Best Upscale Pasta in San Diego | Top 1 Upscale Spots

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Pasta in San Diego | Top 1 Upscale Spots

• Ambrogio15 — Italian · rated 5/5: This stylish Italian escape hums with the energy of a modern Milanese bistro, where the scent of bubbling dough and spicy salamino drifts from the oven to meet guests at the door. Paper-thin pizzas topped with creamy burrata and silky prosciutto share the table with vibrant seasonal salads and signature pastas, all perfectly complemented by a spirited selection of natural wines. It is a masterclass in contemporary craft, blending artisanal traditions with a chic, effortless atmosphere that invites long, leisurely evenings.
• Mr. Moto Pizza House — Italian · rated 5/5: A lively neighborhood hub where the irresistible aroma of bubbling mozzarella and blistered crust spills onto the sidewalk, drawing guests into a space brimming with casual, urban charm. Artisanal pies take center stage, ranging from the fiery kick of the Furious Diablo to the garden-fresh layers of the Smoky Greens, each crafted with a playful spirit that honors traditional roots while embracing bold, modern flavors. Whether sharing a signature Mamma Moto or savoring the herb-infused Extra Virgin, every bite captures the soulful energy of a quintessential pizza house.
• Amalfi Cucina Italiana — Italian · rated 5/5: Sun-drenched coastal charm meets refined elegance in this vibrant space, where the rhythmic toss of handmade dough and the clinking of chilled wine glasses create a lively Mediterranean symphony. The kitchen breathes life into the Italian seaside through blistered, wood-fired pizzas and silken ribbons of pasta, while the briny sweetness of fresh seafood pairs effortlessly with a curated selection of fine vintages and crisp draft pours. Whether gathering for an intimate multi-course wine dinner or a spirited evening of cocktails, guests are transported to the shores of Amalfi through every authentic, soul-warming bite.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Santee — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a nostalgic haven where the comforting aroma of bubbling mozzarella and slow-simmered marinara fills the air, inviting families to gather around tables laden with generous, heart-warming portions. From the towering layers of rich, cheesy lasagna to the vibrant crunch of a classic antipasto salad, every dish celebrates the soul of Italian-American comfort in a warm, bustling atmosphere that feels like a timeless neighborhood tradition.
• Pizzeria Luigi — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a lively neighborhood sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of bubbling mozzarella and blistered, golden crust fills the air, signaling a devotion to the timeless craft of the perfect slice. The kitchen transforms simple dough into edible masterpieces, offering everything from the fiery, spice-laden El Diablo to the sophisticated, creamy layers of the Mona Lisa. This bustling haunt captures the soul of a classic pizzeria, where every hand-tossed pie is served with a side of warmth and a passion for bold, artistic flavors.
• Giardino — Italian · rated 4/5: Giardino transports diners to a lush, sun-dappled escape where the vibrant energy of an Italian garden meets the warmth of a rustic neighborhood gathering spot. The air is thick with the scent of fresh herbs and aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, especially when the signature cheese wheel pasta is prepared tableside, swirling ribbons of fresh noodles into a molten, decadent embrace. Under soft, twinkling lights, every meal feels like a celebration of soul-warming flavors served with a touch of captivating theatrical flair.
• Village Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4/5: Village Pizzeria serves as a spirited neighborhood hub where the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and bubbling mozzarella draws guests into a warm, high-energy atmosphere. The kitchen puts a playful spin on Italian-American comfort, crafting golden, doughy knots tossed in spicy diablo or vodka sauces alongside crispy, shareable delights like fried spaghetti and savory meatball sliders. It is a place where every plate invites indulgence, offering a vibrant dining experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly bold.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Scripps Ranch — Italian · rated 4/5: This inviting neighborhood grotto captures the essence of a classic Italian-American kitchen, where the nostalgic aroma of toasted garlic and melting cheese fills a space adorned with old-world charm. Heaping plates of hand-layered lasagna and vibrant, meat-laden antipasto salads celebrate the joy of generous, soul-warming comfort food, inviting guests to gather over thick-crust pizzas and traditional pastas that taste of home.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Poway — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this nostalgic grotto feels like a warm embrace, where the air is thick with the scent of garlic and baking dough amidst a backdrop of classic red-checkered charm. Heaping plates of golden-crusted pizza and ribboned pastas cloaked in rich marinara anchor the table, offering a hearty celebration of old-school Italian comfort that invites families to linger and share. From the crisp, colorful crunch of a signature antipasto to the decadent layers of oven-baked lasagna, every dish captures the soulful essence of a traditional neighborhood feast.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Pacifc Beach — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a nostalgic slice of Italy where the scent of bubbling mozzarella and slow-simmered marinara fills a space adorned with classic red-checkered tablecloths and a warm, neighborhood buzz. Towering plates of handmade lasagna and hearty spaghetti are served alongside crispy, thin-crust pizzas, offering a comforting, old-school retreat just steps away from the sun-drenched energy of Pacific Beach. Whether sharing a vibrant antipasto salad or a toasted specialty sandwich, guests are enveloped in a timeless charm that turns every meal into a festive family gathering.
