Best Pizza in Little Italy San Diego (Updated Fall 2023) - Pizza Oven Radar (2024)

After visiting 12 pizza places in the area, I’m ready to determine which one is the best. I know the task ahead of me won’t be an easy one as we all have different tastes so what may be the “best” for me, may not necessarily be “the best” for you. But don’t worry — my research was thorough and I did all the hard work for you! Sit back, relax and let me take you on a fun journey through Little Italy to find out who has the most delicious pizza around.

If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of California

#1 Mona Lisa Italian Foods

I was surprised by how much flavor was packed into each slice. The crust had a nice crunch, and the perfect balance of sauce and cheese-to-crust ratio – making it one of the best pizzas I’ve ever eaten! The house specialty is the prosciutto pizza, which is loaded with salty slices of cured meat. Yum!

The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with plenty of seating space on well-cushioned booths. The staff were friendly and attentive, always checking up on us to make sure our dining experience was great.

Overall, I’d highly recommend Mona Lisa Italian Foods for anyone looking for a delicious dinner or late night snack in Little Italy San Diego! It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in town – you won’t regret it!

If you’re willing to go an extra 1 miles, you can get to 21 more pizza places in Coronado!

#2 Filippi’s Pizza Grotto Little Italy

The first time I visited Filippi’s, I was immediately impressed by the traditional Italian decor and atmosphere. As soon as I walked in, I wanted to take my shoes off, grab some wine and chow down on a slice of heaven.

The pizza is cooked to perfection with just the right amount of Italian flavors. To top it off, their signature sauce has become notorious for its spices and balance. Every bite was full of flavor that left me wanting more!

If you’re in Little Italy San Diego, you HAVE to visit Filippi’s Pizza Grotto Little Italy for some amazing pizza! From the atmosphere to the pizza itself, this place is sure to satisfy your cravings and make your tastebuds rejoice. It’s definitely one of the best pizzas in town – if not the best!

#3 Isola Pizza Bar

Upon entering this unique restaurant, I was blown away by its warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating, and the vibrant colors, cozy seating, and cheerful music added to the wonderful ambiance.

As I started to look over the menu, I decided on one of their signature pizzas – the Prosciutto E Rucola – a classic Italian-style pizza with prosciutto and arugula. It was cooked perfectly so that the cheese was melted to just the right consistency and the crust was crispy on the outside but still had some chewiness in the middle. I can honestly say it’s one of the best pizzas I’ve ever tasted!

The service at Isola Pizza Bar is also top-notch; my waiter was not only knowledgeable about their food but also made sure to check up on me throughout my meal to make sure everything was satisfactory.

All in all, Isola Pizza Bar is definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in Little Italy San Diego looking for great pizza! Highly recommended!

#4 Solunto Restaurant & Bakery

The first thing that impressed me about Solunto was the atmosphere. It had that classic Italian pizzeria feel, with brick walls and a wood-fired oven smack in the middle of the restaurant. It felt like I had suddenly been transported to Italy!

The pizza itself was divine. The crust was crispy yet fluffy, with a nice char from the oven. The toppings were fresh and flavorful, and they really complemented each other nicely. I especially loved how generous they were with their toppings – no skimping here!

I think what impressed me most about Solunto Restaurant & Bakery is their commitment to craftsmanship. Most of their ingredients are sourced locally and all of their dough is made fresh daily, which shows in the quality of their product. It’s clear that they take great pride in what they do and it shows in every bite of pizza!

As far as I’m concerned, Solunto Restaurant & Bakery has definitely earned its spot as one of the best pizza spots in Little Italy San Diego. If you’re ever looking for a delicious slice (or two), make sure to check them out!

#5 Nolita Hall

The atmosphere is great; it’s the perfect place to bring a date, come for a night out with your friends, or as a tourist just looking for something new. Plus, you can’t go wrong with the alcohol selection: they offer beer, wine and hard liquor too.

For those looking for something more health-conscious, there are plenty of vegetarian options available. They even offer dessert if you have room left after chowing down on all the pizza!

The only downside I found is that there’s no delivery – but who needs that anyway when you’ve got such a cool place to hang out in? The TVs make it a great place to watch sports and it certainly has become one of my favorite spots when I’m in town.

Nolita Hall definitely deserves its reputation as some of the best pizza in Little Italy San Diego!

#6 Mr. Moto Pizza Little Italy

The dough was light and fluffy with a perfectly doughy texture. The sauce was perfectly sweet and savory, adding the perfect touch to each bite. The cheese was creamy and flavorful, lending to a cheesy goodness that can’t be found anywhere else. I also had the pleasure of trying one of their specialty pizzas which boasted an array of fresh ingredients including crispy pepperoni, juicy sausage, roasted peppers, mushrooms, onions and even some pineapple! This combination truly brought out all the flavors in the pizza for an unforgettable experience.

