• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to Alice's Italian Gourmet

Alice's Italian Gourmet, located in the heart of Encinitas, California, offers an authentic Italian dining experience that captivates both locals and visitors. Renowned for its exquisite dishes, including perfectly tender pasta and rich, flavorful lasagna, each meal is a testament to the artistry of Italian cuisine. The ambiance is warm and inviting, complemented by friendly service that makes you feel at home. Diners rave about the roasted tomato marinara, which elevates the meal's flavor profile, and the delectable tiramisu that caps off the experience. A visit to Alice's is not just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary journey.

Alice's Italian Gourmet: Reviews & Ratings

Travis Lambert
Travis Lambert

I came here for a quick bite to eat while waiting for an alignment nearby. Since it was my first time there, I asked the server for a recommendation. The lasagna was amazing... highly recommend

Serene Lee
Serene Lee

I read somewhere to find out how good a restaurant is, the test is order the simplest item on the menu. In this case, the lasagna and pasta. Alice passed the test with flying colors. The pasta was cooked perfect tenderness. The lasagna had a great flavor. It was obvious that they did more than the usual layering. I feel they roasted the tomatoes before marking it into sauce Same for their marinara, the roasted flavor of the tomatoes gave the marinara a richer flavor. But I could be wrong. Anyway it was beyond words. Got to go. The staff were friendly, restaurant happy vibes, busy and feels like eating at home but way better food

Suleima Castaneda
Suleima Castaneda

We ate 4 dishes here: The garlic bread, a pasta dish, salmon special, and tiramisu. All of them were delicious and perfectly cooked - the food plus the service was fantastic! I'm so glad we tried it out!!

Jacquelyn Godfrey-Lane
Jacquelyn Godfrey-Lane

Our first time dining at Alice’s and it was absolutely DELICIOSO! Loved the subtle Italian music too! Atmosphere was wonderful! Thank you Carlo and Alice’ for the superb hospitality and magnificent food! You are our new favorite restaurant! We can’t wait to return!

Austin bredesen
Austin bredesen

Wonderful friendly staff— professional service; clean dining area. The food is amazing here; there is no other place like this that checks all of the necessary boxes. I am always so happy to eat the food here and also support the business.

Heather Reider
Heather Reider

Carbonara and the artichoke appetizer are a must! The daily specials also never disappoint and the chicken piccata is delish! The family is amazing and the service is always on point. It’s a family-owned local favorite not to be missed! Make sure to get the wine recommendations as well!

Vi Vi
Vi Vi

Best Italian food in Encinitas! 1st When majority of their staff speaks Italian you know you found a gem! I’ve been coming here since they opened and the food, pasta, sauces, and anything that’s been order has been consistently delicious! I will lick the bowl clean the sauces are so good! This place is small so dining in can get crowded and take out is always a good option. Update: I’d give 10 STARS if I could. I came here for my bday dinner and I was told they didn’t have any more Prosecco, we ordered sparkling water to toast, and the owner came out with a bottle with fresh champagne glasses. He poured us all a glass and I got to cheers to close out my day. This place is like going over to your Tia & Tio’s house where the welcoming is warm and food fills the soul. Italian Soul Food

Chris J
Chris J

Like a lot of recovering tourists, we recently got back from Italy and were left craving for Italian food, so we started the hunt for a local authentic Italian restaurant in Encinitas - we were not expecting to land in a strip mall parking lot but we didn’t judge and let the reviews guide us. From the minute we called in a reservation (recommended) we were pleasantly greeted with Italian accent (the owner) who graciously accommodated us for a 7 pm dinner. Upon arriving we were greeted by the same pleasant Italian gentlemen who provided outstanding service throughout the evening. The interior of the restaurant isn’t anything you’ll find in a romantic Italian soap opera but it’s cozy and they have plenty of space for larger parties out on the patio complete with heaters and string lights. We ordered the bruschetta for appetizers, carbonara and baked pasta for our entree and the cannoli for dessert (comes with 4 individual pieces to share). Each bite was more delicious than the last and we’re so grateful that we found such an authentic, family owned and operated restaurant so close to home. Thank you for the wonderful service and food, we’ll definitely be back!

Location

Nestled in the heart of Encinitas, CA, Alice's Italian Gourmet is a culinary gem that promises to transport your taste buds straight to Italy. With each dish crafted to perfection, the restaurant has garnered rave reviews from locals and visitors alike, establishing itself as a beloved spot for authentic Italian fare.

The atmosphere at Alice's is both welcoming and vibrant, infused with the essence of Italy through its subtle musical notes and charming decor. Patrons often comment on the friendly and attentive service, which enriches the dining experience. It's clear that Carlo and Alice, the heart and soul behind the restaurant, bring their passion for Italian cuisine and hospitality to every table.

Renowned for dishes like their exquisite lasagna, Alice's Italian Gourmet excels at elevating the simplest recipes into flavorful masterpieces. One customer, Serene Lee, noted how the roasted tomatoes visible in the rich marinara elevated the pasta and showcased the chef's dedication to quality ingredients. Each bite resonates with homemade goodness, leaving guests with a genuine sense of comfort, akin to dining at a friend's home—but with elevated culinary finesse.

The menu is a delightful journey through Italian classics—from perfectly cooked pasta dishes to mouthwatering garlic bread and decadent desserts like tiramisu. As Suleima Castaneda shared, the consistency in flavor and texture across the four dishes she tried is a testament to the kitchen's skill. Each plate is a heartfelt story of tradition and innovation, crafted to satisfy every palate.

Alice's Italian Gourmet is more than just a restaurant; it's a place where every meal feels like a celebration of life and community. When you step through the doors at 252 N El Camino Real, you’ll be embraced by a warm ambiance, impeccable service, and the genuine flavors of Italy. It’s not just about eating; it’s about experiencing a culinary journey that beckons you to return.

Whether you're a local or just passing through Encinitas, Alice's is a must-visit. Prepare for an unforgettable feast that will keep you reminiscing long after the last bite. Call them at +1 760-632-6933 to make your reservation today!