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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Pasta and steak in San Diego

A restaurant that masters both pasta and steak instead of doing one well and the other poorly.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
Pezzi del mio Cuore image 1
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Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with wooden chairs and extensive homemade pasta menu. The vibe stays casual and relaxed, suitable for date nights or special occasions. Large portions and a strong wine selection complement the friendly, unpretentious setting.

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.

Steak comes perfectly cooked and well seasoned here. The New York steak and NY strip stand out alongside other hearty dishes like rigatoni and lasagna bolognese.

People are saying

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

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

"The steak here was perfectly cooked and seasoned."

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.

02
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant image 1

Small Italian restaurant offers an intimate, authentic atmosphere with live music and quaint decor. Noise stays tolerable even when full, creating a warm, family-like vibe. Known for impeccable food and wine pairings, it stands out as 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.

Steaks come out perfectly cooked, especially the filet mignon and ribeye. They taste delicious and pair well with wine.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the steak to be delicious and perfectly cooked."

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.

03
Carbon Angelaโ€™s Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant offers open kitchen views and seating both inside and on a patio with umbrellas. Atmosphere feels comfortable and stylish but can get loud, making it less suited for families with children. Guests enjoy locally sourced, high-quality food with a vibe that recalls Italian open-air dining.

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.

Picanha steak stands out with its phenomenal flavor. Ribeye comes perfectly grilled with organic veggies and chimichurri.

People are saying

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

"I've never had a ribeye steak this amazing before."

"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.

04
The Peruvian Spot image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Peruvian atmosphere with bright, inviting dรฉcor and a spacious layout. It maintains a family-friendly vibe featuring a dedicated kids' play corner visible from dining areas. The environment feels warm and lively, suitable for families and groups seeking a relaxed meal.

Spaghetti dishes include Spaghetti a la Huancaina with Lomo Saltado and a green spaghetti that tastes like home. Portions focus heavily on pasta, with minimal meat and vegetables.

Stir-fried steak stands out with its tender texture and flavorful cooking. Dishes like lomo saltado mix steak with red onion, tomatoes, fries, and rice, while inka asada fries combine steak and hot dog for a hearty option.

People are saying

"I found the Peruvian food here to be the best I ever had."

"You have to try the stir-fried steak; it's so bomb!"

"I found the pasta here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

They offer free coffee until 10:30.

2

The kids corner makes it special for families with children.

3

Parking is easy and the location is convenient.

05
Bronze Bird image 1
Restaurant

Hotel restaurant with modern design and artful decor creates a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere. Spacious seating and a dog-friendly outdoor patio add comfort and convenience. Noise levels can rise during events, affecting conversation.

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.

Steak dishes come out cooked perfectly and juicy with well seasoned flavors. The steak frites stands out as a large, flavorful plate often noted for its quality and size.

People are saying

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

"The steak frites is enormous and cooked perfectly."

"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.

06
Black Radish image 1
Restaurant

Small, elegantly casual restaurant offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere with warm, inviting decor and whimsical, sophisticated style. Seating is tight and acoustics can be loud, creating a lively energy. A small bar adds to the charm, making it a spot for both 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.

Wagyu ribeye stands out with its tender, rich texture and perfect cooking. Filet mignon and sirloin also deliver award-winning quality and flavor.

People are saying

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

"The handmade ravioli was my favorite this fall."

"The wagyu ribeye was cooked to perfection and delicious."

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.

07
Sepulveda Meats and Provisions image 1

Butcher shop with cozy small-town vibes and a down-to-earth atmosphere. Offers locally sourced meat from California with a focus on quality and variety, including over 100 rotating sausage flavors. Known for exceptional steaks and sausages that attract a neighborhood crowd seeking top-notch cuts.

Fresh Assenti's pasta appears regularly alongside sharp cheddar cheese. Steak pairs well with the pasta from Sepulveda Meats and Provisions.

Steaks offer excellent quality with tender and flavorful cuts. Staff can season and seal steaks for sous vide cooking, adding convenience.

People are saying

"I loved the hearty, yummy sausage with spot-on flavor."

