places to visit in little italy san diego

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Ultimate Guide to Little Italy San Diego From A Local [2024]

January 9, 2024 By: Hedge Metreyeon This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through our links.

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As you walk through Downtown San Diego, you may find your interest straying from the main city scene. Let your focus go, though, because you may find yourself on India Street. If you walk along this road, you’ll see restaurants, delis, bars, and so much more. Welcome to Little Italy San Diego!

Perhaps the biggest thing you’ll see is the Little Italy Landmark sign. Don’t turn back! I promise this is a great place to visit and I will show you all of the neat things you can do in Little Italy, San Diego! 

But before you go to the activities, let me also give you list of the most popular tours and excursions in Little Italy of San Diego:

Popular tours in Little Italy of San Diego

• 🍷 Combine history with wine tasting on this guided walking tour around San Diego’s Little Italy
• 🍲 Get the lowdown on Little Italy’s best eats in San Diego with this Taste of Little Italy Tour
• 🚌 Explore both Old Town and Little Italy with a full-day ticket to ride a hop-on, hop-off trolley through the city

Things To Do in Little Italy

Little italy mercato/ little italy farmers market.

Hours: Saturdays – 8am to 2pm & Wednesdays 10am to 2pm Location: W. Date Street from Kettner Blvd to Union Street

This is probably one of my very favorite farmer’s markets in the Downtown San Diego area. The wide variety of items from art, to food, to flowers, to artisan kitchen pieces in utterly mind blowing into. Every time I visit the Mercato, I find new things and I leave paying way less for groceries than I would at the store.

These vendors also welcome product questions that you may have, they’re proud of their profession after all. If you happen to have a certain diet, you can find some really delicious food. There are countless stands that sell vegan products both food and household items. 

This farmers market is an artery in the community, feeding families and businesses. You can bring your family,your spouse, or your furry friend with you. More often than not, I make a day out of a trip to the market. I take the trolley out and grab a coffee from a neighborhood shop and breakfast from a deli then start browsing the market with my reusable bags at the ready.

If I ever need recommendations, the vendors happily give me some great suggestions. The experience is wonderful and definitely worth getting up a little early on Saturday.

Little Italy Food Hall/ Piazza Della Famiglia 

Hours: 6am to 10pm Location: 523 W Date Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone Number: (619) 269 7187

In the popular area that is Little Italy, you may find it a little hard to find a place to eat or you may have a family of people with different tastes in food. Well, have no fear the Little Italy Food Hall is here to provide! Tucked just out of sight of the Main Street, where the fountain flows the food hall waits for visitors.

From lobster rolls to ramen, tacos and gelato, this food hall is perfect if you are with a group of people with some picky eaters. If you are a fan of Sam The Cooking Guy , check out one of his 3 restaurants: Graze by Sam (great cocktails), Not Not Tacos (some of the best tacos in Little Italy), and Samburgers (great value burgers and tasty sides). Read our full review of Little Italy Food Hall here>>

In the one-story food court like room, there are 6 different restaurants of different cuisines and a full bar. The atmosphere takes me back to middle school when my friends and I would hang out at the mall food court. We’d all get different things and share. The same can be done here.

You can also meet new people if that suits your fancy or have a nice quiet meal by the fountain and enjoy the day. However, you choose to do it, at least you’ll have some delicious food to join you. 

Lady of the Rosary Church

Hours: 7am to 8am; 11:30am to 12:30pm; Sunday 7am to 1pm Location: 1668 State St, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 234 4820

This gorgeous church serves the Catholic community as a safe haven and place of worship. It is known as the Jewel of Little Italy because of its fabulous architecture. The church strives to bring the joy of the gospel while imitating Jesus via mercy, compassion, and love. They give back to the poor and help the marginalized.

Built by Italian immigrants in the 1920s, this church resembles the dream to build an Italian parish in San Diego that came true under the leadership of Father Rabagliati and his faithful followers.

Visitors commend it for its beauty and claimed generosity towards those in need. It is indeed admirable of them to go on this journey. They hold masses every day as well as an extra-long service on Sundays. 

Mona Lisa Little Italy

Hours: 9am to 9pm Location: 2061 India Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 234 4893

If you’d like a taste of old-world Italy, then I suggest you come on down to Mona Lisa Little Italy. Not only is it a really amazing restaurant with stellar pizza and lasagna, it is also a deli & market. You can get some really lovely Italian ingredients.

This spot is great for grabbing a classic deli sandwich or shop for your dinner that night. Either way, the atmosphere is amazing with the seasonal gourmet ingredients and friendly faces.

Art Galleries in Little Italy

There are a little over a dozen art galleries in Little Italy, all covering different types of art. The Mee Shim Fine Art Gallery, in particular, has been praised for its brilliant mixture of real and surreal art styles. The exploration of expressions and poses is simply fascinating. Mee Shim is not the only artist on the block, however.

Walking down the many streets that make up Little Italy, you will find at least one gallery if not more. Each one has a style of their own and some, you can even purchase some pieces to support the local artists. 

Hours: 6am to 6pm Location: 1660 Union Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 525 8213

This is a lovely little park that encompasses the dog park, Bocce Ball courts, and the amphithéâter making it Little Italy’s triple threat. It is a great place to take a walk while eating ice cream or sit to read a book, play a game of bocce, and have your dog socialize.

During the farmers market, you’ll be able to listen to some live music in the park and settle down for a break. If you’re bringing your partner, it’s a great spot for a romantic moonlight walk. 

Little Italy Dog Park

Hours: 6am to 7pm Location: 254 W Date Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 233 3898

A super neat fenced-in dog park is tucked right in the heart of Little Italy San Diego. Dozens of furry friends find canine companions in this park. It is safe, well-maintained, and friendly! It also provides an area for smaller dogs if you’re worried about that.

This is an off-leash area for your dogs to run around in. If you choose, you can sit in the shade and relax rather than play around too. They think of everything here which is likely why this is a community favorite. 

Little Italy San Diego Tours

Little italy walking tour with wine tasting.

I recommend this walking tour if you are one that doesn’t really fancy crowds and just wants to enjoy their time in Little Italy while sipping on some wine. On this Little Italy walking tour , you will visit 3 of the best wine bars in the area.

During your walking and sipping, you will travel back in time as you listen to your guide passionately explain the history of the area. It is lovely and relaxing and, I mean, wine is fantastic.  Book your Little Italy Walking Tour here>>

Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tours

One of the best ways to check out the sites of San Diego and specifically Little Italy is taking a trolley tour. These are hop-on-hop-off tours you can take for around $42/person. What this entails is basically the ability to take an all-day tour of the area where you can get off in spots that you find interesting then get picked back up at a certain time once you’re done exploring.

It’s a great way to get information while also having the ability to really explore areas of interest. I suggest taking a peek. This tour explores both Old Town and Little Italy, to really immerse you in San Diego’s history .  Book your San Diego Trolley Tour here>>

San Diego Scenic Tours

If you’re the type to enjoy the beauty of your vacation then this San Diego Scenic Tour is the tour for you. In four hours, your guide takes you around to the most stunning spots in San Diego while educating you on the history of each of the landmarks you visit.

This is a great tour to avoid crowds as the limit of people per tour is 14 and it is personalized to each and every group. On top of that, snacks are included so you don’t have to worry about getting munch! Book your Scenic tour tickets here>>

San Diego Scavenger Hunt

I absolutely adore these types of tours because they are great for visiting and learning about the city’s highlights. Scavenger hunts are a really fun way to see the city because it gives you goals and challenges that can be easy but also fun. You can do it with friends, family, or a spouse.

It is a really smart way to find places that interest you to visit later in the day or later in your stay. I recommend doing this first thing when you’re ready to explore. Book your San Diego Scavenger Hunt here>>

Little Italy Restaurants

Best pizza places in little italy, sorrento little italy.

Hours: (Wed-Fri) 11:30am to 2:30pm; 4pm to 11pm (Sat) 11:30am to 11pm (Sun) 11:30am to 10pm (Mon-Tues) 4pm to 10pm Location: 1646 India Street. San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 546 0365 Website

If you’re looking for a modern cozy take on classic Italian pizza, then look no further than Sorrento. They serve wonder thin-crust pizza along with fantastic southern Italian dishes.

Guests have raved about the lovely atmosphere and deliciously fresh tasting food. Every single one has said that the wait is definitely worth it. However, if you aren’t a fan of waiting, I suggest calling to reserve a table to save yourself the long line. 

Enoteca Little Italy

Hours: 4pm to 8pm Location: 1655 India Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 237 9606 Website

This restaurant takes rustic Italian food and makes it chic and modern. If you’re the type interested in a diverse and refined menu, then you should make a reservation! Patrons excitedly praise Enoteca for their inventive fresh foods and friendly spot.

Anytime I ate there it was delightful and the food always comes out hot. I recommend reserving a spot near about an hour and a half before close and walking about Little Italy beforehand.

Isola Pizza Bar

Hours: (Mon-Tues) Closed (Wed-Thu and Sun) 2:30pm to 9pm (Fri-Sat) 2:30pm to 9:30pm Location: 1526 India Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 255 4230 Website

If you just want a casual slice of pizza in a lively environment, I suggest stopping by Isola. The contemporary space provides a bright feel as you eat their Neapolitan-inspired pizzas and sip on some fantastic wine. The owners are incredibly responsive if you leave a review and are proud of their convenient delicious food. It is a favorite for many locals. Definitely stop by!

Best Restaurants in Little Italy

Civico 1845.

1845 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 431-5990 From Brunch to Dinner, Secure Your Table Here $$ | Italian

Personally, I have been to this restaurant a couple of times. I love it based on the fact that they use authentic techniques and fresh ingredients to bring the palate to Italy. It’s owned by two brothers who were born and raised in Italy and they want to bring their home to the states.

When I ate there, the food spoke to me and told me about their gorgeous country. The interior was comfortable and humble as to not draw away from the food. On top of all that, they even have a vegan menu so everyone can be happy.

Ballast Point Brewery

Hours: (Sun-Thu) 11am to 10pm (Fri-Sat) 11am-11pm Location: 2215 India Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 255 7213 Website

You wouldn’t think that a brewery in Little Italy would be popular but people rave about their food and selection of wine and beer. Not to mention their friendly atmosphere. People hang out inside and outside all day long. After work, it is a perfect spot to blow off some steam or if you’re a visitor, it’s a great restaurant to stop by after a day of sightseeing. 

Morning Glory

Address : 550 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 629-0302 Website

Overlook the city as you munch on some breakfast classics at Morning Glory. Fair warning: there will most likely be a wait, but it is worth it. Their menu consists of some classic breakfast items from around the world that are done in a really innovative way. It’s very lively so don’t go if you want a silent breakfast.

It’s friendly, innovative, and refreshing; I am looking forward to going. Because there’s a wait, I recommend putting your name down and exploring a few shops along India Street while you wait. There are some neat markets in the area.

IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER

1654 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 269-3033 Website

Brought to you by the owners of Born & Raised, Ironside is its opposite. Serving some of the finest seafood around for a fair price, this Little Italy spot is sure to make the seafood lovers swoon.

Much like its sister restaurant, the menu changes daily to keep things fresh. I’ve dubbed it one of the best restaurants in San Diego because of the endless praise it receives for its service, food, and venue. Be sure to make a reservation stat.

Cloak and Petal

Hours: (Mon-Fri) 4pm to 9pm (Sat-Sun) 1pm to 10pm Location: 1953 India Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 501 5505 Website

This is a neat little restaurant that serves Japanese tapas with craft cocktail pairings. Cloak and Petal is known for its immense attention to detail as well as the lovely cherry blossom tree that really sets the tone of the atmosphere.

The experience doesn’t just end at the food either, they have incredible service. Overall, this is a fantastic restaurant but I do recommend reserving a table so you are guaranteed a spot.

CRACK SHACK

2266 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 795-3299 Website

Watch out, everyone, because the Crack Shack is in town, and it doesn’t play around. With the famous chef Richard Blais at the head of the culinary team, each plate is treated with the utmost care and consideration. These aren’t your average fried chicken dishes.

Their philosophy is to treat every piece as if it were a $90 plate of food. The great thing is that none of their dishes will break the $30 mark, and it’s only $30 dollars because it’s a big family meal.

The atmosphere is so friendly and welcoming, while the food is just straight-up mouthwatering. And if you like your chicken with a little booze, then drop by for happy hour Monday-Friday from 3 to 6. Beware, though, expect lines. Food this good is in high demand.

Hours: 11:30am to 10pm Location: Corner of Kettner & Fir, 750 W Fir Street #101, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 269 4626 Website Currently closed due to renovations!

A small ramen shop on the corner of a street with a quaint atmosphere. This is a place where you can sit next to a total stranger and have a full-on conversation. Great right? Their take on the classic Japanese ramen, a comforting staple of the country, is interesting to say the least.

If you’re just getting introduced to ramen and want to explore the cuisine, I would start here. I recommend going in the afternoon when the shop isn’t as busy if you want a quiet meal, otherwise, definitely reserve a spot before going as it can get busy in the evening.

BORN & RAISED

1909 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 202-4577 Website

This is the absolute place to be if you’re looking to satisfy a luxurious palate with steak. Their humanely treated meats are sure to melt in your mouth and then set your palate ablaze when paired with an expertly crafted cocktail.

The price is most definitely worth the quality of food and service, according to past guests. I highly recommend setting up a reservation, especially if you’re bringing a date . Waiting for a table on a date is no bueno.

Little Italy San Diego Hotels

Hotel republic san diego autograph collection.

Location: 421 W B Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 398 3100 Website

This stylish hotel offers lovely accommodations for families and couples, including an on-site restaurant, bar, indoor pool, and even a spa & wellness center. The advanced accessibility shows how incredibly considerate they are toward their guests. They are also just a 5-minute walk from the nearest trolley station, giving you the opportunity to explore the city of your own accord.  Compare prices here>>

Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown

Location: 2137 Pacific Highway Suite A, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 696. 6300 Website

With this convenient location and stellar amenities, it’s hard to not stay at the Hilton Garden Inn. The brand is consistent and reliable with quality and the fact that it’s located extremely close to the trolley station makes this hotel just that much better. I recommend this brand for families, business travelers, and couples. Make sure to make a reservation before your travel date. Compare prices here>>

Hampton Inn San Diego Downtown

Location: 1531 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 233. 8408 Website

This hotel is lucky enough to be in the very heart of the city, putting it in the epicenter of activity. It’s close to the trolley stations and most of the downtown activity but still manages to provide guests with a nice, relaxing, luxurious place to stay for their trips. Hampton Inn is a wonderful place for couples, families, and business people of all kinds.  Compare prices here>>

Best Western Plus Inn Bayside

Location: 555 W Ash Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 233. 7500 Website

This casual hotel offers guests lovely, comforting amenities that just top of any kind of stay. Because of its convenient location, you can explore the deepest depths of San Diego and save on inner-city travel. It is also in close proximity to popular tourist spots, making it extra convenient. They are also extremely considerate in making their amenities accessible to people of all kinds. Compare prices here>>

La Pensione Hotel

Location: 606 W Date Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (800) 232. 4683 Website

A modern hotel in the middle of the area with a spa, a restaurant, and a cafe, sounds wonderful right? Well, you can get all of that plus a free breakfast at La Pensione Hotel . This hotel is most popular with couples. The romantic atmosphere makes special occasions even more special. But it also suits families and solo travelers as well. With everything so close, you’re compelled to explore the area.  Compare prices here>>

Urban Boutique Hotel San Diego

Location: 1654 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 232. 3400 Website

This is a cute little hotel right in the heart of Little Italy that accomplishes a cozy yet luxurious feel while being convenient and reliable for guests. People happily keep going back for the service alone! It’s close to tourist spots and general places of interest. The comfortable amenities and close entertainment make Urban Boutique to die for.  Compare prices here>>

Events in Little Italy San Diego

San diego art walk.

This is one of the many ways that San Diego celebrates the rich art culture that it has. Every year, there’s a full weekend dedicated to art and culture. Over 300 artist display their gorgeous pieces and allow themselves to humbly brag about their hard work. This is where you can discover new artists, learn things about different cultures, and buy from local artists. It is an all-around good time.

Taste of Little Italy

Yearly, Little Italy features its great Italian restaurants, urging them to rub shoulders with new and old people. This is an opportunity to broaden your palette by trying new things from new restaurants, including desserts, dinner, appetizers, and cocktails. There are two routes to choose from 5pm to 9pm. I usually try to go to both routes and really nibble on everything that I can. It’s a lot of fun!

Little Italy Christmas Tree Lighting

During the Christmas season , the Little Italy community goes all out for decoration. Walking down the streets at night is lovely. A cold chill tickles your nose, the gentle chatter from establishments sing in your ears, and the delicious mingling of scents from the restaurants entices your taste buds.

However, the highlight of the season is the Christmas Tree lighting that occurs in early December. This is the kick-off of Christmas, and boy, does it put you in the mood. 

Little Italy San Diego is a neighborhood that has a lot of fun, low-key stuff to do. You’ll find charming restaurants, cute shops and boutiques, and a nice atmosphere that tourists and locals enjoy. Definitely add this cute neighborhood to your list of things to do in San Diego .

TRAVEL TIPS

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Booking.com will help you to book accommodation in advance and check availability

✈️Book your flight in advance

To find the cheapest flight options, you can use WayAway and find the most suitable option for you

🧾Get your tickets and tours

with Viator and GetYourGuide to get the most out of your journey

Ultimate Guide to Little Italy San Diego – Pin for later:

Last Updated on January 9, 2024 by Maria Haase

About Hedge Metreyeon

Hedge is a San Diego local and loves to share their top recommendations for the best restaurants and places to go, fun stuff to do in San Diego all year round, and the best secret spots this city has to offer.

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The Ultimate Guide to Little Italy, San Diego: Things to do, Restaurants, and Hotels

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

These are the best things to do in Little Italy, San Diego, from where to eat to the best places to stay.

Little Italy San Diego is having a moment. 

Not only is it the biggest Little Italy district in the U.S.A  (bigger than the Hollywood-famous one in New York), it’s booming. 

Locals and tourists alike flock to the neighborhood for delicious food, boutique shopping, and European-style plazas.

Whether you’re looking for a celebrity-chef restaurant experience, an authentic neighborhood pastiera, or fresh produce at the famous Saturday Farmer’s Market, food is a big part of life in Little Italy.

But it’s not the only reason to visit. Little Italy regularly holds summer events featuring live music, movies, and even a casino under the stars. 

The charming architecture, cobbled streets, and spacious plazas make this the perfect neighborhood for simply strolling around in the San Diego sunshine. Trendy boutiques and fine art galleries line tree-shaded streets.

I’ve covered all these fun things to do and more in this ultimate guide to San Diego ’s most historic neighborhood, Little Italy.

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Grab your FREE San Diego Travel Planner! You’ll get instant access to printable checklists for what to pack and what to see in San Diego, as well as a full travel itinerary and key local travel tips you should know.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Little Italy, San Diego

Sample the flavors at little italy food hall or top chef alley.

The Little Italy Food Hall is a vibrant gathering place in the heart of Little Italy, located at the Piazza della Famiglia. 

Featuring seven food stations, a donut cart, a full bar, and a patio, Little Italy Food Hall is the perfect spot to indulge in various cuisines.

Stop by for a snack and enjoy your food or drink under a shady umbrella on the 10,000-square-foot piazza. 

Be sure to return in the evening, where you’ll find music, dancing, and cocktail specials.

If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, head to bustling Kettner Boulevard, known as “Top Chef Alley” after several celebrity chefs opened restaurants along the street. 

Top Chef alums operating on Kettner Blvd include Brian Malarkey at Herb & Wood, Richard Blais at Juniper & Ivy, and The Crack Shack next door. 

Fans of Iron Chef America should check out Kettner Exchange, as executive chef Brian Redzikowski has been a competitor in the hardcore cooking contest.

Visit a Traditional Outdoor Market

The largest of San Diego’s Farmers’ Markets is Little Italy Mercato, which happens every Saturday, rain or shine. 

Visit from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for fresh produce, baked goods, local honey, and more. 

Aside from food, you can find vendors selling a variety of arts and crafts, so head to Little Italy Mercato if you’re looking for unique souvenirs from local artisans.

If you can’t make the Saturday market, you have another chance on Wednesdays when the market returns on a smaller scale, between 9.30 a.m. and 1.30 p.m.

Appreciate the Architecture at Our Lady of the Rosary Church

Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church is the spiritual center of San Diego’s Little Italy. 

Known as the Jewel of Little Italy, the fabulous architecture built by Italian immigrants was modeled after churches in Italy.

Everyone is welcome inside the historic church, which has beautiful stained glass windows, frescoes, and an ornate ceiling.

The church has been an essential part of the community since 1925 and recently underwent extensive restoration works in anticipation of its centennial in 2025.

Take a Stroll Along India Street

India Street is the main street of Little Italy, lined with Italian restaurants. 

An arch with the name of the district frames the gateway to India Street, decorated with colorful murals depicting the neighborhood’s Italian immigrant origins.

The Little Italy landmark sign is ideal for getting a photo before exploring the rest of the neighborhood.

While Kettner Boulevard boasts a slew of contemporary Little Italy restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs, India Street features old-fashioned Italian eateries like Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, where you can enjoy a classic Italian dining experience.

Enjoy Amici Park

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Erwin Chin (@erwin_chin_yk)

Amici Park is a beautiful gathering space featuring the historic Amici House, a dog park, bocce ball courts, and an amphitheater. 

If the farmer’s market is on, grab an ice cream and sit in Amici Park to listen to the live music.

While you’re there, check out the historic Amici House. This home originally belonged to Antonino Giacalone, one of the best fishermen in the 1920s, and his wife, Josephine.

The residence was originally between India Street and Columbia Street but was moved in 2014 to make way for the Piazza della Famiglia. 

The Amici House is now home to the non-profit organization Convivio Society for Italian Humanities, which promotes Italian art and culture in San Diego.

Check out the Art Galleries

Little Italy is not only known for its food but its talented local artists. 

If you’re in the mood for some Little Italy shopping, check out the dozen or so art galleries in the district, like the Mee Shim Fine Art Gallery located on India Street.

This gallery showcases works by South Korean artist Mee Shim, who works with narrative figurative art and surrealism.

Kettner Boulevard has its fair share of chic galleries, including The Blue Azul Collection and Adelman Fine Art,  perfect if you’re looking to bring a piece of Little Italy home with you.

Pay your Respects at the Firefighters Museum

The San Diego Fire Museum, a tribute to firefighters, is on Columbia Street in Little Italy. 

Inside the old fire station, you’ll find La Jolla’s first fire engine, a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, and 19th-century fire fighting memorabilia. 

Tickets cost $3, or $2 for children and seniors, and the museum is open from Thursday to Sunday.

Take the Kids to Nearby Waterfront Park

Kids will love playing in the spray fountains at San Diego Waterfront Park, a 12-acre open space facing the beautiful San Diego Bay. 

In addition to the water play, you’ll find six large lawns, reflecting pools, and an innovative children’s playground.

