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Best Casual Restaurants in Little Italy

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120 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lala restaurant
1. Lala
4.5
Awesome(131)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 25 times today
From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
2. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1358)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Little Italy
Booked 53 times today
Kettner Exchange boasts two levels of indoor/outdoor drinking and dining and Little Italy’s only rooftop patio with spanning harbor views. We feature Progressive American cuisine from critically acclaimed Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. In 2019, Kettner Exchange was named to Michelin Guide's prestigious Bib Gourmand list. Kettner Exchange has proudly maintained this award every year thereafter. Originally introduced in 1997, the Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less.
A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
3. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.5
Awesome(4550)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Little Italy
Booked 108 times today
Little Italy was built by the fishing industry. Ironside attempts to continue that narrative. It's our contemporary interpretation of the classic fish house and oyster bar. Located in a historic auction house on India St we did a full comprehensive restoration of the building, with three open-air culinary hubs featuring an expansive raw bar, chefs table, and bakery. We tried to be mindful of the past while looking towards the future. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks.Ironside is now taking reservations for patio and dining room seating. We are now offering Happy Hour MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 3:00PM - 5:00PM.
A photo of Civico 1845 restaurant
4. Civico 1845
4.4
Awesome(2405)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 37 times today
A new generation of Italian cuisine - fresh, light and authentic. By using proper cooking techniques, our flavors are natural and pure. Our menu is a homage to our region Calabria and southern Italian roots reflecting what is being served in Italy today. You can also find an extensive vegan menu that incorporates many of the best Italian dishes. We have been the first restaurant in the USA to have a full Italian Vegan menu since 2015! We believe in sustainability, both in our food and in the design of our restaurant. While our menu focuses on locally grown and seasonal ingredients, our bar and dining areas were created using reclaimed, natural materials. Nothing goes to waste at Civico 1845!
A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant
5. Bencotto Italian Kitchen
4.6
Exceptional(3301)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 51 times today
ONLINE RESERVATIONS ARE LIMITED. PLEASE CALL THE RESTAURANT IF YOUR DESIRED TIME IS NOT AVAILABLE.We are proud to offer 75 kinds of different pasta recipe, fresh and hand-crafted 12 hours a day."Bencotto" means cooked well: this is what authentic Italian food is about.It tastes as it should and would in Italy.Bencotto offers two different eating environments: guests can either enjoy their meal at our “kitchen-esque” bar downstairs, or they can relax in the intimate low-ceiling dining area upstairs. The décor creates a clean and sophisticated atmosphere, where old-world charm and warmth blend with contemporary appeal.
A photo of Basta! restaurant
6. Basta!
4.4
Awesome(53)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 4 times today
Join us at Basta!, Sam the Cooking Guy's newest Italian Inspired restaurant. Check us out on social at @bastaeats or www.bastasd.com
A photo of Nonna restaurant
7. Nonna
4.6
Exceptional(950)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 10 times today
Many restaurants in Little Italy have become destinations, among them the Busalacchi family's Nonna. The rustic décor features a relaxed country-style feel throughout the restaurant, including the delightful patio. The wonderfully welcoming atmosphere celebrates yet another delicious Sicilian food lineup, including pizzas and all that you would expect from an authentic Italian menu. The terrific entrées show the Sicilian influence, and fill the restaurant with great aromas.We would love to hear your feedback on your experience.
A photo of Ristorante Illando restaurant
8. Ristorante Illando
4.7
Exceptional(811)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 23 times today
From the owner Leonardo Landini "When I decided to open Ristorante Illando, I had a vision in my head...my cozy house back in Firenze, Italy; my family dining table filled with the food I grew up with. Now I can surround you with the warmth of my Italian home and an authentic Italian meal here at Illando. Benvenuti e buon appetito a tutti!!"
A photo of Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant
9. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar
4.5
Awesome(173)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 11 times today
Authentic Baja-style, ceviche, and oyster restaurant. Unique tostadas, oysters, tiradito, clams
A photo of Isola Little Italy restaurant
10. Isola Little Italy
4.7
Exceptional(753)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 7 times today
My Nonna's name was Isola, a wonderful cook who gave me a passion for food and fresh, simple ingredients.I have vivid memories of my grandmother turning plain bread into amazing desserts, simple apples into incredible fritters sprinkled with a little sugar and honey, and even treating my sunburns with olive oil. Thirty years later, I still savor every meal and moment.Isola is proud to serve the finest local ingredients, dalla vite, from the vine. I hope you enjoy every bite, plucked from my family tree for your table. Buon appetito!

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • jim
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    The small plates are entirely original, owing more to Asian and other fusion than to Spanish tapas. The cocktails were original and enhanced the meal. Ambience was great
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • David
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We have dined at Ironside a number of times and have not been disappointed. The seafood is fresh the service outstanding and the overall ambience enjoyable. Parking is just around the corner, albeit a little expensive for 2 hours. The wine selection is limited, so if you are looking for a variety of fine wine, you may be disappointed. Overall a great dining experience.
    More info
    Ironside Fish & OysterPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Little Italy
    •
    4.5
  • Natalie
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I had the best birthday dinner ever! I will be returning as soon as I can. The food and the service were impeccable.
    More info
    Bencotto Italian KitchenPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • Martha
    Hawaii •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I can’t believe how good the vegan calamari dish is! Every time I come to Civico, I can try a delicious vegan option, while my meat loving husband enjoys his choice. Also, the vegan pesto to dip the bread in is to die for—so good! Plus, the piazza makes you feel like you are part of the bustle of Little Italy, while still having a little corner to yourself and your party.
    More info
    Civico 1845Price: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.4
  • CandisVIP
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Ambiance, food, & service was all 5 star. Love this place. Perfect for a date night or a girls night. Don’t miss out on the Christmas decor - it’s so festive & perfect for the holidays. Staff is also incredibly nice & efficient.
    More info
    LalaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.5

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