Hillcrest Eats: Italian Restaurants & Pizza Spots

Photo Credit: Chocolat Hillcrest

Hillcrest has no shortage of superb Italian restaurants, whether you're in the mood for a slice of wood-fired pizza or an elegant plate of mouthwatering pasta. Or perhaps some tiramisu? The only hard part is deciding which one of these places to try first. Che buono!

Pasta & Plates

• Arrivederci Ristorante – 3845 Fourth Ave
  A Hillcrest classic for over 25 years, Arrivederci dishes out traditional Italian favorites like risotto and osso buco. The warm, homey atmosphere and big wine list make it a go-to for a laid-back Italian feast. Feels like an old-school Italian kitchen. Awarded "Outstanding Restaurant" at the San Diego Nicky Awards.
• Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen – 601 University Ave
  A modern spot known for their handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and all things pesto. The open kitchen lets you watch the chefs in action, and dishes like the pesto gnocchi and burrata pizza are customer faves. Opened in 2015, they stick to classic recipes but give them a modern spin, using fresh, local ingredients to keep things healthy and packed with flavor.
• Parma Cucina Italiana – 3850 Fifth Ave
  Specializes in authentic Northern Italian cuisine inspired by generations of family recipes, from rich homemade pasta dishes like lasagna to comforting desserts such as Torta della Nonna. The cozy, rustic vibe and traditional flavors make it a classic standout.
• Chocolat Hillcrest – 3896 Fifth Ave
  Chocolat is part Italian restaurant, part dessert heaven. They’ve got everything from pasta and pizza to crepes and gelato. The modern, stylish vibe makes it a great place for a meal or a sweet treat – don’t miss their Nutella crepes and rich gelato.

A Piece of Pizza

• Tavola Nostra Pizzeria e Cucina – 1040 University Ave
  If you’re craving wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza, Tavola Nostra has you covered. Along with their classic pies, they serve up pasta and small plates too. Customers rave about the unique Pinsa Romana—a lighter, crispier take on traditional pizza. Photos of the owner's Sicilian heritage, adds to the dining experience. Diners can watch their pizzas being prepared in the wood-fired oven.
• Sisters Pizza – 3603 Fourth Ave
  This family-run joint serves up killer New York-style thin-crust pizza. The pepperoni pizza and garlic knots are always a hit, as are the "Uncle Jesse" pizza and mozzarella sticks. Sisters Pizza was founded in 2019 by father-and-daughter duo William and Emily Green, in honor of Emily's sister, Kate, who passed away suddenly in her 30s. The popular spot pays homage to Kate's love for pizza and family.
• Hillcrest Pizza – 127 University Ave
  A neighborhood fave for classic and specialty pies loaded with toppings. The casual, friendly vibe makes it a great spot for grabbing a slice or two. The “Hillcrest Special” is a top pick for those who like their pizza loaded. Vegan options are also available, such as the Vegan Meat Hilly Cheesesteak, catering to diverse dietary preferences
• Bronx Pizza – $ 111 Washington St
  Bronx Pizza brings authentic New York-style thin-crust pizza to San Diego. With a no-frills, cash-only approach, this joint focuses on delivering quality pies with a variety of toppings. A favorite among locals craving a slice of the Big Apple.
• Massachusetts Mike’s Pizzeria – 1234 Main St
  Woud you believe us if we told you this place was founded by a pizza lover from Massachusetts named Mike? This spot serves up hearty, East Coast-style pizzas with generous toppings. Their signature “Massachusetts Special” is a crowd pleaser, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms. The pizzas are crafted with a special dough fermented over five days to enhance flavor and texture.