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, doughy delight is unforgettable. We've scoured the city, tasted countless variations, and compiled this definitive ranking, considering factors like dough quality, filling creativity, sauce perfection, and overall value. Whether you're craving a classic pepperoni calzone or something more adventurous, this list has something for everyone.
A Slice of Heaven: Top 5 Calzones in Downtown San Diego
These five calzones stand head and shoulders above the rest, consistently delivering exceptional quality and flavor.
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Bella Luna Pizzeria: Bella Luna's calzones are legendary. Their signature "Meat Lovers" calzone is a masterpiece of savory perfection, boasting a perfectly crispy crust, generous portions of high-quality meats, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. The dough itself is light and airy, never overshadowing the delicious filling. Pro tip: Try their seasonal specials for unique flavor combinations.
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto: A San Diego institution, Filippi's offers a classic calzone experience. Their dough is incredibly flavorful, with a slightly charred exterior and a soft, chewy interior. The fillings are fresh and abundant, and their marinara sauce is a perfectly balanced blend of sweet and tangy. Their "Veggie Supreme" is a must-try for vegetarian calzone lovers.
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Puesto: Known for its upscale Mexican-inspired cuisine, Puesto surprises with its exceptional calzones. Their unique twists on traditional calzone fillings, incorporating Latin American flavors, are a refreshing change of pace. Their "Spicy Chorizo" calzone is a standout, with perfectly balanced spice and an addictive flavor profile.
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The Mission: This popular spot in the Gaslamp Quarter provides a modern take on the classic calzone. They use high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, resulting in a calzone that's both delicious and ethically sound. The "Fig and Prosciutto" calzone is a sophisticated choice for adventurous palates.
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Moniker General: This trendy spot offers a creative and delicious calzone experience. Their unique topping combinations and fresh, high-quality ingredients shine. While not strictly a traditional calzone, their "Spicy Italian Sausage" option is packed with flavor and well worth a try.
The Next Tier: Another 14 Delicious Calzone Options
While not quite reaching the top 5's level of perfection, these 14 establishments still offer excellent calzones worthy of your consideration.
- Pizza Port (Downtown Location): A classic San Diego brewery with solid pizzas and calzones.
- Civico 1845: Italian restaurant known for their carefully crafted pizzas and calzones.
- Galaxy Taco: Might not be the first place you'd think of for calzones, but their unique twist is surprisingly good.
- Hodad's: Famous for their burgers, but their calzones are a hidden gem.
- Buon Appetito: A reliable option for a classic, well-made calzone.
- Ironside Fish & Oyster: While primarily seafood-focused, their calzone offers a surprising delight.
- The Nolen: Rooftop bar with amazing views and decent calzones.
- Born & Raised: Upscale steakhouse with a surprisingly good calzone on their menu.
- Juniper & Ivy: High-end restaurant with delicious, creative, and more expensive calzones.
- Oscar's Mexican Seafood: A surprising entry on the list, but their calzones are unique and flavorful.
- Barrio Logan: A neighborhood gem with delicious calzones that will surprise you.
- Little Italy Mercato: Multiple restaurants in the Little Italy area worth checking out for their individual calzone options.
- Ballast Point (Little Italy): Another local brewery with a good calzone selection.
- Draft Republic: A gastropub with a creative calzone on their menu.
Choosing Your Perfect Downtown San Diego Calzone: A Buyer's Guide
This table summarizes key aspects of the top five calzones, helping you decide which one best suits your taste:
| Restaurant | Style | Crust | Sauce | Filling Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bella Luna Pizzeria | Classic | Thin & Crispy | Rich & Tangy | Meat Lovers, Veggie Supreme | $$ |
| Filippi's Pizza Grotto | Classic | Thick & Chewy | Sweet & Savory | Veggie Supreme, Pepperoni | $ |
| Puesto | Mexican-Inspired | Thin & Flaky | Spicy & Zesty | Spicy Chorizo, Chicken Tinga | $$ |
| The Mission | Modern | Thin & Crispy | Light & Herby | Fig & Prosciutto, Mushroom | $$ |
| Moniker General | Modern & Creative | Thick & Soft | Creamy & Spicy | Spicy Italian Sausage | $$ |
Note: Price ranges are approximate and may vary. $$ indicates higher prices, while $ indicates mid-range, and $ indicates lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes a great calzone?
A: A great calzone boasts a perfect balance of elements: a delicious, flavorful dough; fresh, high-quality fillings; a perfectly balanced sauce; and a satisfying texture.
Q: Are there vegetarian/vegan calzone options in Downtown San Diego?
A: Yes! Many of the restaurants listed above offer vegetarian and even some vegan calzone options. Be sure to check their menus beforehand.
Q: What's the best time to visit these restaurants for calzones?
A: Avoid peak hours (lunch and dinner rushes) to avoid long wait times. Weekday evenings are usually a good option.
This guide provides a starting point for your calzone adventure in downtown San Diego. Remember that taste is subjective, so explore and discover your own personal favorite! Enjoy your delicious journey through the city's best calzones.