"I found the steak here to be superb and of excellent quality."

"I found the fresh pasta here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

They offer over 100 flavors of sausage that rotate every Thursday.

2

The sausage costs $7.50 for two links.

3

Prices are reasonable for high-quality meat.

08
VULTURE image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with unique, otherworldly decor and a red curtain entrance creates an intimate, elegant atmosphere. The vibe blends 80's music with a warm, inviting energy that suits a night out. Fully vegan menu offers plant-based fine dining with standout cocktails and memorable dishes.

Chef special pastas come with homemade and dairy-free Parmesan cheese. House pasta and Bolognese stand out alongside dishes like meatballs and steak Diane.

Steak here stands out with the steak Diane and the entire steak sampler offering a variety of flavors. The lion's mane steak and beyond steak provide unique and incredible tastes.

People are saying

"I can't wait to return for the amazing vegan options."

"The chef's special pasta was excellent and homemade."

"The steak here is amazing, especially the steak sampler."

Good to know

1

A reservation is needed to dine at VULTURE.

2

VULTURE adds an automatic 20% gratuity on all checks.

3

Many items on the menu were unavailable during my visit.

09
Lala image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with intimate decor featuring curved wooden panels and leopard print rugs. Atmosphere is loud and noisy, with tables packed closely, creating a cozy but cramped feel. Music plays at a reasonable level, and unique touches like Polaroid pictures add character.

Lasagna pinwheels stand out as extremely delicious and unique. Other notable dishes include spaghetti Nero con aragosta and classic spaghetti and meatballs with gnocchi also highly praised.

Steak comes out perfectly cooked with a bone-in ribeye option available. It pairs well with other dishes like Sicilian Poppers and Veal Parmigiano.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the gnocchi and lasagna pinwheels, is amazing."

"The pasta dishes here are some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the steak was perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6:30 PM with great drink specials.

3

Valet parking is available for $12, but street parking can be challenging.

10
Asti Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, dim-lit Italian restaurant with cozy ambiance and elegant, welcoming atmosphere. Noise level can be high due to lively groups, making it less suited for quiet dining. Offers outdoor seating and a prominent bar area within a compact space.

Fresh pasta dishes stand out with options like lobster ravioli with saffron cream sauce and lobster fettuccine offering rich, flavorful experiences. Classic preparations like light, flavorful lasagna and penne in vodka sauce also feature prominently.

Tomahawk steak comes cooked medium rare as ordered and offers a solid flavor. The ribeye at $55 is decent but not exceptional, while the $99 Tomahawk steak is very good but not mindblowing.

People are saying

"The food here tasted amazing, truly incredible."

"The pasta dishes here are fresh, flavorful, and authentically homemade."

"I was floored by how good the steak was."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to the bill for large parties.

3

Expect higher prices for menu items, especially during peak hours.

11
Baci Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers an upscale, elegant atmosphere with old-school elegance and a quiet, romantic vibe. The space includes a dog-friendly covered patio and a bar with pleasant jazz music. It suits both high-powered business lunches and date nights with a sophisticated, inviting ambiance.

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.

Steaks come in medium rare and have mixed reviews. The filet mignon is often described as perfectly seasoned and tender, but some find it gamey or disappointing.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the steak to be amazing and perfectly cooked."

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.

12
Flama Llama image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with authentic flavors and a lively, energetic design featuring hanging plants and an outdoor patio. Atmosphere is cozy with fantastic music enhancing the vibe. Popular for unique cocktails and well-balanced drinks alongside standout dishes like mojo fries and lomo saltado.

Pasta dishes feature a Peruvian twist on pesto with the tallarรญn verde offering a flavorful green sauce. The Tallarรญn Saltado blends tender beef flank with spaghetti and vegetables for a Latin and Asian fusion.

Steak dishes feature tender cuts like flank and skirt steak cooked with care. Flank steak appears in flavorful dishes such as Ropa Verde and Tallarines Verdes, often paired with creamy sauces or marinades that enhance the meat's taste.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, full of flavor and fresh."

"The flank steak here is so tender and flavorful."

