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Best of San Diego

Pasta places

You want a bowl of pasta without the headache of navigating a crowded neighborhood for a spot.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 1
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 2
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 3
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Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot shines with handmade pasta and a rich vodka sauce that rivals Italy. 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 with a perfect al dente texture. The vodka sauce pasta offers a rich, memorable flavor that rivals dishes from 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."

"I've never had pasta this good; it's pure harmony."

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.

02
Pezzi del mio Cuore image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot shines with homemade pasta like perfect penne and unique lasagna al pesto. Casual vibe suits date nights, while large portions and a strong wine selection enhance the friendly, unpretentious feel.

Extensive menu offers many entrees with homemade pastas. Penne cooks to perfection, while lasagna al pesto stands out as a unique dish. Fettuccine specials come with flavorful sauces and generous portions.

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."

"The pasta here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

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.

03
Pastiamo image 1
Pasta shop

Outdoor covered patio with wrap-around sectional sofas sets a chill vibe. Fresh, homemade pasta shines with unique sauces like pesto and lasagna. BYOB spot near the ocean offers crisp pizzas and a relaxed, pet-friendly space.

Fresh, homemade pasta comes with a variety of flavorful sauces made daily. Lasagna and pesto pastas stand out for their excellent seasoning and unique taste.

People are saying

"The pasta here is so fresh and delicious."

"The outdoor seating is a beautiful, relaxing spot by the ocean."

"It's a really nice casual vibe for a Sunday night."

Good to know

1

Expect a half-hour wait during busy times.

2

Entrรฉes are under $15, and pizzas are under $10.

3

Parking can be challenging; look for spots as you approach.

04
Dora Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with lobster pasta and creative ravioli dishes. Open kitchen adds a home-like atmosphere while the heated patio with blankets keeps guests cozy. Vibe stays upbeat and classy, blending comfort with elegance perfectly.

Lobster pasta and mussel pasta stand out with fresh seafood flavors. Unique dishes like ravioli with foratage and parm ham appetizers show high quality and creativity.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully curated."

"Our server Cole made the Italian food experience even better."

"The pasta here is al dente and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available inside the Theatre District Parking Structure near the La Jolla Playhouse.

2

Parking rates are $4.50 per hour with a maximum of $36.

3

Expect a 30% upcharge for additional portions without prior disclosure.

05
Gusto Grocery Deli & Bistro image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Small market offers authentic Italian products with fresh pasta that shines in quality and taste. Porcine ravioli is a standout, paired perfectly with tomato basil sauce. Prices stay competitive while atmosphere recalls Italy with premium imported meats and cheeses.

Fresh pasta stands out for its authenticity and high quality. Porcine ravioli pairs well with a tomato basil sauce, and helpful suggestions guide pasta shape choices.

People are saying

"The sandwiches at this grocery store are phenomenal."

"I found authentic Italian products and hard-to-find items here."

"The fresh pasta here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Gusto Grocery Deli & Bistro has limited hours, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Customers can order ahead online or walk in for convenience.

3

They offer a wide selection of authentic Italian products and ingredients.

06
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant image 1

Small Italian spot shines with intimate atmosphere and live music. Lasagna boasts rich layers, while seafood pasta offers fresh flavors. Food and wine pairings are impeccable, making it a local favorite.

Lasagna stands out with rich layers and bold flavors. The seafood pasta offers a fresh, satisfying taste that appeals even to those not usually into pasta.

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 staff here makes you feel right at home during dinner."

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.

07
Pazzos Italian image 1
Southern Italian restaurant

Small family-run Italian spot offers a warm vibe and neighborhood pizza joint feel. Guests enjoy hearty pasta like Pasta Al Forno with garlic bread. Big TVs show games, making it a family-friendly place where dogs are welcome.

Hearty pasta dishes come in good portions and include options like Pasta Al Forno and Bucatini with Bolognese sauce. Meals often arrive with delicious garlic bread on the side.

People are saying

"The pizza here is fantastic, especially the Sicilian style."

"It's a great family-owned spot, very authentic and delicious."

"The pasta here is amazing and hearty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and operated, providing a homey atmosphere.

2

Pizza slices are a great size for the price, typically around $10 each.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets in the outdoor seating area.

08
Pit Stop Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Outdoor seating with picnic tables and umbrellas sets a hip vibe. Fresh, handmade pasta like fettuccine alfredo offers rich, authentic flavors. Casual fun comes from games like cornhole, making it great for families and quick bites.

