What once was the humble home of San Diego’s tuna fishing industry, Little Italy has now turned into a culinary haven. The streets are lined with fantastic eateries, wine bars, pubs, and cafés by adventurous up-and-coming chefs, traditional Italian families, and celebrity chefs.
Savor the best gastronomic delights Little Italy has to offer through these restaurants:
Juniper & Ivy
2228 Kettner Blvd
Listed as one of San Diego Magazine’s best restaurants, acclaimed Top Chef alumnus Richard Blais leads Juniper & Ivy as its executive chef. Blais is known for his imaginative and sometimes, out-of-the-box ideas. Here he manages to whip up food that is both comforting and creative. Juniper & Ivy’s menu is whimsical and constantly changing, using only the freshest seasonal ingredients acquired from local vendors. This restaurant is for the more adventurous food lovers eager to try something new.
Bencotto Italian Kitchen
750 West Fir St
Serving fresh and authentic Northern Italian food, Bencotto goes the extra mile by making 15 different types of hand-crafted pasta daily. They have an extensive list of pasta recipes and give their diners the freedom to choose their specially made pasta right from their tray tableside. Bencotto also offers wonderful classic Italian cocktails, desserts, and dessert cocktails. With its quiet and intimate atmosphere, it is the perfect place for date nights or a quiet night out.
Kettner Exchange
2001 Kettner Blvd
The ultimate rooftop destination, Kettner Exchange has the best ambiance in Little Italy largely due to its beautiful open-air rooftop lounge. Their award-winning beverage director, Steven Tuttle, has crafted a dynamic cocktail program that features new takes on classic favorites. With a rotating menu that features innovative dishes like Tender Belly Farms suckling pig larb, fois gras French toast, and grilled quail char sui, Kettner Exchange is a great place to expand your palette.
Ironside Fish & Oyster
1654 India St
Inspired by Little Italy’s fishing industry origins, Ironside recreates the classic fish house and oyster bar with a modern twist. Satisfying all your seafood cravings, they serve everything from classic comfort foods like clam chowder to more exciting dishes like smoked black cod. Inside the restaurant, you can see eye-catching design elements sure to give its guests something to talk about. You’ll never have a dull moment in Ironside with its amazing raw bar and a cocktail bar that’s open until 2 AM.
Herb & Wood
2210 Kettner Blvd
The best new restaurant according to USA Today’s Reader’s Choice awards, Herb & Wood provides a dining experience like no other. Critically acclaimed chef Brian Malarkey serves up wood-fired pizzas, delicious raw seafood dishes, house-made pasta, and sumptuous sweet brunch specials made only with the finest and freshest ingredients. This amazing dining escape is made for those who want to enjoy wonderful dinners filled with good conversation and great cuisine.
Want to find out more about what Little Italy has to offer? Get to know your real estate options here by giving us a call today at 619-322-2262 or send an email to jorge(at)littleitalycondos(dotted)com.