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Best Italian Restaurants in Encinitas

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19 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant
1. Buona Forchetta Encinitas
4.7
Exceptional(577)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 45 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 Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana restaurant
2. Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana
4.7
Exceptional(1325)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 19 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
3. 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 Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad restaurant
4. Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad
3.4
Very Good(452)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 10 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.
A photo of North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant
5. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo
4.5
Awesome(1527)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 67 times today
At North Italia in Del Mar, every dish promises a slice of Italian heaven, meticulously handcrafted from scratch. Celebrated for its authenticity, the restaurant offers a menu that boasts seasonally inspired dishes with a modern twist, from divine handmade pastas and pizzas to innovative cocktails perfectly paired for an elevated dining experience. Patrons rave about the quality, with one declaring the funghi pizza "the best pizza I’ve ever had." Another highlighted the restaurant's consistent excellence, noting, "Every time I eat at this restaurant I become more impressed." North Italia stands out not just for its exceptional food but also for the vibrant atmosphere and outstanding service, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian cuisine in San Diego.
A photo of Cucina Enoteca - Del Mar restaurant
6. Cucina Enoteca - Del Mar
4.6
Exceptional(2729)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 47 times today
Cucina Enoteca in Del Mar is a gem for lovers of Californian cuisine, offering a delightful blend of Italian classics with a local twist that celebrates the freshest organic and sustainable ingredients. Praised for its "amazing food" and "beautiful atmosphere," this restaurant provides a culinary experience that is both authentic and innovative. Guests rave about dishes like the "corn casoncelli stuffed with pecorino cream" and the "grilled octopus," highlighting the unique and flavorful menu options. With a vibrant ambiance and exceptional service, Cucina Enoteca stands out as a top choice for those seeking a true taste of California, enhanced by an impressive selection of wines. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this restaurant consistently delivers an outstanding dining experience that keeps guests returning.
A photo of Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant
7. Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse
4.8
Exceptional(4560)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 48 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 Il Fornaio - Del Mar restaurant
8. Il Fornaio - Del Mar
4.4
Awesome(2359)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 27 times today
Step inside Il Fornaio and take a culinary journey through Italy. Early mornings bring rustic, crisp crusted bread hot from the oven accompanied by the scent of fresh brewed espresso. During lunch and dinner hours, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while meats and vegetables roast over hot coals. Bottles of wine from small, regional wineries are uncorked to complement the dishes, which have been crafted in the custom of Italy's chefs, bakers and homemakers. Specialties include wood-fired rotisserie and grilled meats, poultry and game; house made pastas; pizzas from an oak wood burning oven; fresh salads and house made soups; a wide variety of desserts; and fresh baked bread made daily from scratch. Repeat winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
A photo of 264 Fresco restaurant
9. 264 Fresco
4.5
Awesome(2585)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 35 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 Nick & G's Restaurant restaurant
10. Nick & G's Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(931)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Rancho Santa Fe
Booked 4 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!"

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Vera
    San Diego •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day 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
  • Ronit
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 14, 2024
    Amazing evening! Great food and drink! The gluten free pizza was fabulous! The piano player, Nina was so enthusiastic and engaging.
    More info
    Vigilucci's Trattoria ItalianaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Encinitas
    •
    4.7
  • Jason
    Cincinnati / Dayton •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 13, 2024
    Gluten-free pasta was delicious as well as chocolate mousse. Only complaint, steel seats or wood benches: no cushions. Back was a little soar after dinner. Otherwise great!
    More info
    Buona Forchetta EncinitasPrice: Moderate• Italian• Encinitas
    •
    4.7
  • FoodObservationsvip
    San Diego •41 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 9, 2024
    North Italia in Del Mar is such a beautiful restaurant with warm, genuine service. I love all the staff here. Some unfortunate observations though from this most recent visit. Meatball appetizer with the polenta is something I always order. This time the meatballs were not thoroughly hot in the center. One of the meatballs had a noticeably dense, off-putting texture. The poleta base was hot & tasty as usual. I did try the new Lasagna Bianca al Forno. There was a generous amount of braised short rib on top. The center of the lasagna was not hot and rather bland. Not sure I would order it again. Also, their plating now with the stainless steel baking dishes right on top of plates is awkward and frustrating. It’s almost like eating on an air hockey table. They really need to put a cloth napkin in between or some other friction agent. This was a surprising oversight in their attention to detail. Tiramisu was excellent!
    More info
    North Italia San Diego - One PaseoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Del Mar
    •
    4.5
  • Michael
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 27, 2024
    Nice place for family birthday dinner. Kids and adults both enjoyed, food was good, service was excellent
    More info
    Buca di Beppo - CarlsbadPrice: Moderate• Italian• Carlsbad
    •
    3.4

Discover best Italian restaurants in Encinitas

Explore the vibrant Italian dining scene in Encinitas, North San Diego, where each restaurant promises an authentic Italian experience. Nestled in this picturesque locale, the eateries serve a variety of Italian specialties, from traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas to expertly crafted pastas and fresh seafood dishes. Renowned for their commitment to quality and authenticity, these establishments source fine ingredients to deliver genuine Italian flavors. Patrons can expect not only delicious meals but also a welcoming atmosphere and impeccable service, with many restaurants boasting scenic views and elegant settings. Encinitas is celebrated for its culinary diversity, and the Italian restaurants here are a testament to this, offering a perfect blend of traditional techniques and innovative culinary delights. Whether you're a local or a visitor, dining in Encinitas provides a delightful and satisfying Italian gastronomic journey.

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