SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — When it comes to finding a slice of Europe in San Diego, locals commonly look to the city's Little Italy neighborhood.
From the traditional cuisine of pizza and pasta to new favorites setting up shop in the area, the neighborhood has its share of old and new to please visitors.
But a big part of the area's charm is its Italian ambiance, in both the shops and shop owners of the area. And between stops for a slice or gelato, there's a lot to see, smell, and taste outside the restaurant scene.
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For a feel of Italy close to home, check out these Little Italy stops:
Mona Lisa (2061 India St.) - Next to Mona Lisa's Restaurant is a combination deli and market packed with Italian imports. Whether you're looking to stop and dine in, grab a sandwich, or peruse the market for Italian foods and goods.
Piazza della Famiglia (523 W. Date St.) - Little Italy is now home to a 10,000-square-foot, European-style piazza open for visitors to stroll or relax. Grab a seat at tables and chairs lining the cobblestone street over lunch or coffee or just for a some people watching!
The Market by Buon Appetito (1605 India St.) - Buon Appetito's market is filled with European and Italian goods and foods, blending together the charm of an authentic European marketplace with fresh and imported foods.
Assenti’s Pasta (2044 India St.) - Looking to put together your own Italian feast? Assenti's Pasta has been around since the early 1980s, selling a variety of fresh, homemade pasta and sauces in addition to imported and domestic meats and cheeses, kitchen tools, and other imported Italian wares.
Filippi's Cash & Carry (1747 India St.) - Way back in 1947, Vincent DePhilippis and Madeleine Manfredi opened Cash & Carry Italian Foods in San Diego. While the shop would spring into several Filippi's Pizza Grotto locations around the county, the shop stands as a traditional Italian marketplace.
Roma Market (555 W. Beech St.) - Whether you're craving a sandwich or salad, or coffee or wine, true to form like a European market you can kick back near the courtyard or patio at Roma and take in the sights and smells of the area.