• Cucina Urbana — Italian: Cucina Urbana hums with a chic, communal energy where the rustic charm of an Italian farmhouse meets the sophisticated pulse of the city. The kitchen transforms seasonal treasures into vibrant art, layering the delicate crunch of tempura-fried squash blossoms against the creamy richness of burrata brightened by saffron-poached quince. From the smoky char of grilled octopus to the comforting aroma of roasted garlic focaccia, every dish invites guests to linger over a modern feast that celebrates bold flavors and artisanal craft.
• Sisters Pizza — Italian: This lively neighborhood haunt invites guests into a world of golden-fried indulgence, where the irresistible crunch of crispy artichokes and calamari fills the air with savory promise. Vibrant, artfully composed salads like the beet-rich "Two Hearts That Beet as One" or a smoky grilled Caesar provide a fresh, colorful counterpoint to the gooey pull of warm mozzarella sticks. It is a welcoming space where playful creativity meets classic comfort, ensuring every shared plate feels like a celebration of simple, soul-satisfying flavors.
• Mr. Moto Pizza — Italian: The air hums with the irresistible aroma of bubbling mozzarella and hand-tossed dough, drawing guests into a lively space where the art of the perfect slice takes center stage. Artfully crafted pies range from the fiery kick of the Furious Diablo to the fresh, sun-kissed flavors of the California Love, all built upon a foundation of golden, crisp crust that caters to every palate with both traditional and gluten-free options. Whether sharing a massive signature creation like the Mamma Moto or enjoying a side of smoky greens, diners find a spirited atmosphere that celebrates the timeless, soulful joy of a well-made pizza.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy — Italian: Stepping through a bustling, fragrant Italian deli, guests are transported into a nostalgic sanctuary where red-checkered tablecloths and rows of hanging Chianti bottles set the stage for a quintessential Little Italy feast. The air is thick with the comforting aroma of bubbling mozzarella and slow-simmered marinara, heralding generous plates of hand-stuffed ravioli and pizzas piled high with traditional toppings. It is a place where the warmth of old-school hospitality and the hearty flavors of home-style cooking turn every meal into a soulful celebration of Italian-American heritage.
• Jack and Giulio's — Italian: This inviting neighborhood gem wraps guests in a warm embrace, where the scent of toasted garlic bread and savory shrimp bisque drifts from a bustling kitchen. Crisp, vibrant salads and classic antipasti set the stage for an indulgent journey through traditional flavors, featuring delicate handmade tortelloni and golden, savory panzerotti. It is a space where timeless hospitality meets the soulful comfort of a well-loved kitchen, creating an atmosphere that feels both celebratory and intimately familiar.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Kearny Mesa — Italian: This nostalgic neighborhood sanctuary welcomes guests with the intoxicating scent of baking dough and rich, savory sauces simmering in the kitchen. Beneath the warm glow of a classic Italian grotto, generous platters of cheese-laden lasagna and signature pizzas topped with thick layers of melted mozzarella create a timeless dining experience rooted in tradition and hearty comfort.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley — Italian: This Mission Valley staple transports diners to a nostalgic Italian grotto where the warm glow of candlelight reflects off hanging Chianti bottles and the air carries the savory perfume of garlic and oregano. Generous portions of cheese-laden lasagna and crisp, traditional pizzas anchor an experience of timeless comfort, creating a bustling sanctuary perfect for sharing hearty meals and lively conversation over red-and-white checkered tablecloths.
• La Buona Forchetta — Italian: Golden light spills over rustic tables where the aroma of flash-fried montanara and crispy calamari fritti sets the stage for a vibrant, communal feast. Guests linger over artfully arranged taglieri and creamy burrata caprese, savoring the soulful warmth of tender polpettine and savory eggplant tortinos in an atmosphere that hums with the effortless charm of an Italian piazza.
• Parma Cucina Italiana — Italian: Parma Cucina Italiana captures the rustic elegance of Northern Italy, where the enticing scent of savory sausage and creamy polenta mingles with the bright, citrusy notes of fresh salmon carpaccio. Guests gather around tables laden with artfully arranged boards of cured meats and velvety burrata, savoring a culinary journey that balances the earthy depth of traditional caponata with the delicate, tender textures of charred octopus. This inviting sanctuary celebrates the artistry of simple, high-quality ingredients, turning every meal into a soulful exploration of authentic Italian hospitality.
• Cucina Basilico — Italian: Sun-drenched flavors and the rustic charm of an Italian kitchen come alive at Cucina Basilico, where the air is scented with fresh herbs and the convivial hum of shared plates. Vibrant platters of jewel-toned beet salads and creamy burrata sit alongside crisp, colorful bruschettas and tender Roman artichokes, celebrating the simple elegance of Mediterranean ingredients. Whether savoring the spicy kick of calamari alla diavola or the comforting warmth of savory polpette, guests are transported to a lively Roman piazza where every bite feels like a celebration of tradition.
• The Butcher's Cut — Steakhouse: The Butcher’s Cut invites diners into a world of refined indulgence, where the sizzle of world-class steaks—from buttery Japanese A5 Wagyu to robust bison and elk—fills the air with an irresistible, savory perfume. This sophisticated haven balances its primal, flame-kissed offerings with the delicate artistry of handcrafted pastas and chilled seafood, creating a sensory celebration punctuated by the effervescent pop of champagne and the rhythmic shake of artisanal cocktails.
• The Godfather — Italian: Stepping into this spirited Italian enclave feels like entering a scene from a classic film, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of slow-simmered Bolognese and golden, crispy calamari. Tables are adorned with overflowing platters of artisanal salumi and vibrant antipasti, inviting guests to linger over tender beef carpaccio and zesty seafood medleys that celebrate the bold, rustic flavors of the Mediterranean.
• cardellino — Italian: Cardellino welcomes guests into a lively, sun-dappled space where the comforting aroma of warm sourdough and slow-simmered bolognese sets the stage for a soulful meal. The kitchen artfully bridges the gap between rustic tradition and modern refinement, offering a vibrant parade of flavors that range from delicate ahi tuna tartare and silky burrata to charred lamb lollipops. Every plate, from the golden crunch of fritto misto to the hearty ridges of radiatori, reflects a commitment to craftsmanship that makes each visit feel like a celebratory escape.
• Del Mar Pizza — Italian: Sun-drenched coastal vibes meet the irresistible aroma of bubbling mozzarella and hand-stretched dough at this vibrant neighborhood haunt. Each artisan pie, from the classic foldable Brooklyn-style to the bold, garden-fresh Spinacio, is fired to golden perfection and served in an atmosphere of casual, beachside warmth. It is a place where traditional craftsmanship and playful, global flavors collide, inviting guests to linger over a slice and soak in the local energy.
• Poma's Italian Deli — Italian: This bustling neighborhood cornerstone invites guests into a world of old-school charm, where the air is rich with the savory aroma of sliced pastrami and bubbling marinara. Towering sandwiches like the signature Torpedo and molten Eggplant Parmesan are piled high on crusty rolls, offering a hearty, soul-warming bite that captures the timeless spirit of an authentic Italian deli.
• Monavala Pizza — Italian: Monavala Pizza serves as a vibrant neighborhood hub where the comforting aroma of golden, bubbling cheese and hearth-baked crusts creates an immediate sense of home. The kitchen artfully balances tradition and global flair, topping their artisanal pies with everything from garden-fresh roasted vegetables and tangy Greek feta to the bold, smoky notes of BBQ chicken. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it an inviting destination for those seeking a creative twist on the classic pizzeria experience.
• Di Leone's Italian Restaurant — Italian: This quintessential neighborhood gem wraps diners in the comforting embrace of a classic Italian kitchen, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of rich meat sauces and slow-simmered marinara. Guests feast on hearty portions of bubbling lasagna and tender, hand-filled ravioli, or opt for the satisfying crunch of a signature torpedo sandwich, all served with a warmth that makes every meal feel like a cherished Sunday family tradition.
• Dolci Cafe Italiano — Italian: Stepping into this charming Italian haven feels like a getaway to the Mediterranean, where the air is thick with the scent of fresh pesto and golden, crisp calamari. From the delicate marbling of beef carpaccio to the bright, orchard-fresh notes of a pear salad, every plate celebrates the art of the shared table in a setting that glows with effortless warmth and hospitality.
• Frank's Pizza Joint — Italian: This neighborhood haunt hums with energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of garlic-infused bread and rosemary-scented fries. Baskets of golden, crispy delights like toasted ravioli and succulent torpedo shrimp take center stage, offering a satisfying crunch that gives way to melty, savory centers. Whether you are diving into a plate of zesty wings or sharing a mountain of hand-breaded zucchini, the atmosphere remains effortlessly warm and inviting, celebrating the timeless appeal of shared comfort food.
• D'Lish Gourmet Pasta & Pizza — Italian: The air is thick with the comforting aroma of simmering tomato basil soup and toasted garlic, welcoming guests into a vibrant space where casual dining feels like a gourmet treat. Tables buzz with energy as friends share overflowing platters of golden calamari, zesty buffalo wings, and herb-flecked bruschetta that celebrate bold, classic flavors. It is a neighborhood haven where every meal, from a crisp Greek salad to a hearty bowl of savory meatballs, is served with a genuine sense of warmth and conviviality.