What truly sets Mr. Moto Pizza Little Italy apart from others is their commitment to quality ingredients. They source only fresh produce from local suppliers to create pizza that tastes like it was made in the heart of Italy. And judging by how delicious this pizza was, I’d say they’ve succeeded in doing just that!

I will definitely be returning to Mr. Moto Pizza Little Italy often now that I know where I can find some of the best pizza in Little Italy San Diego!

#7 Caps Pizza & Bar

When I arrived, I was immediately impressed with their wide selection of craft beers and delicious Italian wines. The place had a nice atmosphere – it was easy to relax, chat with friends and enjoy my meal.

The pizza was absolutely incredible! It was super cheesy and topped with high-quality ingredients like artichoke hearts, mushrooms and fresh basil. The crust was perfect – not too thin or thick. What an amazing combination of flavors!

The staff at Caps Pizza & Bar were all so friendly, always checking in to make sure everything tasted great. Plus, the prices were totally reasonable for the quality of food and service I received.

Overall, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Little Italy San Diego, look no further than Caps Pizza & Bar!

If you’re willing to go an extra 1 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in San Diego!

#8 Giovanni’s Trattoria

I’ve heard some great things about this place and I was excited to finally get a chance to try it out. From the minute I walked in, it was apparent that this place is something special. The ambiance is cozy with dim lighting and a vintage feel. It’s the perfect spot to get in the Italian spirit!

When it came time for dinner, I knew I had to order their signature dish: pizza. Unsurprisingly, my taste buds were in for an absolute treat! Their ingredients are impeccably fresh and each bite has layers of flavor that just keep coming. The crust was cooked just right and had a fluffy texture that was simply divine.

Overall, Giovanni’s Trattoria definitely deserves its reputation as one of the best spots for pizza in Little Italy San Diego. If you’re ever in the area don’t hesitate to check this place out – your taste buds will thank you!

#9 Ambrogio15 Little Italy

The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a delightful Italian vibe. The waitstaff were very friendly and attentive. My waitress was even kind enough to describe what ingredients went into each dish.

The menu had a wide range of options, including classic Neapolitan pizzas, as well as more creative options like the Mushroom White Truffle pizza. All the pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients and cooked perfectly in their wood-fired ovens.

But the real star of Ambrogio15 Little Italy is their speciality pizza, the ‘Ambrogio Special’. This is a combination of mozzarella cheese, grilled eggplant, sundried tomatoes and fresh basil – it was simply delicious! The toppings were cooked to perfection and combined wonderfully to create a truly mouth-watering flavor.

In my opinion, Ambrogio15 Little Italy offers some of the best pizza in Little Italy San Diego. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or something unique, this place is sure to satisfy your craving for good pizza!

#10 RoVino Restaurant + Bar

From the moment you walk in, you can tell this is a place that takes its pizza seriously. The staff is warm and friendly, and the ambiance is inviting, with Italian influences throughout the decor.

The star of the show is obviously their pizza, and boy does it deliver! The pies are hand-tossed and cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, giving them a crispy crust with just enough chewiness. The toppings are always fresh and flavorful – I personally love the Margherita, which includes delicious San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese and fragrant basil.

One of my all-time favorite experiences at RoVino Restaurant + Bar was the Wood Fire Pizza Night where they feature specials like truffle white pizza or wild mushroom and gorgonzola. It’s a treat for everyone’s taste buds!

To sum up my experience at RoVino Restaurant + Bar: as far as pizza places in Little Italy San Diego goes, it definitely ranks among the best – highly recommended!

#11 Bencotto

The pizza here is absolutely mouth-watering. The dough has just the right amount of crispness, and the sauce is full of flavor. Plus, every pizza is topped with fresh ingredients that always delight my taste buds.

On top of all that, Bencotto offers inventive menu items like a Sicilian-style pie with thin crust and crunchy pepperoni. It pairs perfectly with their homemade pesto drizzled over it!

The atmosphere at Bencotto is also one of its great offerings. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance with casual seating and plenty of windows for natural light. I especially appreciate the diverse music selection which can range from classic rock to Bollywood tunes.

And if you’re hungry for something more than just pizza, Bencotto also has salads, sandwiches and desserts sure to make your dietitian proud.

Overall, an unforgettable experience that I would highly recommend to anyone in Little Italy looking for some of the best pizza in San Diego!

#12 Buon Appetito Restaurant

The crust is always perfectly crisp with just enough cheese and all the right toppings. Additionally, their vegetarian options are consistently a delight, as they have a wide variety of veggies to choose from.

