Our Story
A hidden gem in Little Italy
A hidden gem in Little Italy
Inspired by his Florentine upbringing, Leo Landini and his wife, San Diego native Christine, created Ristorante Illando—a delightful Tuscan trattoria in the heart of Little Italy, featuring an intimate second-story dining room and a charming garden patio.
Serving a casual, family-style menu, Illando celebrates comforting Italian cuisine crafted with the finest ingredients. The name Illando blends the Landini last name with that of their beloved late bulldog, Lando, who also inspired their monthly dog-friendly fundraiser, Doggies on the Deck!, co-hosted with their sister restaurant, Landini’s Pizzeria.
Signature dishes include pappardelle bolognese, ravioli all’aragosta, and ossobuco alla Milanese complemented by an extensive wine list with local and Italian beers. Illando is also a popular venue for quaint private events, buy-outs, and celebratory dinners.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ristorante Illando known for?
Ristorante Illando is known as a Little Italy favorite for authentic Italian comfort food, warm hospitality, and a menu that balances tradition with seasonal creativity. Guests return again and again for house-made pastas like Ravioli all’Aragosta (lobster ravioli in a creamy vodka sauce) and Pappardelle Bolognese, as well as regional classics such as Ossobuco alla Milanese and Tagliata alla Fiorentina steak.
What meals do you serve?
Ristorante Illando welcomes guests throughout the day with a full range of Italian dining experiences. We serve lunch and dinner daily, featuring house-made pastas, risottos, and regional specialties like Ossobuco alla Milanese, Tagliata alla Fiorentina steak, and fresh seafood dishes.
During the week, our Social Hour (Monday–Thursday, 4–6 PM) is a favorite for small plates — from Bruschetta Toscana and Polpette to Burrata con Prosciutto Crudo — paired with $6 beers and $8 wines.
Whether you’re stopping in for a relaxed midday meal, sharing dinner with friends and family, or winding down the afternoon over a glass of wine and antipasti, Illando offers authentic Italian flavors for every occasion.
Do You Offer Delivery or Take Out?
Yes, we offer delivery AND take out. Place an order online thorugh GrubHub and UberEats.
Where are you located
Ristorante Illando is located in the heart of San Diego’s Little Italy at 1825 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101. Our restaurant sits right in the neighborhood’s historic dining district, just steps away from boutiques, galleries, and the lively Piazza della Famiglia — making us an ideal spot to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine before or after exploring Little Italy.
What areas do you serve?
Ristorante Illando proudly serves guests from across San Diego and beyond, with our home base in Little Italy. While we’re a dine-in restaurant located at 1825 India Street, we welcome locals from neighborhoods like Downtown, Gaslamp Quarter, Pacific Beach, Hillcrest, and North Park, as well as visitors exploring San Diego’s waterfront and airport district just minutes away.
Whether you’re joining us for a casual lunch, a relaxed Social Hour, or a full Italian dinner, Illando is a gathering place for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Little Italy.