Best Italian Restaurants in Normal Heights

71 restaurants available nearby

1. Seneca

4.7

Exceptional(4191)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 98 times today

Seneca, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offers a splendid Italian dining experience that captures the essence of Roman simplicity and culinary excellence. The restaurant brilliantly merges traditional Roman cooking techniques with San Diego's rich ingredient palette, creating a "True Roman Holiday in SD." Diners consistently praise its authentic Italian offerings, with one visitor remarking, "Visiting from Italy, good food selection and octopus tasted beautifully :)." The atmosphere is equally lauded, from its stunning downtown harbor views to its vibrant ambiance, making every visit memorable. Whether celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual meal, Seneca stands out as a top choice for authentic Italian cuisine in San Diego.

2. Madison

4.5

Awesome(3022)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • University Heights

Booked 71 times today

Madison, nestled in the vibrant University Heights of San Diego, is a jewel of Californian cuisine that resonates with authenticity and culinary excellence. Praised for its "amazing food and drinks," Madison showcases the creativity of Michelin recognized Chef Mario Cassineri. Patrons consistently rave about experiences that go beyond dining, highlighting the superb service and vibrant atmosphere, especially during their themed nights like the lively 'Dinner with Dogs' and enchanting live jazz evenings. The carefully curated menu features standout dishes like the Pistachio Pesto Pasta and the Zucchini fries with spicy marinara, making every meal a celebration of California's rich flavors and innovative spirit. As one reviewer puts it, Madison is "definitely a must" for anyone seeking a quintessential Californian dining experience in San Diego.

3. Siamo Napoli

4.7

Exceptional(1315)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Park

Booked 52 times today

Siamo Napoli in North Park, San Diego, stands out as a haven for authentic Napolitano style pizza, celebrated for its exceptional quality and the authenticity of its cuisine. Patrons rave about the "absolutely amazing pizzas" and the atmosphere that captures the essence of Italy. With ingredients sourced to reflect the richness of Napoli, the restaurant crafts dishes that are both traditional and innovative. Reviewers consistently praise not only the food but also the "excellent service" and the warm, inviting ambiance. A standout comment notes, "The pizza was killer, some of the best dough I’ve had outside of Napoli," highlighting the genuine Italian experience Siamo Napoli offers. Whether it's the Burrata pizza or a classic Margherita, each bite promises a slice of Naples right in San Diego.

A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant

4. Alexander's on 30th

4.8

Exceptional(3085)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • North Park

Booked 43 times today

Alexander's on 30th, nestled in the vibrant North Park neighborhood of San Diego, is a culinary treasure that excels in delivering exceptional seafood dishes alongside its Italian specialties. Patrons rave about the "incredible lobster ravioli" and the "best linguini and clams" they've ever had, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. With its romantic ambiance and top-notch service, Alexander's has become a go-to destination for seafood lovers. As noted by a satisfied guest, the "shrimp pasta really enjoyed" and the freshness of the seafood is consistently praised, making every meal here a delightful experience. Whether it's for a special occasion or a casual dinner, Alexander's on 30th offers a seafood feast that's sure to impress.

A photo of Trattoria Da Sofia restaurant

5. Trattoria Da Sofia

4.6

Exceptional(180)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Kensington

Booked 39 times today

Trattoria Da Sofia, nestled in the charming Kensington neighborhood of San Diego, is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. This delightful establishment has quickly become a favorite, praised for dishes that exude the heart and soul of Italy. Guests rave about the "creamy Spaghetti Carbonara" and the "divine Risotto ai Funghi," which are just a few examples of the menu's authentic offerings. The ambiance, described as "cozy and authentic," enhances each dining experience, making it feel like a "mini vacation to Italy." Regulars adore the "table side tiramisu," highlighting it as a must-try. With glowing reviews stating it's the "best Italian food in San Diego," Trattoria Da Sofia is undoubtedly a gem worth visiting for anyone seeking genuine Italian fare combined with warm hospitality.

6. Barbusa

4.6

Exceptional(4305)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 71 times today

Barbusa, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy in San Diego, offers a slice of Sicily with its authentic and modern Italian cuisine. Praised for its "excellent food" and "lively atmosphere," this gem stands out for its handcrafted pastas, stone-fired pizzas, and the freshest seafood. A favorite among locals, Barbusa is celebrated for its distinctive dishes like the Sicilian Ribeye and short rib lasagna, which are consistently lauded by diners. Guests rave about the "fantastic food" and "incredible ambiance," making it a must-visit for anyone craving a true Italian experience. With options for gluten-free and vegan diners, Barbusa ensures a delightful dining experience for all.

