's first cheese wheel bar, this modern chic restaurant draws diners in with "the irresistible sight and smell of authentic Italian flavors." Guests rave about the "mind-blowing" carbonara and the "exceptional" cheese wheel dishes that are both a visual and flavorful delight. The ambiance is lively yet intimate, providing a perfect backdrop for savoring dishes that "taste just like Italy." From outstanding service to exquisite cuisine, Vincenzo's is a must-visit for any Italian food enthusiast.
A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant
10. North Italia - Fashion Valley
4.6
Exceptional(3145)
€€€€
• Contemporary italian • Mission Valley
Booked 84 times today
North Italia - Fashion Valley in Mission Valley, San Diego, offers a “fantastic” Contemporary Italian dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Known for its “authentically prepared” dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients, North Italia excels in providing a modern twist on classic Italian cuisine. Guests rave about the “delicious” handmade pastas and pizzas, with standout flavors like the ‘Hot Honey & Smoked Prosciutto’ pizza, lauded for its perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and salty notes. The warm atmosphere and “excellent service” complete the experience, making it a “staple” for both locals and visitors seeking genuine Italian flavors.
‘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
  • Shawn
    San Diego •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Love this restaurant. Great food, great drinks, great vibe. We went at sunset. Great view too. We will be back.
    More info
    Catania$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.9
  • JaneGold
    San Diego •58 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Fabulous food. Best Caesar I've had at a restaurant (I asked for anchovies and extra garlic)!
    More info
    Ambrogio15 Del Mar$$$$• Italian• Carmel Valley
    •
    4.5
  • Marianna
    Phoenix / Arizona •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 31 Jul 2026
    Love love love this restaurant 😍from the service ,to the the staff ,the food is incredible ,as well as the incredible GM he is the best of the best😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
    More info
    Lucrezia$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.5
  • Suzanne
    San Diego •21 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on 30 Jul 2026
    The food was great as was the server. The only problem was the restaurant was out of several of the items we ordered. That was disappointing, though we liked the alternatives and especially the free desserts for the birthday girls. 
    More info
    North Italia San Diego - One Paseo$$$$• Italian• Del Mar
    •
    4.4
  • Alexander
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 26 Jul 2026
    The food was great! The serving sizes were on point. The location was convenient next to a lot of bars and night life. The drinks were made to perfect and the waitress was friendly and stayed consistent!
    More info
    Nolita Hall$$$$• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.6

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