Pastalini

What real diners say

A 4.6 across more than 700 Google reviews is a strong, stable signal for a counter-service spot. At that volume, a handful of outlier reviews can't move the average much.

The praise is consistent and specific: value, portion size, speed and how much you can customize. It reads like a reliable neighborhood lunch spot rather than a special-occasion destination.

What comes up most in reviews

• Calzones, the most-mentioned item in reviews
• Fully customizable pasta bowls
• Alfredo and chipotle-style sauces
• Generous portions for the price
• Fast, friendly counter service

The kitchen

• Every pasta dish is built to order: choose the pasta, sauce, proteins and toppings.
• Pasta can be finished sautéed or baked.
• Pizza is build-your-own, with your choice of sauce, toppings and crust.

What to order

• Cheese tortellini with pesto
• Baked chicken alfredo
• Calzones
• Build-your-own pizza
• Salads and panini

In the press and further reading

• San Diego Reader: Pasta your way (January 31, 2017)
• FOX 5 San Diego: Live at Pastalini: Pasta Your Way (morning show, with Heather Lake) (April 29, 2016)
• CBS 8 San Diego: National Garlic Day update, with Jeff Zevely (May 3, 2016)

Our visit

The best Italian restaurant in San Diego that most people don't know about yet. This Miramar hidden gem has changed the game for pasta and pizza: you build a custom pasta plate exactly how you like it, in a fast-casual setting.

We've known about Pastalini since it was featured on local TV, including a live FOX 5 San Diego morning segment and a CBS 8 spot for National Garlic Day.

We highly recommend Pastalini for delicious pasta bowls, great service and reasonable prices.

What we ordered

• Custom pasta bowls

For the current menu, hours and bookings, see Pastalini's website. More San Diego picks are in our San Diego guide.

How this score works: read our methodology. Nobody can pay to be reviewed or ranked; see our editorial policy.