"The pesto pasta here has a unique Peruvian twist."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.

3

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

13
Romanissimo Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with authentic Italian music softly playing. Well-spaced tables and beautiful Roma decor create a warm, inviting setting. Both indoor and outdoor seating provide privacy and comfort, enhancing the dining experience.

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

Filet mignon here ranges from exceptionally tender, easily cut with a butter knife, to dry and flavorless. Cooking tends to hit medium perfectly when done well, but quality varies.

People are saying

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

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

"I had the filet mignon cooked perfectly; it was beyond good."

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.

14
Puerto La Boca image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Artistic and romantic interior with colorful paintings creates a vibe like Buenos Aires. Live music plays Motown, 70s & 80s R&B, and smooth jazz, keeping energy chill and welcoming. Indoor and patio seating offer options, with a bar area for waiting.

Four cheese pasta stands out with rich flavors. The ravioli dishes, including one with mushroom sauce, come highly praised for their taste and texture.

Entrana Skirt Steak stands out with perfect cooking and a lovely sauce. The Lomo steak ranks among the very best in Southern California.

People are saying

"I loved their chimchurri steak, cooked perfectly."

"You have to try their empanadas; they're delicious."

"The pasta here is so cheesy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Live music occurs every Saturday evening, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Meter parking is available on the street, but can be hard to find.

15
Piedra Santa image 1
Steak house

Converted parking garage showcases modern elegant decor with wood ceilings and wall murals creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Seating near a gas fireplace offers a warm spot with views of the bar. The vibe suits date nights and business dinners with a relaxed yet swank feel.

Lobster ravioli stands out with a seafood touch and rich flavor. Pasta options include a ragu sauce dish priced at $39, offering a solid choice among the menu.

Steaks come out properly cooked with flavors that deepen as they rest. The filet pairs well with wine and tastes great overall.

People are saying

"The food and drinks during Happy Hour were delicious."

"The servers here are so friendly, it makes it feel like family."

"The lobster ravioli was outstanding and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6:30 PM Sunday to Thursday with great deals.

2

Oysters are $1.50 each during happy hour, offering excellent value.

3

A 10 oz New York Strip Steak with mashed potatoes is $24 during happy hour.

16
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

Chicken & bacon Alfredo stands out with a rich sauce that pairs well with bread on the side. Options like Pesto Shrimp Pasta and bacon Alfredo fettuccine offer flavorful choices with solid pasta quality.

Steaks come out tender and perfectly cooked, with options like T-bone, ribeye, skirt, and flat iron. Fries and veggie medley often accompany the dishes.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the bacon Alfredo pasta was excellent."

"I had the steak, and it was cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

17
Deckman's NORTH Park at 3131 image 1

Open kitchen with chef's counter creates an engaging dining experience. Atmosphere blends elegance and warmth with a hidden entrance adding intrigue. Rooftop bar offers a unique vibe and intimate outdoor seating.

Whale Cove mussels come with goat cheese stuffed pasta and uni nage. Squid ink pasta debuts as a 10/10 dish and gets strong recommendations from diners.

Steaks come perfectly cooked with options like hanger and flatiron cuts. The 14-day dry-aged Ribeye features a primal charred crust that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is creative and tasty."

"The goat cheese stuffed pasta with uni nage was divine."

"You have to try the Ribeye; it's a 14-day dry-aged cut."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5:00 to 6:30 PM, featuring oysters and small bites.

2

Seating for happy hour is limited to about 10-12 guests, so arrive early.

3

The rooftop offers stunning views during happy hour, enhancing the experience.

18
BoujieMana image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a spacious, tasteful interior with a beautifully designed bar and airy ambiance. The atmosphere balances trendy and exquisite vibes, creating a perfect setting for both casual and company events. Outdoor seating with heaters adds a comfortable option for families and groups.

Pesto pasta stands out with a rich, fresh flavor. The pasta alla vodka offers a creamy, tangy sauce, while the lamb pasta features good meat but unusual noodles.

