Visit Little Italy, a historic neighborhood in downtown San Diego, for amazing restaurants, galleries, and markets. I’ll share a few of my favorite stops so you know what to do and where to eat the next time you’re in the neighborhood.
There’s nothing I love more than playing tourist in my own city. No matter how much traveling we do, where we go, or what we see, there’s nothing better than coming home to San Diego. We’re truly so blessed to live here, and I swear, every time I step outside, I discover something new.
Our friends came into town recently, and we decided to take them out of our Carlsbad hub and head down to Little Italy, located in Downtown San Diego. It’s a few walkable blocks, perfect for couples, families, and travelers. So hop on the Green Line trolley (get off at County Center) and get ready for a day of exploring!
The History of Little Italy, San Diego
Established in the 1920s, Little Italy is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods in the business district. Italian families from Genoa and Sicily were enticed by the warm weather, fishing community, and booming tuna industry.
The industry declined during the 60s, but the neighborhood was revitalized in the 90s. Today, it’s a booming cultural hub with beautiful piazzas, waterfront properties, vibrant festivals, streetside cafes, and some of the best pizza restaurants around.
What to Do in Little Italy, San Diego
Walk Along the Waterfront
The next best thing to the beach is San Diegos’ impeccable bay views. You’re right next to the harbor so, you have a front-row view of the shimmering water and boats along San Diego Bay. The waterfront also has a great, easy walkway that takes you down to Seaport Village.
Visit the Little Italy Mercato Farmers Market
Make sure you’ve packed your reusable bag and go wild in this massive farmers market, located in the heart of Little Italy. It’s San Diego’s largest farmers’ market. Flowers, fresh produce, honey, cheese, food trucks, music — Mercato truly has it all!
You’re truly in the hustle and bustle of it all. It’s only open on Saturdays and Wednesdays so plan accordingly!
Enjoy Lunch at Davanti Enoteca
The best thing about Little Italy is, of course, the food. There are so many amazing restaurants, and Davanti Enoteca is for sure one of our favorite Italian spots. Everything is great — and they have an awesome outdoor area in the back — but their ricotta honeycomb bread is to die for.
Tour the San Diego Firehouse Museum
If you’ve got little ones in tow, the Pioneer Hook & Ladder Firehouse Museum is a great stop full of vintage fire trucks to check out. The building is over 100 years old and filled to the brim with rich firehouse history.
Visit Our Lady of the Rosary Church
Known as the jewel of Little Italy, San Diego this Catholic Church does a lot of good for the community, including giving back to assist marginalized communities. We always love stopping in and honoring their efforts.
Take the Pups to Little Italy Dog Park
Date Street’s dog park is the perfect place for your pups to run off some energy and socialize with other friendly dogs. We like going in the morning or late afternoon to avoid big crowds, but our dogs always love it.
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Grab a Slice at Sorrento Ristorante or Isola Pizza
Pizza is a must if you visit Little Italy. We often switch between Sorrento’s or Isola’s, both found right on India Street. Sorrento is known for their ultra-thin, crispy pizzas, and Isola specializes in Napoli-style woodfired. Either way, so delicious!!
Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Ironside
Little Italy isn’t just home to great Italian food — some of San Diego’s best restaurants are also located here, making it so easy to try new flavors with every visit. Ironside is a must if you’re a shellfish fanatic like me. Their menu has an extensive raw bar, fresh oysters, and clam chowder I dream about!
Sunday Brunch at Wolfie’s
A carousel inside a restaurant? This is the kind of magic you can find in Little Italy. I love brunch at Wolfie’s — it’s delicious food, signature drinks, and an incredible ambiance to kickstart your Sunday. Be sure to get the beignets for the table!
Waterfront Bar & Grill
Want a taste of history? This British-owned local pub is the oldest bar in San Diego. They offer fish and chips and some really good burgers. Catch a game on the telly while you sip on a cold, Irish beer!
Explore San Diego’s Little Italy on Your Own Two Feet
Get your steps in and enjoy the day! It’s truly a treasure trove of architecture, boutiques, restaurants, and so much more. Of course, your last stop should always be ice cream, and your order should be stracciatella! The perfect ending to a perfect day.
Have you been to Little Italy? This is not meant to be a comprehensive list, but a few of our favorite spots. Let me know your favorites, and enjoy your next outing in Little Italy, San Diego!
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