Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Marina District | Upscale Italian Food

11 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Marina District | Upscale Italian Food

• GIO Gelati — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary of sweetness where the vibrant colors of artisanal gelato beckon from behind polished glass, promising a cool escape into the heart of Italian tradition. Each velvety scoop captures the pure essence of seasonal fruits and toasted nuts, melting slowly on the tongue to reveal a rich, dense texture crafted with meticulous old-world precision. Whether enjoyed in a crisp, hand-rolled waffle cone or a simple cup, every bite offers a playful yet sophisticated journey through flavors that are as fresh as they are timeless.
• Isa — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into Isa feels like entering a sun-drenched, rustic sanctuary where the crackle of a wood-burning oven and the scent of smoldering herbs set a soulful, intimate tone. The kitchen transforms the season’s bounty into fire-kissed masterpieces, inviting guests to linger over vibrant plates that celebrate the raw beauty of coastal-inspired flavors and artisanal craft.
• Morella — Italian · rated 4/5: Morella invites diners into a world of rustic refinement, where the smoky allure of Argentinian asado meets the vibrant, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean. The air hums with energy as guests share golden, hand-crimped empanadas and tender charred octopus, punctuated by the decadent richness of roasted marrowbone and paper-thin Jamón Ibérico. Every plate is a celebration of bold textures and unexpected pairings, crafting a sophisticated yet spirited atmosphere perfect for lingering over long, flavorful evenings.
• Lucca Delicatessen — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this bustling neighborhood landmark feels like entering a timeless Italian larder, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of sliced salumi and sharp provolone. Towering sandwiches like the legendary Italian Combo and the zesty Calabrian are built with artisanal precision on crusty bread, offering a masterclass in balanced textures and bold, old-world flavors that turn a simple lunch into a gourmet event.
• California Wine Merchant — American · rated 3/5: This intimate neighborhood gem invites guests to explore a curated world of viticulture, where the clinking of glasses accompanies artfully arranged platters of nutty Holland Gouda and savory Italian dry salami. Whether sipping a rare vintage by the half-glass or joining the lively hum of a Monday night winemaker tasting, the atmosphere balances sophisticated discovery with the relaxed comfort of a local haunt. Crisp craft ales and organic hummus plates provide a refreshing counterpoint to the extensive wine list, creating a versatile sanctuary for both the casual sipper and the dedicated connoisseur.
• A16 — Italian: This lively destination channels the rustic charm of Southern Italy, drawing guests into a spirited space filled with the enticing aromas of slow-simmered tripe and savory braised meats. The table comes alive with vibrant persimmon salads and creamy Artigiana burrata, leading into soulful plates of charred polpo and earthy fava that honor traditional Neapolitan flavors. It is a celebration of honest, sun-soaked ingredients, where every bite offers a sophisticated yet deeply comforting journey through the heart of the Mediterranean.
• Contrada — Italian: Contrada welcomes diners into a sun-drenched space where the soulful spirit of Southern hospitality is elevated by a refined, communal atmosphere. The kitchen transforms classic comfort into an art form, draping succulent, slow-cooked meats in the bold, vinegary tang of Duke’s Southern Sauces to create a vibrant tapestry of deep, smoky flavors.
• Extreme Pizza — Italian: This vibrant eatery pulses with an adventurous spirit, serving up a high-octane menu where golden, garlic-brushed Zipline Knots and zesty buffalo wings take center stage. Fresh, globally-inspired greens like the Flying High Thai Chicken Salad offer a crisp, colorful contrast to the warm, savory indulgence of "extremely twisted" dough sticks and creamy hummus. It’s a culinary playground designed for those who crave bold textures and inventive flavors in a lively, energetic atmosphere.
• Jackson Fillmore Trattoria — Italian: This bustling neighborhood institution pulses with the energy of an open kitchen, where the rhythmic clatter of pans and the fragrant steam of simmering garlic invite guests into a world of authentic Roman hospitality. Diners gather at the lively counter or tucked-away tables to share paper-thin zucchini carpaccio and bowls of soul-warming handmade pasta, all served in a spirited atmosphere that feels like a timeless celebration of the Italian table.
• Hole in the Wall Pizza — Italian: Tucked away in an unassuming storefront, this intimate pizzeria draws passersby with the irresistible scent of bubbling mozzarella and charred, hand-stretched dough. Inside the narrow, flour-dusted space, guests watch as blistered pies emerge from the roaring oven, offering a perfect balance of crispy, thin crust and vibrant, herb-flecked sauces. It is a quintessential neighborhood sanctuary where the simplicity of a perfectly folded slice meets the bustling, unpretentious energy of a true local secret.
• Ristorante Parma — Italian: Ristorante Parma transports diners to the heart of Emilia-Romagna, where the golden glow of candlelight reflects off polished wood and the air is thick with the savory perfume of aged prosciutto and simmering ragù. Silken ribbons of house-made pasta are tossed with rich, nutty cheeses and seasonal treasures, celebrating the timeless culinary heritage of Northern Italy with every soulful bite. It is a refined sanctuary where the clinking of wine glasses and the warmth of genuine hospitality turn a simple meal into a lingering celebration of authentic Italian flavors.