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Italian food in California

A simple, honest plate of Italian food is all that is required to feel satisfied.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Pizza Standard image 1
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Pizza restaurant

Small pizza shop serves NY style slices fast in a casual spot. Families enjoy the relaxed vibe and simple, tasty pies. Don't miss the brandy infused Tiramisu, a rich Italian dessert standout.

Brandy infused Tiramisu stands out with its rich flavor. This dessert is consistently amazing and highly recommended.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best pizza in San Diego."

"I thought their Italian sausage was a little spicy and so delicious."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The price for whole 18-inch pizzas ranges from $25 to $28.

2

Expect delays during busy times, especially on weekends.

3

The line can be at the door but it moves fast.

02
Trattoria Daly image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot offers al dente pasta with rich sauces like amatriciana. Cozy vibe feels like a Roman hole-in-the-wall with fresh roses and a charming patio. Warm, personal service makes dining feel like family time.

Pasta stands out with al dente noodles and rich, flavorful sauces like rigatoni amatriciana and fettuccine ragu bolognese. Vegan and vegetarian options include eggplant and pasta primavera, all served with warm bread and a classic tiramisu dessert.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious and fresh."

"It's a small, cozy spot with a great atmosphere."

"The calamari here is so fresh, light, and crispy."

Good to know

1

Street meter parking is available near the restaurant.

2

There is a public parking lot behind the restaurant.

3

They allow guests to bring their own wine if called ahead.

03
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot shines with handmade pasta and vodka sauce that taste authentic. Warm, inviting vibe blends modern design with tradition. Outdoor seating is heated and shielded, perfect for relaxed chats despite indoor chairs being less comfy.

Handmade pasta stands out here, cooked perfectly al dente. The vodka sauce pasta ranks among the best, delivering an authentic Italian taste that rivals meals in Italy.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes straight out of Italy."

"The Italian food, especially the pappardelle, is pure silk and deeply comforting."

"The calamari here is fantastic and generous."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can get crowded during weekends.

04
Pizza & More image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy spot with friendly vibes and tight, well-arranged space offers tender Ossobuco and spaghetti bolognese that impress. Thoughtful touches like small toys for children make it family-friendly. Intimate setting suits casual Italian dining.

Ravioli with gorgonzola sauce stands out as tremendous. The spaghetti bolognese ranks among the best, while the tender Ossobuco falls off the bone. Pizza and pasta dishes consistently impress.

People are saying

"I found the ribs to be fantastic and extremely tender."

"The food here is like fine dining, with presentation that's a true art form."

"The Italian Food, especially the lobster ravioli, was so good I almost cried."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with charcuterie available for $10.

2

The large pizzas cannot be ordered for dine-in.

3

Pizza & More does not have vegan cheese.

05
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant image 1

Small Italian spot offers intimate atmosphere with live music and quaint decor. Lasagna and linguine with clams deliver rich flavors while staff handle issues quickly, showing great care. Noise stays low, creating a warm, family-like vibe.

Lasagna and linguine with clams stand out for their rich flavors. The kitchen addresses issues promptly, as shown when they removed a raw risotto from the bill and offered tiramisu.

People are saying

"The seafood pasta here is incredible and perfectly balanced."

"The owner's passion for the wine is evident in every detail."

"The owner's passion for the Italian food really shines through."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6pm with various food and drink deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times.

3

The restaurant offers a $40 happy hour deal that includes food and drinks.

06
Baci Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with pappardelle pasta and lobster pasta offering rich, hearty flavors. Upscale, elegant vibe suits romantic dates and business lunches alike. Dog-friendly patio and jazz at the bar add a sophisticated ambiance.

Pappardelle pasta with lamb ragu stands out with rich, hearty flavors. The lobster pasta offers a luxurious experience with plenty of lobster. Dishes like grilled octopus and Osso Buco add variety beyond pasta.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the seafood pasta."

"The service at these dinner spots was phenomenal and outstanding."

"I thought the Crรจme Brรปlรฉe was perfect."

Good to know

1

Children's meals cost $28 for plain buttered pasta, with no kids menu available.

2

Limited free parking is available for diners in a convenient lot at the back.

3

Multiple specials of the day are offered, which may change frequently.

07
Lucy's Pizza & Burgers image 1

Small spot with a cozy, nostalgic vibe and free arcade games for fun. Italian dishes shine, especially the creamy Fettuccine Alfredo made from homemade ingredients. Outdoor patio seating adds charm to this welcoming place.

Fettuccine Alfredo stands out with its creamy, perfectly seasoned sauce made from quality homemade ingredients. Pizzas and pastas arrive promptly and consistently deliver delicious flavors.

