San Diego's Best Spaghetti [Updated 2024]

I've tasted my fair share of pasta dishes, from classic Italian eateries to hidden gems tucked away in the heart of San Diego. With a belly full of carb-induced happiness, I proudly present my findings on the best spaghetti spots in this sunny Californian city.

So loosen your belts and prepare for a lighthearted culinary adventure as we delve into the saucy world of San Diego's finest spaghetti. Join me as I dish out reviews on thirteen local hotspots that have left me begging for seconds.

Let's find out where you can get your hands on the tastiest plates of pasta in America's Finest City!

Buon Appetito Restaurant

Highlights
Welcoming staff
Amazing food
Beautiful atmosphere
Best tiramisu

Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately greeted by the most welcoming staff I have ever encountered. They made me feel like a long-lost Italian cousin returning home for a feast. And oh, what a feast it was!

The menu boasted an array of mouthwatering options, but my focus was on their spaghetti. Let me tell you, this place knows how to make pasta sing! The spaghetti strands were perfectly al dente and coated in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce that could make even the pickiest Nonna shed tears of joy.

But it wasn't just about the spaghetti; every dish that graced my table was a masterpiece. From the delicate antipasti to the heavenly tiramisu, every bite transported me straight to Italy.

And can we talk about the atmosphere? Beautiful would be an understatement. The rustic decor and soft lighting created an ambiance that felt both cozy and elegant. It was as if I had stepped into an Italian villa nestled in the heart of San Diego.

Now, let's get back to that tiramisu. Oh mamma mia! It was by far the best tiramisu I have ever had. Each spoonful was like a cloud of mascarpone heaven dancing on my taste buds.

In conclusion, Buon Appetito Restaurant is not just another Italian eatery in San Diego; it's an experience that will tantalize your senses and make you believe in culinary magic. So, whether you're craving spaghetti or simply want to indulge in some authentic Italian cuisine, this place should be at the top of your list!

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Monzu Fresh Pasta

Highlights
Amazing food
Excellent service
Fresh and delicious pasta
Warm hospitality
Fabulous desserts

As soon as I walked into Monzu Fresh Pasta, I was greeted with a warm smile and a friendly "buongiorno!" The cozy atmosphere instantly made me feel at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the spaghetti. Oh boy, was it a delight! Each bite was like a symphony in my mouth. The pasta was cooked to perfection, al dente as it should be, with just the right amount of sauce clinging to every strand. It was evident that the pasta was freshly made in-house, giving it an authentic and wholesome taste.

The menu offered an array of delectable options, from classic marinara to indulgent carbonara. Being a seafood lover myself, I couldn't resist trying their seafood spaghetti. Let me tell you, it was divine. The combination of plump shrimp, tender calamari, and succulent mussels swimming in a flavorful tomato sauce left me wanting more.

What truly set Monzu Fresh Pasta apart was their exceptional service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of magnificent. They were knowledgeable about the menu and eager to offer recommendations.

To top off this marvelous experience, their desserts were simply heavenly. I couldn't resist indulging in their tiramisu—a creamy concoction that transported me straight to Italy.

In conclusion, if you're seeking an unforgettable spaghetti experience in San Diego with amazing food and excellent service, look no further than Monzu Fresh Pasta. This hidden gem will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

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Bencotto

Highlights
Surreal and delicious
Best chicken parm
Terrific homemade pastas
Awesome customer service
Great cheese wheel pasta
Delicious tiramisu

Prepare yourself for a surreal and delicious adventure that will take your taste buds on a rollercoaster ride. Bencotto is not your average spaghetti joint; it has taken the art of pasta-making to a whole new level.

Let's start with their chicken parm, shall we? It's the best I've ever had. The crispy breaded chicken, smothered in rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, is an absolute delight. Every bite was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my tongue.

But let's not forget about their homemade pastas. They are truly terrific. Each strand of spaghetti is lovingly crafted in-house, resulting in the perfect texture and consistency. Whether you prefer a classic marinara or a creamy Alfredo sauce, Bencotto has got you covered.

What impressed me the most was their customer service. The staff at Bencotto goes above and beyond to ensure that every customer leaves with a smile on their face. They are knowledgeable about their menu and provide excellent recommendations based on your preferences.

Now, let's talk about the famous cheese wheel pasta. Picture this: a giant wheel of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese being set ablaze before perfectly al dente spaghetti is tossed into its molten center. The result? An explosion of flavors that will leave you speechless.

To end the meal on a sweet note, indulge in their delectable tiramisu. It's creamy, indulgent, and the perfect way to conclude this culinary journey through Italy.

