Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy

Homestalgia Archive

Community memory · 1950-present · Aug 7, 2026

Verified

Filippi's Pizza Grotto in Little Italy, a foundational eatery in San Diego's culinary landscape, traces its origins to the post-World War II era. In 1950, Vincent and Madeline DePhilippis opened a small Italian deli and grocery store at this very location. As the years progressed, the family began serving pizzas and other Italian-American dishes. Over the decades, Filippi's became a beloved institution. It has remained a multi-generational family business. The restaurant has witnessed the transformation of Little Italy from a working-class fishing community into a vibrant cultural and dining destination, all while serving as a steadfast anchor of its culinary heritage.

Source: Filippi's Pizza Grotto, official business history and Little Italy location listing; Little Italy Association of San Diego, neighborhood history