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The Amalfi Llama - San Diego, San Diego, CA

The Amalfi Llama - San Diego

4.5
4.5
471 Reviews
$30 and under
Steakhouse

Make a booking

2 people
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
7:00 pm
Booked 27 times today
Experiences are available.
  • Good for special occasions
  • Lively
  • Good for business meals
The Amalfi Llama reimagines the culinary landscape by seamlessly merging the allure of a rustic live-fire steakhouse with the flavors of Italian cuisine, a culinary haven where genuine cooking, down-to-earth cuisine and stylish flair intertwine. Guests embark on a journey from Southern Patagonia to the Mediterranean coast of Italy as they indulge in a multisensory experience that transcends boundaries – from the soothing cream decor to the intimate ambiance of crackling embers accompanied by the melodies of vintage Italian vinyls. Embracing the essence of a modern farmhouse, The Amalfi Llama revolves around an open parrilla grill and wood-burning oven, harnessing fire, smoke, coals and embers to craft dishes. The restaurant’s ethos also meets design with Latin American and Mediterranean influences, resulting in an inviting environment adorned with light woods, natural light and subtly elegant finishes, defying traditional steakhouse and Italian restaurant conventions.

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Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Elegant Dining
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    Steakhouse, Italian, South American
  • Hours of Operation
    Lunch Daily 11:30–16:00 Happy Hour Mon–Thu 15:00–18:00 Daily 21:00–23:00 Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 16:00–22:00 Fri, Sat 16:00–23:00
  • Phone number
    (858) 224-9606
  • Website
    http://amalfillama.com/
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Executive Chef
    Jaime Chavez
  • Private party facilities
    Host your next event with us! Our private dining room seats up to 10 guests and is complete with AV capabilities, making it perfect for board meetings or intimate celebrations. For larger groups, our semi-private covered and heated patio spaces are ideal. Ask about our private event packages, with prix fixe and family style options for every event.
  • Location
    4575 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
  • Area
    University City/Golden Triangle
  • Parking details
    Private Parking
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • Easter Sunday Brunch

    USD 95.00 per person

    Prepaid

    20 Apr 2025 only
    Elevate your Easter Sunday Brunch plans with us. Our three-course, prix fixe menu brings all the fresh flavors of Spring with recommended beverage pairings available to add-on. View the full menu below & reserve your table today. FIRST COURSE (Choose one) CALAMARI | Tartar, Spicy Aioli SHORT RIB EMPANADA | Chimichurri CAESAR SALAD | Romaine, Parmigiano Reggiano, Crouton ARUGULA ARTICHOKE | Granny Smith, Mushroom, Pistachio, Parmigiano Reggiano SECOND COURSE (Choose one) *All entreés include your choice of Garlic Chili Broccolini, Potato Purée, Oregano Parmesan Fries SHRIMP SCAMPI | Garlic, Butter SCOTTISH SALMON | Asparagus, Arugula, Roasted Tomato WOOD-GRILLED HALF CHICKEN | Roasted Potato, Chimichurri CENTER CUT FILET | 8oz TRUFFLE & MUSHROOM PIZZA | TRUFFLE OIL AVOCADO TOAST (B) Grilled Focaccia, Avocado Mash, Cherry Tomato, Poached Egg BRUNCH PIZZA (B) | Cream Sauce, Cremini Mushroom, Balsamic, Arugula, Caciocavallo Cheese, Oven-Roasted Egg PRIME RIBEYE | 16oz THIRD COURSE (Choose one) CHOCOLATE SIN CAKE | Vanilla Gelato FIRE-ROASTED CHEESECAKE | Berry Compote TIRAMISU | Carajillo Cream *(B) Brunch menu items available until 3pm
    Easter Sunday Brunch photo