Go to an Event at the Italian Cultural Center of San Diego

The Italian Cultural Center of San Diego, founded in 1981, is a meeting place for people interested in learning about Italian culture and language.

The center often holds events, talks, and classes, so check out the Italian Cultural Center’s events page to see what’s on this month.

People Watch in one of the Squares

Like many European towns, San Diego’s Little Italy centers around plazas where people meet to enjoy food, drink, and socialize.

Sometimes the most interesting way to spend an afternoon is as simple as sitting back and watching the world go by.

Piazza della Famiglia

The largest square in the city, Piazza della Famiglia is 10,000 square feet of pedestrianized space along W. Date Street, between the intersections with India Street and Columbia Street.

Grab a drink or an ice cream from nearby Little Italy Food Hall and relax under a shady umbrella by the tiled fountain. 

This hub is also buzzing at night, so head here if you’re looking for a Little Italy wine bar or Little Italy Italian restaurants.

Piazza Basilone

Piazza Basilone is a small plaza off India Street on West Fir with seating and a globe fountain in the center.

This square (actually a tiled circle) honors John Basilone, the only Marine during the Second World War to receive the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross for his heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima. 

You can also pay tribute to other fallen heroes from the neighborhood here.

Fisherman’s Square

Fisherman’s Square, at the intersection of Kettner Boulevard and W. Fir Street, celebrates the Italian fishermen who built the Little Italy neighborhood. 

The fountain, where a fisherman statue raises his catch, is a pleasant place to rest while shopping.

Giannini Square

This little square between India Street and W. Cedar Street celebrates Amadeo Giannini, the Italian-American founder of the Bank of Italy.

His bank, when merged with another, became Bank of America. Like all the squares in Little Italy, restaurants and retail shops surround Giannini Square.

Take an Italian Food Tour or Wine Tour

Try a little of everything on a Little Italy San Diego food and wine tour . 

The Little Italy neighborhood is full of top restaurants, local gems, and markets, and the best way to explore them all is on a guided tour with a knowledgeable local.

Or combine a history walking tour with wine tasting in three locations. This cultural food and drink experience includes snacks.

Take a Hop-On, Hop-Off San Diego Trolley Tour

Hop-on, hop-off tours are the best way to find your way around a new city. 

With multiple stops throughout the city, this is an easy way to get to the San Diego Little Italy neighborhood from your accommodation or from downtown.

Grab a Drink at a Historic Tavern

The Waterfront, San Diego’s oldest bar, opened in 1933 after the repeal of prohibition. 

Back then, the tuna industry was booming, and the bar served fishermen celebrating a successful day on the water. 

Today, Waterfront Bar and Grill is a popular place for locals and tourists alike to grab a meal in the tiny tavern. It’s one of the best bars in Little Italy, so don’t miss it if you want to grab a drink.

Take a Free Walking Tour of Little Italy

Download a free self-guided tour of Little Italy and discover the history of this remarkable area, all the way back to the 19th century. 

The app is free to download on Apple’s App Store or Google Play . The tours are approximately one to one and a half miles long.

Best Restaurants in Little Italy

Buon appetito restaurant.

Address: 1609 India St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 238-9880

A little off the beaten track, this Italian restaurant offers a warm welcome in a relaxed, rustic setting. 

Don’t miss Buon Appetito Restaurant’s homemade meatballs in a tasty marinara sauce.

Waterfront Bar and Grill

Address: 2044 Kettner Blvd., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 232-9656

This historic tavern has been a hit for almost 100 years in its prime location on Kettner between W Hawthorne and W Grape Street. 

Party with the locals until 2 a.m., then turn up the following morning for a hearty breakfast burrito. 

It’s a bar–so over 21’s only–but if you can get through the door, the burgers at Waterfront Bar and Grill are delicious.

Davanti Enoteca

Address: 1655 India St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 237-9606

Make a reservation for this popular wine bar and restaurant where you can dine al fresco under romantic string lights on the back patio. 

At Davanti Enoteca, the service is warm, and the food is authentic Italian. Don’t skip the delightful flatbread, honeycomb, and cheese app.

Extraordinary Desserts

Address: 1430 Union St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 294-7001

This buzzy venue has lines out the door on weekends, with regulars patiently awaiting their pastry and caffeine hit. 

The dessert selection, which includes cookies, slices, bars, cheesecakes, and pies, can be overwhelming at Extraordinary Desserts, but it’s hard to go wrong. If in doubt, ask for the Shangri-La.

Filippi’s Pizza Grotto

Address: 1747 India St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 232-5094

If you’re looking for an old-school neighborhood pizzeria with delicious pies and friendly service, head straight for Filipi’s Pizza Grotto.

Address: 750 W Fir St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 501-0030

You’ll find a vast variety of hand-crafted pasta on the menu at Monello, served with fresh sauces in a Milanese style. 

The setting is pure Italian elegance, making this the perfect venue for a romantic meal.

Ironside Fish and Oyster

Address: 1654 India St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 269-3033

This seafood-centric restaurant sticks to a nautical theme throughout the trendy warehouse setting.

The menu varies depending on what local fishermen have caught that morning, but whatever is available at Ironside Fish and Oyster is reliably delicious.

If you’re hankering for a cold one afterward, pop across the street to Princess Pub for some British and Irish beers.

Juniper and Ivy

Address: 2228 Kettner Blvd., San Diego, CA Phone number: (858) 481-3666

Celebrity chef Richard Blais serves up creative modern American fare at this sophisticated warehouse restaurant on Kettner Boulevard. 

The menu frequently changes depending on what’s in season. 

For a more casual, family-friendly dining experience (or if you can’t get a table at Juniper and Ivy), you can head to the Crack Shack next door. 

The food is the same high quality, but the ambiance is more laid-back.

Herb and Wood

Address: 2210 Kettner Blvd., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 955-8495

Acclaimed chef Brian Malarkey brings a modern flair to classic Italian rustic cuisine at Herb and Wood. The menu keeps it simple and lets the ingredients shine.

Pappalecco 

Address: 1602 State St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 238-4590

Grab a creamy gelato or perfectly-poured espresso from Pappalecco, where the owners are passionate about Italian cafe culture. 

It’s worth visiting just to see the dazzling display of colorful gelato, and there are discounted wines at happy hour.

Ballast Point Brewing Little Italy

Address: 2215 India St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 255-7213

Ballast Point is a favorite for craft brew fans across the country, but the beer’s origins are in San Diego. 

Visit the tasting room at Little Italy for a flight and relax on the breeze-cooled patio with a beer and a burger.

Mona Lisa Italian Foods

Address: 2061 India St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 234-4893

Sit down for pizza or take away a flavor-packed sub for a picnic at Mona Lisa Italian Foods, a restaurant that doubles as a deli.

Isola Pizza Bar

Address: 1526 India St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 255-4230

Isola Pizza Bar is the place to get good pizza in Little Italy. You’ll find fresh flavors, Italian seasonings, and a perfectly charred crust here. 

The wine, beer, and cocktail lists are extensive, and bonus: Isola Pizza Bar has a happy hour.

Mimmo’s Italian Village

Address: 1743 India St., San Diego, CA Phone number: (619) 239-3710

This family-owned restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine, including homemade pasta. It’s usually busy but welcoming. 

On a sunny day, the enormous outdoor patio at Mimmo’s Italian Village is an idyllic place to sit and enjoy your meal.

Annual Events in Little Italy

Little Italy Summer Film Festival

Watch Italian films under the stars at the Amici Park Amphitheater in the summertime during the Little Italy Summer Film Festival. 

Bring snacks and be whisked away to Italy for the night through the magic of subtitled movies.

The festival takes place every Saturday night in July and August at 8 p.m. There is a $10 recommended donation.

Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert

Turn out for an afternoon of live music at the Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert, presented by the Little Italy Association of San Diego.

This annual concert featuring the 40-piece Marine Band, the Party Band, and the Jazz Band takes place in the Piazza della Famiglia at W. Date St. and India St.

Taste of Little Italy

For two nights in June, food lovers sample their way through 48-square blocks of Little Italy restaurants and bars during the popular Taste of Little Italy event. 

Over 20 restaurants participate in the two-day event, which starts at 4 p.m. and ends at 8 p.m.

Attendees receive a passport at check-in, which they can then use to take away a food sample from each stop. 

It could be a slice of delicious pizza, a mouth-watering tiramisu, or a half-pint of gelato. Seating is available at Piazza della Famiglia, which will also have music playing live.

Casino di Piazza

The newest event from the Little Italy Association is Casino di Piazza, which will be held annually in September.

The evening will feature Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette outdoors on the plaza.

The ticket price includes craft cocktails from the Little Italy Food Hall, light hors d’oeuvres, and live bands. 

Proceeds from the event go to the upkeep of the beautiful piazza, so your night out is for a good cause.

Where to Stay in Little Italy

La Pensione Hotel

Address: 606 West Date St., San Diego, CA 92101 Make reservations here

This cozy boutique hotel on W. Date Street is steps away from Piazza Famiglia and the restaurants on India Street.

Urban Boutique Hotel 

Address: 1654 Columbia St., San Diego, CA 92101 Make reservations here

Breakfast is included at this chic hotel on Columbia Street, located close to Piazza della Famiglia.

Hilton Garden Inn San Diego

Address: 2137 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101 Make reservations here

The Hilton Garden Inn is on Pacific Highway, two blocks away from Kettner Boulevard and three from India Street. 

This hotel has a 24-hour fitness center and a rooftop pool and is a wonderful place for families and couples.

Hampton Inn San Diego Downtown

Address : 1531 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101 Make reservations here

This comfortable hotel is conveniently located just on the edge of Little Italy, only four blocks from the farmers’ market. 

There’s a swimming pool, fitness center, and free breakfast available here.

Tips for Visiting Little Italy

Make reservations. The restaurants of Little Italy are popular with tourists and locals alike, so avoid disappointment by booking your chosen Little Italy restaurant in advance.

Little Italy parking can be tricky. 

One great place to park is Washington Elementary behind Amici Park, which opens up its lot to public parking after regular school hours at $10 per vehicle. All proceeds go right back to the school itself.

History of Little Italy

Little Italy San Diego has a rich history that spans from the 1920s to the present day. 

The booming fishing industry of the late 19th and early 20th century drew immigrants from the Italian homeland to the shores of San Diego.

At the peak of San Diego’s commercial tuna industry, 6,000 Italian families lived in America’s Finest City. 

Little Italy San Diego started to decline along with commercial fishing on the West Coast, and the destruction of 35% of the neighborhood for an interstate almost finished the historic district.

Fortunately, Little Italy San Diego has a strong community spirit, and the neighborhood rallied in the 1990s. 

Today, Little Italy is considered the gastronomic heart of San Diego, with dozens of acclaimed restaurants and San Diego’s biggest Farmer’s Market, held on Saturday mornings.

The Italian-American community of San Diego celebrates its culture and history with regular cultural events throughout the year, like the popular Taste of Italy Festival in the summer.

Residents continue to invest in the neighborhood with projects like Piazza della Famiglia, dedicated to the past, present, and future families of Little Italy.

How to Get to Little Italy 

Little Italy San Diego is in the northern part of Downtown San Diego, not far from Balboa Park. The glowing neon Little Italy sign on India Street anchors the district on its central strip.

Little Italy is 48 square blocks, bordered by West Laurel Street to the north, West Ash Street to the south, Front Street to the east, and the San Diego Bay to the west.

If you’re driving from the north on Interstate 5, take the Front St. exit for Little Italy. From the south, exit at Hawthorn St.

San Diego’s Little Italy is a ten-minute drive from the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park and 15 minutes from Old Town, and Seaworld is a 20-minute drive north. 

There are parking garages in Little Italy, or you can use metered street parking.

Public Transport

It’s easy to get around San Diego using public transport. 

You can take a bus or a tram (called the San Diego trolley) to explore the city quickly and cheaply. Little Italy has a station with services on the Blue Line and the Green Line.

The Amtrak San Diego station is three blocks south of Little Italy, so it’s a short walk or taxi to Little Italy hotels.

FAQs About Little Italy

Is Little Italy a good area in San Diego?

Little Italy San Diego is a great area to stay if you want to be within walking distance of some of San Diego’s best bars and restaurants.

It’s a safe, family-friendly neighborhood near the waterfront and a short drive from the theme parks.

Can you walk around Little Italy, San Diego?

Little Italy is very walkable, with pedestrianized squares and tree-lined streets.

Is Little Italy Worth Visiting?

Little Italy is worth visiting for its charming streets, deep-rooted history, and fantastic restaurants. 

If you can, go on Saturday or Wednesday morning to the Little Italy farmers’ markets or see if any Little Italy events are going on during your visit.

Why is it called Little Italy in San Diego?

The neighborhood became known as Little Italy because it was predominantly Italian fishermen and their families settling in the area in the 1920s.

There are Little Italy districts in other cities in the U.S.A, but San Diego has the largest.

How far is Gaslamp from Little Italy?

Gaslamp is another neighborhood in San Diego, just south of downtown San Diego. 

Gaslamp is a ten-minute drive from Little Italy, and both districts offer outstanding dining experiences, bars, and places to stay.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah McDonald

Sarah McDonald is a travel writer based in the Bay Area. She writes for the national parenting website Red Tricycle and on her own family travel blog, Tiny Trailblazers . She loves exploring California’s outdoors and has a weakness for a national park gift shop.

Sarah enjoys sharing her Bay Area expertise with readers curious to try popular restaurants and off-the-beaten-path adventures in California. When she’s not writing reviews and travel guides, you’ll likely find her trying to keep up with her kids on a hiking trail or deciphering the menu at a new restaurant.

Looking for more California city guides? Check out these related articles below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Bae Area and Beyond

27 Best Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego

Looking for the best things to do in Little Italy San Diego ? We spent half a day exploring this historic neighourhood and we got you covered with some pro tips! 

From tasty food tours to must-visit landmarks, we’ll tell you all about them and why you need to see them. This neighborhood has so much to offer, and we can’t wait to share it all with you!

Table Of Contents

Best Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego

1. go wine tasting with this walking tour .

Rated 4.5/5, take this guided walking tour in Little Italy. This 3-hour tour is a mix of wine tasting and history, perfect for those who enjoy good wine.

Visit 3 locations, trying one-of-a-kind wines from California and Italy. You’ll also get to taste Italian foods like pizza, and meatballs. The small group size ensures a friendly and personal experience.

It’s fun along with interesting information shared during the tour. The friendly host makes you feel welcome and appreciated. If you love great wine, this tour is a must-try!

2. Sample Food On This Taste of Little Italy Tour

Join this guided food tour , rated 5/5 with over 320 reviews. In 3.5 hours, explore a variety of restaurants and discover authentic options with the help of locals.

Navigating through these restaurants can be tricky, but this tour ensures you taste the best without worrying about tourist traps. Learn about the area’s architecture and history while sampling food.

3. Enjoy Food & Drinks On This Tour

If you also want to sample some drinks, book this 5/5 rated walking tour . The tour takes you through 4 local gems including well-recognized restaurants and breweries. You’ll be getting personalized experience as the tour limits it to 15 people and it’s hosted by a local.

Learn about the area’s history and, after the tour , ask your guide for insider tips on the best places to eat and drink in San Diego.

Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego

4. look for the little italy sign.

Nautically themed, the Little Italy Sign is a must-see landmark. It’s vibrant and illuminated, standing as a gateway to a street lined with Italian restaurants. 

This sign’s design pays homage to the immigrant community that historically shaped this area.

💡 Pro Tip: Take a moment to appreciate the mosaic tiles near the sign. These artworks detail the historical connection of the neighborhood with the bay, the local church, and Italy. 

The sign is more than a picturesque spot; it’s a testament to Little Italy’s cultural legacy and its ongoing transformation into a lively urban community.

This sign has been a backdrop for the 2006 Winter Olympic Opening and the FIFA World Cup festivities. The pillars of the sign even have plaques that recount these memorable events. 

5. Buy Fresh Produce At The Little Italy Mercato (Farmer’s Market) 

If you’re into fresh food and lively vibes, the Little Italy Farmer’s Market is your go-to spot. It’s not just any farmers market – we’re talking about the largest one in San Diego County! 

Every Saturday, from 8am- 2p.m and Wednesdays from 9:30am to 1:30pm, this place is full of activity with live music. Rain or shne.

The Saturday market is huge, stretching over 6 city blocks. You’ll be amazed by the selection – over 200 vendors! 

There’s everything from California-grown produce, eggs, meat, olive oil, bread to sauces, honey and flowers and much more. And don’t forget to check out the local artisans and gifts at each end of the market.

Plus, you’ll be supporting local farmers, makers and local agriculture and getting some of the freshest, tastiest stuff around.  

6. Add These Art Galleries To Your Itinerary

Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, visiting art galleries is a great way to spend an afternoon in Little Italy. Each one of these offers a different vibe and style, giving you a taste of the diverse art scene in Little Italy. And if you do plan to buy, you’re supporting local artists and their galleries!

🎨 Adelman Fine Art

Are you a fan of contemporary art? Adelman Fine Art is a feast for the eyes, bursting with bright colors and amazing textures. It’s like walking into a rainbow! They feature an incredible selection of works by local artists, each piece more unique and vibrant than the last.

🎨 The Chuck Jones Gallery

If you’re into animation, the Chuck Jones Gallery is all about celebrating the art of cartooning, and they specialize in works by Chuck Jones himself – the legend behind Bugs Bunny! This gallery offers a nostalgic journey through some of the most iconic cartoon characters. 

🎨 Mee Shim Fine Art

For something else unique, visit Mee Shim Fine Art . This gallery showcases some really distinctive and thought-provoking pieces. It’s a perfect spot for those who love to dive deep into the artistic process and appreciate the diverse expressions of creativity. 

7. Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church

If you’re exploring churches in San Diego, Our Lady of the Rosary is a must-visit. The attention to detail in these artworks is incredible. It’s like a visual journey through the religion’s history. 

The church has breathtaking paintings, and the stained glass windows depicting the mysteries of the rosary are just gorgeous. You’ll also find endless statues and even ceiling paintings that look like sculptures. 

💡 Pro Tip : Don’t stress about parking – lots of free parking spots.

They even offer an Italian Mass. Before heading out, check out the gift shop for some unique items.

8.  Piazza Della Famiglia

Visit the Piazza Della Famiglia , located right in the heart of Little Italy. This 10,000-square-foot European-style piazza has a beautiful tiled fountain. 

The cobblestone street is lined with tables and chairs, complete with umbrellas with restaurants surrounding you. Eat, drink, relax or just people-watch.

From farmers’ markets to concerts and cultural events, there’s always something happening here. 

💡 Pro Tip : Stop by on Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons – there might be live music going on.

9. Play Bocce Ball Or Take Your Dog To Amici Park

Amici Park consists of an amphitheater, bocce ball courts and a dog park. If you’re here during the summer, head to the Amici Park amphitheater during the Little Italy Summer Film Festival. You’ll be able watch Italian films under the stars every Saturday evening.

The bocce ball courts at Amici Park are open for everyone. If you’re new to bocce, learn how to play here or join the Little Italy Bocce Ball club team that plays on weekdays.

Take your dog to the Little Italy Dog Park . This park includes a grass lawn, a shade structure, a drinking water fountain for dogs and a small area for small dogs. It’s enclosed, safe and a favorite among the many dogs living in Little Italy. 

It’s open from sunrise to sunset every day, but it’s closed for deep cleaning on the 1st Tuesday of each month (until 10am). And it’s one of the cleanest dog parks in San Diego!

10. Appreciate Italian American History At The Amici House

Check out the Amici (Friend) House to learn more about Italian American culture. This historic house, originally the Giacalone family residence, has deep roots in the local Italian fishing community.

Antonino Giacalone, a renowned fisherman in the 1920s and 1930s, made his home here after arriving in San Diego in 1916.

Today, the Giacalone’s house has transformed into the Amici House and The Convivio Society for Italian Humanities.

This nonprofit organization dedicates itself to promoting Italian heritage, culture and arts in San Diego. Check out their indoor and outdoor spaces or participate in their many programs.

One of the highlights at Amici House is Caffè Caritàzza by Convivio, Little Italy’s only nonprofit café. Grab an espresso here!

💡 Pro Tip : When you visit Amici House, take a moment to appreciate its history and the role it plays in preserving and promoting Italian culture in San Diego. 

11. Shop For Authentic Products At Filippi’s Italian Market

Filippi’s Italian Market has a rich history that adds to its charm. When we walked in, you could tell that the place had all the products you might be looking for! The cash & carry store is connected to the restaurant behind the store. 

Vincent DePhilippis opened this Italian market in 1947. By 1950, it became the beginning of the now famous Filippi’s Pizza Grottos , run by the original family members for over 73 years! 

The bakery section is super cute with lots of choices. Whether you’re looking for cookies, cakes, or other sweet treats, they’ve got it all. The market is packed with imported foods, too.

You’ll find all sorts of Italian goodies here – meats, cheeses, wines, and more. And if you’re into making pizza at home, grab their fresh pizza dough – it’s straight from their kitchen!

12. Shop For Rare Items at Architectural Salvage of San Diego

If you’re into unique and vintage finds, you have to check out Architectural Salvage of San Diego . It’s not just a shop; it’s like a treasure hunt for anyone who loves rare and antique items. It’s San Diego’s go-to spot for period building materials. 

This place is a salvage specialist, which means their stock is always changing. You might find vintage hardware one day and rare lighting the next. Think of it as a museum where everything is for sale!

They have an incredible range of items – from vintage doorknobs and escutcheons (those are the decorative plates behind door handles) to stained art glass windows, and so much more.

💡 Pro Tip : Take your time browsing through the shop. Each item has its own story and character, perfect for adding a unique touch to your home or collection.

13. San Diego Fire Station Museum 

The San Diego Fire Station Museum is a hidden gem for all ages that’s definitely worth a visit. The museum is housed in the city’s oldest firehouse, Old Fire Station 6.

Built over a century ago, it now showcases an impressive collection of firefighting equipment and memorabilia dating back to the late 1800s. 

When you step inside, you’ll be surprised by the amount of historic content packed into this museum. From antique fire engines, alarms, hats, and hydrant molds, there’s so much to explore. 

Some things to check out: La Jolla’s very first fire engine, a horse-drawn steamer, and even a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.

The museum is open Thursday and Friday from 10am- 2pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm. Admission is affordable at $3 for adults and $2 for children and seniors.

💡 Pro Tip : Plan to spend a few hours here – there’s a lot to see, and you’ll want to take your time to really soak it all in. 

14. Spot These Historical Attractions 

Little Italy in San Diego is not just about great food and culture; it’s also home to some significant historical attractions: Piazza Basilone and Piazza Pescatore.

Piazza Basilone is a tribute to Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone and the “Boys That Never Came Home” from the 20th-century wars. Piazza Basilone is a permanent reminder of their sacrifices, celebrating their lives and GySgt Basilone’s extraordinary heroism. 

It proudly flies 4 flags – the American, Italian, Portuguese, and Mexican flags, representing the national origins of the “boys that never came home.” This piazza is also a gathering space for families, veterans, and special events. 

