Little Italy recommendations

Question

Please offer your top 3 places to eat in Little Italy or if there is another Italian restaurant near there. Interested in proximity to the Westin Bayview or the Manchester Hyatt and how convenient the transportation would be to get there. We have some mobility issues so proximity to rail would be nice although we are not opposed to taking Lyft or Uber. We just can’t walk more than about a mile and a half at any one time.

Answer

Little Italy in San Diego is compact and very walkable, though given your mobility constraints, staying close to a hotel like the Westin Bayside or Manchester Grand Hyatt and using short Lyft/Uber rides is a smart approach. Here are some top Italian dining options that are well-regarded and convenient for your location.

Top 3 Italian Restaurants in Little Italy

Bencotto Italian Kitchen
Famous for its fresh handmade pasta and modern Italian dishes. Located right in the heart of Little Italy on India Street, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk from either hotel, or just a 5-minute Lyft/Uber ride. The interior is spacious and accessible, making it easy for those with mobility concerns.
Ironside Fish & Oyster
Although technically more seafood-focused, it has excellent Italian-influenced pasta dishes and small plates. Located on India Street near Bencotto, it’s similarly close to the Westin Bayside/Manchester Hyatt. Accessible and casual, it’s a short ride if you prefer not to walk the distance.
Filippi’s Pizza Grotto
A longstanding family-style Italian restaurant in Little Italy offering classic pizzas, pastas, and hearty entrees. Slightly further north on India Street, but still under a mile from the hotels. They have accessible seating and a lively, authentic atmosphere.

Other Considerations

If you prefer a quieter spot with more upscale Italian fare, Civico 1845 offers a modern, gluten-free friendly menu and is near the Westin Bayside.
Transportation is straightforward: the Little Italy trolley station (Green Line) is a bit over a mile from the hotels, so a short Lyft/Uber ride may be more comfortable for you.
Evening dining is lively, but if you prefer a calmer experience, try early dinner hours around 5–6 PM.

In summary, Bencotto, Ironside, and Filippi’s offer the best combination of authentic Italian cuisine, proximity to your hotels, and accessible seating. Using a short ride-share will minimize walking while still allowing you to enjoy the charm of Little Italy.

Little Italy recommendations

More San Diego Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions