Little Italy in San Diego

What are the highlights and features of Little Italy?

Start your Little Italy adventure by roaming the cobblestone streets of Piazza della Famiglia. The 10,000-sq-ft piazza has a European resemblance and cherishes the neighbourhood’s Italian roots. Stretching from India to Columbia Street, Piazza della Famiglia hosts al fresco dining, lively cafés, cultural events, and a tiled fountain. And with its location near San Diego Bay, your meal can include some of the best views in town. If you’re craving fresh fruits and veggies, the piazza also has a weekly farmers’ market.

The nearby Waterfront Park has fountains to cool off on a balmy day and exceptional views of sailing vessels. For a refreshing drink, Little Italy has several spots to sip wine or craft beer. Check out the garden patio at Carruth Cellars Wine Garden or the inclusive tasting room at Ballast Point Brewing. And to fully embrace the neighbourhood’s Italian culture, the Taste of Little Italy festival captivates your senses with scrumptious cuisine and upbeat music.

Where to eat in Little Italy?

With its eclectic range of traditional restaurants and new-age chefs, Little Italy hosts San Diego’s most coveted food scene. The world-famous Kettner Boulevard earned its nickname due to numerous celebrity chefs opening their own restaurants here.

Kettner Exchange has a creative menu that features seasonal produce, handcrafted cocktails, and rooftop harbour views. Herb & Wood whips up wood-fired dishes using the freshest ingredients from California.

Juniper & Ivy boasts a cosy lounge and innovative recipes made from local produce and seafood. For some of the best steaks in San Diego, Born and Raised rewards your palate with the finest cuts. And if you’re searching for a more low-key vibe, The Crack Shack is a casual spot for chicken and egg plates.

Top Chef Alley isn’t the only place for tasty food in Little Italy. Head to Piazza della Famiglia for the vibrant atmosphere and 6 mobile food stations of Little Italy Food Hall.

Good to know about Little Italy in San Diego

It’s a little-known fact, but San Diego’s Little Italy is the best place to celebrate Italian heritage in the US. At 48 square blocks, no other American city boasts a larger Little Italy neighbourhood.

To feel like you’re in Italy, a visit to Mona Lisa Italian Foods is a must. The pizza and lasagna mimic old-world Italy, and the deli makes sandwiches with authentic Italian ingredients. With Italian tunes and flicks, Amici Park is another delightful spot to embrace Italian heritage.

If you’re based in Little Italy while visiting San Diego, you’re near several other famous attractions. Adjacent to the San Diego Bay, Little Italy is near the Maritime Museum, USS Midway Museum, and the Seaport Village.

Around 1 mile in the other direction is the radiant gardens, beautiful architecture, and fascinating museums of Balboa Park. If Little Italy is your 1st stop in San Diego, buses and shuttles are available from the airport.