Piazza Pescatore honors the rich history of San Diego’s Little Italy and commemorates the tuna industry, which brought fame to the neighborhood in the 1970s and 1980s. The tuna industry played a huge role in shaping the community, and this piazza serves as a beautiful reminder of that era.

Things To Try In Little Italy San Diego

15. drink craft beer at bottlecraft little italy.

Recognized as San Diego’s Best Craft Beer Shop, Bottlecraft Little Italy is the go to spot if you love craft beer.

Check out their diverse selection of domestic and international craft beers. With 24 taps and tons of bottles to choose from, both for enjoying right there or taking home, the options are nearly endless. 

What sets Bottlecraft apart is not just its selection but also its atmosphere. The staff are super friendly and incredibly knowledgeable about craft beer. They’re passionate about helping you find that perfect brew.

Beyond beer, Bottlecraft also offers wine, cider, and kombucha, both on draft and in bottles. They have free WiFi, outdoor seating and it’s dog-friendly. 

💡 Pro Tip : Check out their gift cards and merchandise – perfect for any craft beer fan in your life.

16. Enjoy Some Italian Gelato at Pappalecco

For anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for Italian treats, Pappalecco in Little Italy is an absolute must-visit. This charming cafe offers more than just great coffee; it’s got some of the best Italian gelato in San Diego!

The gelato is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor. And their gelato variety is impressive, with both classic and unique flavors. The pistachio gelato is a standout, especially when paired with an espresso.

💡 Pro Tip : Try the Bourbon Pecan gelato. It’s a mix of bold bourbon flavor with the crunch of pecans.

17. Drink A Glass Of Italian Wine at Nonna

Enjoying a glass of wine at Nonna’s is like paying homage to the timeless traditions of Italian grandmothers and their love for family gatherings around good food and wine.

Nonna is more than just a restaurant; it’s a tribute to grandmothers everywhere and their deep passion for family and food. The Busalacchi family traditions shine through in every aspect of this charming spot. 

One of the highlights at Nonna’s is their impressive wine list. It’s like a tour of Italy in a glass – so many choices, and each one tells a story of regions, grapes, and traditional winemaking methods. 

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. The staff at Nonna’s are knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect wine to complement your meal or to enjoy on its own. 

Events In Little Italy San Diego

18. little italy tree lighting & christmas village.

The annual Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village event is a magical holiday experience. Picture a Christmas wonderland with 10-foot tall nutcrackers, festive songs, and 2 stunning Christmas trees – a 25-foot tree at Piazza della Famiglia and the shiny Aurora tree at Piazza Basilone. 

Created by Joshua Hubert, the 32ft Aurora tree changes colors based on sunlight and perspective.

Enjoy seasonal vendors, live music, treats, a traditional Italian tree lighting ceremony, and Santa’s return for Christmas wishes. The streets glow with Christmas lights, and the Christmas Village offers unique stocking stuffers and gifts from select vendors.

💡 Pro Tip : Plan your visit around the 1st week of December for this event. 

19. Taste of Little Italy

Save the dates – June 18 & 19, 2024 – for the Taste of Little Italy . 48 blocks of Little Italy’s best food and drinks. Sample different restaurants each evening. Check-in at Piazza della Famiglia, grab your Taste Passport, and start tasting.

If you prefer a sit-down experience, head to Piazza della Famiglia, where seating is available. Live music at both Piazza della Famiglia and Piazza Basilone adds to the lively atmosphere.

💡 Pro Tip : Stay updated by signing up for email notifications at [email protected].

20. Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert

Experience live music during the Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert at Piazza della Famiglia on July 27, 2024 at 7pm. This year will feature the talented group “Sound Strike.

21. Bella Vita Fest

If you love street art, head to Bella Vita Fest. The festival features 50+ chalk art paintings created live on the streets, live music, authentic Italian products, food and wines from 14 different regions of Italy. Visit bellavitafest.com for upcoming dates (yet to be announced).

22. San Diego Padres Italian Heritage Night

Join us for San Diego Padres Italian Heritage Night, a unique blend of baseball and cultural celebration. It’s a night filled with a baseball game with the San Diego Padres and cultural festivities to honor Italian heritage. Stay tuned for details for the Italian Heritage Night !

23. Mission Fed ArtWalk

For 40 years, Mission Fed ArtWalk has been a lively celebration of art in San Diego. See and buy different types of art, listen to live music and try hands-on art activities. Experience art’s impact on bringing communities together while supporting artists.

24. Labor Day Stickball Tournament

Save the date for the Labor Day Stickball Tournament taking place from August 31 to September 2, 2024 from 8am-5pm.Teams will be competing for The Jillie Trophy and the title of Stickball Champion in San Diego. Cheer for your favorite stickball team!

25. Trick-or-Treat on India Street

Get ready for this exciting Halloween event at Trick-or-Treat on India Street on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 3:30pm-7:30pm. Dress up in your favorite costumes and visit Little Italy businesses along India Street to ask for Halloween treats and candy. 

The Piazza della Famiglia will turn into the Nightmare Before Christmas, featuring a huge 13’ Jack Skellington and large pumpkin stacks for some spooky photo opportunities.

26. Casino di Piazza

If you’re a casino player, attend the Annual Casino di Piazza featuring light appetizers, craft cocktails, live music, and classic casino games like Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette. This year, it’s happening on Friday, August 23, 2024, from 7pm-11pm. 

Dress up in cocktail attire for this event where the Piazza transforms into gardens similar to those in Milan, Italy.

Casino di Piazza offers General and VIP admission, providing casino chips, cocktails, and more.Tickets are limited so make sure to book soon.

27. Small Business Season

Love supporting small businesses? Then stop by Little Italy for the Small Business Season . Stay tuned for this year’s details. Last year it was in the month of December. Support small boutiques and galleries throughout the month.

Discover one-of-a-kind items and take advantage of in-store specials and discounts. Some businesses will extend their hours on Saturdays to make your shopping even more convenient.

Final Thoughts – Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego

Little Italy San Diego is a dynamic neighborhood that offers a wide range of experiences, from enjoyable wine tasting walking tours to exploring historical landmarks and enjoying Italian cuisine. Next time you’re in San Diego, come to Little Italy and use our guide to explore this authentic neighborhood.

Living in the San Francisco Bay Area, Shreeyeh Rajan is the founder of Bae Area and Beyond, a California blog with over 45,000 monthly readers and featured in more than 25 sites.

With a love for California that runs deep, Shreeyeh and her husband explore the Golden State every chance they get, from the beaches in Santa Cruz to the hiking trails of Yosemite.

Through her blog, Shreeyeh hopes to inspire readers to fall in love with California just like she did.

LUXURY under BUDGET

15 Best Things to Do in Little Italy San Diego: A Local’s Guide!

If you’re looking for things to do in Little Italy San Diego, you’re at the right place! I’ve lived within walking distance of San Diego Little Italy for over a year, and I’m ready to share with you all the insider tips on what to do, where to eat, drink, and explore in this vibrant neighborhood!

From restaurants and bars to museums and farmer’s markets, there is something for everyone in San Diego’s Little Italy.

Don’t miss out on the Candlelights Concert when you’re visiting San Diego! Check price and availability here

Whether you’re looking for fun with the kids or a romantic date, you won’t be disappointed. This local guide will help you catch all the things you don’t want to miss during your visit, so let’s dive in!

Luxury under Budget aims at helping you get the best deals by maximizing the value of your time and money. My recommendations are based on first-hand experiences and a full analysis of costs vs. benefits. This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may get a small commission when you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. This helps support my blog and enables me to provide more free and helpful content . Now, let’s go get you that luxury travel while staying under the budget!

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Things to do in Little Italy San Diego

Located just north of the financial district in downtown, Little Italy is a charming historic neighborhood in San Diego that is known for its excellent restaurants, lively atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. The neighborhood gets its name from the large number of Italian immigrant families that settled in the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Today, Little Italy is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The Little Italy Arch Sign, located at the intersection of India Street and West Date Street, serves as the gateway to the neighborhood and is one of its most iconic landmarks.

1. Walk along India Street

If you find yourself in Little Italy San Diego, a stroll down India Street is a must. This street is lined with some of the best restaurants in the city. But Italian cuisine is not the only thing on offer – you can also find seafood, Mexican, and American fare.

In addition to its vibrant food scene, Little Italy is also home to a number of art galleries, live music events, and open-air markets. If you’re looking for something more sedate, take a seat at one of the sidewalk cafes along India Street and enjoy a glass of wine while watching people passing by.

2. Explore Little Italy’s Waterfront Park

San Diego’s waterfront is beautiful any time of year. As such, it has become a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. Not only is it a nice place to walk or run at any time of day or night, but it’s also got several great views that you can take advantage of.

The Waterfront Park is located right along San Diego’s beautiful harbor where you will find several antique ships that are now turned into museums. As you walk along the waterfront, you will find plenty of stunning spots for taking pictures.

You can also enhance your itinerary with a Harbor Cruise to enjoy fantastic views of the San Diego’s Skyline and Conorado Bridge. The two-hour tour is fully-narrated and you may be able to spot some of the harbor’s sea lions!

⛵ Check Price & Availability for San Diego Harbor Cruise

3. Visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego

The Maritime Museum of San Diego has one of the world’s biggest collections of vintage ships and historic vessels. With the exhibits aboard five ships and two submarines, the museum will take you back to a time when these beautiful boats were a vital part of trade and military expansion across America.

As part of the ticket, you will have the chance to explore the HMS Surprise, which was the star of the “Master and Commander” as well as the “Pirates of the Carribbean films”.

🎟️ Get Your Maritime Museum of San Diego Admission Ticket Here

4. Watch Planes Fly over Piazza Giannini

Piazza Giannini is a small square located at the intersection of India Street and West Cedar Street in Little Italy San Diego. The square is named for Amadeo Giannini, an Italian-American banker who founded the Bank of Italy, which later was merged and became the Bank of America. Piazza Giannini is hard to miss as there are a series of plaques dedicated to Amadeo Giannini’s life and work.

Around Piazza Giannini, you will find several restaurants and bars, but that’s not all. Because of its proximity to the San Diego International Airport, you will find plenty of airplanes flying over your head in the span of an hour. It’s mesmerizing to see how big the airplanes are at such a close range, so get your camera ready.

5. Sample Local Bites & Drinks at Little Italy Mercato Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, there are over 200 stands along W Date St from west of Kettner Blvd to Front Street that sell all kinds of local produce, flowers, and crafts. Some of the vendors serve food and drinks as well giving out samples, so don’t worry about coming with an empty stomach! It’s a fun spot and one of the best things to do in Little Italy San Diego for locals and tourists alike.

6. Check Out Happy Hours at Little Italy San Diego’s Restaurants

Little Italy is renowned for its food, and with good reason. The neighborhood is home to some of the best restaurants in the city, serving up authentic Italian cuisine that will please even the most discerning of palates.

If you find yourself in Little Italy San Diego between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM on weekdays, make sure to take advantage of happy hours. The goal is to both have fun and enjoy a meal at little cost – so eat and drink as much as you want!

There are many great happy hours all around Little Italy that are worth checking out, and you will often see the signs for “Happy Hour” outside the restaurants as you walk around. Here are some of my top picks:

• Davanti Enoteca : This is a rustic-chic wine bar and restaurant with a large patio. During happy hour from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, you can get food bites and drinks for as low as $6/item.
• Zinque : This is a hip restaurant with French-inspired dishes and small plates. Zinque ‘s happy hour is from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday. Wines and cocktails are on the pricier side, but you can get any flatbread for $9!
• Iron Fish & Oyster : Happy hour is from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM with $1 oyster and other small bites! What a great deal!

7. Try the Cute Animal Bao Buns at Harumama

Harumama is an Asian restaurant serving ramen, sushi, noodles and buns. Although I’m not a huge fan of their ramens, their animal character bao buns are delicious!

8. Attend Events in Little Italy San Diego

There are many events in Little Italy San Diego throughout the year, but especially during the warm summer months. Make sure to check out these events when you’re in the area:

• Little Italy Summer Film Festival : Every saturday from July 2nd to September 3rd, there will be movie screenings at the Amici Park Amphitheater (W. Date & State Streets). These classic Italian films, complete with English subtitles, will make you feel like you’re right there in Italy. Doors open at 7:30 PM and the movies start at 8:00 PM, so it might get chilly. Make sure to bring some blankets to keep warm and some snacks to enjoy! Admittance fee is $10 donation.
• Padres Italian Heritage Night is an event in July that celebrates the rich Italian heritage of the city. The Little Italy Association partner with San Diego Padres for a theme game to enhance fan experience. The event is held at Petco Park . When you purchase the tickets in advance, you will receive a limited edition commemorative San Diego Padres Italian Heritage Night hat.
• Trick or Treat on India Street: Trick-or-Treat on India Street is a Halloween tradition in Little Italy San Diego from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM on Friday before Halloween (October 28th, 2022). Little witches and monsters in their costumes will be able to stop at participating Little Italy businesses along India Street for Halloween treats and candies. The map of participating stores are at Piazza della Famiglia.
• The Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village is a holiday tradition that dates back to the early days of the neighborhood. Every year, starting from the first weekend of December, the neighborhood is decorated with Christmas lights. There will be a Christmas tree at Piazza Basilone another at Piazza della Famiglia. During the tree lighting ceremony (December 3rd in 2022 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM), there will be seasonal vendors, holiday treats, live music and entertainment!

9. Relax by the fountain at Piazza Della Famiglia

In Italy, the square is the main meeting place in the city. It’s no wonder, then, that the Italian inhabitants of San Diego wanted to bring the squares to their neighborhood. The way that San Diego is structured makes it impossible to build large squares, but there are a few small ones that became the pleasant outdoor meeting places for locals and tourists. Of all the squares here, Piazza Della Famiglia is the beating heart of Little Italy San Diego, and it’s hard to miss as you walk by the fountain on West Date St.

10. Get gelato from Little Italy Food Hall

Right by the fountain at Piazza Della Famiglia, there is the Little Italy Food Hall, where you can find plenty of food offerings, and of course, gelato! You can ask for samples before ordering, though I highly recommend the the Straciatella and Mocha flavors! Grab your gelato and sit by the fountain, you’ll have an ideal vantage point from which to watch passersby and soak up some local culture.

11. Stopping by Piazza Basilone

Piazza Basilone is one of the most iconic features of Little Italy San Diego. The large, tiled plaza is reminiscent of those found in Rome, and the central fountain with its flowing water globe is a sight to behold. The square is located at the intersection of India Street and West Fir Street, making it a highly visible and easily accessible landmark.

While the piazza itself is small, it packs a punch in terms of character and charm. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood or enjoying a cappuccino at one of the nearby cafes, a stop at Piazza Basilone is a must.

12. Visit Amici House & Park

The Amici House is a historic home located in Little Italy at 250 W Date St. The house, originally inhabited by the Giacalone family, was located between India St and Columbia St, but was moved in 2014 for the creation of Piazza della Famiglia.

Antonio Giacalone, who was of Sicilian origin, was considered one of the best fishermen in the 1920s and 1930s. The house is now owned by the City of San Diego and is used as a cultural center for events and programs.

13. Visit San Diego Firehouse Museum

Old Fire Station 6, which was built more than 100 years ago in San Diego’s Little Italy, has now become the San Diego Firehouse Museum. It is a unique and fascinating place, with an extensive collection of firefighting equipment and memorabilia dating back to the late 1800s. During your visit, you will also find La Jolla’s very first firetruck, a horse-drawn steamer and a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.

The Firehouse Museum is open Thursday & Friday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Saturday & Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission ticket is only $3/person, with a reduced price of $2 for children and seniors. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of firefighting in San Diego as the museum provides not only a rare glimpse into the past but also a fascinating look at the evolution of firefighting equipment and techniques.

14. Join Taste of Little Italy

Taste of Little Italy is a 3.5-hour walking tour that covers the rich history, culture, and architecture of the area. You’ll be accompanied by a highly trained guide who will share knowledge and insights on everything from pasta to pizzas as you taste samples at restaurants along the way. Make sure you come on an empty stomach, as the samples do add up to a hearty meal!

🍕 Secure your Spots for Taste of Little Italy in San Diego

15. Check out Small Wednesday Market

Similar to the Little Italy Mercato on Saturday, the Little Italy Wednesday Mercato (Small Wednesday Market) offers a selection of farm fresh produce, baked goods, food, drinks, as well as local arts and crafts.

The Little Italy Small Wednesday Market happens year-round and occupies three blocks on W. Date St. between Kettner Blvd. and State Street including the Piazza della Famiglia.

Things to do in Little Italy San Diego FAQs

❓ what is the best way to get to little italy.

Driving is the easiest way to get around San Diego, but finding parking may not be very easy in Little Italy. If you have difficulty finding parking, note that there tend to be more street metered parking spots towards the financial district in downtown, which is about 10-20 minutes walk from Little Italy.

Alternatively, you can use the San Diego Trolley to get around. San Diego Trolley is a vintage mode of transportation but it offers a convenient way to get around San Diego. The trolley connects the best attractions in San Diego Little Italy, Old Town State Park, Maritime Museum of San Diego, Embarcadero Marina, Seaport Village, Historic Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park, Balboa Park and Conorado. There is also live commentary on-board the trolley to help you learn more about the history and culture of each area.

🚎 Book San Diego Trolley Pass for 1 or 2 Days Here

❓How far is Little Italy San Diego from the beach?

You can easily walk to the Waterfront Park from Little Italy San Diego in a few minutes, but if you’re looking for a beach to swim or relax and soak up the sun, the best closest beach is Conorado Beach.

If you use the San Diego Trolley Pass , Coronado Beach is two stops before Little Italy (you can either get off at Hotel del Conorado, Curio Collection by Hilton or at Coronado/Orange Avenue). If you’re driving from Little Italy to San Diego, it takes about 10 minutes.

❓Is Little Italy considered Downtown San Diego?

Yes, Little Italy is considered part of Downtown San Diego. It is in close proximity to the San Diego International Airport, the waterfront, the Historic Gaslamp Quarter, and the Financial District.

❓Is Little Italy in Old Town San Diego?

Old Town San Diego is the oldest neighborhood in San Diego is about a 10-minute drive north of Little Italy San Diego. Some of the most notable attractions to visit in Old Town San Diego are the Historic State Park and Own Town Market.

❓Is Little Italy San Diego Safe at Night?

Little Italy is well-lit at night and the streets are lined with restaurants, shops, and businesses, so it’s generally safe to walk around Little San Diego at night.

❓What are the best hotels to stay in Little Italy San Diego?

If you’re looking for a place to stay overnight, there are plenty of hotels in Little Italy that fits all types of budgets from luxury to affordable stay. If you want to stay right in the heart of Little Italy San Diego, La Pensione Hotel on West Date Street is right next to India Street, across from the Little Italy Food Hall and the Piazza della Famiglia!

The Wrap-Up: Things to do in Little Italy San Diego

San Diego’s Little Italy is a bustling neighborhood known for its delicious food. From quick bites to hearty meals, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant community. But food isn’t the only reason why people flock to Little Italy. There are many activities and events in the area.

I hope this local guide has helped you find the best things to do in Little Italy that suit your taste! Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal or some cultural and historic experience, you will have a great time in Little Italy!

Here’s Your Summer Guide To San Diego’s Little Italy

Visit San Diego's Little Italy this summer, one of the most charming neighborhoods in the country!

Little Italy is one of San Diego’s most charming and historic neighborhoods!

San Diego’s Little Italy started out as a humble fishing community with predominantly Italian residents. It has now grown into the most quintessential San Diego neighborhood. Our not-so-little Little Italy covers more than 48 square blocks, making it the largest Little Italy in the country! You’ll find some of the most cuisines here, from celebrity chef restaurants to old-school favorites. As if that weren’t enough, San Diego’s Little Italy is ranked the best Little Italy in the country! So, please do us a favor and explore this lovely neighborhood! Oh, and you can’t leave without gelato! YUM!

But first…Coffee!

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Caffe Italia is a lovely and busy spot in the heart of Little Italy. It’s a family-owned cafe popular among locals and tourists alike. They have a fantastic espresso to start your day! You can also get great gelato and breakfast paninis.

Location: 1704 India Street

Little Italy Summer Film Festival

Little Italy is one of San Diego’s most iconic neighborhoods and a great spot to spend a summer day. Each year, the LittleItaly Association teams up with Cinema Little Italy to show fantastic Italian films at the Amici Park Amphitheater. The Festivals start on July 17 and runs through September 18! Admission is FREE, but $10 donations are accepted at the door. Screenings are on every Saturday night, so make sure to pack some snacks and a cozy blanket and enjoy the show! Doors open at 7:30 pm and the films start at 8 pm.

Location: Amici Park Amphitheater, 1660 Union St, San Diego

Amici House and Amici Park

The Amici House is a Little Italy gem! This historic building was once the home of the Giacalone family. It was located between India St and Columbia St; but was moved to make room for Piazza della Famiglia in 2014. Antonio Giacalone was one of the best fishermen in the 1920s and 1930s, and the community nicknamed him “Cadorna,” aka the “general” of the neighborhood. Today the Amici House is home to the Convivio Society for Italian Humanities. This non-profit organization promotes Italian art, culture, and heritage in San Diego. This is a perfect spot to learn all about the history of San Diego’s thriving Italian community.

Location: 250 W Date St.

Snack O’clock

Wicked Maine Lobster has the most delicious lobster rolls at Little Italy Food Hall. This mouthwatering treat is the ideal snack (or meal!) to hold you over as you explore the lovely Little Italy streets.

Location: 2820 Historic Decatur Rd

Little Italy Mercato

The Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market is a fantastic year-round outing idea. You can swing by every Saturday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm and every Wednesday from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm. The Saturday takes up six blocks, making it San Diego’s largest market! You’ll find farm fresh produce, nuts, and honey, as well as more delicious goods from California farmers. This is also a great spot to find unique artisan goods which make great gifts.

Location: 600 W Date St

Dinner and Drinks

Shibuya Nights is a stunning Japanese-inspired spot serving up vibrant sushi and delicious drinks. Their cherry blossom and graphic decor set the mood for a fun and memorable evening. They recently opened and have a fantastic Monday 12-dollar sushi roll deal! They don’t take reservations, so be sure to get there early. They open every night (except Sundays) at 6:00 pm.

Location: 1953 India St Level 2

Gelato Time!

During these sunny summer days, there’s nothing quite like gelato! Milkissimo gelato is an excellent small gelato shop run by the very popular owner Klaudio. His small business is known for its friendly service and excellent quality! You should try their Charcoal flavor.

Location: 16 40 Camino Del Rio

Pizza Please

Pizza in Little Italy is a no-brainer, and Landini’s is a must-visit! On any given day, they have a massive line outside the door which is always a great sign! You can either get a whole pizza or by the slice, which makes for a great lunch on-the-go option. Landini’s is also one of the few places in Little Italy that serves food late. They are open until 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays!

