Best Upscale Pizza in San Diego | Top 2 Upscale Spots

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Pizza in San Diego | Top 2 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.
• Surf Rider Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched coastal haunt captures the laid-back spirit of the beach, where the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese and golden, hand-tossed crusts drifts through a vibrant, surf-inspired space. Artisanal pies like the adventurous G.O.A.T. and the hearty Woodsman celebrate bold flavor combinations, offering a playful yet elevated take on the classic New York-style slice. Whether sharing a signature Mash-Up after a day in the waves or savoring a traditional Margherita, guests find a slice of effortless California cool in every bite.
• Knockout Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4/5: The air at Knockout Pizzeria is thick with the irresistible scent of toasted garlic and rising dough, drawing guests into a vibrant space where the art of the perfect crust takes center stage. Golden-brown garlic knots and savory pinwheels provide a flavorful prelude to the main event: towering Sicilian pans and rustic Grandma-style squares topped with molten cheese and vibrant sauces. Each visit offers a sensory knockout, blending the satisfying crunch of a perfectly charred crust with the spicy zing of crispy wings for a quintessential neighborhood dining experience.
• Border Psycho Cantina — Mexican · rated 4/5: This high-energy cantina pulses with an edgy, unconventional spirit, serving as a vibrant crossroads where sun-drenched breakfasts of spicy chilaquiles and golden waffles give way to an eclectic evening of gourmet burgers and Mediterranean-inspired pizzas. The atmosphere is anchored by the bold character of their signature craft ales, inviting guests to pair a crisp Cream Ale with zesty seafood tacos or elevated street food in a space that celebrates rebellious flavor and communal flair.
• Jaguar Paw — Mexican · rated 4/5: Jaguar Paw hums with a spirited, adventurous energy, drawing guests into a lush setting where the smoky aroma of wood-fired ovens sets the stage for a soulful Italian feast. Hand-stretched Neapolitan pizzas arrive with perfectly charred edges and vibrant toppings that evoke the brightness of summer, followed by a classic tiramisu that offers a rich, velvety finish to an unforgettable meal.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Gnarly Girl Pizza — Italian: This vibrant, high-energy pizzeria pulses with a playful spirit, inviting guests into a space where unconventional toppings and artisanal craft collide. The kitchen turns out imaginative pies like the nostalgic "Tastes Like Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup" and the garden-bright "Okie Dokie Artichokie," each featuring a perfectly charred crust and bold, house-made sauces. It is a spirited neighborhood destination where the aroma of bubbling mozzarella and fresh pesto sets the stage for a dining experience that is both whimsically creative and deeply satisfying.
• Gaslamp Pizza — Italian: Nestled in the heart of the bustling district, this vibrant eatery hums with energy as the aroma of melted mozzarella and savory spices beckons passersby inside for a taste of pure comfort. Guests dive into shareable platters of golden-fried appetizers and zesty chicken wings, while warm, pull-apart breadsticks oozing with cheese provide the perfect indulgence for a lively night out on the town.
• El Chingon — Mexican: This high-energy destination pulses with a bold, rebellious spirit, where the air is thick with the smoky aroma of sizzling carne asada and bubbling queso ahumado. Diners dive into a vibrant tapestry of flavors, from the zesty brightness of ceviche tostadas to the indulgent, cheese-laden heights of birria pizza and loaded nachos libres.
• Long Island Mike's Pizza — Italian: Long Island Mike's Pizza captures the high-energy soul of a classic New York slice shop, filling the air with the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic knots and bubbling, golden-brown mozzarella. Whether sharing massive trays of crispy buffalo wings or savoring a slice of the meat-laden Butcher Shop pie, diners find a welcoming space defined by bold, communal flavors and the comforting crunch of a perfectly charred crust.
• Lionfish — Seafood: Lionfish serves as a vibrant coastal sanctuary where the sizzle of Mariscos Al Fuego and the delicate artistry of Kampachi Crudo create a symphony of bold, global flavors. The kitchen transforms premium ingredients into inventive masterpieces, ranging from the unexpected, savory crunch of Big-Eye Tuna Pizza to the smoky, tender char of spicy grilled octopus. It is an energetic destination where sophisticated design meets a spirited culinary journey, offering a modern and immersive escape for the adventurous palate.
• Papa John's — Italian: The scent of slow-simmered tomato sauce and hand-stretched dough fills the air at this neighborhood staple, where every pizza serves as a canvas for vibrant, custom toppings and bubbling cheeses. Pillowy breadsticks brushed with signature garlic sauce and golden, crispy wings complete a comforting spread designed for shared moments and satisfying cravings.
• 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.
• Pizza on Pearl — Italian: This lively neighborhood gem hums with energy as the intoxicating scent of bubbling mozzarella and charred, hand-stretched dough wafts through the sun-drenched space. The kitchen transforms each crust into a vibrant canvas of flavor, ranging from the herbaceous brightness of the Verde and Greek pies to the bold, smoky indulgence of the BBQ and Buffalo creations. It is a spirited gathering spot where artisanal craft meets a relaxed atmosphere, offering a perfect slice of comfort for every palate.
• Surfrider Pizza — Italian: Sun-drenched and spirited, this coastal pizza haven captures the essence of a perfect beach day with its laid-back energy and the irresistible scent of bubbling cheese and toasted crust. Artisanal pies like the adventurous G.O.A.T. and the hearty Woodsman emerge from the oven with charred, golden edges, offering a creative symphony of toppings that range from classic New York simplicity to bold, modern mash-ups. It is a vibrant space where the craft of the dough meets the relaxed soul of the shoreline, inviting guests to savor every slice in a warm, salt-air atmosphere.
• 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.
• Godfather's Pizza — Italian: This nostalgic pizza parlor invites guests into a world of hearty indulgence, where thick, golden crusts serve as the foundation for an uncompromising mountain of savory toppings and bubbling melted cheese. From the zesty, lettuce-topped crunch of the signature Taco Pie to the sweet, pull-apart bliss of cinnamon-dusted Italian Monkey Bread, every bite captures the spirit of a classic neighborhood feast that truly lives up to its legendary name.
• 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.