Food & Drink

Garlic Bread Lover’s Guide to San Diego: 12 Must-Try Spots!

Garlic bread is a beloved dish that can be found in many restaurants in San Diego. This classic appetizer is a staple in Italian cuisine, but it can also be found in other types of restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines.

Whether you are a garlic bread enthusiast or just looking for a tasty appetizer to share with friends, San Diego has plenty of options to satisfy your craving.

Garlic bread is typically made with bread, butter, garlic, and herbs. However, each restaurant has its own unique twist on this classic dish. Some places use sourdough bread, while others use French bread or baguette.

Some restaurants add cheese to their garlic bread, while others keep it simple with just butter and garlic. With so many variations, it can be difficult to decide which restaurant serves the best garlic bread in San Diego.

In this blog post, we will explore the top places to find garlic bread in San Diego. We will cover a range of restaurants, from casual eateries to upscale establishments.

Whether you are looking for a classic garlic bread recipe or something with a unique twist, we have got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the best places for garlic bread in San Diego.

1. Mona Lisa Italian Foods

Mona Lisa Italian Foods
2061 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Mona Lisa Italian Foods is a veteran Italian eatery, market, and deli.

They offer old-world Italian cooking in an old-school setting, plus a gourmet deli and market. Their garlic bread is a must-try, and it's always delicious and fresh.

The restaurant also offers a variety of Italian dishes, including pizza and lasagna, which are generously portioned and reasonably priced.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. If you're in the mood for authentic Italian food, Mona Lisa Italian Foods is definitely worth checking out.

2. Zia Gourmet Pizza

Zia Gourmet Pizza
3311 Adams Ave A, San Diego, CA 92116 (Google Maps)

Zia Gourmet Pizza is a must-visit spot for garlic bread lovers. The pizza joint offers unique and inventive toppings on their thin-crust pies that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making for an enjoyable dining experience.

Vegan and vegetarian options are also available for those with dietary restrictions. The cozy ambiance of the place adds to its charm, making it a great spot for a casual night out.

Zia Gourmet Pizza is definitely worth a visit for those looking for a delicious and unique pizza experience.

3. Filippi's Pizza Grotto

Filippi's Pizza Grotto
1747 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Filippi's Pizza Grotto is a must-visit for garlic bread lovers. The authentic Italian tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the garlic bread, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

The restaurant also offers exceptional antipasto salad, meatball, and pizza.

The portions are generous, and the service is great. The classic old Italian restaurant has a cozy ambiance, and the candy bottles hanging from the ceiling add a touch of nostalgia.

Make sure to stop by the mini Italian market at the front of the restaurant for some authentic Italian goods and meats.

4. Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen College

Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen College
6011 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115 (Google Maps)

Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen College is a casual, modern Italian eatery that offers a range of delicious garlic bread options.

The restaurant has a contemporary vibe and offers indoor and outdoor seating. The garlic knots are a must-try, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

The pizza is also delicious and made on a thin crust dusted with cornmeal. The service is attentive, and the prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food.

Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen College is a great option for anyone looking for a tasty Italian meal, especially if you're a fan of garlic bread.

5. Pizza Bella Italian Bistro

Pizza Bella Italian Bistro
2707 Congress St #1p, San Diego, CA 92110 (Google Maps)

Pizza Bella Italian Bistro offers delicious garlic bread that is a must-try for garlic lovers. The atmosphere is welcoming and the service is prompt and efficient.

The quality of the food is top-notch, with fresh ingredients used in their pizzas and pasta dishes.

The restaurant also offers a nice choice of sitting outside or inside. The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable.

If you are looking for a great place for Italian food and garlic bread, Pizza Bella Italian Bistro is definitely worth a visit.

6. Pizza Nova

Pizza Nova
5050 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

Pizza Nova is a casual Italian restaurant that offers a variety of delicious dishes.

The garlic knots are a must-try, smothered in butter and fresh crushed garlic. The baked garlic appetizer is also a great choice for garlic lovers.

The restaurant has a beautiful view and a cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for a date or a family outing.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. Pizza Nova also has a selection of local beers on tap, perfect for pairing with their tasty garlic bread.

7. Giovanni's Italian Restaurant

Giovanni's Italian Restaurant
5277 Linda Vista Rd, San Diego, CA 92110 (Google Maps)

Giovanni's Italian Restaurant is a must-visit for garlic bread lovers. The restaurant offers a variety of delicious Italian dishes, but their garlic cheese bread steals the show.

The bread is perfectly toasted and loaded with garlic and cheese, making it a heavenly treat for the taste buds.

The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner or a casual lunch, Giovanni's Italian Restaurant has got you covered.

This place is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for some of the best garlic bread in town.

8. MAKE pizza+salad

Make Pizza+Salad
699 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

MAKE pizza+salad is a trendy eatery that offers build-your-own pizza and salad options.

Their garlic bread is a must-try, with crispy and delicious bread topped with creamy and tasty cheese. The ingredients are high-quality and fresh, making for a satisfying and tasty meal.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the atmosphere is modern and inviting.

If you're in the mood for a delicious pizza and a great dining experience, MAKE pizza+salad is definitely worth checking out.

9. RustiCucina

Rusticucina
3797 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

RustiCucina is an Italian restaurant serving up delicious garlic bread.

The staff are attentive and sweet, making the dining experience enjoyable.

The eggplant parm and gnocchi in vodka sauce are great vegetarian options.

The cheese wheel pasta is a must-try. The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for enjoying Italian staples.

10. Sicilian Thing Pizza

Sicilian Thing Pizza
4046 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Sicilian Thing Pizza is a must-visit for garlic bread lovers. This low-key pizza joint offers a variety of delicious options for pizza by the slice, including their famous garlic tomato pizza.

Their square "Thing" pizza is also a must-try and is both delicious and filling.

The staff is friendly and treats everyone like a neighbor. Although parking can be a little challenging, the effort is definitely worth it.

With reasonable prices and traditional pizza flavors, this hole-in-the-wall pizza place is a gem waiting to be discovered.

11. Red House Pizza

Red House Pizza
4615 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92116 (Google Maps)

Red House Pizza is a charming pizza joint that serves up some of the best garlic bread around.

Their vegan cheesy garlic bread is a must-try, and pairs perfectly with their craft beer selection.

The restaurant also offers a variety of pizzas, with crust options ranging from thick to thin and gluten-free.

The atmosphere is pleasant and the staff is friendly and attentive. If you're in the mood for some delicious garlic bread and pizza, Red House Pizza is the place to go.

12. RoVino The Foodery

Rovino The Foodery
969 Market St #101, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

RoVino The Foodery is a must-visit Italian spot for garlic bread lovers. This establishment offers a wide range of Italian cuisine, ranging from sandwiches to pasta, and even gelato.

The bar side of the restaurant serves a great selection of wines. The deli offers freshly made sandwiches and antipasti.

The bakery has a wide variety of pastries and cookies. They also have a selection of groceries, including oils, dried pasta, cheese, salami, beers, and wine.

The garlic bread is a must-try, and the prices are reasonable. RoVino The Foodery is a great place to grab a quick bite or dine in with friends and family.