People are saying

"This is the best late night spot for a midnight snack."

"The Fettuccine Alfredo here is rich, creamy, and divine."

"I found the Italian food here to be delicious and great."

Good to know

1

Lucyโ€™s Pizza & Burgers is open until 3am for late-night dining.

2

Parking is ample and convenient for customers visiting the restaurant.

3

Prices are very affordable, reflecting the quality of the food.

08
Massimos Pizza and Pasta image 1

Family-owned spot offers a cozy vibe with spacious tables and low-volume TVs showing sports and movies. Italian dishes like spinach ricotta pasta and rigatoni with pink sauce shine. Halal options and a kid-friendly environment make it welcoming for all ages.

Rigatoni with pink sauce and spinach ricotta pasta with alfredo sauce stand out as flavorful options. The menu also features spaghetti with meatballs and fettuccine with chicken, all prepared with care and popular for takeout.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh, fast, and delicious."

"The pasta here is delicious, especially the lasagna."

"I found the Italian food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a weekday lunch deal from 1-3pm for $8.

2

Halal options are available, which are rare in the area.

3

Parking is convenient and easy to find.

09
Beverly Bar - Beverly Hills Restaurant image 1

Bar offers intimate seating and a vintage Hollywood vibe with lively energy. Burrata shines with vibrant flavors alongside hearty pasta and Margherita pizza. Outdoor seating with heat lamps keeps style and comfort intact.

Burrata stands out with its vibrant colors and flavor combination, often served with roasted sweet tomatoes and basil oil. Pasta dishes come in generous portions and include options like Caesar salad with steak and Margherita pizza, with some pasta cooked al dente.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so nice and provides perfect service."

"It's a chill, inviting place to unwind and relax."

"The Italian food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 2 pm, offering great deals on drinks.

2

Martini Mondays feature special pricing on signature cocktails.

3

Taco Tuesdays provide a unique menu option during happy hour.

10
Pizzeria Republica image 1
Pizza restaurant

Wood fire oven creates authentic Italian flavors with handmade pastas and spicy marinara. Warm lighting and soft R&B set a stylish, inviting vibe. Full bar serves fresh margaritas, while patio seating adds relaxed charm.

Handmade pastas come cooked to perfection with comforting textures. Spicy marinara sauce elevates dishes like calamari, while pizzas and pastas consistently deliver authentic, mouthwatering flavors.

People are saying

"The food here was outstanding and prepared with care."

"I found the pasta here to be really good."

"This Italian food, especially the pizza, is some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted drinks and food.

2

During happy hour, pizzas are priced at $15 with a great beverage selection.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located just 0.2 miles from The Orpheum Theatre.

11
BellaMia Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Food truck offers authentic Mexican-inspired pasta with exceptional Alfredo sauce and dishes like HOT HONEY PRIME STEAK ALFREDO. Generous portions and fresh flavors shine in a clean, lively setting. Sweet treats include cannolis and tres leches cake for a perfect finish.

Pasta stands out with its exceptional Alfredo sauce and dishes like the HOT HONEY PRIME STEAK ALFREDO and Crispy Loaded chicken pasta bowl. Cannolis and tres leches cake add a sweet finish to the Italian food offerings.

People are saying

"I thought the pasta here was the best I ever tasted."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Most weekends, Bellamiapasta is located at Chevron on Van Buren and 91 freeway.

2

One container of pasta can be split between two people.

3

The restaurant offers large portions at reasonable prices with a varied menu.

12
Pastaphony image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio with heated seating and music creates a cozy vibe. Chicken Alfredo and cheese bread offer rich flavors with perfectly textured pasta. Child-friendly touches like crayons and coloring books make it welcoming for families.

Chicken Alfredo, breaded chicken, and cheese bread stand out with rich flavors. Pasta has perfect texture and sauces are flavorful. Staff helps customize pastas with knowledgeable pairing advice.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta and sauces here are amazing."

"The owner is so friendly and walks you through the menu."

"This family owned spot makes food that tastes like a delicious home cooked meal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Portions are large, making it a great spot for sharing meals.

3

Outdoor seating is available, accommodating pets and families.

13
ALL ROADS Pinseria + Enoteca image 1

Roman-style Italian spot shines with authentic Roman flavors and a whimsical mural that livens the space. Pinsa and gluten-free focaccia offer great texture and flavor, while inventive toppings like mortadella with pistachios add flair. Atmosphere stays casual yet chic, perfect for lively celebrations or relaxed meals.

Pinsa and gluten-free focaccia stand out with their great texture and flavor. Toppings range from classic Margherita to inventive combos like mortadella with pistachios and burrata, plus dishes like supli and tiramisu add variety.