Fresh, handmade pasta stands out here with dishes like fettuccine alfredo and cheese ravioli that taste authentic and rich. Options like pesto pasta and eggplant parmigiana add variety alongside excellent pizza choices.

People are saying

"I thought their pizza was the best in town."

"The outdoor seating here is nice and clean."

"The pasta here is authentic and handmade."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru is for slices only and takes about 3 minutes after ordering.

2

You can order online and pick up at the drive-thru window.

3

One pizza costs $30 and typically feeds two adults and one child.

09
Decore image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot shines with fresh pasta like oxtail and pollo cacciatora. Warm colors and intimate lighting set a romantic mood. Pair dishes with rare wines such as Ruche for a unique taste. Perfect for dates and small gatherings.

Fresh pasta stands out with Roman dishes like supplรฌ, oxtail pasta, and pollo cacciatora style. Lasagna is notably tasty and rivals many Italian spots.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the pasta and lasagna."

"This Tiramisu is creamy, balanced, and the best I've ever had."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are limited to 90 minutes for dinner service.

2

Decore charges a $25 corkage fee for bringing your own wine.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

10
Baci Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian spot blends old-school elegance with a dog-friendly patio and smooth jazz. Pasta shines with Sea Urchin's mild sauce and rich Lobster Pasta. Perfect for romantic vibes or sharp business lunches.

Sea Urchin Pasta features a light, mild sauce with garlic, cilantro, and chili pepper. Pappardelle with lamb ragu and Lobster Pasta offer rich, luxurious flavors with plenty of lobster and tender lamb.

People are saying

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

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

"The pasta with lamb ragu was outstanding and delicious."

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.

11
Bistro Pazzo image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot offers lobster ravioli and fresh pesto pasta in a cozy atmosphere. Dogs enjoy the cute patio while diners savor romantic, family-oriented vibes. Perfect for quiet meals with top-notch pasta and peaceful outdoor seating.

Lobster ravioli stands out with rich flavor and delicate texture. Pastas come with fresh pesto sauce and bread, adding a unique touch. Dishes like seafood pasta and lasagna are cooked with care, balancing freshness and perfect doneness.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are amazing and delicious."

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

"I found the pasta here to be outstanding and truly next level."

Good to know

1

Dinner service starts from 4 pm.

2

Bistro Pazzo accommodates large parties, including groups of 11.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

12
Assenti's Pasta image 1
Pasta shop

Small shop offers fresh handrolled pasta with perfect shape and texture, especially ravioli and fettuccine. Cozy atmosphere fills with wonderful aromas, drawing a steady crowd. Quality is world-class and authentic, with a curated selection of Italian cheeses and wines.

Fresh pasta here is handrolled with perfect shape and texture. The ravioli and fettuccine stand out as world-class, made with authentic Italian ingredients and a fresh flour aroma.

People are saying

"I found the fresh pasta here to be world-class."

"This Italian market has amazing quality and imported products."

"I thought the homemade sausage here was delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

There is a 15-minute parking space available in front of Assenti's Pasta.

2

They handroll their pasta and offer a variety of Italian products.

3

The shop provides a take-home guide with cooking times and recipes.

13
counterpoint image 1

Cozy bar with dim lighting and green plants offers a chill vibe. Pasta choices like chicken chipotle pasta and Mac and cheese with Nashville fried chicken come with tasty wings. Dog-friendly space feels warm and inviting.

Offers chicken chipotle pasta and Mac and cheese with Nashville fried chicken. Pasta dishes come with delicious wings on the side.

People are saying

"This Local Spot offers the warmest, most welcoming hospitality I've ever experienced."

"You have to try their original cocktails; they're refreshing and delicious."

"The staff's service here is great and they really take care of you."

Good to know

1

Street parking is the only option available nearby.

2

The menu changes frequently, offering new options regularly.

3

Counterpoint recently introduced a new cocktail menu.

14
Perrony Italian & Mexican Kitchen image 1

Renovated space offers cool vibes and a clean, comfortable setting. Family-run kitchen blends Italian and Mexican flavors with generous portions and reasonable prices. Salmon pasta shines with its perfectly cooked, buttery texture.

Salmon fish with pasta stands out as a flavorful option. The chicken steak and spaghetti combo offers a solid choice for lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the portions are generous."

"The salmon fish with pasta was incredibly delicious."

"The salmon fish with pasta is incredibly delicious Italian Food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers halal options, including salmon fish with pasta.

2

Perrony Italian & Mexican Kitchen is a family-owned business.

3

The restaurant has a variety of food options beyond pasta.

