Food & Drink

Calzone Quest: Uncovering San Diego’s 12 Best Spots!

San Diego is home to a diverse and thriving food scene, and one dish that has gained popularity in recent years is the calzone.

This Italian-inspired dish is essentially a folded pizza filled with a variety of toppings, making it a hearty and satisfying meal option. Whether you're a lifelong calzone lover or new to the dish, San Diego has plenty of options to satisfy your craving.

One of the great things about the calzone is its versatility. From classic cheese and pepperoni to more unique combinations like chicken and pesto or barbecue beef, there is a calzone to suit every taste preference.

And with so many restaurants and pizzerias in San Diego offering their own take on the dish, there is no shortage of options to choose from.

Whether you prefer your calzone crispy and golden-brown or soft and doughy, there is a place in San Diego that can deliver.

And with many locations offering both dine-in and takeout options, you can enjoy a piping hot calzone from the comfort of your own home or out on the town with friends and family. So if you're on the hunt for the best calzones in San Diego, look no further – we've got you covered.

1. Bronx Pizza

Bronx Pizza
111 Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Bronx Pizza is a no-frills pizzeria that offers some of the best NY-style thin-crust pizza and calzones.

This family-owned business has a simple menu, but they do it right. The crust is crispy, and the toppings are delicious.

They offer combo meals, big slices of pizza, and calzones at reasonable prices. The only downside is that they only accept cash.

The place has a New York vibe, and the staff is friendly. It's worth checking out if you're in the mood for some authentic pizza.

2. Buona Forchetta – South Park

Buona Forchetta - South Park
3001 Beech St, San Diego, CA 92102 (Google Maps)

Buona Forchetta – South Park is a bustling Italian pizzeria and wine bar that draws crowds with its wood-fired pies, fresh pasta, and global wine list.

The service is efficient and attentive, and the food is delicious.

The calzone is a standout dish, with a crispy crust and a generous filling. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends or a date.

If you're in the mood for Italian food, this is definitely a place worth checking out.

3. Tribute Pizza

Tribute Pizza
3077 N Park Way, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Tribute Pizza is a must-visit place for calzone lovers. The wood-fired calzones are cooked to perfection and packed with delicious fillings.

The atmosphere is modern and inviting, with an open kitchen adding to the experience.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable. The menu also offers a great selection of unique pizzas with creative toppings.

Tribute Pizza is definitely worth a visit for those seeking a great calzone experience.

4. Pizza e Birra San Diego

Pizza E Birra San Diego
3625 India St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Pizza e Birra San Diego is a wood-fired pizzeria that serves delicious calzones. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is casual.

The menu includes a variety of Italian classics, including wings and pizza fries. The pizzas are made with fresh dough and are cooked to perfection.

The calzones are packed with flavor and the bread is amazing. The restaurant also has a nice selection of beers on tap and great happy hour deals.

Pizza e Birra San Diego is a great spot to grab a bite to eat and enjoy some drinks with friends.

5. Pizzeria Luigi

Pizzeria Luigi
2121 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Pizzeria Luigi is a counter-service pizzeria that serves NY-style pies and Italian fare.

Their thin crust calzones are a must-try. They offer veggie and vegan options as well.

The staff is friendly and the service is quick. The place can get busy, but the wait is worth it.

If you're looking for a delicious calzone in town, Pizzeria Luigi is the place to go.

6. Pummaro Pizzeria & Ristorante Italiano

Pummaro Pizzeria & Ristorante Italiano
1101 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

Pummaro Pizzeria & Ristorante Italiano is a modern Italian bistro that serves Neapolitan-style wood-fired pies and classic cocktails.

The restaurant is known for its delicious calzone provalone, pasta primavera, and Alfredo sauce. The atmosphere is pleasant and relaxing, making it a great place to enjoy authentic Italian food.

The staff is friendly and the service is great. The restaurant also has gluten-free pizza options and a sister restaurant nearby with a full Italian menu.

If you're looking for delicious Italian food at an affordable price, Pummaro Pizzeria & Ristorante Italiano is definitely worth a visit.

7. Pauly's Pizza Joint

Pauly's Pizza Joint
6780 Miramar Rd STE 105, San Diego, CA 92121 (Google Maps)

Pauly's Pizza Joint is a must-try for anyone looking for authentic New York-style pizza and calzones.

Their pizzas have a thin crust with a perfect cheese to sauce ratio, and they offer a variety of toppings to choose from. The staff is friendly, and the restaurant is clean and inviting.

They also have vegetarian options available. Pauly's Pizza Joint offers delivery and pick-up options, making it a convenient choice for those on the go.

With a long menu and beer on offer, this relaxed counter-serve spot is perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.

8. Sauced Pizzeria

Sauced Pizzeria
4475 Ingraham St, San Diego, CA 92109 (Google Maps)

Sauced Pizzeria is a must-visit for anyone craving tasty calzones.

This Italian restaurant has a great selection of vegan options, making it a hit with everyone. The owner, Christina, and her staff are friendly and welcoming.

Portions are generous and prices are reasonable, making it worth every penny. The alfredo sauce is a standout, and the veggie lasagna is top-notch.

The overall ambiance is cozy and inviting. Sauced Pizzeria is a great choice for a casual bite with friends or family.

9. Rogers Pizzerolo Italian Grill

Rogers Pizzerolo Italian Grill
6171 Mission Gorge Rd, San Diego, CA 92120 (Google Maps)

Rogers Pizzerolo Italian Grill is a great spot for calzone lovers. The calzone is garlicky and cheesy, although a bit greasy.

The thin crust pizza with various toppings is also a must-try. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.

The food is fresh and delicious, and the portions are generous. The delivery service is prompt and accurate.

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food served. It's definitely worth trying out this new pizza shop.

10. Lucca's Pizzeria and Market

Lucca's Pizzeria And Market
2195 Station Village Way A, San Diego, CA 92108 (Google Maps)

Looking for a delicious calzone in town that won't break the bank or disappoint your taste buds, head to Lucca's Pizzeria and Market.

This Italian restaurant and convenience store offers homemade calzones with a crispy crust and flavorful fillings.

The meatball calzone and calamari are must-tries, and the ham and cheese calzone is also a popular choice. The friendly staff provides excellent service, making you feel right at home.

Lucca's also has a nice selection of Italian wine and snacks in their market. Don't miss out on this hidden gem for your next calzone craving!

11. Giant Pizza King Linda Vista

Giant Pizza King Linda Vista
6585 Osler St # 102, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Giant Pizza King Linda Vista is a local chain of pizzerias that offers extra-large pies for carry-out or delivery.

The restaurant specializes in thin crust pizzas that are packed with flavor. Their calzones are also a must-try!

The staff is friendly and makes customers feel like family. The prices are reasonable and the portions are big, making it a great value for money.

If you're looking for delicious pizza and calzones in the area, Giant Pizza King Linda Vista is definitely worth a visit.

12. Leona's Cucina Italiana

Leona's Cucina Italiana
4748 University Ave ste b, San Diego, CA 92105 (Google Maps)

Leona's Cucina Italiana is a hidden gem for calzone lovers. The food is of high quality and the portions are generous.

The menu offers a variety of pasta dishes and pizzas that are flavorful and satisfying.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable. The prices are reasonable for the amount of food served.

If you're looking for a great Italian spot, Leona's Cucina Italiana is a must-try.