People are saying

"The salads here are fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The wine selection here is impressive and curated."

"The Italian food here, specifically the pinsa, has a light, airy, and crispy crust."

Good to know

1

ALL ROADS is a cashless, no-reservation establishment that opens all day.

2

Parking is validated across the street at the VA lot.

3

Expect the restaurant to get busy at night; arrive earlier for a better experience.

14
Bar Becky image 1
Restaurant

Open kitchen shows chefs crafting authentic Italian cuisine with delicate pastas and rich Bolognese. Cozy yet upscale vibe blends subtle lighting and a welcoming, airy space. Guests enjoy watching food prep in a relaxed atmosphere that feels both classy and inviting.

Authentic Italian cuisine shines through with delicate pastas and well butchered meat. Appetizers like focaccia and pork belly stand out, while entrees such as gnocchi and Bolognese deliver strong, flavorful dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully presented."

"The Italian food here is incredibly flavorful and delicious."

"Sitting at the bar lets you watch the experts work and chat with them."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Bar Becky offers a $40 prix fixe menu with three courses.

3

The restaurant is open Wednesday to Sunday for dinner only.

15
Formaggi image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot with a vibrant vibe and friendly staff offers authentic Italian food featuring truffle pizza and rose pasta cooked to perfection. Fresh, high-quality ingredients shine in every dish. Outdoor seating adds charm with passing delivery robots.

Pizza comes with Truffles and Pesto options, both cooked perfectly. Pasta dishes like the Rose pasta offer a comforting yet refined taste, always cooked to perfection.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I've ever had."

"The pistachio gelato is homemade with fresh pistachios."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is outstanding with a great crust."

Good to know

1

Formaggi Pizza is a kosher restaurant that uses high-quality, fresh ingredients.

2

The menu features a variety of pizzas and pasta made from scratch.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups due to limited seating.

16
Cacio San Diego image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with authentic Roman carbonara and fresh vegetables in chicken Alfredo. Warm, inviting atmosphere features a distinctive mural and clean, tidy space. Positive, energetic vibe welcomes families and casual diners with generous portions of pasta and pizza.

Pasta dishes stand out with rich flavors, especially the carbonara that tastes like authentic Roman style. The chicken Alfredo comes with fresh vegetables and delivers a delicious, satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The pasta here is amazing, especially the chicken tequila."

"It's so kid friendly; the children loved the pizza."

"I found the pepperoni pizza really good and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Parking could be a challenge during peak times.

2

The wait at Cacio was not very long.

3

Cacio San Diego offers a diverse menu with options ranging from comfort food classics to lighter fare.

17
Anna Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy spot blends authentic Italian vibe with modern style and a warm family photo wall. NYC-style pizza shines with fresh ingredients and the cannoli pizza is a must-try. Pasta like Cacio e pepe and rigatoni with vodka sauce match the pizza's quality perfectly.

Ending with the cannoli pizza leaves a lasting impression. The Mozzarella sticks have an insane cheese pull and stay fresh and light. Pasta dishes like Cacio e pepe and rigatoni with vodka sauce match the quality of the pizza.

People are saying

"This New York-style pizza is chewy and delicious."

"The pasta here tastes just like Nonna's."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza, has an incredible crust."

Good to know

1

A slice costs $4-$6, making it an affordable option for lunch or dinner.

2

Anna Pizza offers a big selection of dishes, catering to various tastes.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

18
Mater image 1
Restaurant

Cozy courtyard with Mediterranean-inspired design offers a warm, inviting vibe perfect for intimate dining. Handmade pasta shines with fresh, bold flavors like Rigatoni Bolognese. Quiet spots blend privacy with a lively yet relaxed energy.

Handmade pasta stands out with fantastic flavor and freshness. Dishes like Rigatoni Bolognese and gnocchi fritti deliver rich, bold tastes across starters and mains.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta and pork belly were amazing Italian food."

"The food here is so delicious, especially on the Outdoor Seating."

"The handmade pasta here is totally next-level."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers 100% authentic Italian cuisine.

2

The prices are very reasonable.

3

The portions are large.

19
Pezzi del mio Cuore image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy spot with homemade pasta and generous portions makes dining special. Enjoy fettuccine with scallops or lasagna bolognese in a relaxed, intimate setting. Friendly vibe and strong wine list add to the charm.

Generous portions of fettuccine with scallops and shrimp come with a flavorful sauce. The panna cotta is light, fruity, and often complimentary. Dishes like lasagna bolognese and steak with rigatoni are cooked well and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, is so fresh and delicious."

"The Panna Cotta was light and fruity, truly the best I can remember."