Location: 1827 India Street, San Diego

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A Guide to San Diego's Little Italy

Don’t know where to start exactly? Our handy guide to Little Italy is here to help. Read our guide and go for an adventure! Happy exploring!

October 07, 2021

A can’t-miss destination in America’s Finest City , Little Italy San Diego always exudes a sense of urban cool. The neighborhood’s main thoroughfare India Street is filled to the brim with lively cafes, chic boutiques, and a number of the city’s trendiest restaurants —getting lost here might just be the treat you’re looking for. Explore the neighborhood on foot and wander into gallery showrooms, the Fir Street cottages, and the wildly popular Mercato farmer’s market; wherever you end up going, Little Italy won’t disappoint you. 

Don’t know where to start exactly? Our handy guide to Little Italy is here to help. Happy exploring!

Stop One: Little Italy Mercato

When it comes to hidden gems in San Diego neighborhoods , Little Italy Mercato is definitely a goldmine. Open year-round, rain or shine, Little Italy Mercato is San Diego County’s largest, occupying five city blocks. Shop for farm-fresh produce, pastured eggs, poultry, meat, nuts, and honey from California farmers and try freshly baked goods from local food makers. There are also selected local artisans and gifts at each end of the market—come here for groceries (which is cheaper than supermarkets, might we add) and leave with shiny new trinkets you never thought you needed.

The vendors welcome any product questions you may have since it shows your interest in a craft they’ve spent years perfecting. And, best of all, if you happen to follow a certain diet, there are countless stands catering to your specific needs—you’ll find plenty of vegan and allergen-free products.

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Stop Two: Our Lady of the Rosary Church

Affectionately known as the "Jewel of Little Italy," Our Lady of the Rosary Church stands as a testament to dedication and community spirit since its consecration in 1925. This architectural marvel was primarily constructed by an industrious fisherman from Genoa, Italy, who, with the support of fellow immigrants from Portugal, crafted a landmark that embodies the essence of Little Italy in California. The church is a visual feast, decorated with exquisite paintings, murals, and captivating stained glass windows that bathe the interior in vibrant colors. Though it may be small, Our Lady of the Rosary Church showcases exceptional architectural prowess and is an essential visit for those exploring the area.

Stop Three: All the Shops 

Love and aesthetics .

Looking to up your hat game? The cozy Love and Aesthetics has exactly what you’re looking for. Located right on India Street, this cute corner store guarantees that you’re more fashionable upon exiting than when you came in. Whether you’re after home decor, jewelry, fragrances, gifts, or candles, Love and Aesthetics is a stone’s throw away from all the other Little Italy stores .

Looking for the perfect souvenir or gift? Make sure to drop by Vitreum on Fir Street. This distinctive gift shop is a treasure trove of fashionable home goods and ornamental pieces, boasting stylish vases and refined tea sets among its finds. With its array of one-of-a-kind items, you're bound to discover something special, even without a preconceived gift idea.

Atacama Surf Shop

Given San Diego's reputation as a premier surf destination globally, it's no surprise that the city is home to exceptional shops catering to surfing enthusiasts. For those passionate about surfing or keen on embracing surf culture, Atacama Surf Shop offers an impressive array of equipment and apparel. Who says you can't hit the waves in style?

Chrome Digital

A stunning piece of art can truly make a space feel complete. Nestled on Kettner Boulevard, Chrome Digital presents a captivating collection of fine art prints that can turn any house into a warmly inviting home. Beyond their existing artworks, Chrome Digital specializes in tailor-made printing and framing services, allowing you to bring your own cherished pieces to life in your living space. Looking to enhance your home's ambiance? Chrome Digital is your go-to destination.

Stroll Boutique

A haven for bohemian outfit construction, Stroll Boutique is India Street’s pride and joy. Offering a variety of bohemian-inspired women’s clothing and accessories, this Little Italy shop tends to your style like no other. Being chic and unique never goes out of style. 

Fall Plates from Little Italy Restaurants

Time to cozy up with your favorite fall beverages and wrap yourself in warm scarves because the restaurants in Little Italy are saying goodbye to summer and hello to autumn with their latest culinary creations, featuring the best of the season's produce. Even if the chill in the air is more of an urban legend in San Diego , it's still the perfect reason to enjoy the beauty of autumn leaves .

For those who firmly believe that starting the day right with a hearty breakfast is essential, Harbor Breakfast is your go-to spot. This place is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering mouth-watering options like the spicy shrimp diablo and decadent lobster benedict, all accompanied by fruit, hash browns, and a welcoming atmosphere. On the other hand, for those in a rush but still craving something delicious, Breakfast at Stephanie’s offers quick and tasty options like their energizing start-of-the-day burrito, refreshing acai bowl, or their famous mamacitas breakfast croissants.

For an unforgettable lunch experience, swing by Nolita Hall where you can savor the flavors of their wood-fired pizzas, or choose a lighter fare like the "dressed to kale" salad, featuring toasted almonds, local apples, and golden beets for a fresh twist. Looking for a customizable meal? Dive into the build-your-own pasta bowl at Bencotto for a truly personalized treat, but don't miss out on their spectacular cheese wheel pasta, perfectly swirled in a massive 60-pound Parmigiano Reggiano wheel.

Come dinner time, treat yourself to a Sicilian adventure at Rovino Rotisserie + Wine, where the menu boasts delightful flatbreads, pastas, and main dishes such as the pollo arrosto, lovingly prepared with fresh garlic, Italian herbs, olive oil, alongside roasted potatoes and steamed vegetables. If you're craving soul-warming dishes, Herb and Wood is your destination for comfort food with a twist, like their bucatini paired with wild boar, duck egg, pomodoro, and a hint of chili flakes.

To cap off your dining experience, indulge in the sweet creations at Extraordinary Desserts, where traditional favorites and innovative treats, such as the aloha pumpkin pie with its roasted pecan crust, promise to haunt your sweetest dreams with their decadence, complete with marshmallow coconut milk whipped cream and apple croissant pudding. And as Halloween approaches, don't hesitate to explore the seasonal delights at Salt and Straw, featuring chocolate gooey brownies or the whimsically eerie creepy crawler critters for a festive treat.

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Look No Further for Things to Do in Little Italy, San Diego

You don’t need to be Italian to enjoy all of the things to do in Little Italy, San Diego.

On top of the expected Italian food options, San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood is a food lover’s paradise .

As one of our favorite neighborhoods — we actually lived there for a year when we first moved to San Diego — Little Italy has so much to offer a San Diego visitor .

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

Exploring Little Italy, San Diego

Check out all the things you can see, eat and drink while you’re in one of San Diego’s most happening neighborhoods, along with travel tips for enjoying this vibrant community efficiently. It may not be Italy itself , but some of the food here in particular gets pretty darn close.

Little Italy is waiting, friends!

10 Fun Facts About Little Italy

Little Italy is a San Diego hot spot, for sure, but it’s also pretty interesting. Check out 10 fun facts about Little Italy that will impress any San Diegan, and learn a bit more about Little Italy, San Diego, history.

1. While there are pockets of more Italians around the United States, Little Italy in San Diego is the largest “Little Italy” in the country, stretching over 48 blocks.

2. Italians — and a number of Portuguese folks — first arrived to the neighborhood in the 19th century, looking for jobs in the tuna fishing industry. At that time, San Diego was the tuna capital of the West Coast .

3. Little Italy went through 30 years of decline following similar declines in the tuna industry.

4. The construction of Interstate 5, a project that ran right through the neighborhood, didn’t help matters either. More than a third of the neighborhood was destroyed to make way for the highway.

5. The neighborhood began to rebound in the 1990s, thanks to support from established residents and Little Italy’s business owners. Today, Little Italy is the oldest, continuous neighborhood business district in San Diego .

6. Little Italy is one of San Diego’s busiest urban neighborhoods, but it still feels like a walk in the park at times.

That’s intentional.

The trees in Little Italy are planted on the sidewalks about 10 walking strides apart. Try it out.

7. The flowers you’ll see while you’re there are planted intentionally, too, so that you’re likely to see something blooming during your visit no matter the time of year.

8. Bocce ball is a favorite Italian past time, so naturally, Little Italy has its own set of bocce ball courts in Amici Park.

9. For a glimpse into Little Italy’s religious heart, visit Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church. The rosary church is the first house of worship built in the neighborhood in 1925.

10. Little Italy boasts one of the oldest schools in San Diego: The Washington Elementary S.T.E.A.M. Magnet School. Children, particularly nerdy ones, are our future.

Go get ’em, mini scientists!

How to Get to Little Italy

You need to get to San Diego, first.

I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. school breaks), you should use  Skyscanner .

It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

To navigate San Diego, you’ll likely need to rent a car. It’s best then to just book a rental car from the airport using an aggregator like  Hotwire  or  Priceline .

Little Italy, as with most of San Diego, is accessed most easily by car, whether that’s your own or with rideshare.

Once you’re there, it’s quite walkable.

If you’re coming from somewhere on a trolley line, Little Italy is on the Green Line. For trolley timetables and additional information, visit the Metropolitan Transit System’s website.

How to Get Around Little Italy

Little Italy is a very walkable neighborhood . You’ll find a lot of activity on its main thoroughfare, India Street.

If you drove to Little Italy, street parking is available on the main and side streets throughout the neighborhood. Just make sure you’re reading any posted signs and paying meters, if parking spots are metered.

Additional parking is available in the neighborhood parking garages at 610 W. Ash Street, 1730 Columbia Street, and 1536 Kettner Boulevard.

Note: If you’re fancy or late for your dinner reservation, a number of eateries throughout the neighborhood offer valet parking .

If you want to get around on public transportation, in addition to the trolley, there are several bus lines that can connect you to Little Italy.

MTS buses 3, 11, 120, and 923 all pass through or near Little Italy. Route maps and schedules are available from the Metropolitan Transit System .

As with much of San Diego, Little Italy has been overrun by scooters, so that’s always an option to get from place to place while you’re exploring Little Italy.

Are you a visual person who loves maps? I made one for you of all the places I highlight in Little Italy below!

GIMME THAT LITTLE ITALY, SAN DIEGO, MAP!

Things to do in little italy, san diego.

What is there to do in Little Italy, San Diego? There’s plenty to do to fill up a day in Little Italy, from exploring sights along the bay to relaxing in Waterfront Park to eating the best Italian food in San Diego.

Check out my picks for what to do while in Little Italy, in no particular order.

Have an Italian food crawl.

What is Little Italy famous for? Little Italy is known for the best Italian food in San Diego.

If you’re feeling traditional, try Mona Lisa Italian Foods . If your tastes are more modern, try Monello Little Italy or Civico 1845 .

Have yourself an Italian food crawl with all of the offerings in the neighborhood, and then it’ll be time for a nap in the park.

Enjoy the green space at Waterfront Park.

Little Italy is close enough to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo to easily get your green space fix there.

If you don’t want to leave Little Italy, as you shouldn’t, Waterfront Park, a public space right on the harbor, is the best of Little Italy’s scenic side. It’s also host to some of the city’s best festivals, like the SoCal Taco Fest .

It’s a great place to have yourself a delightful picnic, with hidden gardens and ample green space to take a load off.

Fun fact: Little kids love to splash around in the water features, too, but I’ve seen some diaper explosions in there, so wouldn’t do so myself.

Imagine you’re in Italy at Piazza della Famiglia.

The Piazza della Famiglia is relatively new to Little Italy, as it’s only been open to visitors since 2018.

Modeled after the European variety, the piazza is 10,000 square feet of public space, complete with a beautiful fountain on the east side and cobblestoned walking paths.

This is the neighborhood’s gathering place, and a frequent spot for local festivals and events.

Educate yourself at the local museums.

Little Italy has two museums of note for visitors looking to do more than carb load.

The San Diego Firehouse Museum boasts related firehouse memorabilia dating back to the late 1800s.

One artifact of note is a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego , a collection of historic ships on the San Diego Bay, is where you can become one with the pirate within you.

The most impressive is the Star of India , an 1863 vessel that holds the title as the world’s oldest active sailing ship.

Admission fees depend on what you’re after, as the museum also hosts some on-board adventures, some of which are pirate-themed.

Take a self-guided walking tour.

Little Italy was made for walkability.

No, really. It was in the city plans.

The best way to experience the neighborhood then is on your feet on your San Diego vacation, and to be your own guide. Pay attention to not only the adorable boutique shops but the little things along the way, as there are markers throughout Little Italy to note its historic past.

If you need some hints, here’s a few.

• Fancy a glass of wine? M Winehouse , a fun stop on its own, has actually been around since 1888, when it was the A.W. Pray House.
• Fancy macaroni? Well, you won’t get any here, but the sidewalk outside of the Hyde Edwards Salon and Spa is marked in honor of the site’s former tenants, the San Diego Macaroni Factory.
• Spy the imprinted ring on the sidewalk of Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, but keep on walkin’. The pizza’s just OK.
• Walking past Mimmo’s Italian Village, make sure to notice the sausage stuffer on the outside patio. It’s the original tool with which the sausage was made there in 1968.
• Finally, there’s that Little Italy sign. It’s not secret by any means, but if you look at the mosaic tile around it, you’ll see the story of the neighborhood.

Little Italy, San Diego, Bars

Most of my San Diego itineraries include a stop (or two) at a local bar or brewery at some point.

Here are my picks for where to drink in Little Italy, San Diego.

Ballast Point Brewing Little Italy

Ballast Point Brewing has changed hands multiple time in the last few years, and they’re most recently under the Illinois-based Kings & Convicts Brewing Co., which is interesting.

Despite the changes, they remain an institution on the craft beer scene in San Diego, and are well-worth a visit.

The food there is decent, too.

Ballast Point has another huge San Diego location in Miramar, alongside additional spots in Anaheim, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

Bolt Brewery

Bolt Brewery claims it was the first craft brewery in these parts. They actually opened their first brewery in 1987, but then closed shop two years later, returning again with a new location in La Mesa, their flagship, after decades away.

They have an extensive pub food menu as well, but I haven’t eaten there, so do with that what you will.

Bottlecraft

This is the bottle shop’s original location, and in addition to taking home some unique brews and wine, you can also drink whatever you purchase there, on top of what they have on draft that day.

The staff at Bottlecraft is very knowledgeable and friendly, and will give you all kinds of recommendations if you’re interested based on your preferred tastes.

There are additional locations in and around San Diego in North Park , Liberty Station, Solana Beach, Sorrento Valley, with additional locations further afield in Virginia Beach and Long Beach.

Carruth Cellars Wine Garden

Carruth Cellars is an urban winery and tasting room with grapes sourced predominantly from Northern and Central California. You can order a build-your-own charcuterie board to go along with your wine tasting, which is always delightful.

They have additional locations Carlsbad and Solana Beach.

Craft & Commerce

Craft & Commerce recently underwent a big remodel, but they’ve retained their slightly odd vibes. Come for the fun cocktails — the Lay Lady Lay and Brokedown Palace are noteworthy — and stay for their inventive food menu.

Don’t miss their fancied up onion rings. Reservations are available on the restaurant’s website .

Yes, this one is at the same address as Craft & Commerce. That’s because it’s a tiki bar hidden speakeasy-style inside a water cooler at Craft & Commerce.

Get yourself those fancy umbrella drinks, people.

Reservations are strongly encouraged at False Idol , and available on their website.

Kettner Exchange

The Kettner Exchange has a full menu, including an inventive brunch — their chef, Brian Redzikowski, has competed on Iron Chef America — but I’m including it here for its rooftop cocktail party vibes.

Their drink list features the expected fun cocktail names, like the gin favorite Stalk Dirty To Me or the tequila-based Dirty Verde . Reservations are available online .

M Winehouse

I’ve already mentioned M Winehouse as a stop for both wine lovers and history buffs. The wine bar is a great place for some wine from around the world, alongside a delicious cheese board.

They also claim to have the best sangria in Little Italy, if that’s what you’re after. Reservations aren’t necessary unless you’re traveling in a group of five or more. They’re available online .

Nolita Hall

Nolita Hall has a full menu of yummy snacks and wood-fired pizza, but this beer hall’s cocktail  program is what I’m after. Order something off of their effervescent menu if you’re celebrating something, or you just like bubbles.

Their Nolita Ginger Mule is a good place to start. If you’re dining in, reservations are recommended and available online .

Waterfront Bar & Grill

I’m not sure whether this is verified in any official capacity, but the Waterfront Bar is known as San Diego’s oldest tavern. It’s a budget-friendly divey sort of place, with the usual pub food on the menu.

They also open at 6am, so they’re there when you need them.

Little Italy, San Diego, Restaurants

Little Italy is a foodie destination for both visitors and San Diegans. Here are my top picks for where to eat in Little Italy.

Barbusa offers up modern takes on traditional Sicilian cuisine. Highlights on their handmade pasta menu include a spaghettini with crab and rosa sauce and a gnocchi dish in black truffle oil.

Reservations are recommended and available on the restaurant website.

Bencotto is in the same family as Monello, my preferred Italian spot on this list, but it really is just a personal preference. Try their homemade pastas, made fresh daily, and decide for yourself.

Born & Raised

Born & Raised is a special occasion type of place, unless you’re there for their amazing happy hour, in which case please order two of their fancy Slim Jims. We were lucky enough to dine there as a treat from our traveling buddies.

If you have friends who are that generous or just enjoy a steakhouse from time to time, do go. Choose one of their classic meat cuts, with the table-side Caesar salad. Reservations are expected and available online .

Buon Appetito

My local friend would be peeved if I didn’t include this Italian eatery on the list.

The portions are hearty and the service is friendly. You can’t go wrong with any specials they’re offering the night of your visit, or the arancini to start.

If you don’t know what that is, it’s basically a fried risotto and cheese ball. Yep, delicious.

Civico 1845

Civico 1845 is a modern Italian eatery with twists on what you’d consider classics in Italian cuisine, using local ingredients whenever possible. The head chef comes from Positano, Italy, and the owner is from Cosenza, Italy.

The Italian roots are strong with this one.

Reservations are available online for Sun-Thurs.

Cloak & Petal

Cloak & Petal is one of those see-and-be-seen kind of places, a little bit of edge, a stellar cocktail menu, and delicious Japanese-inspired bites.

Start with their gyoza and follow that up with a few of their specialty rolls. Their La Jolla roll is big on spice and flavor.

Reservations are recommended and available online .

The Crack Shack

When Richard Blais wants to open a fried chicken shack, you let him. This is the celebrity chef’s ode to all things chicken, and it is SO good.

The setup of The Crack Shack is also just fun. There’s a giant rooster beckoning you inside, and I usually listen.

Whatever you order, whether it’s chicken and sides or one of their chicken sandwiches, don’t forget the chicken oysters and the biscuits.

Fun fact: Chicken oysters are the two small, oyster-shaped pieces of dark meat on either side of a chicken’s backbone.

This one’s the original, but there are additional locations in Encinitas, Costa Mesa, Los Angeles, Pasadena, and Las Vegas.

No reservations here, but service moves quickly; stand in line like everybody else!

Davanti Enoteca

Davanti Enoteca is a popular spot for patio dining, a lively wine bar, and a menu of Italian classics. If you have at least eight friends with you, you can ask for Table 80, which sits in the restaurant’s secret dining room.

If this place sounds familiar, there is an additional location in Del Mar, along with two Illinois locations, in Western Springs and Chicago, my hometown.

Reservations on the restaurant’s website.

Extraordinary Desserts

Extraordinary Desserts is where you go when you’ve left room for dessert after dinner. They have all kinds of lunchtime toasts and charcuterie-type snacks that I’m typically all over, but the stars of the show here are the oh-so-pretty sweets.

If they have a fresh carrot cake going, go for that. Their version comes with all kinds of dried fruit bites that add intrigue to this classic.

Farmer’s Table

Farmer’s Table is a farm-to-fork eatery with excellent views of any happenings on the Piazza della Famiglia. Come in for brunch and some of the most intense Bloody Marys you’ll find in the city, or some of that grilled octopus featured in the photo above.

There are additional locations in La Mesa and Bay Park if you find yourself closer to those.

Reservations are recommended and available on the eatery’s website.

Frost Me Cafe & Bakery

Even the cupcake traditionalists among you will develop a thing for the sweet treats at Frost Me . If you’re lucky, they’ll have a fresh batch of lemon lavender blueberry cupcakes waiting for you when you arrive.

The cafe also serves up breakfast sandwiches, salads, and light lunches if you’re a local in need for some midday sustenance.

Harumama Noodles & Buns

They do indeed serve up delicious noodles and buns at Harumama , some in cartoon animal shapes. They also have ramen, sushi, and all kinds of fun sides, in addition to beer and sake.

You’ll find additional locations in La Jolla and Carlsbad. Happy hour is 3-6pm Mon-Thurs.

Herb & Wood

Herb & Wood was celebrity chef Brian Malarkey’s first San Diego restaurant, and it remains a solid option for special occasion dining. The menu’s seasonal, so expect a different experience on every visit. Their brunch is special too, served from 10am-2pm every Sunday.

Ironside Fish & Oyster Bar

Oh, hello there , delicious lobster roll. I’m not into oysters, but if you are, they offer them for a buck apiece at happy hour, 3-6pm Mon-Fri.

Luckily, Ironside has all kinds of other fishy delights, including the aforementioned lobster roll. The ambiance is fantastic, too. Reservations aren’t necessary, but available online via OpenTable .

Isola Pizza Bar

In my opinion, Isola is the best pizza in Little Italy, San Diego, and the second pizza place we ever tried in San Diego proper.

Try the prosciutto e arugula pizza and tell me I’m wrong.

There’s another location in La Jolla if you’re in those parts. Reservations aren’t necessary, but available on the pizza shop’s website .

Juniper & Ivy

Juniper & Ivy is my favorite restaurant in all of San Diego, and certainly one of the best restaurants in Little Italy, San Diego.

I’d call it fine dining, but prices are more reasonable than you might expect for the kind of food Chef Richard Blais is serving up. Yes, I’m talking about the celebrity chef again.

We always get something fancy off of their seasonal menu and then the not-so-secret off-menu item, the “In-n-Haute” burger. It’s a play on that burger, and it’s awesome.

Reservations are recommended at this one, located not on Juniper Street but Kettner Boulevard, and available via Open Table .

Little Italy Food Hall

The Little Italy Food Hall is the neighborhood’s freshest gathering place, with six food stations serving up Italian staples like Milanese cuisine and gelato, but also tacos, lobster rolls, and good vibes.

Yes, I went there.

There’s truly something for everyone there alongside some of the best food in Little Italy, San Diego. If you really can’t decide, Wicked Maine Lobster serves up mac ‘n cheese in a bread bowl, with lobster on top.

The Lion’s Share

Approaching the harbor south of Little Italy, The Lion’s Share boasts a different kind of menu than the Italian-heavy offerings in these parts. The focus here is on exotic meats.

I’m talkin’ crispy pig ears, venison, and braised boar to complete a very fun cocktail menu with all the vodka, tequila, etc. you could handle.

Mona Lisa Italian Foods

Mona Lisa Italian Foods has been operating in Little Italy since 1973, feeding all of those hungry fishermen at the time with their traditional Italian goods.