  • Chef's Table

    USD 1,000.00 per party

    Multiple dates available
    Elevate your next event with an unforgettable experience at The Amalfi Llama's exclusive Chef's Table. Our private event room offers an intimate setting where you and your guests can indulge in a curated menu crafted by our renowned chefs. Perfect for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or special occasions, this unique dining experience combines exceptional cuisine with personalized service, all set against the backdrop of our elegant and vibrant atmosphere. Host your next event with us and make it truly memorable. *Food & Beverage minimum is $1000 for the room before service fees and tax. Your event manager will reach out to you after booking to confirm menu details.
    Chef's Table photo

Menu

Starters

  • FocacciaUSD 14.00

    Olive Oil, Rosemary

    • Oysters on the Half ShellUSD 28.00

      Half Dozen

      • Jumbo Shrimp CocktailUSD 27.00

        Cocktail Sauce

        • Short Rib EmpanadaUSD 19.00

          Chimichurri

          • Shishito PeppersUSD 14.00

            Lemon, EVOO, Avocado Mousse

            • Squash BlossomsUSD 19.00

              Mascarpone, Pistachio

              • CalamariUSD 21.00

                Fresno, Tartar, Spicy Aioli

                • Prosciutto San DanieleUSD 32.00

                  Aged Parmigiano Reggiano

                  • Tuna TartareUSD 29.00

                    Avocado, Ponzu

                    • Hamachi CrudoUSD 29.00

                      Serrano, Yuzu

                      • Roasted BurrataUSD 25.00

                        Cherry Tomato, Focaccia

                        • Crab CakeUSD 32.00

                          Citrus Aioli

                          • Ossetra Royal CaviarUSD 145.00

                            Blini, Chives, Crème Fraîche

                            Salad

                            • Roasted BeetUSD 21.00

                              Citrus, Goat Cheese, Toasted Almond

                              • Arugula ArtichokeUSD 24.00

                                Mushroom, Pistachio, Parmigiano Reggiano

                                • CaesarUSD 19.00

                                  Romaine, Parmigiano Reggiano, Crouton

                                  • House ChoppedUSD 21.00

                                    Arugula, Romaine, Tomato, Red Onion, Avocado, Herb Vinaigrette

                                    Wood Fire

                                    • Center Cut FiletUSD 59.00

                                      8 oz.

                                      • Prime RibeyeUSD 75.00

                                        16 ounces

                                        • Prime New York StripUSD 66.00

                                          12 ounces

                                          • TomahawkUSD 195.00

                                            Serves Two 32 ounces

                                            • A5 WagyuUSD 140.00

                                              3 ounces

                                              • MilamessiUSD 48.00

                                                Crispy Beef Filet, Pomodoro Sauce, Mozzarella, French Fries

                                                • Lamb ChopsUSD 68.00

                                                  18 ounces

                                                  • Wood-Grilled Half ChickenUSD 39.00

                                                    Roasted Potatoes, Chimichurri

                                                    • Scottish SalmonUSD 46.00

                                                      Asparagus, Arugula, Roasted Tomatoes

                                                      • BranzinoUSD 58.00

                                                        Lemon, Capers, Olive Oil

                                                        • Twin Maine Lobster TailsUSD 92.00

                                                          19 ounces, Clarified butter, Charred Lemon

                                                          Sandwiches

                                                          • Amalfi BurgerUSD 22.00

                                                            American Swiss, Red Onion, Lettuce, Tomato, Amalfi Sauce

                                                            • Maine Lobster RollUSD 35.00

                                                              Chimichurri Aioli, Chives

                                                              • Prime French DipUSD 28.00

                                                                Shaved Ribeye, Horseradish Cream, Arugula, Au Jus

                                                                • Chicken PestoUSD 19.00

                                                                  Sun Dried Tomatoes, Gruyere, Pesto Aioli

                                                                  Pasta

                                                                  • SpaghettiUSD 24.00

                                                                    Tomato, Parmigiano Reggiano

                                                                    • Cacio e PepeUSD 28.00

                                                                      Spaghetti, Pecorino

                                                                      • Baked CarbonaraUSD 29.00

                                                                        Tagliolini, Ham

                                                                        • Lobster ArrabbiataUSD 52.00

                                                                          Spaghetti, Spicy Tomato

                                                                          • Truffle TagliatelleUSD 38.00

                                                                            Black Truffle, Parmigiano Reggiano

                                                                            • Shrimp ScampiUSD 36.00

                                                                              Garlic, Butter

                                                                              Pizza Fina

                                                                              • MargheritaUSD 23.00

                                                                                Mozzarella, Tomato, Basil

                                                                                • PositanoUSD 28.00

                                                                                  Soppressata, Finocchiona, Hot Honey

                                                                                  • Truffle & MushroomUSD 37.00

                                                                                    Truffle Oil

                                                                                    • Prosciutto & ArugulaUSD 36.00

                                                                                      Prosciutto, Arugula, Artichoke, Goat Cheese

                                                                                      Last updated: 6 January 2025

                                                                                      What 471 people are saying

                                                                                      Overall ratings and reviews

                                                                                      Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

                                                                                      4.5
                                                                                      4.5 based on recent ratings
                                                                                      • 4.5Food
                                                                                      • 4.5Service
                                                                                      • 4.6Ambience
                                                                                      • 4Value

                                                                                      Noise • Moderate

                                                                                      Review summary

                                                                                      AI-generated from verified diner reviews
                                                                                      The Amalfi Llama in San Diego offers a dynamic dining experience with "amazing food" and "outstanding service." Guests rave about the "fresh, house-made flavors" and stunning ambiance. The lively, upscale setting is complemented by a diverse menu featuring must-try dishes like crab cakes and tiramisu. Ideal for special occasions!
                                                                                      471 Reviews

                                                                                      1. Ed

                                                                                        San Diego4 reviews

                                                                                        3.0

                                                                                        Dined 1 day ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 3
                                                                                        2. Food 3
                                                                                        3. Service 2
                                                                                        4. Ambience 4
                                                                                        Nice atmosphere but steak was cold and served rare when we asked for medium well. Steak was reheated by microwave because the plate was not changed and we were told the it was hot. Also we had to serve our own wine each time. Initial service impression was good up to taking our order but then the level of service declined and was not what was expected. When the server presented the bill, the highest tip was already pre selected instead of allowing the client to choose and that is the reason we are not going back.

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                                                                                      2. Joseph VIP

                                                                                        Charleston5 reviews

                                                                                        4.0

                                                                                        Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 4
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 5
                                                                                        4. Ambience 4
                                                                                        Very good meal, the empanadas were good and easy to share. Highly recommend the crab cake and also tiramisu for desert!

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                                                                                      3. Leslie VIP

                                                                                        Los Angeles11 reviews

                                                                                        5.0

                                                                                        Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 5
                                                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                                                        What a fantastic find! This restaurant truly delivers on quality, with every dish showcasing fresh, house-made flavors. From the perfectly baked focaccia to the tender, crispy calamari and expertly cooked steaks, every bite was exceptional. The attention to detail in both the food and service made for an unforgettable dining experience. Our server, Brian, was outstanding—attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. Highly recommend this spot for an incredible meal!

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                                                                                      4. ConnieM

                                                                                        San Diego2 reviews

                                                                                        5.0

                                                                                        Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 4
                                                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                                                        Enjoyable atmosphere and the food was very delicious

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                                                                                      5. Hamilton VIP

                                                                                        San Diego13 reviews

                                                                                        5.0

                                                                                        Dined on 23 March 2025

                                                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 4
                                                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                                                        Hidden gem at the UTC mall - who would have known? Upbeat trendy vibe with outstanding food. A bit expensive but happy to be for excellent quality food. The Branzino was the highlight, but everything was well presented with good flavor profiles and healthy portions. Feels kind of like you are in Little Italy but in the mall. Very cool spot.

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                                                                                      6. OpenTable Diner

                                                                                        San Diego1 review

                                                                                        3.0

                                                                                        Dined on 23 March 2025

                                                                                        1. Overall 3
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 1
                                                                                        4. Ambience 1
                                                                                        For the price of the food I would expect the place to be a bit more formal. It’s a little too casual.