What really sets this place apart, however, is its selection of alcoholic beverages–including hard liquor! As if that weren’t enough, the dessert is insanely good. For someone like me who loves his sugar and carbs— Buon Appetito Restaurant checks all my boxes!

The only downside is that it doesn’t offer delivery – but it’s great spot for tourists to check out when visiting Little Italy San Diego. All in all, you can’t go wrong with Buon Appetito Restaurant. It’s the best pizza around!

Best Deep Dish Pizza – Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria

Now, before you roll your eyes and say, Deep dish in San Diego? Yeah, right! let me tell you, Lefty’s is the real deal. I stumbled upon this hidden gem while on a quest for the perfect pizza, and boy, did I strike cheesy gold!

Let’s start with the ambiance. Lefty’s is a nice tourist spot, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The dim lighting and cozy booths create the ideal atmosphere for indulging in pizza heaven. And did I mention they serve alcohol? Pizza and beer – a match made in cheesy heaven!

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – their deep dish pizza. It’s like a gooey, cheese-filled dream. The crust is buttery and flaky, forming a firm foundation for the mountains of cheese, sauce, and toppings that await you. Each bite is a cheesy explosion that will make you question all your life choices leading up to this moment.

But here’s the downside – Lefty’s doesn’t accept reservations. So, if you’re a planner like me, you may end up waiting for a table. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right? Plus, you can use that time to drool over the dessert menu. Their homemade cannoli is to die for, and they have a selection of gelatos that will make you forget you ever had room for pizza!

So, my fellow pizza enthusiasts, if you find yourself in San Diego craving the best deep dish pizza, head to Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria. This place is a slice above the competition, and your taste buds will thank you for it!

Best Thin Crust Pizza – Landini’s Pizzeria

It’s like a slice of heaven wrapped in cheesy goodness, and I couldn’t get enough of it. Plus, the fact that they serve alcohol means you can pair your pizza with a nice cold beer or a glass of wine, because everyone knows pizza tastes even better with a little liquid courage.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. But Edward, I’m a vegetarian! Well, fear not my leaf-eating friends, Landini’s has got you covered. They have some fantastic vegetarian options that will make even the most dedicated carnivore reconsider their preferences. Trust me, I had a friend who claimed to be a meat-loving machine, but Landini’s veggie pizza changed his life. It’s that good.

But wait, there’s more! Not only does Landini’s serve mouthwatering pizza, they also offer delectable desserts. So, if you somehow manage to save room after devouring their pizza, you can treat yourself to a sweet ending. Just be warned, you might have to unbutton your pants after this indulgent feast.

Now, let’s get to the downsides. Unfortunately, Landini’s does not accept reservations. So, if you’re planning on coming here during peak hours, be prepared to wait. But hey, think of it as an opportunity to make new friends and discuss the wonders of thin crust pizza with fellow pizza enthusiasts.

All in all, Landini’s Pizzeria is a great spot for pizza lovers and tourists alike. So, grab a seat, raise a slice, and prepare for your taste buds to be forever grateful. And don’t forget to thank me later for introducing you to this pizza paradise in San Diego’s little Italy!

Best Wood Fired Pizza – Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill

Walking into Sammy’s, I was immediately greeted by the tantalizing aroma of woodfire and melted cheese. As a distinguished food critic, I fancy myself quite the pizza connoisseur, so I jumped at the opportunity to try their famous pies.

First, I ordered their Classic Margherita pizza, which arrived at my table looking like a piece of art. The crust was perfectly charred and crispy, with just the right amount of chewiness. The fresh basil and juicy tomatoes danced harmoniously with the creamy mozzarella, creating a heavenly bite after bite. I couldn’t help but sing That’s Amore with every mouthful!

Next, I dived into their signature Maui Wowie pizza, with its delightful combination of ham, pineapple, red onions, and cilantro. Now, I know the pineapple-on-pizza debate can get heated, but trust me when I say that Sammy’s Maui Wowie will convert any skeptic. The flavors blended together like a tropical symphony, transporting me straight to a beachside paradise with every bite.

Now, let’s talk about variety. Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill offers an impressive selection of non-traditional toppings, like roasted garlic, marinated artichoke hearts, and even truffle oil. As someone who appreciates pizza that thinks outside the box, I was overjoyed with the endless possibilities.

To top it all off, the staff at Sammy’s were an absolute delight. With their cheerful attitudes and witty banter, they provided an unforgettable dining experience. Plus, their recommendations were top-notch.

So, my fellow pizza enthusiasts, trust me when I say that Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill is a slice above the rest. From their perfectly crafted dough to their innovative toppings, they have mastered the art of wood fired pizza. Whether you’re a local or a fellow traveler, make sure to drop by Sammy’s and experience a pizza party in your mouth. It’s a pizza experience that I’ll be