This is a great spot to pick up some fixings for that picnic lunch you’re about to have at Waterfront Park, as their sandwiches are huge and just a really good time.

I haven’t eaten at their restaurant, favoring the deli for quick stops, but they also serve up pizzas and pastas you’d expect in a homey Italian eatery.

Monello is one of my favorite Italian eateries in Little Italy, and with the wealth of options there, that’s saying something.

It’s the sister restaurant to Bencotto , also on this list, but I have to be honest and just leave this here: squid ink pasta.

Also, if you’re there on a Wednesday, they serve a weekly special that I’m alarmed I haven’t tried: cheese wheel pasta.

What the heck??

Reservations are recommended and available on the restaurant’s website .

Morning Glory

Morning Glory is an adorable, airy breakfast spot that serves the usuals, like Belgian waffles and classic flapjacks, and the more unique, like leftover-bread pudding and their Morning Glory fried rice.

If anything, visit their website for a laugh.

They do not take reservations, so get there early if you’re someone who gets hangry.

Queenstown Public House

We were frequent visitors to Queenstown when we lived in Little Italy, but as they have a similar restaurant by the same name on 30th Street in North Park — Dunedin New Zealand Eats — we’ve survived.

They have a great happy hour from 3-6pm Mon-Fri that includes their slider menu, which are mini versions of burgers on their dinner menu, for $4/each.

Try the lamb burger slider, complete with blue cheese crumbles and mint jelly, or just have the regular-sized burger. Yum!

Reservations are available online .

RoVino Rotisserie & Wine

Have you ever had a craving for some Italian food that coincided with a craving for rotisserie chicken? RoVino has answered your prayers with this chicken, pasta and wine spot.

This spot’s been gaining all kinds of accolades since it came onto the scene, so just go already. They have a stellar daily happy hour from 3-6pm, too.

Reservations are available via OpenTable .

Salt & Straw

Salt & Straw is a hipster ice cream shop to the max, but that doesn’t mean the scoops here aren’t delicious. I’m not even all that into sweets, but have been known to house a full pint of their sea salt with caramel ribbons.

They always have a number of vegan options available, too, with all of the flavor of their full-dairy ice creams. There’s another location up in Del Mar if you find yourself there.

If you’re looking for Asian noodles over the Italian variety, Underbelly is a great option for ramen, small bites, and bao buns. Whatever you do, try the fried chicken bao buns. They’re delicious!

There’s another location in North Park, as well. No reservations here, but there’s not usually a long wait.

Little Italy, San Diego, Events

You may want to plan your visit to Little Italy around some of their regular events, or you may want to avoid them if you don’t like crowds or want to make parking easier along the main drags, including Grape Street.

Check out some regular Little Italy, San Diego, events below!

Labor Day Stickball Tournament

It doesn’t sound like it should be a big deal, but Little Italy’s Labor Day Stickball Tournament is, in fact, a big deal when it comes to annual traditions in the neighborhood.

Teams compete for something called the Jillie Trophy, but the real fun is amongst the spectators. People. Get. Rowdy. Check out the website for information on street closures for the event.

Little Italy Mercato

The Little Italy Mercato , or the Little Italy farmers market, is one of the best in the city. It’s also part of the fabric of the city as a place for locals to mingle with visitors and support small businesses.

More than 200 vendors with everything from fresh flowers to organic veggies to sea urchin line West Date Street from Kettner Boulevard to Front Street every Saturday.

Live music is also usually happening in some form while you’re sampling all of the yummy wares. Hours are 8am-2pm on Saturdays.

Little Italy Wednesday Market

Demand is so high for all of those fresh ingredients that Little Italy is able to sustain two farmers’ markets now, with its addition of the Little Italy Wednesday Market .

This farmers market in Little Italy, San Diego, is also held on West Date Street in abbreviated form, from Kettner Boulevard to State Street. It’s billed as the market where chefs shop, but I promise that you’re still welcome there.

Hours are 9am-1:30pm every Wednesday.

Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert

The Piazza della Famiglia is the new host to an annual tradition in Little Italy: the Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert .

Visitors are treated to more than military standards; this marine band does the latest pop songs, too.

Note: If you’re interested in having some dinner while you listen, make sure you get reservations ahead of time, as it’s a popular local event.

Taste of Little Italy

If you want to get an overview of all the delicious things Little Italy has on hand to eat (and drink!), the Taste of Little Italy every summer is a great way to do that.

There are so many options there that you need to choose between two routes, a north or south, before you embark on your food journey. For ticket information, visit the event’s website.

Little Italy, San Diego, Hotels

Is Little Italy, San Diego, safe? San Diego is generally one of the safest larger cities in the United States. As with everywhere else, don’t flash your valuables like you’re some celebrity and you’ll be fine. Keep a little extra caution when it’s late at night and folks around you have been indulging in some libations.

OK, tell me about Little Italy, San Diego, hotels then.

I’ve done some research for you regardless in terms of well-reviewed options for accommodations in and around Little Italy. Check out the best hotels in Little Italy below:

• Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection By Hilton
• Found Hotel San Diego
• Hampton Inn San Diego Downtown
• Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside
• Urban Boutique Hotel

If you’d like to do your own research, we primarily use Booking.com for our bookings, as the more you book with them, the more you save. I’ll usually cross-check that with the same (or similar) listings on Hotels.com , to make sure I’m getting the best price.

If you’re looking for something more apartment-style, check out these vacation rentals from Vrbo :

• Contemporary Urban Escape
• Historic Gem in the Heart of Little Italy
• Little Italy Loft With Views
• Modern Luxury Condo
• Top Floor Unit With Skyline Views

I feel like this was pretty thorough, but if I missed your favorite Little Italy, San Diego, spot, let me know all about it in the comments!

Planning a California trip? Check out this guide!

Photo credits: rodeno (5)

Ready for San Diego?

Your Flight:  I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. school breaks), you should use  Skyscanner .

Your Accommodations:  I recommend  Booking.com  and Hotels.com as your main option for accommodations in San Diego, and Vrbo as an Airbnb alternative.

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Scroll on up for my picks on where to stay in Little Italy!

Etc.:  For general travel goodies, visit my  Favorite Things  page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my  Travel Tools  page.

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• The Best Polish Food Options in San Diego
• A Guide to San Diego’s Top Breweries

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27 Best Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego

L ooking for the best things to do in Little Italy San Diego ? We spent half a day exploring this historic neighourhood and we got you covered with some pro tips! 

From tasty food tours to must-visit landmarks, we’ll tell you all about them and why you need to see them. This neighborhood has so much to offer, and we can’t wait to share it all with you!

Best Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego

1. go wine tasting with this walking tour .

Rated 4.5/5, take this guided walking tour in Little Italy. This 3-hour tour is a mix of wine tasting and history, perfect for those who enjoy good wine.

Visit 3 locations, trying one-of-a-kind wines from California and Italy. You’ll also get to taste Italian foods like pizza, and meatballs. The small group size ensures a friendly and personal experience.

It’s fun along with interesting information shared during the tour. The friendly host makes you feel welcome and appreciated. If you love great wine, this tour is a must-try!

2. Sample Food On This Taste of Little Italy Tour

Join this guided food tour , rated 5/5 with over 320 reviews. In 3.5 hours, explore a variety of restaurants and discover authentic options with the help of locals.

Navigating through these restaurants can be tricky, but this tour ensures you taste the best without worrying about tourist traps. Learn about the area’s architecture and history while sampling food.

3. Enjoy Food & Drinks On This Tour

If you also want to sample some drinks, book this 5/5 rated walking tour . The tour takes you through 4 local gems including well-recognized restaurants and breweries. You’ll be getting personalized experience as the tour limits it to 15 people and it’s hosted by a local.

Learn about the area’s history and, after the tour , ask your guide for insider tips on the best places to eat and drink in San Diego.

4. Look For The Little Italy Sign

Nautically themed, the Little Italy Sign is a must-see landmark. It’s vibrant and illuminated, standing as a gateway to a street lined with Italian restaurants. 

This sign’s design pays homage to the immigrant community that historically shaped this area.

Pro Tip: Take a moment to appreciate the mosaic tiles near the sign. These artworks detail the historical connection of the neighborhood with the bay, the local church, and Italy. 

The sign is more than a picturesque spot; it’s a testament to Little Italy’s cultural legacy and its ongoing transformation into a lively urban community.

This sign has been a backdrop for the 2006 Winter Olympic Opening and the FIFA World Cup festivities. The pillars of the sign even have plaques that recount these memorable events. 

5. Buy Fresh Produce At The Little Italy Mercato (Farmer’s Market) 

If you’re into fresh food and lively vibes, the Little Italy Farmer’s Market is your go-to spot. It’s not just any farmers market – we’re talking about the largest one in San Diego County! 

Every Saturday, from 8am- 2p.m and Wednesdays from 9:30am to 1:30pm, this place is full of activity with live music. Rain or shne.

The Saturday market is huge, stretching over 6 city blocks. You’ll be amazed by the selection – over 200 vendors! 

There’s everything from California-grown produce, eggs, meat, olive oil, bread to sauces, honey and flowers and much more. And don’t forget to check out the local artisans and gifts at each end of the market.

Plus, you’ll be supporting local farmers, makers and local agriculture and getting some of the freshest, tastiest stuff around.  

6. Add These Art Galleries To Your Itinerary

Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, visiting art galleries is a great way to spend an afternoon in Little Italy. Each one of these offers a different vibe and style, giving you a taste of the diverse art scene in Little Italy. And if you do plan to buy, you’re supporting local artists and their galleries!

Adelman Fine Art

Are you a fan of contemporary art? Adelman Fine Art is a feast for the eyes, bursting with bright colors and amazing textures. It’s like walking into a rainbow! They feature an incredible selection of works by local artists, each piece more unique and vibrant than the last.

The Chuck Jones Gallery

If you’re into animation, the Chuck Jones Gallery is all about celebrating the art of cartooning, and they specialize in works by Chuck Jones himself – the legend behind Bugs Bunny! This gallery offers a nostalgic journey through some of the most iconic cartoon characters. 

Mee Shim Fine Art

For something else unique, visit Mee Shim Fine Art . This gallery showcases some really distinctive and thought-provoking pieces. It’s a perfect spot for those who love to dive deep into the artistic process and appreciate the diverse expressions of creativity. 

7. Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church

If you’re exploring churches in San Diego, Our Lady of the Rosary is a must-visit. The attention to detail in these artworks is incredible. It’s like a visual journey through the religion’s history. 

The church has breathtaking paintings, and the stained glass windows depicting the mysteries of the rosary are just gorgeous. You’ll also find endless statues and even ceiling paintings that look like sculptures. 

Pro Tip : Don’t stress about parking – lots of free parking spots.

They even offer an Italian Mass. Before heading out, check out the gift shop for some unique items.

8.  Piazza Della Famiglia

Visit the Piazza Della Famiglia , located right in the heart of Little Italy. This 10,000-square-foot European-style piazza has a beautiful tiled fountain. 

The cobblestone street is lined with tables and chairs, complete with umbrellas with restaurants surrounding you. Eat, drink, relax or just people-watch.

From farmers’ markets to concerts and cultural events, there’s always something happening here. 

Pro Tip : Stop by on Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons – there might be live music going on.

9. Play Bocce Ball Or Take Your Dog To Amici Park

Amici Park consists of an amphitheater, bocce ball courts and a dog park. If you’re here during the summer, head to the Amici Park amphitheater during the Little Italy Summer Film Festival. You’ll be able watch Italian films under the stars every Saturday evening.

The bocce ball courts at Amici Park are open for everyone. If you’re new to bocce, learn how to play here or join the Little Italy Bocce Ball club team that plays on weekdays.

Take your dog to the Little Italy Dog Park . This park includes a grass lawn, a shade structure, a drinking water fountain for dogs and a small area for small dogs. It’s enclosed, safe and a favorite among the many dogs living in Little Italy. 

It’s open from sunrise to sunset every day, but it’s closed for deep cleaning on the 1st Tuesday of each month (until 10am). And it’s one of the cleanest dog parks in San Diego!

10. Appreciate Italian American History At The Amici House

Check out the Amici (Friend) House to learn more about Italian American culture. This historic house, originally the Giacalone family residence, has deep roots in the local Italian fishing community.

Antonino Giacalone, a renowned fisherman in the 1920s and 1930s, made his home here after arriving in San Diego in 1916.

Today, the Giacalone’s house has transformed into the Amici House and The Convivio Society for Italian Humanities.

This nonprofit organization dedicates itself to promoting Italian heritage, culture and arts in San Diego. Check out their indoor and outdoor spaces or participate in their many programs.

One of the highlights at Amici House is Caffè Caritàzza by Convivio, Little Italy’s only nonprofit café. Grab an espresso here!

Pro Tip : When you visit Amici House, take a moment to appreciate its history and the role it plays in preserving and promoting Italian culture in San Diego. 

11. Shop For Authentic Products At Filippi’s Italian Market

Filippi’s Italian Market has a rich history that adds to its charm. When we walked in, you could tell that the place had all the products you might be looking for! The cash & carry store is connected to the restaurant behind the store. 

Vincent DePhilippis opened this Italian market in 1947. By 1950, it became the beginning of the now famous Filippi’s Pizza Grottos , run by the original family members for over 73 years! 

The bakery section is super cute with lots of choices. Whether you’re looking for cookies, cakes, or other sweet treats, they’ve got it all. The market is packed with imported foods, too.

You’ll find all sorts of Italian goodies here – meats, cheeses, wines, and more. And if you’re into making pizza at home, grab their fresh pizza dough – it’s straight from their kitchen!

12. Shop For Rare Items at Architectural Salvage of San Diego

If you’re into unique and vintage finds, you have to check out Architectural Salvage of San Diego . It’s not just a shop; it’s like a treasure hunt for anyone who loves rare and antique items. It’s San Diego’s go-to spot for period building materials. 

This place is a salvage specialist, which means their stock is always changing. You might find vintage hardware one day and rare lighting the next. Think of it as a museum where everything is for sale!

They have an incredible range of items – from vintage doorknobs and escutcheons (those are the decorative plates behind door handles) to stained art glass windows, and so much more.

Pro Tip : Take your time browsing through the shop. Each item has its own story and character, perfect for adding a unique touch to your home or collection.

13. San Diego Fire Station Museum 

The San Diego Fire Station Museum is a hidden gem for all ages that’s definitely worth a visit. The museum is housed in the city’s oldest firehouse, Old Fire Station 6.

Built over a century ago, it now showcases an impressive collection of firefighting equipment and memorabilia dating back to the late 1800s. 

When you step inside, you’ll be surprised by the amount of historic content packed into this museum. From antique fire engines, alarms, hats, and hydrant molds, there’s so much to explore. 

Some things to check out: La Jolla’s very first fire engine, a horse-drawn steamer, and even a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.

The museum is open Thursday and Friday from 10am- 2pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm. Admission is affordable at $3 for adults and $2 for children and seniors.

Pro Tip : Plan to spend a few hours here – there’s a lot to see, and you’ll want to take your time to really soak it all in. 

14. Spot These Historical Attractions 

Little Italy in San Diego is not just about great food and culture; it’s also home to some significant historical attractions: Piazza Basilone and Piazza Pescatore.

Piazza Basilone is a tribute to Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone and the “Boys That Never Came Home” from the 20th-century wars. Piazza Basilone is a permanent reminder of their sacrifices, celebrating their lives and GySgt Basilone’s extraordinary heroism. 

It proudly flies 4 flags – the American, Italian, Portuguese, and Mexican flags, representing the national origins of the “boys that never came home.” This piazza is also a gathering space for families, veterans, and special events. 

Piazza Pescatore honors the rich history of San Diego’s Little Italy and commemorates the tuna industry, which brought fame to the neighborhood in the 1970s and 1980s. The tuna industry played a huge role in shaping the community, and this piazza serves as a beautiful reminder of that era.

Things To Try In Little Italy San Diego

15. drink craft beer at bottlecraft little italy.

Recognized as San Diego’s Best Craft Beer Shop, Bottlecraft Little Italy is the go to spot if you love craft beer.

Check out their diverse selection of domestic and international craft beers. With 24 taps and tons of bottles to choose from, both for enjoying right there or taking home, the options are nearly endless. 

What sets Bottlecraft apart is not just its selection but also its atmosphere. The staff are super friendly and incredibly knowledgeable about craft beer. They’re passionate about helping you find that perfect brew.

Beyond beer, Bottlecraft also offers wine, cider, and kombucha, both on draft and in bottles. They have free WiFi, outdoor seating and it’s dog-friendly. 

Pro Tip : Check out their gift cards and merchandise – perfect for any craft beer fan in your life.

16. Enjoy Some Italian Gelato at Pappalecco

For anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for Italian treats, Pappalecco in Little Italy is an absolute must-visit. This charming cafe offers more than just great coffee; it’s got some of the best Italian gelato in San Diego!

The gelato is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor. And their gelato variety is impressive, with both classic and unique flavors. The pistachio gelato is a standout, especially when paired with an espresso.

Pro Tip : Try the Bourbon Pecan gelato. It’s a mix of bold bourbon flavor with the crunch of pecans.

17. Drink A Glass Of Italian Wine at Nonna

Enjoying a glass of wine at Nonna’s is like paying homage to the timeless traditions of Italian grandmothers and their love for family gatherings around good food and wine.

Nonna is more than just a restaurant; it’s a tribute to grandmothers everywhere and their deep passion for family and food. The Busalacchi family traditions shine through in every aspect of this charming spot. 

One of the highlights at Nonna’s is their impressive wine list. It’s like a tour of Italy in a glass – so many choices, and each one tells a story of regions, grapes, and traditional winemaking methods. 

Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. The staff at Nonna’s are knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect wine to complement your meal or to enjoy on its own. 

Events In Little Italy San Diego

18. little italy tree lighting & christmas village.

The annual Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village event is a magical holiday experience. Picture a Christmas wonderland with 10-foot tall nutcrackers, festive songs, and 2 stunning Christmas trees – a 25-foot tree at Piazza della Famiglia and the shiny Aurora tree at Piazza Basilone. 

Created by Joshua Hubert, the 32ft Aurora tree changes colors based on sunlight and perspective.

Enjoy seasonal vendors, live music, treats, a traditional Italian tree lighting ceremony, and Santa’s return for Christmas wishes. The streets glow with Christmas lights, and the Christmas Village offers unique stocking stuffers and gifts from select vendors.

Pro Tip : Plan your visit around the 1st week of December for this event. 

19. Taste of Little Italy

Save the dates – June 18 & 19, 2024 – for the Taste of Little Italy . 48 blocks of Little Italy’s best food and drinks. Sample different restaurants each evening. Check-in at Piazza della Famiglia, grab your Taste Passport, and start tasting.

If you prefer a sit-down experience, head to Piazza della Famiglia, where seating is available. Live music at both Piazza della Famiglia and Piazza Basilone adds to the lively atmosphere.

Pro Tip : Stay updated by signing up for email notifications at [email protected].

20. Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert

Experience live music during the Marine Band San Diego Summer Concert at Piazza della Famiglia on July 27, 2024 at 7pm. This year will feature the talented group “Sound Strike.

21. Bella Vita Fest

If you love street art, head to Bella Vita Fest. The festival features 50+ chalk art paintings created live on the streets, live music, authentic Italian products, food and wines from 14 different regions of Italy. Visit bellavitafest.com for upcoming dates (yet to be announced).

22. San Diego Padres Italian Heritage Night

Join us for San Diego Padres Italian Heritage Night, a unique blend of baseball and cultural celebration. It’s a night filled with a baseball game with the San Diego Padres and cultural festivities to honor Italian heritage. Stay tuned for details for the Italian Heritage Night !

23. Mission Fed ArtWalk

For 40 years, Mission Fed ArtWalk has been a lively celebration of art in San Diego. See and buy different types of art, listen to live music and try hands-on art activities. Experience art’s impact on bringing communities together while supporting artists.

24. Labor Day Stickball Tournament

Save the date for the Labor Day Stickball Tournament taking place from August 31 to September 2, 2024 from 8am-5pm.Teams will be competing for The Jillie Trophy and the title of Stickball Champion in San Diego. Cheer for your favorite stickball team!

25. Trick-or-Treat on India Street

Get ready for this exciting Halloween event at Trick-or-Treat on India Street on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 3:30pm-7:30pm. Dress up in your favorite costumes and visit Little Italy businesses along India Street to ask for Halloween treats and candy. 

The Piazza della Famiglia will turn into the Nightmare Before Christmas, featuring a huge 13’ Jack Skellington and large pumpkin stacks for some spooky photo opportunities.

26. Casino di Piazza

If you’re a casino player, attend the Annual Casino di Piazza featuring light appetizers, craft cocktails, live music, and classic casino games like Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette. This year, it’s happening on Friday, August 23, 2024, from 7pm-11pm. 

Dress up in cocktail attire for this event where the Piazza transforms into gardens similar to those in Milan, Italy.

Casino di Piazza offers General and VIP admission, providing casino chips, cocktails, and more.Tickets are limited so make sure to book soon.

27. Small Business Season

Love supporting small businesses? Then stop by Little Italy for the Small Business Season . Stay tuned for this year’s details. Last year it was in the month of December. Support small boutiques and galleries throughout the month.

Discover one-of-a-kind items and take advantage of in-store specials and discounts. Some businesses will extend their hours on Saturdays to make your shopping even more convenient.

Final Thoughts – Things To Do In Little Italy San Diego

Little Italy San Diego is a dynamic neighborhood that offers a wide range of experiences, from enjoyable wine tasting walking tours to exploring historical landmarks and enjoying Italian cuisine. Next time you’re in San Diego, come to Little Italy and use our guide to explore this authentic neighborhood.

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Where to Eat and Drink in Little Italy

Must-visit spots in one of San Diego’s most dynamic neighborhoods for dining out

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Home to distinctive eateries, elevated restaurants, craft brew pubs, urban wine bars, cocktail hotspots and cozy cafés, Little Italy remains a city hallmark for dining options. Since the 1920s, this neighborhood has been acclaimed as a bustling residential and business district that was once a pivotal center in San Diego's prolific tuna fishing industry.

Decades later, Little Italy now houses everything from authentic family-owned Italian food destinations to spaces that transcend a region or culture in terms of cuisine. From old Hollywood glam steakhouses to Asian fusion hubs, the streets there hold the right amount of places at a walking distance, situated in the heart of the city for locals and visitors.

Juniper & Ivy

An elegant dining destination for intimate dinners or larger group outings that helped to kickstart the neighborhood’s culinary renaissance, Juniper & Ivy uses ingredients from local farms and fishermen to create dishes inspired by international flavors.

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Crack Shack

The original location for this empire built around chicken is a fun-loving, all-outdoor space serving a menu of chicken sandwiches, fried chicken, and family-friendly meal platters with beer, wine, and cocktails which can all be enjoyed over a game of bocce on the outdoor court. 