7. RustiCucina

4.7

Exceptional(1136)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Hillcrest

Booked 45 times today

At RustiCucina in Hillcrest, San Diego, contemporary Italian cuisine takes center stage, wowing diners with its authenticity and innovation. The restaurant's charm lies in its dedication to farm-to-neighborhood sourcing, ensuring every dish, from the "hearty, rustic" pasta to the diverse and sumptuous entrées, bursts with freshness and flavor. Patrons rave about their culinary experiences, noting dishes like the Pappardelle Al Brasato as "the most flavorful and delicious pasta I’ve ever eaten." The ambiance, described as warm and inviting, complements the top-notch service, making every visit memorable. Whether it's the handcrafted cocktails or the impressive cheese wheel pasta, RustiCucina stands out as a beacon of exemplary contemporary Italian dining in San Diego.

8. Nolita Hall

4.3

Awesome(760)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 71 times today

Nolita Hall, nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy in San Diego, offers a fresh and modern take on Italian cuisine that dazzles with authenticity and innovation. Since its grand opening in 2018, Nolita Hall has become a culinary landmark, celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and a menu that features delights from a Fiori woodfire oven, which is the heart of their Italian-inspired offerings. Patrons rave about the "best hot honey pizza" and the meticulously crafted cocktails, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and the integrity of ingredients. With accolades like the Orchid Award for its stunning interior, Nolita Hall is the go-to destination for those seeking a contemporary Italian feast in a chic and inviting setting. Whether it's for a game night or a sophisticated dinner, every visit is an experience to remember, making it a must-visit in San Diego's Little Italy.

A photo of Cori Pastificio Trattoria restaurant

9. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

4.7

Exceptional(614)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Park

Booked 22 times today

At Cori Pastificio Trattoria in North Park, San Diego, seafood lovers are in for a treat. Under the helm of the acclaimed Sicilian Chef Accursio Lota, the restaurant serves up authentic Italian dishes that beautifully incorporate fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Critics and patrons alike rave about the seafood offerings; one standout review highlighted the "signature seafood carbonara" as being "absolutely delicious," and another celebrated the "scallops with risotto" for being "perfectly prepared and delicious." These dishes showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity, making Cori Pastificio Trattoria a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier seafood dining experience.

10. CUCINA urbana

4.7

Exceptional(7101)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Banker's Hill

Booked 59 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Bankers Hill neighborhood of San Diego, CUCINA urbana offers a sublime blend of American cuisine with a unique twist. This gem has been delighting patrons since 2009, merging a cozy farmhouse vibe with a modern art installation, making each dining experience both comforting and visually stimulating. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, with diners raving about the "stellar" food and "exceptional" service. Highlights include the meatballs with a "spicy" kick and the perfectly cooked rigatoni, not to mention the "spectacular" desserts like tiramisu and limoncello mousse tart. The innovative wine program allows guests to select from a range of both familiar and rare vintages at retail prices, enhancing meals or to enjoy at home. CUCINA urbana isn't just a meal; it's a culinary celebration in the heart of San Diego.

‘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
Candice
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined today
Best garlic bread I’ve ever had, must try the gnocchi!
More info
BarbusaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6
A
Arvind
San Diego •6 reviews
5.0
Dined today
It is one of the best Italian restaurants in San Diego. I have been dining there for years and it has always kept its high standards. It is a family run business and the owners offer a personal touch by speaking with their patrons and offering suggestions, making one feel special. Lovely place and good selection of food for several dietary needs.
More info
Siamo NapoliPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Park
•
4.7
J
JimVIP
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We were so pleased that Madison has brought back their delicious jambalaya! Having grown up in New Orleans, I can say that Madison‘s jambalaya is some of the best around! Also loved the live jazz, friendly staff, and good vibe of the place!
More info
MadisonPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• University Heights
•
4.5
K
kristi
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Best restaurant! We enjoy coming every year to celebrate our anniversary. Exceptional service and food is 100!!
More info
Alexander's on 30thPrice: Expensive• Italian• North Park
•
4.8
Y
YelenaVIP
Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 9/10 Dining at Seneca in San Diego felt like stepping into a dream — the atmosphere was enchanting, with breathtaking views and an ambiance that set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Our server, Victor, was nothing short of exceptional. His attentiveness, patience, and thoughtful menu suggestions elevated the entire experience. He navigated the evening with grace, making us feel truly cared for. The only reason this isn’t a perfect 10/10 is that the food took longer than expected to arrive. For a moment, time seemed to stretch — but when the dishes finally graced our table, every bite was a masterpiece. It was a delay we were willing to forgive for such a culinary experience. Seneca isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a destination. I’ll be back — and next time, I’ll be ready to savor every second. 🍷✨
More info
SenecaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.7

Explore OpenTable

Normal Heights

Italian

Best Italian Restaurants in Normal Heights

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

71 restaurants available nearby

1. Seneca

2. Madison

3. Siamo Napoli

4. Alexander's on 30th

5. Trattoria Da Sofia

6. Barbusa

7. RustiCucina

8. Nolita Hall

9. Cori Pastificio Trattoria

10. CUCINA urbana

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable