Discover Little Italy in San Diego
Learn more this chic, unique San Diego neighborhood.
Little Italy, located twenty minutes from the Pacific Terrace, is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, known for its amazing Italian food and offerings. Little Italy is filled with patio cafes for alfresco dining, top notch; world famous restaurants, pubs, art galleries, shops, and the beautiful Amici Park. In addition, there are numerous one-of-a-kind clothing boutiques, music venues and quaint piazzas found throughout the area, while the Saturday Little Italy Mercato Farmers' Market draws crowds for its fresh, organic produce, gourmet food and craft stalls. The green lawns of Waterfront Park have fountains and offer views of the bay.
The central point in Little Italy is a European-style piazza known as Piazza della Famiglia. Since the 1930's this plaza has been the main community gathering spot. The 10,000 square-foot plaza connects India and Columbia streets and features a dramatic tiled fountain. The piazza is dedicated to the past, present and future families of the Little Italy neighborhood first settled by the Italian fishermen.
Markets
Little Italy Mercato Farmers' Market
Every Saturday at 8 AM, the Little Italy Mercato Farmers' Market opens to the public and features more than 150 vendors offering fresh produce, meat & eggs, crafts, plants and more.
Little Italy Wednesday Market
Little Italy's newest year-round farmers' market features farm fresh produce and more, brought to the neighborhood by California farmers, fisherman and artisan food makers.
Mona Lisa Italian Foods and Market
Described as an institution for Italian food since it's establishment in 1956, Mona Lisa Italian Foods is a one stop shop for your restaurant and deli needs.
The Market By Buon Appetito
From the Italian food connoisseurs at Buon Appetito comes a fresh market where you can buy the ingredients needed to turn your own kitchen into an authentic Italian restaurant.
Assenti Pasta
The best place for your pasta needs, Assenti is your kosher, non-GMO shop for all things Italian food.
Little Italy Food Hall
Open daily, this unique venue is located on the pedestrian-only Piazza della Famiglia. Enjoy 6 food stations, a full bar, and a whole lot more.
Restaurants
Herb & Wood
Herb & Wood is an award-winning restaurant by celebrity Chef Brian Malarkey known for its wood fire cookery focusing on basic rustic preparations. Pizza dough and breads are baked daily. A "High Spirited" cocktail program includes old-school throwbacks, herbs and other savory ingredients. Reservations are a must.
Born and Raised
One of Little Italy's newest additions, Born and Raised is the perfect choice for high-end steak & cocktails with glitzy decor and a fabulous rooftop patio. Definitely on the high end but a truly memorable dining experience. Reservations required.
Bencotto Italian Kitchen
Bencotto is a trendy bi-level eatery famed for artisanal Italian eats, including handmade pasta & classic desserts. Here you can choose from over 75 different kinds of pasta from their tray table-side. For especially fresh fare, Bencotto uses locally sourced beer, wine, fish, meats, fruits and vegetables.
Buon Appetito Restaurant
A definite Italian vibe abounds at Buon Appetito which serves old country cuisine with a definite modern flare. Sustainable and local is their mantra. A fascinating wine list with over 100 bottles and more than twenty wines by the glass are offered.