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Herb & Wood

Occupying an 8,500-square-foot, 1920s industrial space, this spot offers modern interpretations of Mediterranean cuisine under the direction of chef Carlos Anthony with a focus on seasonal wood-fired dishes and cocktails.

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Camino Riviera

This hotspot from the owners of Kettner Exchange, designed to transport its guests to the Mexican Riviera Maya, features an expansive list of agave spirits and a creative farm-to-table menu from executive chef Brian Redzikowski that includes a Caesar salad “Twinkie”, roasted bone marrow with a Oaxacan cheese quesadilla, and a pork quesa birria bao.

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James Coffee Co.

One of the city’s best roasters is the centerpiece of a collection of shops and salons that includes the standout Home Ec, a well-curated supply store for cooks and food lovers. The cafe brews up drinks with single-origin beans and James Coffee blends and serves baked goods crafted at its own Escondido bakery.

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Shino Sushi + Kappo

Tucked away on one of the neighborhood’s less bustling blocks for dining is this laid-back spot that’s been serious about sushi for over a decade. Run by an alum of Pacific Beach’s revered Sushi Ota, the quiet restaurant offers multi-course omakase dinners and a la carte nigiri and cut rolls. Make sure to check the posted board for limited-time specials.

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Kettner Exchange

A two-story restaurant slash cocktail bar with a rooftop patio, Kettner Exchange boasts a progressive American menu with French and Asian influences from executive chef Brian Redzikowski.

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One of the anchors at the north end of Little Italy, this relaxed wine bar doubles as the area’s best bottle shop, full of new discoveries from the world of natural wine and small, family-run producers.

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Mona Lisa Italian Foods

The market is a treasure trove for Italian food and wine, while its deli counter does brisk business selling excellent Italian subs stuffed with meats and cheeses as well as essentials like Italian sausage, mozzarella, and fresh pizza dough.

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Craft & Commerce

With taxidermy for decoration, Craft & Commerce by Consortium Holdings is an industrial literary cabin slash hunting lodge with two bar areas, serving comfort foods including burgers and steak frites. For a more intimate experience, don’t miss out on its tiki-themed speakeasy inside called False Idol.

Helping to establish Little Italy’s newer wave of Italian restaurants, Bencotto is known for its in-house pasta lab, which handcrafts all the pasta shapes for the menu, from tagliatelle to tortelli filled with spinach and ricotta, and its most famous dish featuring pasta tossed in a 60-pound wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano.

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Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar

A sparkling showcase for Baja seafood, with a sushi bar-styled counter and a generous patio, the restaurant’s menu ranges from grand platters laden with chocolate clams, oysters, and scallops to a range of aguachiles, ceviches, and tostadas topped with everything from blue crab and shrimp to octopus and seared yellowtail.

Ironside Fish & Oyster

This vintage nautical stunner is all about seafood and boasts one of the neighborhood’s better happy hours, offered on weekdays between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. that highlights $1 freshly-shucked oysters and deals on popular plates like octopus a la plancha, chowder fries, and rockfish ceviche as well as featured cocktails, beer, and wine.

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Born and Raised

This modern steakhouse specializes in table-side cart service and steaks aged in a 40-square-foot glass-enclosed dry-aging room. On the menu: bone-in New York, bone-in ribeye, tomahawks, porterhouses, duck, lamb, meatballs and more. Perfect for birthday dinners or more extravagant outings, guests can make reservations for the downstairs formal dining area or for the open-air rooftop.

Landini's Pizzeria

This neighborhood pizzeria is a popular place to grab a quick meal and one of the few spots in the area to find a late-night bite on weekends. Its New York-style pies include bestsellers like the Leonardo, a white pie with pesto and cheese, and red-sauced Sopranos pizza topped with pepperoni, sausage, and meatballs.

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Civico 1845.

With a focus on seafood, this warm and welcoming restaurant that’s a fixture on India Street focuses on traditional and contemporary Southern Italian cuisine. It’s also notable for being the first Italian restaurant in the country with a full vegan menu.

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Morning Glory

Fun to the max, this always-bustling brunch behemoth draws in crowds with its infectious party vibes and menu of global Turkish eggs roving cart, cocktails

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The first stateside location for a well-established group of restaurants centered in Mexico City that’s so serious about seafood that it has its own system of seafood processing and transportation to deliver fresh product. Guests are greeted with cups of flavorful seafood broth, a precursor to a menu that includes seafood cocktails, ceviche, tacos, grilled fish, and even paellas that are featured on weekends.

Extraordinary Desserts

Crowds flock to Karen Krasne’s 7,000-square-foot palatial dessert destination to savor pastries and coffee, savory snacks like panini and salads, and of course, Krasne’s signature decadent cakes, pies, cookies, and petite desserts. 

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• Epicurean Adventures In Little Italy

Epicurean Adventures in Little Italy

Where the culinary past meets the present.

Once home to San Diego's flourishing tuna fishing industry in the early 1900s and generations of Italian families who made their living on the sea, Little Italy is a charming cultural hub that edges downtown and the harbor. Today, San Diego's most dynamic food and drink scene is centered in this bustling neighborhood, home to quaint cafes, al fresco eateries, craft beer stops, urban wineries, and myriad restaurants. Colorful Little Italy is a place where locals dressed in white play bocce ball in Amici Park and Top Chef alums have set up shop next to old-school eateries serving authentic Italian fare.

Celebrity Chef Talent

Over the past few years, luminary chefs have gravitated to Little Italy. Since his stint on season 3 of Top Chef, Chef Brian Malarkey  has been a pioneer in San Diego's social dining evolution. Chef Malarkey is the force behind the stylish Herb & Wood with a menu focusing on wood-fired meats, seafood, house-made pastas, veggies, and old school libations. The restaurant's striking design nods to Paris 1920s with a little Cape Cod tossed into the recipe.

Sam "The Cooking Guy" Zien is another famous face in Little Italy's culinary scene. His popular eateries include Not Not Tacos, Graze by Sam and Samburgers, all found in and near the Little Italy Food Hall , a vibrant and locally driven venue complemented by the 10,000-square foot outdoor Piazza della Familglia in the heart of the neighborhood. At Not Not Tacos, diners won't find the typical Mexican-influenced tacos with carnitas, pollo or carne asada, but they'll discover meatloaf, salmon and pastrami creations that are big, bold and full of flavor.

Cookbook author, Top Chef veteran and judge Richard Blais was the original culinary talent behind award-winning Juniper & Ivy  and The Crack Shack, an all-day, chicken and egg eatery located next door on Kettner Boulevard. Blais helped raise the reputation of Little Italy's dining scene at Juniper & Ivy with his seasonal menu that played successfully with molecular gastronomy. Both venues continue to provide celebrity-worthy meals under the helm of new Executive Chef Michael Wells.

Vegetarian and Vegan

Café Gratitude is a must for vegetarian and vegan diners. The all-organic plant-based eatery charms with its seasonally driven eclectic menu with dishes named for affirmations like "I am Crunchy" (housemade granola) and "I am Awesome" (eggplant parmesan panini). The cafe’s clean white and bright design enhances the purity of the food which is also rich with flavor and creativity. Civico 1845, helmed by Italian-born brothers Dario and Pietro Gallo, also has an impressive vegan menu complementing their modern Italian fare. A nice vegan trio includes the Polpettine di Miglio (a millet "meatball" over greens with a trio of sauces), the delicious quinoa and lentil salad with strawberries and blueberries, and the chocolate mousse with salted caramel ginger cookie crumble. Diners love the Japanese vegan experience at The Yasai with a menu of vegan ramen, vegan sushi rolls and other Japanese-inspired plant-based dishes.

Succulent Seafood

Set in a 1920s warehouse, Ironside Fish and Oyster is dressed up with nautical décor, including mermaid sconces, porthole windows and sea foam green benches. In addition to great people watching, Ironside is the spot for oysters and champagne, fresh fish and Chef Jason McLeod's famous lobster roll. Barbusa offers authentic modern Sicilian cuisine with a flair for artisan pizzas, handmade pasta and seafood-centric dishes including an extensive selection of crudo. Head to Cloak & Petal  for authentic Japanese sushi, creative cocktails and stylish décor reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway.

Shared Plates and Nightlife

At Kettner Exchange, Chef Brian Redzikowski serves up progressive American cuisine in multiple settings, from a subterranean chef table to a rooftop bar and cabana scene. Menu favorites include big-eye tuna tacos, duck meatballs, octopus ceviche, and the refreshing Georgia Sunshine libation with bourbon, lemon, honey, and peach bitters. After dark, there is a serious line for the rooftop with its swinging day beds, fire pits, fashionable cabanas, and great views of the cityscape and bay.

Craft and Commerce is equal parts restaurant and popular nightspot. Fashionable guests enjoy delicious food, creative cocktails and a unique aesthetic. The restaurant resembles a dimly lit industrial literary cabin with hundreds of hardbound classic novels stacked on ceiling-high bookshelves and century-old taxidermy mounted and displayed on the walls. Inside Craft and Commerce, guests also find False Idol, a trendy tiki bar  serving strong drinks in a fun tropical surrounding.

Craft Beer and Wine Tasting

Craft beer connoisseurs should head over to Ballast Point Brewing Company  where rotating beers are poured from 52 taps, a perfect spot for a hoppy Sculpin and some truffle fries. Or stop in at the Bottlecraft Shop and Tasting Room, a craft beer nirvana on India Street.

Wine lovers can sit under the stars and sip chardonnay or pinot noir from Paso Robles at the Pali Wine Co . They can also savor a global flight from small producers at the neighborhood gem, Vino Carta. Carruth Cellars Wine Garden  has a great back patio and tasting room bar to sample their wines made from grapes sourced from Central and Northern California. 

Traditional Italian Restaurants

It should be no surprise that Italian cuisine rules the kitchens in many Little Italy restaurants. Traditional Italian eateries include Buon Appetito, Mona Lisa, Filippi's Pizza Grotto , and Monello serving Milanese-style street fare. Bencotto is a chic bi-level eatery famed for artisanal Italian eats including handmade pasta and classic desserts. Favorite menu items at Davanti Enoteca are Gnocchi Bolognese and the Linguinne All'Arlecchino with shrimp, scallops, manila clams, garlic, and olive oil in a spicy cherry tomato sauce. Sweet shop Zucchero is known for scrumptious cakes, pastries, desserts, and gelatos made fresh in-house. There is also no shortage of Little Italy cafes for lattes and cappuccinos, dessert spots for gelato and walk-ups for fresh, piping hot pizza.

International Fare

For diners seeking non-Italian eats, head over to Underbelly for hearty bowls of ramen and Japanese comfort grub served in an industrial-chic setting. Set in a charming Craftsman-style home, Queenstown Public House is a quaint, whimsical restaurant specializing in New Zealand-inspired dishes. Located at the Piazza della Famiglia, the Little Italy Food Hall  features six food stations and a full bar. Diners can choose a diverse selection of meals from Wicked Maine Lobster and Mein St. Asian Kitchen to Not Not Tacos and Samburgers by Sam “The Cooking Guy”. Born and Raised, helmed by Michelin Star Executive Chef Jason McLeod, has become an iconic neighborhood restaurant for high-end steaks and cocktails with glitzy décor and a rooftop bar and patio overlooking Little Italy and San Diego Bay. 

Breakfast Spots

Executive Chef Jason McLeod brings his Michelin Star talent to Morning Glory, another "must go" restaurant in Little Italy. Lines form early at this stylish breakfast spot for one-of-a-kind menu items like Morning Glory Fried Rice with pork belly, cheese, peas, spinach, scallion, and fried eggs. Another great place to start the day is Parakeet Café serving delicious meals made from ingredients sourced from local organic farms. The café is popular for vegan, vegetarian, paleo, keto, and gluten-free eaters. At Farmer's Table, located at the boot of Piazza della Famiglia, hearty breakfasts are complemented by relaxed outdoor patios and great people watching, particularly during Little Italy’s weekly farmers markets. 

Farmers Markets

The Little Italy Mercato, one of the San Diego's most dynamic farmers markets , is held every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM and showcases farm fresh produce, delicious eats, handicrafts, live music, and a friendly and stylish crowd. The Little Italy Wednesday Market occurs 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM with a special Holiday Market during December. These festive markets are great ways to experience the whirlwind of energy and creativity in Little Italy.

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Neighborhood Spotlight: Little Italy

San Diego’s Little Italy is a lively area filled with rich culture, authentic Italian eateries, festive markets and piazzas, public art displays and galleries, and family-friendly events. This district, founded in the 1920s, has evolved from an immigrant community developed around the tuna fishing industry, into today’s thriving urban neighborhood. In Little Italy families can enjoy gelato, play around European-style fountains, discover Waterfront Park, participate in seasonal events and attend one of the county's best farmers markets on Saturdays.

Here are fun, family-friendly things to do and places to eat in Little Italy, downtown San Diego. DISCOVER

Firehouse Museum The former home of San Diego Fire Station No. 6 now displays a wealth of firefighting memorabilia, dating back to the late 1800s. Exhibits include La Jolla’s first fire engine, a horse drawn steamer and a piece of the World Trade Center. Closed Mon-Wed. 1572 Columbia St.

Little Italy Mercato Farmers Market W. Cedar St. from Kettner Blvd. to Front St. Soak in the ambiance of this lively farmers market as you stroll through a huge selection of fresh farm produce, meats and seafood, flowers and plants, live music, crafts and more. It’s a kid-pleaser; corner musicians will even invite them over to dance! Held every Saturday, rain-or-shine, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Piazza della Famiglia W. Date St. between India and Columbia Destined to become the heart of Little Italy, this 10,000 sq.ft. European-style piazza will offer shops, restaurants, markets, concerts, community events and more!

Piazza Basilone Corner of Fir St. and India St. Enjoy fantastic views, hang around the fountain, and relax to simply watch the world around you. This urban plaza, located in the center of Little Italy, is dedicated to John Basilone, U.S. Marine Gunnery Sergeant and Medal of Honor recipient. San Diego County Waterfront Park 1600 Pacific Highway Kids have a “splash” playing in the interactive fountains and climbing on modern play structures of this park, located just a couple blocks from Little Italy. With lots of green spaces and beautiful views, it’s a great spot for families to take a picnic or spend a few hours.

Filippi’s Pizza Grotto 1747 India St. This authentic, family-owned and operated Italian eatery has been around since the mid-century, with no shortage of old school charm. Serves pizzas, pastas, salads and traditional recipes. Buon appetito! Crack Shack 2266 Kettner Blvd. If gourmet free-range fried chicken is your thing, stop at this fun outdoor restaurant for a chicken sandwich or salad in a casual, family-friendly setting. Everyone will love the tasty menu, pleasant patio dining, bocce ball court and giant chicken sculpture.

Pappalecco 1602 State St. A local favorite for freshly made, hand crafted, artisan developed, traditional Tuscan gelato (and pastries!). Need we say more?

Salt & Straw 1670 India St. This beloved Portland-based ice cream shop boasts inventive flavors such as Honey Lavender and Meyer Lemon Meringue Pie. San Diego-inspired flavors include James Coffee and Bourbon, Avocado and Oaxacan Chocolate Fudge and more. An extensive vegan menu offers dairy-free customers a  range of delicious flavors to choose from. Check back for new and rotating flavors. Plan to wait in line (it's worth the wait!).

Lisa Pawlak is an award-winning contributing writer and Encinitas resident.

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Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > California Road Trip Itineraries > California Coast > San Diego Travel Guide > What to Do in Little Italy San Diego, The Italian Heart of California

What to Do in Little Italy San Diego, The Italian Heart of California

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When you hear “Little Italy”, you  usually think of Little Italy in New York City , where many Italian immigrants settled here in the 20th century. This neighborhood was was made famous by Hollywood movies. However, not everyone knows that the biggest Little Italy in America is in San Diego , where Italian immigrants have made monumental contributions to the development of the city.

Here in San Diego’s Little Italy, you will find some of the best restaurants in San Diego – well, isn’t it obvious since Italian cuisine is so popular? There are events and parties that take place throughout the year that celebrate Italian culture.

Location and Directions

A brief history, the squares of little italy, amici house and amici park, firemen’s museum, the markets of little italy, events in little italy, places to eat in little italy san diego: recommended italian restaurants, where to stay.

Little Italy is enclosed between Waterfront Park and the San Diego Freeway and extends almost all the way to the airport. The main artery of Little Italy is India Street . If you are driving, you shouldn’t have much trouble finding a parking space in this neighborhood. But if you want to be on the safe side, I recommend the huge parking lot that occupies the entire block between N Harbor Dr, W Hawthorn St, Pacific Hwy, and W Grape St.

If you plan to use public transportation in San Diego , the fastest way to get there from downtown is the Trolley (tram). On the green line, you will get off at the County Center / Little Italy stop. If you stay overnight in neighborhoods where there are no tramlines, you may find taking a bus to be the most convenient option. These are the bus lines that reach the neighborhood: 83, 280, and 290.

The first residents of Little Italy were sailors from Liguria (from Riva Trigoso, a hamlet of Sestri Levante) who arrived here in 1849 from the southern Pacific Coast. They were sent by the Kingdom of Spain to take advantage of the Gold Rush. In order to survive, they exploited their seafaring skills and adapted by fishing and building boats for tuna fishing .

The real boom of the neighborhood came after the earthquake that struck San Francisco in 1906. Many fishing families moved to San Diego specializing in tuna fishing and the local fish and food industry exploded. In the first half of the century, Little Italy in San Diego was the capital of tuna fishing and canned fish.

Places to Go in Little Italy

Like the Gaslamp Quarter , Little Italy has an  arch with the name of the district , which acts as a gateway to India Street, the liveliest street of the neighborhood that is flanked by the main restaurants.

The sign has a nautical theme , to honor the history of the sea and fishing. The pillars supporting the large sign are decorated with mosaics that represent both the colors of the Italian flag and scenes of fishing and family life.

A walk along India St is a must if you visit San Diego and it is certainly one of the best places to dine in the city. Some of the restaurants have unique entrances and it is definitely interesting to read the Italian names of the various places. But Little Italy is not just a place to eat out. Let’s see what else the neighborhood has in store.

• Piazza della Famiglia . This is the largest square in the city, about 0.4 square miles, and was created along W Date St between the intersections with India St and Columbia St. At one end, there is a beautiful tiled fountain. Next to the fountain, there are tables and umbrellas that create the ideal setting for outdoor dining, especially in the summer. Piazza della Famiglia is a symbolic place for the inhabitants of the neighborhood that is dedicated to the past, present, and future families of Little Italy. Cultural events, concerts, and farmers’ markets take place here.
• Piazza Basilone . This square located at India St and W Fir St is one of the most characteristic points of the entire neighborhood. It is a circular tiled plaza similar to the ones you would find in Rome, with a fountain in the center where water flows on a large globe. The small square is dedicated to John Basilone (whose bust is in this square), a Marine sergeant killed in battle during the Second World War. Basilone was the only Marine to receive, during the Second World War, both the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross, which were awarded posthumously for his extraordinary heroism shown during the Battle of Iwo Jima.
• Fisherman’s Square . It is only natural to pay tribute to the fishermen of San Diego here in Little Italy, where there is a fish market. Rather than a square, it is a rounded extension of the sidewalk, at the intersection of Kettner Blvd and W Fir St. It is nice to hang out near the fountain with the statue of the fisherman who raises his latest catch.
• Giannini Square. Amadeo Giannini, an Italian-American whose parents came from Liguria, was the founder of the Bank of Italy. This bank, together with the Bank of America in Los Angeles, gave birth to what is now the Bank of America. In the pedestrian island at the intersection between India St and W Cedar St, we find the bust of Giannini and a series of plaques dedicated to him. Around the squares of Little Italy, there are several restaurants and Giannini Square is no exception.

The Amici House is a historic home located in Little Italy located at 250 W Date St. The house, originally inhabited by the Giacalone family, was located in the center of the neighborhood, between India St and Columbia St, but was moved in 2014 for the creation of Piazza della Famiglia. Antonio Giacalone, who was of Sicilian origin, was considered one of the best fishermen in the 1920s and 1930s and the local community nicknamed him “Cadorna” to amicably name him the “general” of the neighborhood.

Today the Amici House is home to the Convivio Society for Italian Humanities , a non-profit organization that promotes Italian art, culture, and heritage in San Diego. By visiting it you can learn about the history and things that characterize the Italian community of San Diego.

The house is surrounded by Amici Park , which has a small outdoor theater where many public events are held.

At 1572 Columbia St, there is the San Diego Fire Museum , a very special museum, comparable to the Old Town Sheriff’s Museum . Inside Old Fire Station 6, a fire station built over a century ago, you’ll see fire equipment and memorabilia dating back to the late 19th century. Some of the highlights of the exhibition include La Jolla ‘s first fire engine and a piece of steel from the World Trade Center .

The museum is open Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Tickets cost $3, with a reduced price of $2 for children and seniors.

Things to Do in Little Italy

The food is the main reason why the inhabitants of San Diego go to Little Italy. Just like in all major American cities, Italian cuisine is very popular and restaurants are very successful. India St and the surrounding streets are teeming with places to stop for a quick bite to eat or a hearty meal, but that’s not all that you will find in Little Italy.

• Saturday market. On Saturday mornings, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, there are over 200 stands along W Date St that sell all kinds of meat, eggs, vegetables, and cheese that arrive from the county farms, while the fishermen display their fresh catch. There is no shortage of stalls selling plants and flowers as well as food.
• Small Wednesday market . Every Wednesday morning from 9:00 am to 1:30 pm, three blocks of W Date St come alive with stands selling all kinds of goods, such as vegetables, meat, fish, olive oil. Little Italy’s midweek market was born to establish a place where chefs can go shopping. The idea is that great chefs can find here the quality raw ingredients they need to create their own refined cuisine in the restaurants in the neighborhood. Locals can also take advantage of this market.

Please note: If you are fond of markets, I recommend you also visit the fish market that takes place every Saturday in the Embarcadero-Marina District !

Some events are repeated annually and attract people from outside the city. Here are the main ones:

• The Campagnolo Gran Fondo . This is the main cycling competition in the city that is held every year in spring, usually in April.
• Mission Fed ArtWalk . Thousands of people flock to this giant outdoor art exhibition and market every year, which fills 16 blocks of Little Italy. Every year an emerging artist is given the opportunity to participate at no cost.
• Taste of Little Italy . Every year in June this event involves the whole neighborhood. The restaurants located along 48 blocks open their doors to food lovers to offer a taste of their most popular dishes. You can go from one restaurant to another for a variety of unique food tastings.
• Little Italy Summer Film Festival . Every summer, the Amici Park’s outdoor theatre comes alive with Italian films under the stars.
• Little Italy Tree Lighting & Christmas Village . Starting from the first weekend of December, the neighborhood is decorated with Christmas lights. A large Christmas tree is installed in Piazza Basilone and has different decorations every year. Music, horse-drawn carriage rides, and Santa Claus entertaining children fill this area with the Christmas spirit.

Little Italy is the district with the highest concentration of restaurants, bars, and cafes. Obviously, not all restaurants are of high quality, and just because they are located in the Italian neighborhood does not automatically guarantee that the food is good. Below I will try to recommend some of the best places to eat in Little Italy.

