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Cesarina, San Diego, CA
Award-winning

Cesarina

4.9
4.9
4553 Reviews
$30 and under
Italian
Top Tags:
Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.

Make a reservation

2 people
9:30 PM
Booked 207 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    Italian
  • Hours of operation
    Lunch Mon–Fri 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu 4:00 pm–8:30 pm Fri–Sun 3:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Phone number
    (619) 226-6222
  • Website
    http://www.cesarinarestaurant.com/
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Executive chef
    Cesarina Mezzoni
  • Catering
    We offer Catering options for parties of 20 guests or more. To inquire about our Catering options, please complete the Event Contact Form at https://cesarinarestaurant.com/events/, and Simone, our event coordinator will reply via email within 48 hours
  • Private party facilities
    For all parties of more than 8 guests, we only offer private dining. To inquire about our Private dining option, please complete the Event Contact Form at https://cesarinarestaurant.com/events/, and Simone, our event coordinator will reply via email within 48 hours
  • Location
    4161 Voltaire St, Ste B, San Diego, CA 92107
  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2023
    2. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2022
  • Neighborhood
    Ocean Beach
  • Cross street
    Catalina Blvd
  • Parking details
    We know how challenging it is to find parking and truly appreciate your patience and understanding. VALET PARKING is available in front of the restaurant, Thursday to Sunday, from 4:30pm to 10pm GUEST PARKING LOT is available across the street from us, at 4154 Voltaire St NOT AVAILABLE DURING VALET HOURS PAID PUBLIC PARKING LOT is available across the street from us, at 4148 Voltaire St, next to the “ MATT KALLA INSURANCE AGENCY”
  • Additional
    Beer, Cafe, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

What 4,553 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.9
4.9 based on recent ratings
  • 4.9Food
  • 4.9Service
  • 4.8Ambience
  • 4.6Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

  • San Diego

    Best Overall

  • San Diego

    Best Food

  • San Diego

    Italian

  • San Diego

    Most Booked

  • San Diego

    Best Overall

  • San Diego

    Best Food

  • San Diego

    Best Service

  • San Diego

    Italian

  • San Diego

    Most Booked

4,553 Reviews

  1. Melissa

    San Diego

    9 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    9 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 3
    2. Food 2
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 3
    We had high hopes for our dining experience, but unfortunately, our expectations were not met. