Business Profile: Mona Lisa Italian Foods — Little Italy San Diego
Few businesses better represent Italian American San Diego than Mona Lisa Italian Foods in Little Italy. Founded in 1956 by the Costa family, this market began as a small neighborhood grocery serving Italian immigrant families working in San Diego’s tuna fishing industry.
Today, Mona Lisa remains family-owned, making it one of the last authentic Italian American businesses tied directly to Little Italy’s historic roots.
From my personal perspective, Mona Lisa is one of my favorite restaurants and delis in San Diego — not just Little Italy. I eat there often and regularly shop their market for imported Italian foods. It’s one of the few places that still feels like a traditional Italian neighborhood deli, and that authenticity is a big part of why I keep going back.
The famous deli counter — often with a line out the door — has become a San Diego institution.
In addition to food, Mona Lisa also functions as a mini Italian market and gift shop, selling souvenirs and Italian-themed items — perfect for visitors who want to bring a piece of Little Italy home.
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