2 Best Restaurants in North County and Around, California

For authentic Italian cuisine, head to the “Good Fork” where you'll feel like you've stepped into the home of your long-lost Italian relatives, no matter where you’re from. Nearly every dish—Neapolitan-style pies, eggplant Parmesan, lasagna Bolognese, vegetarian ravioli—is made from scratch, with many of the ingredients imported from Italy; even the star of the show, “Isabella,” their golden-domed pizza oven, was handmade in Naples. The pizzas are your go-to though, with their blistered crust, fresh toppings, and artisan-cooking techniques that make them perfect to fold, bite, and eat. 

Restaurateur Roberto Vigilucci's fell in love with San Diego in the '80s and decided to bring Milan to North County with three eateries that are fine-dining experiences without the stuffiness. While each has its own character, Vigilucci's on historic State Street has an authenticity that’s hard to beat, right down to its street-side patio, bustling servers with thick Italian accents, and wine list that will leave you appreciating la bella vita. Roasted artichokes are blanketed in melted mozzarella, and paper-thin carpaccio is topped with a mound of peppery arugula. Edible orchids adorn entrées like the pan-seared scallops in truffle and brandy cream sauce, and fresh ravioli pocketed with homemade ricotta and spinach. Pace yourself for the crème brûlée with vanilla custard and a burnt sugar crust.