Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Torrey Pines

11 restaurants available nearby

1. Lucrezia

4.5

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 62 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.

2. Marisi

4.6

Exceptional(1090)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 105 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.

3. 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 North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant

4. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo

4.6

Exceptional(1557)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Del Mar

Booked 74 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 Candor by Giuseppe restaurant

5. Candor by Giuseppe

4.8

Exceptional(793)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 17 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

6. 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

7. Bernini's Bistro & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(600)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • La Jolla

Booked 17 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.

A photo of Ambrogio15 Del Mar restaurant

8. Ambrogio15 Del Mar

4.7

Exceptional(213)

Price: Moderate

• 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

9. Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana

4.7

Exceptional(1340)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Del Mar

Booked 7 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 North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant

10. North Italia - Fashion Valley

4.7

Exceptional(2669)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Mission Valley

Booked 55 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

C
CynthiaVIP
New York City •14 reviews
5.0
Dined today
Always a pleasure to dine at Candor. Food and service are consistently amazing!
More info
Candor by GiuseppePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• La Jolla
•
4.8
D
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
H
HollyVIP
San Diego •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We had a perfect experience per the usual. A “mommy and me” date with my 6-year old, and it was wonderful. Thanks to everyone for another great evening.
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CataniaPrice: Expensive• Italian• La Jolla
•
4.8
D
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
D
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

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Torrey Pines

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Torrey Pines

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11 restaurants available nearby

1. Lucrezia

2. Marisi

3. Catania

4. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo

5. Candor by Giuseppe

6. Ambrogio by Acquerello

7. Bernini's Bistro & Bar

8. Ambrogio15 Del Mar

9. Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana

10. North Italia - Fashion Valley

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