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                                                                                      7. Karol

                                                                                        San Diego2 reviews

                                                                                        5.0

                                                                                        Dined on 23 March 2025

                                                                                        1. Overall 5
                                                                                        2. Food 5
                                                                                        3. Service 5
                                                                                        4. Ambience 5
                                                                                        Incredible Experience at The Amalfi Llama! From the moment we arrived at The Amalfi Llama, we knew we were in for something special. The ambiance is absolutely stunning— a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance, making it an ideal setting for a memorable dining experience. The service was exceptional. Our server was knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the menu, offering great recommendations that did not disappoint. Now, the food—simply outstanding! Every dish was crafted with such precision and flavor that it was impossible to pick a favorite. The pasta was fresh and flavorful. To top it off, the cocktails and wine selection complemented the meal beautifully. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an unforgettable dining experience, The Amalfi Llama is a must-visit. We can’t wait to return!

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                                                                                      8. Presley

                                                                                        San Diego1 review

                                                                                        3.0

                                                                                        Dined on 23 March 2025

                                                                                        1. Overall 3
                                                                                        2. Food 2
                                                                                        3. Service 4
                                                                                        4. Ambience 3
                                                                                        The food was so expensive or what was provided. It was basically Olive Garden Pasta replated. The Lychee Martini was very tasty though. Paris was our waitress and she was so great - she is the only reason this place gets three stars. If it weren't for her they would have gotten a 2 in my books. I won't be going back.

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                                                                                      9. Chris VIP

                                                                                        San Francisco30 reviews

                                                                                        3.0

                                                                                        Dined on 22 March 2025

                                                                                        1. Overall 3
                                                                                        2. Food 4
                                                                                        3. Service 2
                                                                                        4. Ambience 3
                                                                                        Good food and maybe they were just off last night but the food took forever and they became very pricey since the last visit. Just was ok at the end of the night.

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                                                                                      10. Andrea

                                                                                        Orange County1 review

                                                                                        3.0

                                                                                        Dined on 22 March 2025

                                                                                        1. Overall 3
                                                                                        2. Food 3
                                                                                        3. Service 2
                                                                                        4. Ambience 4
                                                                                        Took us 2 hours for us to get our drinks/food and check. Service was very slow and honestly it wasn’t that packed. My friend and i just split a salad and steak. Took forever and it was mid

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                                                                                      FAQs

                                                                                      The Amalfi Llama - San Diego is rated 4.5 stars by 471 OpenTable diners.

                                                                                      Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

                                                                                      Make a booking

                                                                                      Booked 27 times today
                                                                                      Experiences are available.
                                                                                      Google Map for The Amalfi Llama - San Diego

                                                                                      4575 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122

                                                                                      Dining areas

                                                                                      Additional information

                                                                                      • Area
                                                                                        University City/Golden Triangle
                                                                                      • Hours of Operation
                                                                                        Lunch Daily 11:30–16:00 Happy Hour Mon–Thu 15:00–18:00 Daily 21:00–23:00 Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 16:00–22:00 Fri, Sat 16:00–23:00
                                                                                      • Price
                                                                                        $30 and under
                                                                                      • Cuisines
                                                                                        Steakhouse, Italian, South American
                                                                                      • Dining style
                                                                                        Elegant Dining
                                                                                      • Dress code
                                                                                        Business Casual
                                                                                      • Parking details
                                                                                        Private Parking
                                                                                      • Payment Options
                                                                                        AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
                                                                                      • Executive Chef
                                                                                        Jaime Chavez
                                                                                      • Additional
                                                                                        Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Wheelchair Access, Wine
                                                                                      • Website
                                                                                        http://amalfillama.com/
                                                                                      • Phone number
                                                                                        (858) 224-9606
                                                                                      • Private party facilities
                                                                                        Host your next event with us! Our private dining room seats up to 10 guests and is complete with AV capabilities, making it perfect for board meetings or intimate celebrations. For larger groups, our semi-private covered and heated patio spaces are ideal. Ask about our private event packages, with prix fixe and family style options for every event.
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