So if you're searching for the best spaghetti in San Diego, make your way to Bencotto for an experience that will leave you craving more. Trust me when I say, it'll be pasta-tively unforgettable!

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Monello

Highlights
Great atmosphere
Delicious gnocchi
Cheese wheel pasta
Accommodating service
Amazing Margherita pizza

Walking into Monello, I was immediately struck by the great atmosphere. The elegant yet cozy decor transported me to Italy, making me feel like I was dining in a stylish trattoria in the heart of Rome.

As I perused the menu, my eyes were drawn to the mention of their delicious gnocchi. Being a connoisseur of Italian cuisine, I couldn't resist ordering it. And boy, am I glad I did! The pillowy softness of the gnocchi paired perfectly with the rich and flavorful sauce. It was a heavenly combination that left me craving for more.

But what truly set Monello apart was their unique presentation of pasta in a cheese wheel. Watching as they tossed freshly cooked spaghetti in the cheese wheel, allowing it to melt and coat every strand with its creamy goodness, was a spectacle to behold. Each bite was an explosion of cheesy delight that had me grinning from ear to ear.

The service at Monello was also worth mentioning. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. They were knowledgeable about the menu and accommodating to any dietary preferences or restrictions.

While my focus may have been on spaghettis, I couldn't help but indulge in their amazing Margherita pizza too. The thin and crispy crust combined with the tangy tomato sauce and fresh basil made for a mouthwatering treat.

In conclusion, Monello is an absolute gem when it comes to finding San Diego's best spaghetti. With its great atmosphere, delicious gnocchi, cheese wheel pasta extravaganza, accommodating service, and amazing Margherita pizza, this place is a must-visit for any pasta lover looking for an authentic Italian experience. Buon appetito!

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Mona Lisa Italian Foods

Highlights
Great dinner stop
Delicious gulf shrimp
Tasty and filling veal
Fast-improving service
Attached shop with Italian goods

From the moment I stepped into Mona Lisa Italian Foods, I knew I was in for a great dinner stop. The cozy atmosphere and the smell of garlic wafting through the air immediately put me in a pasta-loving mood.

I started off my spaghetti adventure with their delicious gulf shrimp spaghetti. The combination of perfectly cooked shrimp and al dente pasta was a match made in culinary heaven. Each bite filled my taste buds with a burst of seafood goodness that left me craving for more.

Next up, I ventured into the world of veal spaghetti. The tender veal melted in my mouth, complemented by a rich tomato sauce that had just the right balance of tanginess and sweetness. It was a truly satisfying and filling dish that left me feeling content and satiated.

One thing that stood out to me during my visit was the fast-improving service. The staff at Mona Lisa Italian Foods were attentive and friendly, making sure that every guest felt welcome and taken care of. It's always refreshing to see a restaurant focus on providing an exceptional dining experience.

To top it all off, Mona Lisa Italian Foods has an attached shop filled with authentic Italian goods. From imported pasta to delectable sauces, it's like stepping into a little piece of Italy right here in San Diego.

Overall, Mona Lisa Italian Foods is definitely one of the top contenders for the title of best spaghetti in San Diego. With their delectable dishes, fast-improving service, and accompanying shop filled with Italian goodies, it's a must-visit spot for any pasta lover in town.

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Barbusa

Highlights
Outstanding service
Delicious food
Accommodating
Fresh ingredients
Classic ambiance

Let me start by saying that my visit to Barbusa was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I stepped foot inside, I was greeted with outstanding service that made me feel like a VIP. The staff was knowledgeable, accommodating, and went above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was top-notch.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the spaghetti. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The spaghetti at Barbusa is a true masterpiece. Every bite was an explosion of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The sauce had the perfect balance of tanginess and richness, while the pasta was cooked to perfection - tender yet firm.

One thing that truly sets Barbusa apart is their commitment to using fresh ingredients. You can taste the quality in every bite. From the plump tomatoes in the sauce to the fragrant herbs sprinkled on top, each ingredient played its part in creating a symphony of flavors.

Beyond just the food itself, Barbusa offers a classic ambiance that transports you straight to Italy. The rustic decor paired with soft lighting creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere that makes you feel like you're dining in a traditional Italian trattoria.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best spaghetti in San Diego, look no further than Barbusa. With outstanding service, delicious food made from fresh ingredients, and a classic ambiance that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience, this place has it all. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will thank you for choosing Barbusa!

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Civico 1845

Highlights
Best espresso martini
Delicious zucchini blossoms
Outstanding service
Kind and welcoming staff
Wonderful gluten free pasta

Upon entering Civico 1845, I was immediately greeted by the kind and welcoming staff. They ushered me to a cozy table where I eagerly anticipated my spaghetti adventure. Little did I know that this would be a culinary journey like no other.

The menu boasted an array of tantalizing options, but one dish stood out among the rest - their spaghetti. Crafted with care and precision, every bite was a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds. The pasta was cooked to perfection, firm yet tender, just the way it should be. The sauce, oh the sauce! It was rich and robust, with hints of garlic and fresh herbs that elevated each forkful into pure bliss.

What truly impressed me about Civico 1845 was their attention to detail and commitment to accommodating dietary needs. As someone who follows a gluten-free diet, I often find it challenging to enjoy traditional Italian cuisine. However, Civico 1845 went above and beyond by offering gluten-free pasta that was just as delectable as its traditional counterpart.

But let's not forget about the extras. Their zucchini blossoms were a delightful surprise - crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside. And if you're in need of a little pick-me-up after indulging in all that pasta, I highly recommend trying their espresso martini - it's simply divine.

To top it all off, the service at Civico 1845 was outstanding. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, guiding me through their menu with ease. They made sure every aspect of my dining experience was exceptional.

In conclusion, Civico 1845 is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience for spaghetti lovers like myself. With its impeccable dishes, wonderful service, and inclusive options for all dietary preferences, it has definitely earned its place as one of San Diego's finest spaghetti destinations. So, if you're in the mood for a taste of Italian excellence, make your way to Civico 1845 and prepare to have your spaghetti dreams come true.

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Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge

Highlights
Brunch impresses
Amazing service
Lush vibe
Quick service
Beautiful drinks

Let me start by saying, brunch at Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge is an absolute delight! It left my taste buds dancing and my heart singing. From the moment I walked in, the lush vibe of the place transported me to a charming Italian trattoria.

Now, let's talk about their spaghetti. Oh boy, it was a masterpiece on a plate! The pasta was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of al dente bite. The sauce, oh dear reader, it was a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. Every mouthful was a delightful journey through tangy tomatoes and aromatic herbs.

But wait, there's more! The service at Salvatore's is nothing short of amazing. The staff went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was top-notch. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and had a genuine passion for their craft. Bravo!

And did I mention how quickly they served our food? I barely had time to finish scrolling through my Instagram feed before our steaming plates of spaghetti arrived at our table.

To complement this gastronomic delight, Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge offers a selection of beautiful drinks that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the taste buds. Sipping on one of their expertly crafted cocktails while indulging in their heavenly spaghetti made for an unforgettable afternoon.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best spaghetti in San Diego, look no further than Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge. With its impressive brunch offerings, outstanding service, and luxurious atmosphere, this place truly deserves its spot among the elite pasta destinations in town. Go ahead and treat yourself; your taste buds will thank you later!

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Asti Ristorante

Highlights
Excellent food
Fast service
Great atmosphere
Fresh ingredients
Must try

Let me start by saying, the food at Asti Ristorante is nothing short of excellent. From the moment I took my first bite of their spaghetti, I was transported to a land where pasta reigns supreme and taste buds rejoice. The flavors were so vibrant and well-balanced that it felt like a symphony in my mouth.

Not only was the food top-notch, but the service was also incredibly fast. I barely had time to finish my complimentary breadsticks before my piping hot plate of spaghetti arrived at the table. It's like they have a secret teleportation device in their kitchen!

The atmosphere at Asti Ristorante is something to behold. The dim lighting, cozy seating, and rustic decor create an ambiance that makes you feel like you're dining in a charming Italian villa. It's the perfect setting to enjoy a hearty plate of spaghetti.

One thing that truly sets Asti Ristorante apart is their commitment to using fresh ingredients. Each bite of spaghetti was bursting with the flavors of perfectly ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and quality cheese. It's clear that they take pride in sourcing the best ingredients for their dishes.

If you're looking for the best spaghetti in San Diego, Asti Ristorante is an absolute must-try. Trust me when I say, you won't be disappointed by their delectable offerings. So grab your fork and get ready for a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds sing!

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Parma Cucina Italiana

Highlights
Charming and welcoming atmosphere
Phenomenal spaghetti bolognese
Fresh and delicious food
Best pesto ever

Walking into Parma Cucina Italiana is like stepping into a charming little slice of Italy. The atmosphere is so welcoming, it's as if the restaurant itself is giving you a warm embrace.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: their spaghetti bolognese. Oh my goodness! It was a taste sensation like no other. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta and a rich, flavorful sauce made me feel like I was dining in the heart of Bologna itself. Each bite was an explosion of culinary delight that left me yearning for more.

