Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Diego

Best Romantic Restaurants in Little Italy

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

169 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
1. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.4
Awesome(4529)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Little Italy
Booked 87 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 Juniper & Ivy restaurant
2. Juniper & Ivy
4.6
Exceptional(7995)
Price: Expensive
• Unspecified • Little Italy
Booked 54 times today
Juniper & Ivy is the perfect spot for a romantic evening. With its cozy, inviting ambiance and excellent service, it creates a warm and welcoming environment for couples. As one reviewer put it, it's 'very good for romantic dinners' and another noted the 'great ambience and very romantic' setting. The high-quality, innovative food and award-winning wine list also contribute to the romantic atmosphere, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
3. Herb & Wood
4.7
Exceptional(6425)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 69 times today
A timeless, sought-after dining escape, celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood to instant acclaim over four years ago. In that time, the restaurant has become an icon, a dining destination that has helped to propel San Diego's culinary reputation to new heights. By focusing on rustic, wood-fired dishes, Chef Malarkey's menu elevates humble ingredients such as carrots, beets, and chicken, incorporating Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
4. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1325)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Little Italy
Booked 55 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 Rovino restaurant
5. Rovino
4.6
Exceptional(1040)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 17 times today
Ciao Amici- We can't wait to see you!AL FRESCO Dining in the Heart of Little Italy! Small indoor restaurant with covered patio and outdoor patio! Rovino, located in San Diego, California, offers Italian cuisine for dinner. Rovino features an extensive wine selection and a knowledgeable staff who can help pair wine with each entrée. We also feature a wonderful creative selection of Craft Cocktails. Try the fried calamari or the saffron rice balls filled with ground beef, peas and mozzarella cheese to start out your meal at Rovino. Choose from dinner entrées like the prosciutto and arugula flatbread or the pasta al sugo. Top off your Italian experience with a cup of specialty coffee and a dessert such as the tiramisu or the cannoli.
A photo of Bencotto Italian Kitchen restaurant
6. Bencotto Italian Kitchen
4.5
Awesome(3284)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 60 times today
Bencotto Italian Kitchen is a charming spot for a romantic evening. With its 'kitchen-esque' bar and intimate low-ceiling dining area, it creates a sophisticated, warm atmosphere. Reviewers frequently mention the excellent food and service, making it a perfect choice for a date night. One review even states, 'Exactly what we needed for a relaxing date night out.' So, if you're looking for a cozy, authentic Italian dining experience, Bencotto is the place to be.
A photo of Cloak + Petal restaurant
7. Cloak + Petal
4.6
Exceptional(944)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Little Italy
Booked 57 times today
WELCOME TO CLOAK & PETAL!Where we invite you to journey into a place of both intimacy and companionshipOur concept is drawn from our name. The word “cloak” implies secrecy, inspiring our concept of a social sphere humming beneath the levels of ordinary life. “Petal” alludes to the Japanese tradition of “hanami,” when family and friends gather under blooming cherry blossoms to savor food, drinks and fellowship.Enter our space and travel underground to décor reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, a stratum of society all its own, an artist’s dream. Cross the threshold into a mystically transformed Japanese social dining lounge which appears to be an outdoor seating area, similar to a waiting platform. Sit beneath a trellis of draping vines and teardrop lights in the intimate space we’ve thoughtfully created, and feast on authentic Japanese sushi, appetizers, small plates and drinks with family and friends.Journey down to Cloak + Petal… and come unwind your soul.
A photo of Lala restaurant
8. Lala
4.5
Awesome(121)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 18 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 Ristorante Illando restaurant
9. Ristorante Illando
4.6
Exceptional(804)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 13 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 Monello restaurant
10. Monello
4.5
Awesome(2619)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 43 times today
As Bencotto's brother located next door,Monello lives up to its sibling's reputation as Best Italian restaurant in San Diego.From the 800 LB of fresh pasta handcrafted every week, Monello displays up to 27 different recipes of pasta. Mediterranean style seafood is served along with gourmet pizza.Monello delivers Pasta & Risotto tossed in the Parmigiano cheese wheel tableside.Unique Italian-style brunch is served on weekends.Voted Best Happy Hour 2016, Monello's Milanese Aperitivo offers small plates on the house with drinks every night.UN­ABLE TO FIND A TABLE? CHECK OUT OUR BROTHER RESTAURANT BENCOTTO NEXT DOOR

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Sean
    San Diego •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Overall a great experience. I was entertaining some colleagues and a business partner in town for a conference as a local and they thoroughly enjoyed the meal. Several of our dishes were great. Most notably the hot oil seared salmon that our server recommended and spicy garlic noodles. I wasnt really a fan of the meatball and spicy shrimp plates (but I may be biased having had similar dishes in the past) We arrived almost 30 minutes and the host Erika was exceptionally welcoming and got us seated promptly which was awesome. Definitely would come back, great for a date night or entertaining guests.
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • Andy
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Wow this place was REALLY good. Highly recommend it. And one of the most knowledgeable waitresses I’ve ever had at a restaurant. Wish I could remember her name but she was fabulous.
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • Nataliavip
    San Diego •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    What can I say? This is easily one of the best happy hour spots in San Diego! The ambiance is stunning, the service is outstanding, and the food is absolutely incredible. We had yet another fantastic experience here, this time for an early dinner to celebrate my kid’s birthday. The oysters were incredibly fresh, the Japanese sweet potatoes are a must-try, the fish and chips were amazing—so fresh and moist—and the clam chowder was perfection. The smoked trout dip wasn’t my favorite this time, but it was still a solid appetizer. Our server, Mike, was exceptional—attentive, polite, and spot-on with his food recommendations. We’ll definitely be back, and if you’ve never been to this place, make a reservation now. You can thank me later!
    More info
    Ironside Fish & OysterPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Little Italy
    •
    4.4
  • elizabethvip
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    From the moment we walked in to the moment we left we felt super special (with the exception of one server that figured out we were unhappy with him and he server came back). Every dish we had out did the one before!
    More info
    Juniper & IvyPrice: Expensive• undefined• Little Italy
    •
    4.6
  • Kianavip
    San Diego •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Nov 2024
    So I came here once before Covid and I remember having such a good experience the first time, but I just recently went November 2024 and had one of the best Caesar salads in my life, best food, best everything. The only thing I thought it was weird that they knew I was making my reservation for my birthday And they even asked me who’s birthday it is and I’m pretty sure they forgot.
    More info
    RovinoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.6

Discover best romantic restaurants in Little Italy

Discover the essence of romance in San Diego's Little Italy with our curated selection of romantic dining spots. Each restaurant offers a unique blend of cozy ambiances, exquisite cuisines, and impeccable service, perfect for a memorable date night or special occasion. From rooftop views that showcase the city's skyline to intimate bars and warm, inviting dining rooms, these venues are designed to ignite romance. The dining scene in Little Italy is vibrant and intimate, making it an ideal location for those seeking a romantic evening out. Indulge in a variety of culinary experiences, from innovative dishes to traditional Italian fare, all crafted to enhance your romantic dining experience. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, planning a first date, or simply looking for a special night out, Little Italy's romantic restaurants promise an enchanting and unforgettable dining experience. Prioritize a visit to experience firsthand the charm and romance that Little Italy has to offer.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
Join us on
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable Australia Level 22, 357 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo