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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Sorrento Mesa

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32 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Marisi restaurant
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1. Marisi
4.6
Exceptional(1656)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 96 times today
Marisi, nestled in the charming locale of La Jolla, offers an unparalleled experience in Contemporary Italian cuisine that transports diners straight to the Amalfi coast. With an unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, Marisi delights with "authentic pasta" crafted daily and a menu that evolves with the seasons to present the freshest Italian delights. The restaurant's ambiance, described as "a warm, charming villa," offers a perfect setting for enjoying the "amazing food, service, and ambiance." Guests rave about the "extraordinary culinary innovation" and impeccable service, making every visit to Marisi a memorable exploration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
A photo of North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant
2. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo
4.4
Awesome(1827)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Del Mar
Booked 42 times today
North Italia San Diego - One Paseo offers a delightful journey into Contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of Del Mar. Known for its exceptional handmade pastas and pizzas, this restaurant crafts each dish with inventive flavors and seasonal ingredients, ensuring a “delicious” experience every time. The menu is well-rounded with fresh flavors from garden, farm, and sea, making it a “go-to spot” for many. Guests rave about the “excellent service” and “warm hospitality,” which elevate the dining experience to a whole new level. Whether it's a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner, North Italia promises an authentic modern Italian escape.
A photo of Lucrezia restaurant
3. Lucrezia
4.5
Awesome(953)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 30 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, Lucrezia offers an exquisite journey through Contemporary Italian cuisine that is nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant is celebrated for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes that transport diners straight to the heart of Italy. Guests rave about the "amazing" pastas, with standout mentions for the Cacio e Pepe and Lobster Fra Diavolo. The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making it perfect for any special occasion. Lucrezia promises an unforgettable culinary voyage, with every dish telling a story of Italian summers, curated with passion and authenticity.
A photo of North Italia - Fashion Valley restaurant
4. North Italia - Fashion Valley
4.6
Exceptional(3081)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Mission Valley
Booked 44 times today
North Italia - Fashion Valley in Mission Valley, San Diego, offers a “fantastic” Contemporary Italian dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Known for its “authentically prepared” dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients, North Italia excels in providing a modern twist on classic Italian cuisine. Guests rave about the “delicious” handmade pastas and pizzas, with standout flavors like the ‘Hot Honey & Smoked Prosciutto’ pizza, lauded for its perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and salty notes. The warm atmosphere and “excellent service” complete the experience, making it a “staple” for both locals and visitors seeking genuine Italian flavors.
A photo of Lala restaurant
5. Lala
4.7
Exceptional(382)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 18 times today
Lala, nestled in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy, offers an enchanting experience of Contemporary Italian cuisine that captivates with its modern flair and timeless flavors. This chic eatery perfectly marries tradition with innovation, presenting dishes like the inventive loaded potato gnocchi and the exquisite squid ink pasta with lobster. Guests rave about the "incredible ambiance" and "stellar service," with standout cocktails like the "Lala Martini" elevating the dining experience. The cozy, romantic setting, coupled with a commitment to sustainability, ensures that every visit is both memorable and meaningful. Join Lala for a true celebration of Italian culinary excellence.
A photo of Nolita Hall restaurant
6. Nolita Hall
4.5
Awesome(1022)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 49 times today
Nolita Hall, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Pizza Bar experience that transports diners straight to the heart of Italy. Known for its Fiori woodfire oven, this beloved spot crafts pizzas that are nothing short of spectacular. Patrons rave about the "pepperoni pizza with honey" as being "awesome," highlighting the unique and delightful flavor combinations that set Nolita Hall apart. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of fun and elegance, with many calling it a "great place to watch a sports game" while indulging in top-quality pizzas. It's a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking authentic taste and vibrant ambiance.
A photo of Catania restaurant
7. Catania
4.9
Exceptional(2363)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • La Jolla
Booked 49 times today
Catania, nestled in the scenic La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic Contemporary Italian cuisine. Inspired by an Italian road trip, Catania stands out with its commitment to authenticity, boasting wood-burning ovens and grills that bring the vibrant flavors of Italy's coastal cuisine to life. Guests rave about the "amazing dining experience," highlighting dishes like the "crispy octopus" and "duck sugo pasta" as must-tries. The restaurant's all-Italian wine list and exclusive craft beer program further enhance the authenticity, making each visit not just a meal, but a tasteful journey to Italy.
A photo of Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge restaurant
8. Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge
4.0
Excellent(529)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 15 times today
Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that will leave your taste buds singing. Renowned as the city's first cheese wheel bar, this modern chic restaurant draws diners in with "the irresistible sight and smell of authentic Italian flavors." Guests rave about the "mind-blowing" carbonara and the "exceptional" cheese wheel dishes that are both a visual and flavorful delight. The ambiance is lively yet intimate, providing a perfect backdrop for savoring dishes that "taste just like Italy." From outstanding service to exquisite cuisine, Vincenzo's is a must-visit for any Italian food enthusiast.
A photo of Roman Wolves restaurant
9. Roman Wolves
4.6
Exceptional(668)
$$$$
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy
Booked 27 times today
Roman Wolves in Little Italy, San Diego, is a shining gem for Cocktail Bar enthusiasts. This vibrant establishment is celebrated for its exquisite cocktails, with the Hugo Spritz receiving rave reviews as "incredible" and leaving patrons eager for more. The talented bartenders at Roman Wolves ensure that each drink is a masterpiece, complementing the rich Italian culinary experience. Diners frequently commend the bar's atmosphere, describing it as lively and welcoming, perfect for both intimate gatherings and spirited celebrations. If you're seeking a memorable cocktail experience in the heart of San Diego, Roman Wolves is the place to be!
A photo of Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana restaurant
10. Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana
4.5
Awesome(1430)
$$$$
• 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.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • LisaGold
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Professionally run restaurant start to finish. Excellent wait staff. Management in site. Food was outstanding. Couldn’t as for a better experience.
    More info
    Catania$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.9
  • Tamara
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great outdoor area with heaters. Servers were excellent at refilling drinks and making sure we had a positive dining experience.
    More info
    North Italia San Diego - One Paseo$$$$• Italian• Del Mar
    •
    4.4
  • Ernest
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food was great, service was great. I will definitely eat here again
    More info
    Marisi$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • susan
    Detroit / Eastern Michigan •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 31 May 2026
    All the food was awesome and really high quality. Great ambience with TVs playing sports for those interested, but wasn’t the focal point which I liked. The pasta was super fresh and had the perfect al dente bite.
    More info
    North Italia - Fashion Valley$$$$• Italian• Mission Valley
    •
    4.6
  • Savy
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 30 May 2026
    Beautiful restaurant. Great place for date night or special occasions. Service was on point and attentive. The woodfired pizza was the best I've had. I will definitely come back.
    More info
    Lucrezia$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.5

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