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Best Italian Restaurants in San Marcos

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Buona Forchetta - San Marcos restaurant
1. Buona Forchetta - San Marcos
4.4
Awesome(441)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Marcos
Booked 25 times today
Buona Forchetta in San Marcos offers a slice of Italy with its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and Northern Italian entrees. Celebrated for its gilded oven that produces "the only real Italian pizza in San Diego," this locale brings the essence of Italy to North County. Patrons rave about the "magnificent" cheese ravioli that transports them straight to Rome and the delicious pastas, perfectly paired with a "strong and flavorful" wine selection. With a family-friendly atmosphere and a luxurious touch, Buona Forchetta stands out as a culinary gem where every dish promises a taste of Italian authenticity right in the heart of San Marcos’ cosmopolitan center, North City.
A photo of Giaola Italian Kitchen restaurant
2. Giaola Italian Kitchen
4.1
Excellent(454)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 1 time today
Giaola Italian Kitchen in Carlsbad is the epitome of authentic and quality Italian cuisine. With a menu that skillfully combines classic homemade flavors with a touch of contemporary flair, Giaola offers an experience that is both comforting and uniquely delightful. Diners rave about their "authentic gourmet Italian food," with dishes like lasagna and fettuccine Alfredo receiving high praise for their deliciousness. The ambiance, enhanced by live music and impeccable service, makes every meal memorable. As one reviewer put it, the experience is "a fun night to remember!" Whether it's the "ten steps ahead" salad or the "perfect" cannoli, Giaola Italian Kitchen ensures a top-notch Italian dining adventure.
A photo of Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant
3. Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse
4.8
Exceptional(4566)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 39 times today
Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse in Carlsbad offers a stellar seafood dining experience, combining breathtaking ocean views with the freshest catch. Patrons rave about the "deliciously prepared" seafood, with dishes such as the "beautifully presented" chilled seafood platter and "tasty" Chilean Sea Bass standing out. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, as one diner noted, "it’s always an excellent place to take friends." The ambiance, coupled with exceptional service, ensures each meal is memorable. Regular customers affirm, "We always have dinner at Vigilucci’s! It’s part of our itinerary!" making it clear that Vigilucci's is not just a meal but a tradition.
A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant
4. Buona Forchetta Encinitas
4.7
Exceptional(579)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 38 times today
Buona Forchetta Encinitas stands out as a gem in Encinitas for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, crafted in a gilded oven that consistently delivers perfection. Celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere and exceptional Italian cuisine, this vibrant pizza bar captures the essence of traditional Italian dining. Guests rave about the "best gluten-free pizza crust ever" and the classic Margherita pizza, praising its "perfect crust" and "high-quality toppings." The glowing reviews highlight not only the delicious food but also the fantastic service, making Buona Forchetta Encinitas a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Pizza Bar experience in a welcoming setting.
A photo of 264 Fresco restaurant
5. 264 Fresco
4.5
Awesome(2586)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 24 times today
264 Fresco in Carlsbad is a seafood lover’s paradise, renowned for its fresh, high-quality dishes that consistently delight diners. Guests rave about the "delicious" and "tender" calamari, emphasizing the seafood's freshness and exquisite preparation. The restaurant's ambiance, combined with its spectacular ocean views from The Deck, makes it a prime spot for seafood enthusiasts. Reviews frequently highlight the attentive and exceptional service, with one guest noting that the "Branzino is delicious," underscoring the authentic and well-crafted seafood offerings. Whether it's for a casual meal or a special occasion, 264 Fresco promises a memorable dining experience with its standout seafood cuisine.
A photo of Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana restaurant
6. Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana
4.7
Exceptional(1325)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 14 times today
At Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana in Encinitas and Leucadia, the seafood cuisine shines with authenticity and unparalleled quality. Celebrated for its "exceptional menu," the restaurant offers the freshest catches, beautifully prepared to delight discerning palates. Reviewers rave about dishes like the "calamari...incredibly tender, with a very thin crispy crust," and the seafood pasta specials that are consistently praised as "very good." The dedication to excellence is evident, with one patron advising, "if there’s a seafood special such as Halibut, do yourself a favor and order that! It’s always amazing." Vigilucci’s has carved out a niche in the local dining scene, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers looking for a culinary experience that combines great flavors with a vibrant atmosphere.
A photo of Firenze Trattoria restaurant
7. Firenze Trattoria
4.8
Exceptional(1745)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 16 times today
OPEN FOR DINE IN~ We are accepting online and phone reservations. Please be patient with wait times **IF YOU HAVE A SEATING PREFERENCE FOR EITHER THE INSIDE DINING ROOM OR OUTSIDE HEATED PATIO, PLEASE SPECIFY WHEN MAKING YOUR RESERVATION. **SEATING PREFERENCES CANNOT BE GUARANTEED** Sun-splashed by day and romantically lantern-lit at night, Firenze's flower-bedecked patio, with it's gentle fountain, is like a private courtyard in some romantic Italian villa. Come see what all the buzz is about we are certain that you will enjoy this one of a kind experience in this beautiful San Diego Italian restaurant.
A photo of Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana restaurant
8. Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana
4.8
Exceptional(2721)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 20 times today
At Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana in the vibrant heart of downtown Carlsbad, seafood lovers rejoice over the exquisite and authentic dishes that have diners raving. Known for its "amazing" Baked Halibut and a seafood platter rich with clams, scallops, and shrimp on pasta, the restaurant consistently impresses with its freshness and quality. The seafood risotto and Fettuccine de Salmone are standout dishes, praised for their generous portions and rich flavors. Guests describe the seafood as "beyond tender" and the overall dining experience as "wonderful," making Vigilucci's a must-visit for anyone seeking top-notch seafood in a charming Italian setting.
A photo of Nick & G's Restaurant restaurant
9. Nick & G's Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(931)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Rancho Santa Fe
Booked 10 times today
Nestled in the heart of Rancho Santa Fe, Nick & G's Restaurant brings an authentic slice of Italy to the table, expertly blending traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "insane bread" and the intriguing twists on Italian classics, making every meal a delightful exploration of culinary excellence. The ambiance, described as a "beautiful mix of new and old-world luxury," sets the stage for a dining experience that is both comfortable and sophisticated. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional service and the accommodating nature of the staff, making each visit memorable. Whether it's the perfectly prepared prawns, the gluten-free options that actually taste great, or the lively atmosphere accentuated by live music, Nick & G's stands out as a top destination for Italian cuisine lovers in Rancho Santa Fe. As one guest summed it up, "fabulous food, service, and ambience...worth every penny!"
A photo of Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad restaurant
10. Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad
3.4
Very Good(452)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 15 times today
Buca di Beppo in Carlsbad is a treasure trove for those craving authentic, family-style Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s ambiance, characterized by its unique Italian decor, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience that feels like a warm family gathering. Guests rave about the dishes, with one patron noting, "The food was really amazing and the portions were huge!!!" Highlighted favorites include the Baked Ziti and Baked Rigatoni, praised for their perfect blend of flavors and textures. Service is another high point; Valeria, a server, receives special mention for her energetic and attentive service, making diners feel right at home. Whether it's a casual meal or a special celebration, Buca di Beppo promises a delightful Italian feast in the heart of Carlsbad.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • David
    San Diego •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Always a treat to dine at Vigilucci’s. The service was next level, the fried baby calamari appetizer was light and tender and the seared scallops over mini risotto cakes with a roasted corn, red onion, asparagus, and bell pepper medley, topped with a slightly spicy cherry and sun dried tomato sauce was absolute divinity. Almost forgot the perfectly made old fashioned to kick things off.
    More info
    Vigilucci's Seafood & SteakhousePrice: Expensive• Italian• Carlsbad
    •
    4.8
  • Lorinvip
    San Diego •60 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Always a favorite! Look forward to great ambience and delicious food.
    More info
    Buona Forchetta EncinitasPrice: Moderate• Italian• Encinitas
    •
    4.7
  • Steve
    San Diego •33 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    A bit disappointed. Ordered lasagna, personal fave. It arrived barely hot enough. A[peared that it wasn't cooked to order. because the sauce on top was hotter than the lasagna underneath. So I guess it is precooked in large pans ahead of time, then cut and covered in more sauce. I could have waited till the server came back around to check and sent it back, but decided not to wait and just started eating. It was competent, not memorable.
    More info
    Buona Forchetta - San MarcosPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Marcos
    •
    4.4
  • Vera
    San Diego •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Always a great meal here with excellent service. The servers have worked here for a long time & know how to treat the customers!
    More info
    Firenze TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Encinitas
    •
    4.8
  • camille
    San Diego •1 review
    4.0
    Dined on Oct 29, 2024
    We like the ambiance. The food is inconsistent though. Last time we were there, the Scarface pasta was much more creamy and had more mushrooms. this time not so much and the dish wasn't as warm as it could have been. Our waitress was nice but she forgot a few things and then overcharged us. We caught it and it was all good. I spoke to the manager ahead of time because we were perhaps planning a large party in the near future for wedding. She was expecting us but she never came over to the table to speak with us. Anyway, we'll probably be back
    More info
    Giaola Italian KitchenPrice: Moderate• Italian• Carlsbad
    •
    4.1

Discover best Italian restaurants in San Marcos

Discover the vibrant Italian dining scene in San Marcos, North San Diego, where culinary tradition meets contemporary flair. Nestled in this scenic locale, a selection of Italian restaurants offers an array of authentic and innovative Italian dishes that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you're craving classic Neapolitan pizzas, meticulously crafted pasta, or gourmet Northern Italian entrées, these establishments promise an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Each restaurant emphasizes the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring every meal is both delicious and sustainably prepared. The dining atmosphere ranges from casual family-friendly settings to more sophisticated, upscale environments, perfect for any occasion. Patrons consistently praise the exceptional service and the knowledgeable staff, enhancing the overall dining experience. Indulge in a culinary journey through Italy right in the heart of North San Diego, where every meal is a celebration of rich flavors and culinary excellence.

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