Finding the perfect calzone in the heart of San Diego can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not, pizza aficionados! This comprehensive guide dives deep into the best 19 calzones Downtown San Diego has to offer, ensuring your next cheesy, folded delight is nothing short of extraordinary. We've compiled a list based on extensive research, taste testing, and reviews from fellow calzone enthusiasts. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
Downtown San Diego's Top Calzone Hotspots: A Delicious Deep Dive
This list isn't just a random assortment of pizzerias; it's a curated selection of establishments that consistently deliver exceptional calzones. We've considered factors like crust quality, ingredient freshness, sauce flavor profiles, and overall value.
The Classic Calzone Connoisseur's Guide
1. Pizza Port (Multiple Locations): Known for its craft brews, Pizza Port also boasts a surprisingly fantastic calzone. Their generous fillings and perfectly crisp crust make it a must-try. Pro Tip: Pair it with one of their seasonal beers.
2. Filippi's Pizza Grotto (Little Italy): A San Diego institution, Filippi's offers a traditional calzone experience. Expect a thick, chewy crust and a robust tomato sauce – perfect for purists.
3. Buon Appetito (Gaslamp Quarter): This Italian restaurant stands out with its creative calzone variations. Try their unique combinations featuring gourmet cheeses, artisanal meats, and fresh vegetables.
4. Galaxy Taco (Multiple Locations): While primarily known for tacos, Galaxy Taco offers a surprisingly excellent calzone as a late-night snack. The unique flavor combinations are a highlight.
Exploring Unique Calzone Creations
5. The Mission (Multiple Locations): Their wood-fired calzones offer a unique smoky flavor that elevates the classic dish. Their creative topping combinations are worth exploring.
6. Puesto (Multiple Locations): Puesto's upscale approach extends to their calzones. Expect high-quality ingredients and an elegant presentation.
7. Hodad's (Ocean Beach): While not strictly downtown, Hodad's legendary burgers are complemented by a surprisingly good calzone, perfect for those who want something different.
8. Ironside Fish & Oyster (Little Italy): Ironside adds a sophisticated twist to the calzone, often incorporating fresh seafood into their fillings.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites
9. Mona Lisa Italian Foods (North Park): A local favorite, Mona Lisa provides a comforting, traditional calzone experience with quality ingredients.
10. The Crack Shack (Multiple Locations): While known for its fried chicken, The Crack Shack’s calzone is a hidden gem, often featuring unexpected flavor combinations.
11. Civico 1845 (Little Italy): Civico 1845 is a charming restaurant with a beautiful ambiance; its calzones are equally delightful.
12. Serengeti Restaurant (Hillcrest): This eclectic restaurant is known for its global cuisine and unique calzone options that venture outside the Italian classics.
Beyond the Traditional: Calzone Adventures
13. Barbusa (Little Italy): Barbusa offers an interesting menu with modern twists on calzone fillings.
14. Born & Raised (East Village): This upscale steakhouse has a surprisingly impressive calzone that might just convert steak lovers.
15. The Nolen (Gaslamp Quarter): The rooftop views are stunning, but the calzone isn't too shabby either. Expect elevated ingredients.
16. Juniper & Ivy (Little Italy): This upscale restaurant often has creative calzone specials that are worth checking out.
Quick Bites and Late-Night Satisfiers
17. Romeo's Pizza (Multiple Locations): A late-night option known for quick and tasty calzones.
18. California Pizza Kitchen (Multiple Locations): A reliable choice for a consistent calzone experience. It's a safe bet.
19. Brooklyn Pizzeria (Multiple Locations): Brooklyn Pizzeria offers New York-style calzones with a focus on simplicity and quality ingredients.
Choosing Your Perfect Downtown San Diego Calzone
This list provides a diverse range of options, from classic Italian to creative fusion, catering to various tastes and budgets. Consider the following when making your selection:
- Your preferred crust: Thick, thin, crispy, chewy?
- Your filling preferences: Meat lover? Vegetarian? Adventurous?
- Your budget: Some establishments are more upscale than others.
- Location and convenience: Choose a place that's easily accessible.
Ultimately, the best calzone in Downtown San Diego is the one that satisfies your individual preferences. Happy eating!