But it wasn't just the spaghetti bolognese that impressed me. Every dish I tried at Parma Cucina Italiana was fresh and delicious. The chefs clearly take great care in selecting their ingredients, resulting in dishes that are bursting with flavor and authenticity.

And let's not forget about their pesto. It was simply divine! The balance of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese was spot-on. It's safe to say that Parma Cucina Italiana serves up the best pesto I have ever had the pleasure of tasting.

Overall, my experience at Parma Cucina Italiana was nothing short of phenomenal. From the moment I walked in until the moment I left with a satisfied belly and a smile on my face, every aspect exceeded my expectations. If you're searching for the best spaghetti in San Diego, look no further than this delightful gem. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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The Old Spaghetti Factory

Highlights
Great atmosphere
Tasty food
Kid-friendly
Cozy atmosphere
Quick service

Walking into The Old Spaghetti Factory, I was immediately greeted by a great atmosphere that transported me to a vintage Italian trattoria. The warm lighting, cozy booths, and charming décor made me feel like I was in the heart of Italy itself.

Now let's talk about the star of the show: the spaghetti. Oh boy, was it tasty. Each bite was a flavor explosion that took my taste buds on a delightful journey. The sauce was perfectly balanced with just the right amount of tanginess and richness. And don't even get me started on their homemade meatballs—they were tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

One thing that really stood out to me about The Old Spaghetti Factory is how kid-friendly it is. They have a special menu for little ones that includes smaller portions and fun options like macaroni and cheese. Plus, they even offer crayons and coloring sheets to keep the little munchkins entertained while waiting for their meals.

The service at The Old Spaghetti Factory was top-notch; I barely had time to finish reading the menu before our attentive server was ready to take our orders. Despite being busy, the staff managed to provide quick service without compromising on quality.

All in all, my experience at The Old Spaghetti Factory left me feeling satisfied and content. From the great atmosphere to the scrumptious food, this place definitely deserves its spot on my list of San Diego's best spaghetti joints. So next time you're craving some Italian goodness, give The Old Spaghetti Factory a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Buona Forchetta - South Park

Highlights
Delicious menu items
Quick and coordinated service
Authentic Cacio e pepe
Mouthwatering gluten-free pizza
Best wood-fired pizza from Italy

Let me start by saying that the menu at Buona Forchetta is a delightful journey for any pasta lover. The moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a quick, coordinated service that made me feel like royalty.

Now, onto the star of the show - their spaghetti dishes. I must say, Buona Forchetta truly knows how to create an authentic plate of Cacio e pepe. The combination of perfectly al dente spaghetti coated in a creamy pecorino Romano sauce with a hint of black pepper was simply divine. Each bite was like a little taste of heaven.

But let's not forget about their mouthwatering gluten-free pizza! Yes, you heard it right. Not only do they excel in pasta, but they also offer a fantastic selection of wood-fired pizzas that cater to those with dietary restrictions. The crust was thin and crispy, the toppings were fresh and flavorful - it was pizza perfection.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best spaghetti in San Diego, look no further than Buona Forchetta - South Park. Their dedication to creating delicious menu items combined with their quick and coordinated service will leave you wanting more. And make sure to save room for their delectable gluten-free pizza; it's simply the best wood-fired pizza straight from Italy.

So go ahead and treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Buona Forchetta - South Park. You won't be disappointed!

Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy

Highlights
Spacious restaurant
Fun atmosphere
Delicious food
Large portions
Friendly service

Upon walking into Filippi's, I was immediately struck by the spaciousness of the restaurant. The high ceilings and open layout gave it an airy and welcoming feel. The atmosphere was fun and lively, with families and friends enjoying their meals amidst the chatter and laughter.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the spaghetti! Oh boy, was it a delight for my taste buds. The delicious aroma filled the air as soon as the plate was placed in front of me. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with perfectly cooked pasta bathed in a rich, velvety sauce that tantalized my senses.

But what truly impressed me were the large portions served at Filippi's. It felt like they were trying to feed an entire Italian village! And believe me when I say that even after devouring that mountain of spaghetti, there was still enough left to take home for another meal (or two!).

The friendly service added an extra touch to my dining experience at Filippi's. The staff went out of their way to ensure that every customer felt welcomed and satisfied. They were attentive without being intrusive, making sure that my water glass was always full and checking if I needed anything else.

In conclusion, Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy is a must-visit destination for all pasta lovers in San Diego. With its spacious restaurant, fun atmosphere, delicious food, large portions, and friendly service – it ticks all the boxes on my list! So next time you're craving some heavenly spaghetti, head on over to Filippi's and prepare yourself for a truly memorable dining experience.