After pulling several (very) hard misses during our stay in San Diego, it was a relief to finally score a hit with Ristorante Illando, and on Christmas Day, no less!
The cranberry mules were tasty and refreshing, and the Brussel sprout appetizer was a solid choice. Our mains were a delicious spaghetti with clams and mussels, and a light gnocchi in an outrageous Gorgonzola sauce that I still can't get over. The night was topped off with a fluffy Tiramisu that struck a great balance in consistency and sweetness.
Beyond the food, the staff were quite warm and friendly. The setting for the evening was this really cozy secluded patio up above at the back which was nothing short of charming.
I'd love to pay a return visit when I'm back in San Diego. Thank you, Ristorante Illando!
This was such a delightful find. We had the bruschetta to start and then the lobster ravioli and the veal, which were both perfect. Our waitress recommended an amazing red wine and we both had dessert, too - tiramisu and cannolis along with a cappuccino. Everything was delicious. One of the best meals I've ever had. Would definitely recommend
We typically try to stay away from downtown because of how hard it is to find parking (even lots are totally filled up especially on weekend nights), BUT we have wanted to try this place for some time…and so glad that we did! We were able to get seated on the patio, which was just enchanting and romantic. Just a heads up, it is a little hard to find if you’re not familiar with Little Italy, but just look out for a narrow entrance as you follow your Google maps.
After trying the food, we can see why it’s such a local favorite out here in San Diego. We ordered the lobster ravioli, calamari, charcuterie board, spaghetti funghi…all solid choices! I especially liked the lobster ravioli paired with a red wine that night (it was a Friday 🤣). If you are ever in the area, definitely give this place a try. It is a perfect place for a romantic date night or a casual hang with good friends!
Health Victory Network HVN
+5
Can I please give 10 stars?
This is THE best restaurant in Little Italy. The 'hidden gem'... like a speakeasy Italian homestead with matching food and libations.
Considering renting the entire restaurant or back patio or the Presidential room for my Christmas party.
The appetizer tower is so good and I love all of their entrees.
Seafood lovers get the Al Scoglio or Crab pasta.
Meat lovers get their meat bolognese.
I try to get their special before it goes away. I am trying the butternut Thanksgiving special tonight. Yum!
Last but not least, extensive wine menu and can't go wrong with the best Tiramisu and cannolis ever.
Incredible service and delicious food, they don't charge me for the wrong lamb,and give us dessert for free!!!! that's my first day in San Diego, even hurricane is here,but my heart is warm!!!
A delightful, cozy little restaurant! My grilled octopus appetizer was fantastic, as was my pasta main entree. What prevents me from giving the food five stars was the bread, which tasted like it could have been bought at any convenience store. Overall, I highly recommend this place!
small but intimate atmosphere, entrance is easy to miss, it's basically just a set of stairs. in the heart of little Italy so can be hard to navigate here during peak hours. highly recommend the short rib tortellini though portions are small.
We got into restaurants pretty late, and they helped us with great patience. When I mentioned the soup was a little salty, they immediately cooked me a new one.
Swung by Little Italy for dinner while in San Diego for work. Walked by Ristorante Illando and it just smelled delicious. Service was very friendly and fast. Gnocchi was fantastic. All of them were cooked just right and the ragu meat sauce had a really great depth of flavor.
We enjoyed the Cesare Salad, Bruschetta Toscana, Spaghetti also Scoglio, and the Eggplant Parmigiana. Will definitely recommend and return.
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