• Buon Appetito Restaurant (1609 India St). Even restaurants run by Italians, in fact, usually adapt to local tastes. You will not be disappointed.
• Solunto (1643 India St) . This restaurant also stands out for being among the most authentic. Most dishes have some American influence, but never too much.
• Caffè Italia (1704 India St). If you’re a fan of espresso, come here during your stay in San Diego. This is the ideal cafe to have an espresso or a good cappuccino or have lunch.
• Waterfront Park & Grill (2044 Kettner Blvd) . This is a typical American brewery where you can order grilled meat and a good craft beer. The pub-style setting and reasonable prices are the reason it is frequented by a young crowd. The restaurant organizes several themed evenings with a fixed menu.

The Little Italy neighborhood is a great place to stay overnight in San Diego. There are many options for entertainment and restaurants, but at the same time, it is a quiet and safe neighborhood. You can see a complete list of hotels available in the area on this website .

For more accommodations in this neighborhood, you can find our recommendations for hotels in Little Italy and other parts of the city in the article on where to stay in San Diego .

Where to stay in San Diego

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Andrea Cuminatto

Journalist and traveler. I love seeing new places, but more than anything, I love to meet those who live there.

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11 Must-Visit Hotspots in Little Italy San Diego

Michael wesley.

• September 8, 2017

Olia Majd Takes on the Tastes and Sights of SD’s Little Italy

Written By: Olia Majd Photographed By: Michael Wesley

My name is Olia Majd and I am the esthetician turned blogger behind the beauty and fashion blog LoveOlia.com. To be honest, I wasn’t always a blogger nor an esthetician. I actually began my career as an accountant and after realizing that it wasn’t what I wanted to do with my life, I took a leap of faith and entered into the world of beauty and became a licensed esthetician. Soon after, I realized this was the world where my true passions lied and so I decided to share my best beauty and fashion tips with the world—and Love, Olia was born.

Having grown up in San Diego all my life, my style definitely embodies that of a SoCal girl. I love easy and comfortable pieces but also make sure to always choose transitional items that can easily be dressed up or down. Having grown up with a Persian father and French mother, I feel that the European influence and culture has definitely played a part in my style, and with that means I always try to present some sort of elegance and class in my looks.

Little Italy is probably one of my most frequented areas in San Diego, other than the beach. They have some of the most trendy, Instagram-worthy coffee shops, amazing eateries, cute boutiques and so much more. Come join me as I share with you some of my favorite places to visit!

Herb & Wood

When San Diego has it’s very own celeb chef, Brian Malarkey, who opens up a killer new restaurant—you go. Not only because it’s him but because the food is that good. I’ve been here for appetizers, drinks and dessert, never to be disappointed. Presentation is impeccable and the ambiance and gorgeous decor make the night that much better.

2210 Kettner Blvd San Diego, CA 92101 619.955.8495

The Dailey Method

I am a big believer in staying active, working out and making it part of your lifestyle. To be successful in it, I’ve learned it’s important to find something that works, has you seeing results and is just plain fun to do. The Dailey Method is such an amazing barre studio. It gives you that hands-on training and education you need to get the best results.

1230 Columbia St, Ste 110 San Diego, CA 92101 619.232.2316

Vocabulary Boutique

If you’re ever anywhere in the vicinity of Little Italy, do yourself a favor and stop by this charming little boutique. I love all the feminine pieces, flattering tops, dresses and on trend pieces, not to mention the most darling accessories and jewelry you could imagine! Everything is so well organized and there is such a wide selection of items that you’ll never walk out empty handed.

414 W Cedar St San Diego, CA 92101 619.203.4066

Napizza is one of my go-to spots for Italian pizza—it’s to die for! They offer what I would consider high-quality Italian street food in a cute little setting right on India Street. All their pizzas are offered “by the cut” so you can try a few different varieties and they also make the most amazing picture-worthy salads you could ask for! Everything tastes so fresh and in my opinion, a perfect spot to sit outside and take in the sunshine on a beautiful day.

1702 India St San Diego, CA 92101 619.696.0802

Stile Salon and Boutique

Nothing like getting a refreshing new ‘do from time to time, right? Stile Salon is located in Little Italy and specializes in the latest trends and techniques for color, cuts, extensions and special occasion hair. If you are looking for somewhere that is knowledgeable about hair and current trends and want to walk out feeling confident, then this is the place to go!

2491 Kettner Blvd San Diego, CA 92101 619.702.6486

Lofty Coffee Co.

The blogger in me definitely knows a good coffee shop when I see one. I’ve been going to Lofty Coffee for years now. They have several locations throughout San Diego, but their Little Italy location has quickly become one of my absolute favorites. It has an awesome indoor/outdoor space, which is totally open and, let’s be honest, a little people watching doesn’t hurt.

444 W Cedar St San Diego, CA 92101 760.230.6747

Little Italy Loading Dock

Little Italy’s Loading Dock is a casual, friendly neighborhood bar with an extensive craft beer selection along with great wines and cocktails. Don’t miss their “unloading hour,” or their special happy hour menu. It’s the perfect place to retreat after a long work week, for a fun night out or even a little family gathering!

2400 Kettner Blvd, Ste 110 San Diego, CA 92101 619.255.7885

Although Little Italy is known for a lot of their amazing restaurants, they also offer some fun entertainment! Music Box is a venue which holds over 700 people, offers opera boxes, outdoor patios, bars on two levels and a private VIP room overlooking the stage. Call it a state-of-the-art concert venue that serves upscale bites and craft cocktails.

1337 India St San Diego, CA 92101 619.795.1337

Getting Around:  The San Diego trolley provides service for all key locations in the downtown area while buses are great for navigating beyond downtown San Diego.

Get Comfy:  When you’re in need of some great comfort food, look no further than The Crack Shack with chicken and eggs served all day!

On the Scene:  It’s no surprise that Juniper & Ivy is always packed. It’s modern, trendy and the food and drinks are exceptional.

The Happiest of Hours:  Monello gives happy hour a twist from 4-7 p.m. where you’ll receive free mini-appetizers while sipping on your favorite wine and cocktails.

Olia Majd |  @oliamajd

Little Italy Sign 1703, 92101, 1731 India St San Diego, CA 92101 See Little Italy Like You’ve Never Seen It Before With Olia Majd

Michael Wesley is a San Diego based lifestyle photographer who brings a unique eye for style and color to any project. With travel in 26 countries, a die-hard love for the ocean and an appetite for adventure, this California surfer is always on the hunt for capturing the coastal lifestyle that he is so lucky to live. Check out his work at WWW.BLUEWESLEY.COM

• Michael Wesley https://localemagazine.com/author/michael-wesley/ How to Spend a Summer Weekend in Pacific Beach (Think Waves, Brunch and Dancing)
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Little Italy San Diego

Incredible food is all around San Diego, and nowhere is that more true than in Little Italy! Tour the heights of this cuisine paradise with Todd, and grab a Go City San Diego pass for discounts throughout the neighborhood.

Authentic Italian Cuisine & Breweries In Little Italy

Little Italy San Diego, is one of the best places in the city for food lovers. It combines a warm Italian community with one of the hippest food scenes around. You can munch on rustic brick-oven pizza at a third-generation restaurant or treat your significant other to a luxurious tasting menu cooked by the biggest food stars.

Popular Hotels in Little Italy San Diego Popular Hotels Price DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego Downtown $176 Learn More Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside $153 Learn More Porto Vista Hotel $119 Learn More

In Little Italy, you get to experience rich history, amazing culture and unforgettable dining. Many people describe this iconic neighborhood as a laid-back Gaslamp San Diego . It has buzzing nightlife and tons of cool shops, but with a more relaxed and intimate backdrop than San Diego’s famous urban playground.

Great food is a major part of what makes incredible vacations. If you tend to plan your itinerary around where to eat just as much as what to do, then Little Italy is definitely the place for you. With tasty craft beers, fine wines, perfect prosciutto and delicious desserts, foodies never run out of options for excitement.

We feature the great food in Little Italy in our Best Things to do in San Diego at night !

There are plenty of hotels located directly in Little Italy, and the neighborhood is also within walking distance of Bankers Hill , Harborview , Gaslamp Quarter and other Downtown San Diego locations. Reaching Little Italy from the San Diego International Airport takes less than five minutes by taxi. The stunning waters of San Diego Bay , The Embarcadero and Waterfront Park are less than half a mile away.

One thing you’ll notice quickly is how incredible the neighborhood's hospitality is. Thanks to cobblestone, marble sculptures, string lights, brick storefronts and charming cafes, it’s easy to feel like you’re walking the streets of a quiet European village instead of San Diego. You can even hear church bells ring every half hour.

The history of Little Italy San Diego, goes back to the 1920s. A close-knit Italian community of fisherman and farmers settled in this commercial and residential district, working hard in what was once a thriving tuna industry. These days, Little Italy is prominent as a vibrant center of art, food and traditional values.

Little Italy is located along India Street in the northern part of Downtown San Diego. Over the years Little Italy has outgrown India Street and now spills on to Ketner Boulevard just one street over from India St.

Little Italy is a great place to explore if you are in town for the day from a cruise. Little Italy tops the list of our Best Things to Do Near the Cruise Port .

Trolly Ride with Go Pass!

The Go City San Diego pass is the perfect way to explore more attractions and activities that the area has to offer, all while being cost-efficient.

With the Go City San Diego pass, you can save up to 55% off admission fees at some of the area’s most popular attractions.

Want to save more? Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Things to Do

Fun Things to Do in Little Italy

Travelers with interest in Italian history, culture and food can experience a taste of Italy without ever leaving San Diego. Little Italy has something for everyone, including foodies, art majors, couples on honeymoons and families with kids. Here are a few places to visit and things to do in this welcoming neighborhood:

Take Home a New Recipe from Amici Park

One reason to visit Amici Park is its breathtaking arrangement of flowering plants and vintage architecture. There are also colorful tables around the park with sculptures of classic Italian dishes and recipes in bronze lettering. If you take along a few sheets of papers and a crayon, you can copy the secret recipes from the plaques.

While you’re at Amici Park, you can also try your hand at bocce, a classic Italian sport that is, not surprisingly, very relaxing. Local residents gather every day to play, so you may be able to strike up a friendly conversation and learn the rules.

Visit Piazza della Famiglia

With a gorgeous tiled fountain and picturesque cobblestone streets, this Italian piazza is the heart of Little Italy. Piazza della Familia provides a magnificent opportunity to spend time with your loved ones. It’s romantic, relaxing and gorgeous.

The piazza features numerous tables and umbrellas, along with ample outdoor space to walk and talk underneath blue skies. Colorful buildings on either side give it an enclosed, private feel. As the sun goes down, this open-air courtyard turns into a charming gathering place with beautiful string lights overhead.

There are actually several spectacular piazzas in Little Italy that are worth your time, especially if you have an introspective nature. Stroll underneath a tree-filled covered path at Piazza Giannini or people-watch at Piazza Basilone.

Walk and Shop at India Street

India Street is Little Italy’s central hub, featuring countless shops, cafes, restaurants, artisans and art galleries. It’s a wonderful place to wander aimlessly and discover amazing gems. Best of all, if your stomach starts to growl, you’re always a few steps away from handmade sweets and bistro eats.

Enjoy a Private Walking Tour

One of Little Italy’s biggest draws is it’s laid-back vibe. That means it’s perfectly natural to want to take your time. Private walking tours let you visit historical places such as the Firefighters Museum or Our Lady of the Rosary Church without feeling rushed.

If you’re worried about the cost, don’t be. You can download free apps on your mobile device that provide information about all of the area’s most interesting sites. In fact, some Little Italy apps for San Diego even use augmented reality, games and videos to tell the story.

Sample the Little Italy Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the local farmer’s market comes to life with bright colors and the freshest farm-to-table produce. Buy certified-organic fruit and veggies, real honey and tasty nuts, or taste a variety of artisanal cheeses. You can also pick out a bouquet of beautiful flowers.

This vibrant market is geared around tourists and residents, so you can expect a lot of ready-to-eat dishes to sample. There’s no better souvenir than homemade jams, Italian seasonings or unique sauces. Even better, the Little Italy Mercato features live music while you stroll.

The Little Italy Farmer's Market is featured in the Best Farmers Markets in San Diego as well as the Best Things to do in San Diego !

Grab a Drink at Waterfront Bar, San Diego’s Oldest Bar

The Waterfront Bar & Grill was established in 1933 shortly after prohibition was repealed. It is “San Diego’s Oldest Tavern” and holds the city’s oldest liquor license. At the time of its establishment, The Waterfront was the closest bar/restaurant to the water, but it has since lost this designation. The bar is open from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m., giving you plenty of time to stop in for a cold one and grab a bite to eat.

Popular Activities

The Best Food in Little Italy

There’s nothing wrong with admitting that the main reason you’re in Little Italy is the food. This place has a natural draw for food lovers. With so many bakeries, delis, pizza shops and gourmet eateries, you’re practically guaranteed amazing breakfasts, brunches, lunches and dinners.

Make sure to set aside room for a lot of pizza. From roasted toppings and hearty sauces to made-from-scratch dough and brick-oven char, the pizzas here are legendary. It’s tempting to grab a slice or two for lunch, especially when it comes to smoked pizzas cooked with the best farm-to-table ingredients and cheeses.

Lasagna and Pasta

Most, if not all, of the Italian fare you find in Little Italy is made in house. There’s something special about lasagna noodles rolled out by hand and layered with fresh herbs, aged cheeses, tender meats and sauces that have simmered for hours. Whether you visit Michelin-star restaurants or rustic cafes, you can always look forward to scratch-made pasta with bold flavor.

Another highlight of dining in Little Italy is the hand-made pastries. Feast on silky-smooth cannoli, heavenly breads and flaky croissants straight out of the oven. There are countless bakeries in the neighborhood, making them an ideal choice for breakfast — as long as you’re willing to get up early.

Many of the bistros and cafes in the area are al fresco, so you can sip on a flavorful espresso or cappuccino while enjoying the refreshing bay breeze. It can be a lot of fun to pop into a different cafe every day as you explore the shops and art galleries in the neighborhood. Snap a few chic selfies from your sidewalk table.

Wine and Ale

The nightlife at Little Italy is generally less rowdy than Gaslamp San Diego and more romantic. There are numerous wine bars perfect for tasting Italian imports and Napa Valley vintages. Nearby craft breweries and pubs offer signature ales, Irish beers and unique cocktails, and there are also a few famous dive bars for hanging out with friends.

Oysters, fresh fish, octopus, lobster and shrimp are a great fit for succulent Italian pasta. Little Italy restaurants have access to fresh frutti di mare from the ocean, and organic ingredients, so you’re in for a thrilling culinary experience. In addition to Italian takes on seafood, you can also find upscale restaurants with Japanese influences, SoCal fusion and New American flair.

No list of the best food in Little Italy could possibly be complete without mentioning dessert. Whether you go to a bakery, ice-cream shop or a sit-down restaurant, make sure to order at least one dessert each day. The gelato, cannoli tiramisu, panna cotta, sfogliatella and crostata are deliciously mind-blowing.

One stand out dessert shop and cafe is Extraordinary Desserts, it is not Italian but the deserts are some of the best in the area.

Go on a Food & Wine Tour

If you’re not sure how to schedule your itinerary to visit all the best restaurants in Little Italy, you may want to schedule a food and drinks tour instead . Many of the local hotels organize wine tasting tours, dessert tours and other fabulous foodie adventurous to the city’s hidden gems. Highlights range from out-of-the-way bakeries to celebrity-chef restaurants.

Featured Activity

Opportunities to Eat, Smile, Laugh and Love

Family Friendly Dining & Fun

Little Italy’s restaurants offer many unforgettable vacation experiences. Couples can sip wine with the backdrop of an Italian village, and kids can sink their teeth into the best desserts around. Many of the restaurants here feature romantic dining with open-air architecture, classy décor and beautiful gardens.

One of our favorite places to eat is the Little Italy Food Hall in the heart of Little Italy where there are many food vendors all centered around a main area to sit, dine and enjoy yourself. There is even live music on the weekend's. Make sure you check this out.

Some of San Diego's Top Restaurants

If you’ve always wanted to dine in an exclusive eatery with a mouthwatering tasting menu, make reservations at one of the stars of Kettner Boulevard. This lively part of Little Italy is also known as “Top Chef Alley” because of the famous restaurateurs who set up shop there. Food show icons who lead restaurants here include Chef Richard Blais and Chef Brian Malarkey.

Classic Italian Restaurants

Normally, restaurants come and go, but in Little Italy they stick around for decades. There are several must-visit local favorites to try that have been in business for generations, including Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, Mimmo’s Italian Village and Mona Lisa Italian Restaurant. The wait is worth it, as meals never disappoint.

Little Italy' Delicatessens

Kids and adults alike enjoy visits to the delicatessens in Little Italy. Handmade sausages, prosciutto hams, salami and other cured meats are irresistible. You can also find unique cheeses and sauces, or pick up a real Italian sub with secret-recipe meatballs.

Know Before You Go & Tips

Tips for Visit Little Italy

Make reservations.

Little Italy is known for its amazing Italian food, if you are planning heading here to eat make sure to make reservations ahead of time. Most of the popular restaurants will fill up fast.

Try the Deserts & the Espresso

You already had dinner, make sure you try the deserts while you are in Little Italy. Of course, you will want to eat your cannoli with a small shot of espresso.

There are quite a few local breweries in Little Italy San Diego and they are worth a visit no matter what time of the day you come to Little Italy.

hotel Option

Indulge in contemporary comfort at the AC Hotel by Marriott San Diego Downtown Gaslamp Quarter . Located in the heart of Gaslamp, surrounded by cafes and vibrant nightlife, our chic lodging is the perfect base to explore PETCO Park, the cruise ship port, Balboa Park, the Convention Center, and the USS Midway. Experience modern design and prime location for an unforgettable stay.

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The Top Things To Do and See in Little Italy, San Diego, CA

California is a large state known for many wonderful things like the Hollywood entertainment industry, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Golden Gate Bridge, and many more. California is a great vacation spot because it has so many exciting things to do and see, things many of us have yet to hear of. However, that doesn’t stop them from being amazing attractions. These restaurants, museums , parks, and more definitely belong on your to-do list.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Waterfront Bar and Grill

Waterfront Bar and Grill is a fun place to go every day of the week for their great food and drinks. While there’s happy hour daily, the fun begins on Tuesdays where chicken and fish tacos are only $2 stop by at 4 p.m. and buy them until they’re gone. Wednesdays are just as great because they are slider night where savory sliders are just $2. Stop by and enjoy a hump day you’ll never forget. The fun continues throughout the week with live DJ’s every Thursday the last Friday of the month, and first and third Saturdays of the month.

Piazza Basilone

Firefighters museum.

The Firefighters Museum is a family friendly place to visit. Adults, children, and seniors can view firefighting memorabilia dating back 100 years. They can see everything from fire boots to an early firefighting apparatus on display. The museum was founded in 1962 and occupies the former home of San Diego fire station number 6. Well known pieces are La Jolla’s first engine, a horse drawn steamer, and piece of steel from the World Trade Center. The museum is also available to rent for any private party and is equipped with a full functioning kitchen , tables and chairs.

Our Lady of the Rosary Church

Considered the ‘Jewel of Little Italy’, Our Lady of the Rosary Church was consecrated in 1925 it was built mainly by a fisherman who emigrated from Genoa, Italy as well as Portuguese immigrants. You can see their influence throughout the church especially by the two statues at the front, of Christopher Columbus and st. Peter, a fisherman. The inside of the church holds beautiful paintings and murals , as well as mesmerizing stained glass windows. The church is small but that doesn’t stop it from being recognized as an architectural gem.

Taste of Little Italy

Local culinary hub

Each year, Taste of Little Italy is in full effect. The neighborhood’s one-of-a-kind restaurants open their doors and allow food lovers to enjoy each restaurant’s most desirable dishes including appetizers, entrees, desserts , and drinks. If you’re planning to attend this event, you’ll need a passport to find your way to different restaurants, who will check off your taste as you go. Taste Passports list participating restaurants and each location’s specific food offering. Traveling from restaurant to restaurant is an easy walk . Each year, about 30 restaurants participate. During Taste of Italy, visitors walk along flower and tree-lined sidewalks and enjoy live music.

Opening hour: 5 pm-9 pm

Watch out for: the different venues of entertainment

Farmer’s Market

The Farmer’s Market is the best place to be on a nice Saturday. There’s plenty of visitors, vendors, and food. Stop by and stroll from booth to booth sampling fresh items like organic fruits and vegetables from over 150 local vendors. While the samples are free, if you enjoyed what you tasted, the items are available for you to buy. There are also plants to view and buy. The Farmer’s Market booms with live music . There’s never a dull moment here, and rain or shine, the artisans will take care of you.

Davanti Enoteca

You get the best of both worlds with Davanti Enoteca , tasty food and a beautiful decor with a lively atmosphere they offer a unique menu with one-of-a-kind meals like their ricotta and honeycomb. The food and atmosphere make it a great place to take the whole family , or maybe that special someone. If the weather is right ask to sit in the patio. They also have a unique dessert menu with cakes brownies and tarts like you’ve never tasted before. This hot-spot is known for its large patio, happy hour, and Italian food so stop by and enjoy it all.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best spa hotels and wellness retreats to book in san diego.

The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in San Diego, California

The Best Hotels with Hot Tubs and Jacuzzis to Book in San Diego, California

See & Do

Old town to barrio logan: adventure through the heart of san diego.

7 San Diego Beaches to Suit All Surfers

How to Spend Three Days in San Diego

The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in San Diego, California

The Best Beach Hotels to Book in San Diego, California

The Best Hotels With Pools to Book in San Diego, California

The Best Resorts to Book in San Diego, California

The Best Vacation Rentals to Book in San Diego, California

The Best Hotels with Kitchens to Book in San Diego, California

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

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Total solar eclipse 2024: Watch video and see photos of the sky spectacle

EAGLE PASS, Texas − In a moment of cosmic alignment that was precisely predicted yet undeniably mysterious , the moon crept across the face of the sun as seen from Earth, casting its shadow onto the United States on Monday.

And then it was over: A total eclipse of the sun has come and gone.  

The partial shadow crossed into the U.S. in Texas just after noon local time, and a bit more than an hour later, the minutes of “totality” began. The total eclipse of the sun then traced a path from southern Texas to northern Maine, where it exited into Canada and the ocean beyond.

The rare event was an astronomical experience like no other. Monday's eclipse was unusually accessible to millions of people. It was widely anticipated not only for its remarkable period of darkness, but for its rare timing: No total solar eclipse would be visible from the contiguous United States again until 2044. While millions of Americans may have seen today’s eclipse, a small group in Texas was among the very first.

Edge of eclipse shadow began in south Texas

Alejandra Martinez, a seventh-grade science teacher from the south Texas border city of Eagle Pass, peered up at the gray, gauzy sky, anxiously awaiting the solar eclipse’s entrance into the USA.

Sitting with a telescope under a camping canopy in a corner of the county airport, Martinez, 42, and two other science enthusiasts had been recruited by NASA to participate in an effort called Citizen CATE 2024, where more than 30 teams perched in the eclipse’s path will record the shadowy trek across the country. 

In this spot, less than five miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, she and her team would be among the first people in the U.S. to witness the phenomenon. Eagle Pass sits near the very beginning of the eclipse’s track from southwest to northeast across the country. It also sits very near dead-center of it, where the period of “totality” will be the longest. That total shadow was still more than an hour away when the edge of the shadow began to darken the sky.

Martinez, dressed in a “This Totality Rocks” T-shirt and eclipse-themed skirt, watched as the penumbra crept across the airfield, about 10 minutes past noon local time. She put on her eclipse glasses and peered up at the sky. The gauzy clouds parted. “There it is! There it is!” she yelled. “First contact. It’s begun!”

Clouds came and went as the shadow grew for the next hour. As totality approached Eagle Pass, the sky shaded a dull gray then a heavy brown and the temperature dropped a few degrees. Only a sliver of the sun remained.

A few seconds before 1:27 p.m. CT, the crowd counted down, “3..2..1…” The sun was gone, completely covered by the moon. Darkness spread over the small airport grounds. “Oh my god,” Martinez said, a hand covering her heart. “This is so cool!”

How to tell if you have eye damage from looking at a partial eclipse?

For those who took a chance and looked at the sun without protective eyewear during the eclipse, concerns may arise if their vision starts to seem impaired. Have they suffered eclipse blindness?

Looking directly at the sun even briefly without the proper safety glasses can result in eye damage, either temporary or permanent. The body's natural squinting reaction in normal circumstances prevents people from staring directly at the sun, but that reflex may not be activated during partial eclipses, even though a partly shielded sun can still burn the retina.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says pain won't be an indication of damaged eyes because the retina lacks pain nerves. Worrisome signs are instead blurry vision, headaches, light sensitivity, blind spots in the central vision, distorted vision and changes in color perception. Anyone experiencing those symptoms should see an ophthalmologist, the AAO says.

What was the timeline of the 2024 solar eclipse?

The total eclipse began in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It ended in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. Even those who weren't in the path of totality could see a percentage of the eclipse.

To find out exactly when the eclipse occurred in your area, you can search by  USA TODAY's database by ZIP code  for a viewing guide.

Students in Washington get hands-on learning

Dozens of students spilled out of Ida B. Wells Middle School in Washington, D.C., gripping cardboard solar eclipse glasses and chatting with excitement. “Why is the sun shaped as a moon?” one student asked after looking toward the sun. “Why is it not getting dark?’’ asked another.

Teacher Troy Mangum, who the students called “Mr. Mango,’’ slowly explained the science behind the experience as he cautioned others to put on their glasses. Students at the school in northwest D.C. had had lessons about the eclipse leading up the day’s teaching outside the classroom.

“Anytime we can get hands on or dynamic learning … it’s invaluable,’’ said Mangum, a social emotional learning coach. “We talked about it so much. It’s nice to see them get excited about qeeky Mr. Mango type of stuff.”

Skylar Cruel, 12, had come outside with her science class. “I just really wanted to see it,’’ she said. “You get to see it turn from light to dark.”

Steps away at Whittier Elementary School, which focuses on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), younger students put on their glasses and tilted their heads up toward the sun behind their school.

Michael Haile joined his daughter, Markan Worku, 9, a student at Whittier, and brought along his 5-year-old son, Keab. He called it a memorable experience for his children. Markan, who had been learning about solar eclipses in her third-grade class, simply said, “This is cool!’’ 

− Deborah Berry

In Michigan, a bonding experience for a mother and her three kids

In Michigan, eclipse enthusiasts packed a watch party along the Detroit Riverwalk near Cullen Plaza. They sat on the grass, on benches and berms. For Janelle Ikonen of Waterford, it was a chance to bond with her three children − Hannah, 9; Elim, 12; and Isaac, 14 − whom she took out of school for the day.

“I wanted to experience a unique event with them,” said Ikonen, 47. “It’s one of my big deals to me, to experience things with my kids. … I hope they’ll remember spending time with me.”

In Grand Rapids, where 94% coverage of the sun was expected, viewers gathered on the city's “Blue Bridge,” which offered a view of the eclipse over the Grand River. With no cloud cover over the city, visitors had an unobstructed scene. The Grand Rapids Public Museum set up a series of solar telescopes.

Jill and Wes Johnson, 50 and 14, were among those awaiting max coverage. They’d considered traveling from Grand Rapids to a place with total coverage, but decided 94% coverage was worthwhile enough to stay home.

“I think people are excited to see something unique,” Jill Johnson said.

− Georgea Kovanis and Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press

US women's soccer team takes in eclipse ahead of title game

COLUMBUS, Ohio − The U.S. women’s national soccer team took a break from SheBelieves Cup preparation to watch the eclipse. 

Several team members, including World Cup veterans Crystal Dunn, Alyssa Naeher, Naomi Girma and Trinity Rodman, coaches and staff members donned eclipse glasses and went outside their hotel to see the rare event.

As the sky darkened and the moon moved in front of the sun, someone yelled, “Come on, keep going!” Columbus is just outside the path of totality, so all but a sliver of the sun wound up being covered. 

The USWNT is in Columbus for the final of the SheBelieves Cup on Tuesday night against Canada.

− Nancy Armour

Witnessing the first total eclipse from a cruise ship

Passengers aboard Holland America's Koningsdam cruise ship eagerly gathered on the top decks at 10 a.m. local time to watch the spectacle of a solar eclipse.

Positioned off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico − the first city in North America to witness the total eclipse − the ship provided an ideal vantage point for viewing the celestial event. Accompanied by an astronomer, the captain meticulously adjusted the ship's position to ensure the best possible view.

Dan Fueller, an experienced eclipse observer who had previously seen similar phenomena from ships in 1991 and 1998, emphasized the advantages of viewing the eclipse from a cruise ship. He noted the flexibility of the ship's mobility allowed for optimal positioning along the eclipse's path, ensuring unobstructed views.

"You're on a cruise ship and (the best view) is a little bit farther to the west or a little bit farther to the east − along the path, there's a clear sky − the ship can move. If you're on land and there's not a road there, you better have a tank."

− Joshuan Rivera

Partial eclipse 'like a little Pac-Man taking a bite out of the sun'

In Parthenon, Arkansas, the eclipse began near the Buffalo National River. Five friends traveled from Florida to be on a rock outcropping to witness the celestial event.

“Yes! I see it!” Angie Printiss exclaimed.

“Oh ya! You can see it,” said Kate Estes. “It’s like a little Pac-Man taking a bite out of the sun.”

At 20 minutes before totality, the sky got noticeably darker. The shadow of crescent sun shapes played off the limestone rocks.

“It looks like water − like fish scales,” Estes said. “That is so weird, when the trees move you can really see it.”

− Jennifer Portman

New Englanders travel for better view of the eclipse

Crowds ballooned into the thousands midday Monday in the center of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, as the nearly cloudless sky and warm sun boosted temperatures to an unseasonably 60 degrees.

Jim and Kim Cooper drove over from New Hampton, New Hampshire, their first time doing more than just passing through the town locals call St. Jays. Their son had proposed to his girlfriend in Tennessee during the 2017 eclipse and then had an eclipse-themed wedding, but the Coopers had never seen a total eclipse for themselves, so they decided to come to the closest place where they could be assured of a good view.

Jeffrey Breau had seen that 2017 eclipse for himself and was so impressed that he convinced family members to join him this time. Breau’s girlfriend, Nell Hawley, came up with him from Cambridge, Massachusetts, while his brother Alex and his girlfriend Diana Ventura drove up from New York City. The Breau brothers' father, Walter, joined them in taking in their first eclipse.

“I would have been OK watching it in the yard,” Walter said, though he would only have seen a partial eclipse from there. “That’s what you think now,” Jeffrey said quickly. “Talk to me in two hours.”

− Karen Weintraub

Kids bring homemade eclipse viewers to National Mall

Lucas and Lucy Porto Banco didn’t need to buy fancy eclipse glasses – the 7- and 10-year-old siblings made their own eclipse viewers from two cardboard shoe boxes left over from a couple of their mom’s recent shoe purchases.With the help of a YouTube tutorial video, they made two holes in each box with a whittling knife and taped tin foil over. Then they used dry spaghetti to poke holes in the tin foil for the sun’s light to pass through and project onto the dark inside of the box.The kids put together the viewer in little more than five minutes, Lucy said. “Maybe 15, with covering all the gaps in the shoe box,” she said.Even with his own eclipse-viewing creation, Lucas said he may still take advantage of his eclipse glasses. “I’m going to do both,” he said.

− Cybele Mayes-Osterman

What is an 'umbra?' − and other eclipse words

Astronomers and eclipse enthusiasts used a bunch of specialized words Monday as the nation experienced its first solar eclipse since 2017 and the last one for until 2044. Here are a few of those terms and what they mean, according to the American Astronomical Society .

Baily's Beads – This refers to the beaded appearance of the moon's edge as the eclipse nears totality. Shafts of sunlight shine through deep valleys on the moon's surface, which causes the effect known to observers as Bailey's Beads.

Umbra – The darkest part of the moon’s shadow, within which the entirety of the sun's bright face is blocked. An observer standing in the umbra sees a total solar eclipse.

Penumbra: The lighter part of the moon's shadow, making up its outer portion, where light can reach.

Corona – The sun’s upper atmosphere, visible as a pearly glow around the eclipsed sun during totality.

Totality – The maximum phase of a total solar eclipse, during which the moon’s disk completely covers the sun's bright face. It can last from a fraction of a second to a maximum of 7 minutes, 31 seconds, depending on viewing location and other factors.

− Dale Denwalt, The Oklahoman

A last-minute search for glasses for 'a perfect spot'

Patsy Faoro walked toward a half dozen people gathered at the gate of Turner Farm Park in Great Falls, Virginia. The people were awaiting the opening of an eclipse viewing event complete with telescopes and educational presentations.

Faoro, who lives near the park in this upscale Northern Virginia neighborhood, just wanted glasses to safely view the eclipse.

She visited CVS, Safeway and a 7/11 convenience store, all of which had advertised the availability of glasses to view the eclipse. None of the retailers had any glasses remaining when Faoro checked this morning.

“We have this great big open space that’s a perfect spot,” said Faoro, who viewed her first eclipse in the 1970s. “We just need some glasses.”

− Ken Alltucker

Indianapolis Motor Speedway event draws tens of thousands

Tory Patrick, 41, is hoping to give her four children a once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunity. Patrick and her family traveled 160 miles to Indianapolis Motor Speedway from their home in Granger, Indiana. They were expected to have 97% totality at home, but it’s not the same as total coverage, she said.

“They will be getting the full experience that they can’t read about in textbooks,” Patrick said.

Patrick and her sister Cally Gannon, 39, from Cincinnati, met in Indianapolis to view the eclipse from the speedway. They camped outside IMS over the weekend ahead of the event and on Sunday afternoon saw a double rainbow over the speedway’s iconic pagoda. An estimated 50,000 tickets were sold for the day’s festivities, presented in partnership with NASA and Purdue University.

Elsewhere in the stands, Ryan Harper, 30, knows today is special.

“We’re right in totality,” he said. “This sometimes doesn’t happen in people’s lifetimes.

— Sarah Bowman and Jade Thomas

Family travels from Baltimore to Rochester, N.Y., to view the eclipse

When Maze Pelham of Baltimore was a fifth-grader, he watched news of the 2017 solar eclipse and vowed to witness the next notable solar eclipse. That eclipse, and that day, has come. And this is why he and his parents, Janice and Sonney Pelham, left Maryland around 1 a.m. on Monday and drove nearly seven hours to Rochester, New York.

“I said to myself I would go to the next one,” Maze Pelham said while seated with his parents on lawn chairs at downtown Rochester’s Parcel 5 park, where he and hundreds of others are awaiting a view of the full eclipse. “It’s a promise I made to myself.”

– Democrat and Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network

In Brooklyn: Eclipses glasses, check. Lawn chair, check.

Ralph Emerson held a pair of paper sunglasses in his hands while riding the subway to Brooklyn's sprawling Prospect Park on Monday. He exited the train with a folded lawn chair strapped across his shoulder, and said he felt energized and full of anticipation.

"This is special," Emerson, 61, said. "I haven't woken up with this much excitement since the Super Bowl."

Walking to the park's botanic garden, Emerson said appreciating natural phenomena makes it easier to manage the stresses that come with living in a big city. Also like a big sports game, the eclipse will draw lots of people together to experience something much larger than themselves, in community, he said.

"A lot of times it's tragedies that bring us together, but sometimes things like this do," he said.

− Claire Thornton

Texas Eclipse Festival cut short by weather

The Texas Eclipse Festival was canceled Monday in Burnet County, 50 miles northwest of Austin, because of weather concerns. The festival, which included bands and other events, began Sunday and was supposed to wrap up Tuesday.

"We regret to inform you of the severe weather forecast, including risks of high winds, tornadic activity, large hail, and thunderstorms for later today, including during the eclipse, Tuesday, and Wednesday," festival organizers said on their website. "Your safety is our top priority."

Festivalgoers were urged to leave early for safety and to beat traffic. Guests, however, were allowed to stay "provided they pack and are prepared to depart after totality."

Traffic jams, collisions mar eclipse watchers' travel

Traffic crashes and road delays were reported across the nation as Americans flocked to prime locations to gaze up at the rare solar eclipse . Local roads and highways in states including Texas, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Vermont and New Hampshire were overwhelmed with eclipse chasers, many of whom were from out of state. The most intense bottlenecks appeared to be in the path of totality , where spectators will be able to view the full eclipse.

In Oklahoma, a crash around 7:30 a.m. local time narrowed eastbound lanes on I-40, a major transcontinental highway that runs from California to North Carolina. The crash occurred not far from several state parks that were hosting eclipse events, and it's also within driving distance of the full eclipse path, which includes parts of southeastern Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Multiple crashes were reported on an interstate in Waco, Texas, a city in the path of totality, where several festivities and eclipse viewing events were scheduled. The crashes all occurred on I-35, which runs from southern Texas to Minnesota.

"Expect major traffic delays in this area," the Texas Department of Transportation said in a statement .

− Christopher Cann

Airport draws a crowd of jets for eclipse

EAGLE PASS, Texas − Maverick County International Airport in Eagle Pass, Texas, usually sees maybe three private planes a day. By 10 a.m. CT on Monday, more than 10 planes crowded the tarmac, including Cessnas, Pipers and at least one corporate jet − all there to catch an early glimpse of the total solar eclipse. Eagle Pass will be one of the first American cities to witness the phenomenon. Some watchers, like Brandon Beck, 43, flew in Sunday night from San Diego and spent the night in a sleeping bag on the tarmac next to his friend’s Mooney single-prop piston four-seater.“We’re so lucky to be on a planet where the sun is the perfect size and perfect distance to create that effect,” he said. “It’s obligatory. We have to see it.”

First the Cherry Blossoms, then the eclipse

WASHINGTON − The Cherry Blossoms brought Ali and Aurore Youssouf to the city all the way from Paris, but the pair were delighted to learn that their trip would overlap with the eclipse. The day is extra special for Aurore Youssouf, 43, who has never seen an eclipse before. On Monday morning, the couple arrived by chance at the National Mall early enough to snag a few pairs of free eclipse glasses distributed by the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum for the occasion.“We didn’t even know. We just ended up here and found out that they were giving away some glasses,” said Ali Youssouf, 46.

Awaiting eclipse − and hail − in Texas

KERRVILLE, Texas − Forecasts called for considerable cloudiness, rain and possible hail, but retired NASA engineer Jeff Stone stayed positive as he and his wife prepared to host more than a dozen people for a watch party at their hilltop home in Texas Hill Country. Stone, an eclipse enthusiast who had met family in Missouri to watch the solar eclipse of 2017, said he recently reviewed video footage of that event and said current conditions weren’t that much different than they were back then.

“I’m outside and seeing patches of blue among scattered clouds, so we’re remaining hopeful,” he said.

About 150 miles to the northeast in Gatesville, lead pastor Eric Moffett of Coryell Community Church said a similar forecast did little to deter an expected gathering of about 800 visitors for the church’s family-oriented “Eclipse at the Crosses” event. Many, if not most, were from out of town or even out of country − Canada, Wales, France, Italy. Many locals were staying home to avoid the crowd, he said.

“It’s partly cloudy, but the sun is shining on me right now,” he said. “We are praying that it stays that way.”

− Marc Ramirez

What is the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?

A  total solar eclipse  occurs when the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching our planet, leading to a period of darkness lasting several minutes. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the moon and the sun are on exact opposite sides of Earth. The Earth blocks the sunlight that normally reaches the moon. Instead of that sunlight hitting the moon’s surface, Earth's shadow falls on it.

A lunar eclipse can last for a few hours, while a solar eclipse lasts only a few minutes. Solar eclipses also rarely occur, while lunar eclipses are comparatively more frequent. While at least two partial lunar eclipses happen every year, total lunar eclipses are still rare, NASA says. Another major difference: No special glasses or gizmos are needed to view the a lunar eclipse, and people can directly stare at the moon.

− Saman Shafiq

Solar eclipse, lunar eclipse: What is the difference?

Can you drive during the solar eclipse?

The  2024 solar eclipse  will shroud much of the United States in darkness on Monday, leaving many people to wonder: Is it safe to drive during the solar eclipse?

It is safe to drive during an eclipse as long as you don't look up at the sky. AAA is telling drivers to be focused on the road if they are operating a car during the total solar eclipse. But the automobile insurance company is advising Americans who want to safely view the total eclipse to "find a safe place to park (not on the side of a road or highway) away from other traffic and then wear your eclipse glasses," said Aixa Diaz, a spokeswoman from AAA.

"Pack your patience, whether traveling a great distance or locally," Diaz said. "People will be out and about to catch a glimpse of the eclipse."

A similar scenario  played out in 2017 during the nation's last total solar eclipse : Congestion in some areas lasted for up to 13 hours after totality,  according to Transportation Research News , a National Research Council publication. An analysis of traffic patterns from that year suggests the worst of the traffic – on interstates and rural back roads alike – will kick off after the eclipse ends and everyone tries to leave all at once.

− Kayla Jimenez

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again. According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse. The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

But another eclipse scheduledfor Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and Georgia.

− Mary Walrath-Holdridge, Gabe Hauari and Eric Lagatta

Eclipse and pets: It's not the sky that's the problem

An  eclipse  itself isn't dangerous for domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but experts say it's probably best to not bring pets to  experience the April 2024 total solar eclipse . Experts' biggest concern is not what’s happening in the sky but on the ground as crowds of excited and  eager people gather , said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dogs especially will take their cues from their owners rather than  the celestial event.

“Rather than the effects of the eclipse, I would be more worried about the excitement and all of the people,” Carlson said.

− Elizabeth Weise

A guide to the solar eclipse for kids

Here's an easy-to read, illustrated guide to help kids understand what the  April 8 total solar eclipse  means, where it will be visible and how you can watch it safely. It also shows them how an ordinary kitchen colander can easily be used to view a solar eclipse − the colander's holes can project crescent images of the sun onto the ground. There are even pages that can be downloaded and colored.

Trump's eclipse experience lit up internet in 2017

Seven years ago, when the last  total solar eclipse  crossed over North America, a photo of then-President Donald Trump  seemingly gazing at the sun with his naked eyes set the internet ablaze . During the afternoon of Aug. 21, 2017, Trump, who was president at the time, was joined by then first lady Melania Trump and their son Barron  to watch the rare phenomenon from the Truman Balcony  at the White House. Photos taken by members of the media captured all three donning eclipse glasses while looking at the eclipse.

But at one point during the viewing, the former president was captured in photos and videos without proper eye protection, seemingly gazing directly at the sun. Looking at an eclipse before or after the brief phase of totality without proper eyewear  can lead to eye damage .

− Natalie Neysa Alund

When is the next total solar eclipse? What to know about the next eclipse's path, timing

How to make a solar eclipse viewer

People who didn't manage to get their  hands on glasses  are not completely down and out. There are other safe ways to view the eclipse , say experts, and a lot of them only require a little bit of craftiness and items you can find lying around the house.

Steps to make the cereal box eclipse viewer (And here is a video aid) :

• Get an empty, clean cereal box.
• Cut a white piece of cardboard that will fit snuggly in the bottom of the box, or secure it permanently by gluing it in place.
• Cut the top of the cereal box, removing both ends and leaving the center intact.
• Put a piece of tape across the center of the top to securely hold it closed.
• Tape a piece of heavy-duty foil or double a single layer for additional strength, covering one of the openings at the top of the cereal box. The other opening will remain open for viewing.
• Using a small nail (approximately 3mm in diameter) push a hole in the foil.
• Cover the entire box with construction paper, leaving the single-viewing opening and the foil uncovered.

The finished box should be held with the pin-hole side facing the sun. It may take a little practice pointing the box. With your back facing the sun, look through the viewing opening. A small image of the sun, about ½ cm in diameter, can be seen projected on the white paper inside the box.

− Mary Walrath-Holdrid

What is the path of the solar eclipse called?

Those in the direct line of the eclipse will be treated to an incredible sight as the moon completely blots out the sun's disk, ushering in uncharacteristic darkness and revealing the sun's elusive outermost layer called the corona. That moment is called "totality" and this year the path of totality crosses through 13 U.S. states.

The last total solar eclipse to cut through North America was in August 2017.

How to look at eclipse without glasses

A total solar eclipse offers skygazers the rare opportunity to witness the eclipse with the naked eye. However,  solar eclipse glasses  are still needed until totality is reached. 

Certified solar eclipse  glasses are crucial for spectators to avoid the sun's retina-damaging rays. But when the moon moves completely in front of the sun and blocks its light, you'll know it's  safe to remove the glasses  for a short period of time.

How fast does an eclipse shadow travel?

According to a post from the  National Weather Service  in Indianapolis on X, an eclipse shadow travels at speeds from 1,100 to 5,000 mph. Near the equator, it travels at around 1,100 mph and increases in speed as it approaches the poles.

The eclipse party is over? Time to recycle those glasses!

Astronomers Without Borders , or AWB, a non-profit organization running its second nationwide  eclipse glasses recycling drive . Her business will join over 300 schools, museums, city governments, commercial businesses, community organizations and local libraries that will collect and ship an estimated  millions of glasses  to be repurposed for use by underserved communities around the world in  future solar eclipses .

AWB launched its first run of the program after the last solar eclipse in 2017 when volunteer centers across the country collected millions of the glass. After vetting them for reuse, more than  half a million glasses were distributed to Africa, Asia and South America.

People can visit  AWB's website  to find their nearest participating collection center and learn more about recycling the glasses, said Andrew Fazekas, the organization's communication manager.  

"We figure there's probably going to be tens of millions of glasses out there at the very least," he said. "And most of them are probably very gently used."