Dry aged ribeye comes medium rare with a rich mushroom sauce. Hanger steak serves tender with chimichurri sauce, tomatoes, blistered shishitos, avocado, and charred scallion puree.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has delicious chicken sandwiches on house-made pita."

"The steak here is so tender and juicy."

"The pasta here is just excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited tables.

2

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

3

Parking is available onsite, but it can be limited during peak hours.

19
The Godfather image 1
Italian restaurant

Upscale Italian restaurant with old-school decor and dark wood paneling creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Live piano music adds a classic, elegant vibe that suits romantic dinners and special occasions. The setting feels authentic and transports diners with its traditional Italian heritage.

Lasagna stands out with its perfect layering and a creamy, rich sauce balanced by garlic and Parmesan. Fettuccine comes with a rich, flavorful Bolognese that complements perfectly cooked pasta.

Steak comes out cooked to perfection with a perfectly tender texture. Ribeye gets a charred crust and precise seasoning, though some cuts can be dry on the outside.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes at these dinner spots are excellent."

"The pasta here feels like a trip to Italy with live piano music."

"The steak here is cooked perfectly and so tender."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to a very small lot, but valet service is available.

2

Prices are on the high end, with many dishes exceeding $50.

3

The restaurant will celebrate its 50th anniversary on 4/21/24.

20
Theresa's Italian Steakhouse image 1

Upscale, intimate dining room offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere with views of Mission Valley and nearby golf course. The space balances comfortable elegance without feeling stuffy or overly casual. Guests enjoy a relaxing meal experience suitable for conversation and unwinding.

Italian Spaghetti & Meatballs stands out with its housemade sauce and tender meatballs. Pasta dishes come with fresh ingredients and classic flavors.

Steaks come out medium rare with precise cooking. The roasted rib eye and Prime Rib stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The seafood dish and prime rib here are excellent Date Spots."

"The service for our steak was phenomenal and attentive."

"The pasta here is amazing, and the service is phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Parking is easy and available on-site for restaurant guests.

3

The restaurant offers a 3-course meal deal for $34.99.

21
Lucrezia La Jolla image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers beautiful outdoor patio and lovely bar with live music and romantic lighting. Atmosphere feels crowded yet lively, attracting diners seeking an authentic and vibrant experience. Dog-friendly outdoor seating adds a relaxed, inclusive touch.

Fresh and flavorful pasta stands out, including cacio e pepe and other well-prepared dishes. The kitchen adjusts dishes when needed to maintain quality.

Steaks come juicy and flavorful, with the Tomahawk cooked to perfection and the Florentine standing out. Lamb chops stay tender, and filet mignon offers a juicy bite.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and fresh."

"The pasta here is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly executed."

"The steak here is served with such genuine hospitality."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Live music is featured on Wednesdays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

22
Huntress image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse with modern decor and a live DJ creating an energetic vibe without overpowering conversation. Atmosphere feels upscale and fun, attracting a stylish crowd. Seating varies from intimate to lively, with some areas offering views and private rooms.

Truffle pasta stands out with its rich flavor. The macaroni and cheese is creamy and thick.

Steaks come expertly prepared and cooked to perfection. The Ribeye with Huntress sauce is tender and flavorful, while the Filet Mignon melts in your mouth and stays juicy even at medium well.

People are saying

"The A5 wagyu and wagyu bites were perfect."

"The mushroom dessert was beautifully executed and flavorful."

"The truffle pasta had a nice balance of flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

A 20% service fee is automatically added for parties of six or more.

3

Happy hour runs on weekdays before 7 pm with discounted cocktails.

23
Communion Mission Hills image 1

Rooftop setting offers breathtaking views and an upscale atmosphere with unique decor that creates a special ambiance. The space includes a heated outside patio where sunsets enhance the experience. Noise levels can be loud, especially near the bar area.

Ribeye comes cooked to perfection with potatoes and vegetables. Steak dishes are well seasoned and served alongside classic sides like frites.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The seafood pasta had an abundance of fish."

"Our server Daniel was so knowledgeable about the steak."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is only available at the bar or outside standing area.

2

Brunch service is offered on Sundays.

3

Parking is strictly street parking.

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