"I highly recommend these dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and free near the restaurant.

2

The menu features a wide variety of homemade pasta dishes.

3

Portion sizes are large enough for sharing or leftovers.

20
Salumeria Ovello image 1
Convenience store

Italian fine foods shine with house-cured salumi and fresh focaccia. Cozy cafe tables invite quiet moments with custom charcuterie boards crafted by a Michelin star chef. Relaxed vibe makes it perfect for savoring exceptional mortadella and porchetta sandwiches.

Fresh house-made pastas and Michelin star chef's salami stand out here. Sandwiches feature cloud-like focaccia and exceptional mortadella, porchetta, and prosciutto.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, like nothing I've ever tasted."

"The focaccia here is out of this world, like a cloud."

"The focaccia and mortadella here are incredible Italian food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a cozy atmosphere with limited seating, especially on weekends.

3

The deli offers a variety of house-cured salumi and fresh sandwiches.

21
Pastiamo image 1
Italian restaurant

Enjoy fresh pasta with bright pesto and light bolognese sauces in a cozy, casual setting perfect for al fresco dining or date nights. Parking is limited, so plan accordingly.

Fresh, homemade pasta stands out with a chewy, savory texture and subtle flavor. Sauces like the bright pesto and light, well-rounded bolognese complement the dishes perfectly.

People are saying

"I found the homemade pasta here to be so fresh and flavorful."

"I found the pasta so good it was sinful and affordable."

"The fresh, homemade Italian pasta here is simply delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking in the plaza is often difficult due to limited spaces.

2

The prices are surprisingly affordable, making it a great value.

3

They offer a lunch special on weekends for a better deal.

22
Wow Spaghetti image 1
Italian restaurant

Small dining space creates a family-owned feel with cozy decor. Korean-Italian fusion shines in Wow Spaghetti and kimchi pasta with fresh shrimp. Casual vibe suits diners seeking affordable meals with generous portions and bold flavors.

Wow Spaghetti stands out as a signature dish with great quality pasta and meat. The kimchi pasta blends sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors with big, fresh shrimp, while the Bolognese and spinach cheese ravioli offer tasty, fresh options.

People are saying

"The pasta's sauces blend Korean fusion flavors really well."

"This Thai Tea tastes authentic and isn't too sweet."

"The Italian food's sauces blend Korean fusion flavors really well."

Good to know

1

Wow Spaghetti offers a Korean Italian fusion pasta concept.

2

Portions are generous, and the prices are fair.

3

The restaurant allows customers to build their own pasta or choose a specialty dish.

23
Pizza Cart image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy indoor seating sets a homey vibe for enjoying fresh pizza and rich lasagna. Quick service and reasonable prices make it great for casual dining. Baked pasta dishes like Alfredo chicken add a tasty Italian touch.

Lasagna stands out with its perfectly baked layers and rich flavor. Pasta options include angel hair alongside classics, and dishes like Alfredo chicken pasta get baked for extra taste.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was delicious and fresh."

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"Their Italian food, especially the lasagna, is always perfect."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-25 minute wait for food during peak hours.

2

Call ahead for quick pickup to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant has no bathrooms available for customers.

24
Hot Rod Willyโ€™s Pizza image 1

Small spot with family-run charm and an old school vibe offers authentic Chicago, Detroit, and Sicilian pizzas. Alfredo cheese pizza shines with rich, creamy flavor, while chicken carbonara pizza adds a savory twist with tender chicken. Seating is limited but clean and comfortable.

Alfredo cheese pizza stands out with its rich, creamy flavor. The chicken carbonara pizza offers a savory twist with tender chicken and a smooth sauce.

People are saying

"This pizza is phenomenal and the best I've ever had."

"It's a family-owned place where the whole family works together."

"I thought the pizza was amazing, truly a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Hot Rod Willyโ€™s Pizza specializes in Chicago Style, Detroit Style, and Sicilian Style pizzas.

2

The pizza is takeout only, with limited seating available.

3

Prices are reasonable, with an 18-inch pizza costing less than $30.

25
PIZZA LOVER image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza spot offers pesto pizzas and classic Italian dishes like Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. Cozy, family-friendly space with big TV and soft music creates a relaxing vibe. Perfect for casual meals with kids and friends.

Pesto pizzas like Hawaiian and chicken pesto stand out alongside classic pepperoni. Pasta options include Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo and spaghetti, paired with wings and sandwiches for variety.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was truly delicious and had great texture."

"The pasta here is delicious and the service is super friendly."

"I found the Italian food here to be delicious and generously sized."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open till midnight on weekends.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere after local sports events.

3

Seating is available for families and groups.

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