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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Carmel Valley

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9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant
1. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo
4.6
Exceptional(1557)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Del Mar
Booked 64 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 Ambrogio15 Del Mar restaurant
2. Ambrogio15 Del Mar
4.7
Exceptional(213)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Carmel Valley
Booked 8 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
3. Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana
4.7
Exceptional(1340)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Del Mar
Booked 9 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 Lucrezia restaurant
4. Lucrezia
4.5
Awesome(590)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 48 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 Marisi restaurant
5. Marisi
4.6
Exceptional(1090)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 111 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
6. Catania
4.8
Exceptional(2084)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 60 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 Candor by Giuseppe restaurant
7. Candor by Giuseppe
4.8
Exceptional(793)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 12 times today
Candor by Giuseppe in La Jolla offers a delightful Bistro experience that combines familiarity with global flair. With dishes like poached chicken salad and Valencia Orange arugula salad, it’s no wonder diners describe the food as "delicious" and "outstanding." The restaurant’s dedication to quality shines through in its use of the "highest quality ingredients," ensuring every bite is fresh and flavorful. The inviting and approachable atmosphere, coupled with exemplary service from staff like Guillermo, makes it a "go-to" spot for locals and visitors alike. Candor’s commitment to authenticity and community has rightfully earned it the reputation of being a "true neighborhood gem."
A photo of Ambrogio by Acquerello restaurant
8. Ambrogio by Acquerello
4.6
Exceptional(87)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Ambrogio by Acquerello in La Jolla offers an exceptional Kaiseki dining experience, meticulously crafted by Michelin Star Chef Silvio Salmoiraghi. The restaurant's 8-course tasting menus are celebrated as "art on display," highlighting not only the creative fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisines but also the high-quality ingredients and exquisite presentation. Diners rave about the "superb service" and "incredible" food, which together make each visit a memorable occasion. The wine pairings, expertly curated to enhance each dish, add another layer of sophistication to the dining experience. This culinary gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable Kaiseki adventure.
A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant
9. Bernini's Bistro & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(600)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 15 times today
Bernini's Bistro & Bar in La Jolla is a true gem for those who appreciate exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. With over 24 years of culinary excellence, it's no wonder it remains a neighborhood favorite. Guests rave about the “excellent food” and “consistently good” dishes that showcase the restaurant's passion for quality and authenticity. The inviting atmosphere, complete with cozy fire pits and a vibrant patio, enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Bernini's dedication to impeccable service and their standout dishes, such as the cioppino and wood-fired pizzas, ensures a memorable visit every time.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • DebraVIP
    New York City •96 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Very nice ambiance greets you, and strong overhead heaters even would make outdoor dining palatable. The service was very pleasant- Ian was our server who was very accommodating and efficient. The food was a cut above, everything was delicious and well presented, and the wine list was excellent as well, but everything was pricey. Dessert was not a large portion nor amazing- so $16 was overpriced for what you got- but on balance I would definitely recommend this place for a well- paced delicious dinner.
    More info
    MarisiPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • ValerieVIP
    San Diego •112 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Had a great experience with dinner and server. Split the beet salad and a veggie pizza with friend. Both delicious. The servers were wonderful too. Look forward to going back.
    More info
    Ambrogio15 Del MarPrice: Moderate• Italian• Carmel Valley
    •
    4.7
  • Shirley
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Food was great. Our waitress was amazing. Friendly fun made sure we had everything we needed numerous tines.Excellent in every way.
    More info
    Aqua Mare Cucina ItalianaPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Del Mar
    •
    4.7
  • Dylan
    Greater Boston •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We were treated like royalty, I couldn’t recommend this place more. Although it’s a busy UTC mall and hard to find at first it is worth it. Incredible service and staff and amazing food too. Ambiance was on point, the decorations make you feel like you’re in a fancy mansion for dinner. Overall, amazing spot for a date night.
    More info
    LucreziaPrice: Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.5
  • Debbie
    San Diego •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Best waitress ever!! Great energy and suggestions.
    More info
    North Italia San Diego - One PaseoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Del Mar
    •
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Carmel Valley

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of Carmel Valley, North San Diego. Our curated selection of restaurants offers a sophisticated blend of modern Italian dishes infused with a touch of local flair. Each establishment boasts a unique menu, featuring everything from artisanal pizzas and fresh pasta to innovative seafood dishes, all crafted with high-quality ingredients sourced both locally and from Italy. The dining scene in this vibrant neighborhood is characterized by its upscale ambiance and dedication to providing exceptional culinary experiences. These restaurants are celebrated for their commitment to authenticity and excellence, ensuring a memorable dining experience for both connoisseurs and casual diners alike. With a focus on creating a people-first dining environment, these venues exemplify the perfect blend of traditional Italian techniques and contemporary culinary innovation. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy a gourmet meal, Carmel Valley's contemporary Italian restaurants promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

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