15
Parma Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot offers fresh pasta like rare Squid Ink and creamy lasagna. Intimate seating and a dog-friendly patio create a warm, family vibe. Staff add authentic charm that makes every visit special.

Fresh pasta shines with Squid Ink as a rare special. Creamy, flavorful lasagna and rich bolognese stand out alongside shrimp and chicken fettuccine in vodka sauce.

People are saying

"The pasta here is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

"You have to try the lasagna; it's amazing pasta."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours to secure a table.

2

On Wednesdays, enjoy 30% off a bottle of wine with dinner.

3

The Tuesday date night menu offers great value for couples.

16
Saffron Pizza Kitchen image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy dining space offers a warm, family vibe with 100% halal options. Pasta dishes like lasagna come in generous portions and taste fresh. Guests enjoy delicious pizza with generous toppings in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.

Lasagna and spaghetti with meatballs stand out as very good. Pasta dishes come in generous portions and taste fresh.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be tasty and delicious."

"The calzone here is massive and stuffed generously."

"The pasta here was very nice."

Good to know

1

The cheese pizza slice and veggie garden salad cost $17.22.

2

All food comes out within 10 minutes, including pizzas and salads.

3

Saffron Pizza Kitchen offers halal options on their menu.

17
Bronze Bird image 1
Restaurant

Hotel restaurant blends modern design with artful decor for an upscale vibe. Ricotta spinach ravioli and Baja alfredo pasta offer tender, creamy options. Spacious seating and a dog-friendly patio add comfort, though noise rises during events.

Ricotta spinach ravioli comes tender with mushrooms and fresh spinach in red sauce. Baja alfredo pasta features chicken, offering a creamy option alongside the comforting ravioli.

People are saying

"The beet salad with goat cheese and steak was a great choice."

"The dinner here was excellent and surprisingly affordable."

"The pasta here is amazing; the staff are so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Show your Broadway show tickets for a 20% discount on your meal.

3

Valet parking is available for $10 when dining and attending a theater.

18
Kuljem Chicken & Beer image 1
Korean restaurant

Modern space with K-pop music offers a relaxed vibe and comfy seating. Korean fried chicken shines with crunchy texture and pairs well with beer. Kimchi pasta boasts an insanely rich sauce blending tangy kimchi and bacon for a unique twist.

Kimchi pasta features a creamy sauce with aged tangy kimchi and bacon, creating a flavor similar to kimchi carbonara. The sauce stands out as insanely rich and the dish is a consistent favorite.

People are saying

"The Korean fried chicken here is so juicy and tender."

"The kimchi pasta sauce was insane and creamy."

"The happy hour food is delicious and fairly priced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7:00 PM with special drink deals.

2

Soju deals are available during happy hour.

3

The price for 12 pieces of chicken is now $24 after tax.

19
Romanella Cucina Romana image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant dรฉcor with frescoes and portraits sets a warm, classy tone. Fresh, rich pasta like lobster fettuccine and house-made ravioli shine with bold flavors. Enjoy a convivial vibe indoors or outdoors with lively energy and curated drinks.

Fresh, rich, and full of flavor defines the Bolognese and the house-made pasta dishes. The lobster fettuccine and ravioli stand out alongside a lasagna with deep flavor and perfect layers.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The pasta dishes here are rich, flavorful, and authentically done."

"The pasta dishes here are rich and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs daily from 2-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu features a variety of cocktails and small plates.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

20
Carbon Angelaโ€™s Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant boasts open kitchen views and a stylish patio with umbrellas. Handmade pasta stands out, especially the beef cheek pappardelle and pistachio campanelle with fresh pesto. Atmosphere feels lively and recalls Italian open-air dining but can be loud for kids.

Handmade pasta shines with the beef cheek pappardelle, featuring tender meat and fresh noodles. Unique dishes like the pistachio campanelle offer a fresh twist with pistachio pesto, while the mushroom pasta delivers a rich, flavorful sauce.

People are saying

"It felt like home, and Angela made us feel so welcome."

"The skirt steak was perfectly cooked and had great flavor."

"The beef cheek pasta is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Street parking is available, but can be challenging during peak hours.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on tapas and wine, typically from 4-6pm.

21
Romanissimo Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot with authentic music and Roma decor sets a warm mood. Cheese Wheel Pasta offers a rich, creamy texture while lobster ravioli shines with a memorable sauce. Indoor and outdoor seating ensure privacy and comfort.

Cheese Wheel Pasta stands out with its rich, creamy texture. The lobster ravioli arrives with a memorable sauce that complements the dish perfectly.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes like you're actually in Italy."

"The Happy Hour food here is delicious and well prepared."

"The pasta here tastes so fresh and authentic, just like in Italy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 pm to 6 pm with food and drink specials.

2

Expect a variety of food options during happy hour for around $60 total.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly on the patio for those with pets.

22
Black Radish image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy spot with intimate atmosphere and lively energy. Handmade pasta shines, especially the Vadouvan ravioli and duck parmesan linguine with crunchy bits. Warm decor and a small bar make it great for dining and drinks.

Handmade Vadouvan spiced ravioli and duck parmesan linguine stand out with crunchy duck bits and a creamy parmesan sauce. Pappardelle with squash features perfectly cooked noodles and rich flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, especially the tasting menu."

"The cocktails here are amazing and beautifully balanced."

"The handmade ravioli was my favorite this fall."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially on weekends.

2

The prix fixe menu costs $89, with an additional $49 for wine pairing.

3

Expect small portion sizes, which may not be sufficient for all diners.

23
CinKuni (Italian & Japanese Cuisine) image 1

Spacious spot blends Japanese and Italian culture with art-filled walls and a brick pizza oven. Pasta shines with Fettuccine Tre Grazie and clam-packed Spaghetti Calimero. Lively vibe pulses with 80s-90s music and a dog-friendly patio.

Fettuccine Tre Grazie stands out as a notable pasta dish here. Spaghetti Calimero comes loaded with clams and delivers solid flavor. The pasta menu offers variety alongside sushi and ramen options.

People are saying

"The Gnocchi Urbino was delicious and tender."

"I loved the expansive vegan and plant-based selection."

"You can get great pasta, sushi, and ramen here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 p.m. on industry Mondays with great drink selections.

2

Every Wednesday, there are free comedy shows starting at 8 p.m.

3

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10 p.m. with a two-drink minimum.

24
Roma Mia image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot shines with authentic cuisine and a romantic atmosphere. Pasta is made from scratch, featuring perfectly al dente dishes like mushroom ravioli. Outdoor seating adds charm for warm evenings, complemented by well-crafted cocktails.

Pasta comes made from scratch and cooked perfectly al dente. Dishes like mushroom raviolis with creamy sauce and lemon shrimp pasta highlight the menu's variety and flavor.

People are saying

"The pasta here is fresh and packed with flavor."

"It felt like stepping into a cozy trattoria in Italy."

"The pasta dishes here are fantastic, especially the seafood ones."

Good to know

1

There is a parking garage right across the street.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

25
Pop's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy spot with a family-friendly vibe and clean, renovated space. Pasta dishes shine with creamy sauces and tender chicken, offering hearty flavors and noodles that hold their bite well. Quality pizza adds great value to the warm atmosphere.

Creamy sauces and tender chicken stand out in dishes like Chicken Alfredo and Chicken Parmigiana with spaghetti. Pastas come flavorful and hearty, cooked with noodles that hold their bite well.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was absolutely delicious and packed with flavor."

"The pasta here is amazing and a great dining experience."

"This calzone was packed with toppings and not greasy."

Good to know

1

Pop's Pizza offers delivery service and free delivery options.

2

They provide catering for events, making it a good choice for gatherings.

3

Meal deals for 2 or 3 people are available, catering to different appetites.

26
The Venetian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot shines with authentic pasta featuring plump shrimp and marvelous pizzas. Family vibe fills the warm dining area, though the bar feels colder and less inviting. Noise rises near the bar, balancing comfort with lively energy.

Authentic pasta dishes form a key part of the menu, with shrimp that stays plump and not overcooked. These pasta options complement the marvelous pizzas served here.

People are saying

"The food here tasted incredible and homemade."

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

"The pasta here is delicious and feels homemade."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required on Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Free parking is available across the library.

3

Expect a 5% surcharge on your bill.

27
Alfredo's Pizzeria image 1
Pizza restaurant

Enjoy thin crust pizza by the slice in a casual spot with fun chalkboard art. Pasta lovers will find rich meat sauce spaghetti and tasty options like Chicken Ala Rosa. Music shifts from pop hits to opera, creating a unique vibe.

Spaghetti comes perfectly cooked with a rich meat sauce and generous portions. Options like Chicken Ala Rosa Pasta and Sun-dried Tomato Pasta offer tasty variety, often paired with garlic bread and salad.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and absolutely amazing."

"This late night spot is perfect for satisfying your pizza craving."

"I found the spaghetti and pizza to be delicious."

Good to know

1

You can get two slices of pizza and a soda for $8.99.

2

A lunch special offers any pasta for $12.

3

They have a deal for 2 slices and a beer for $11.

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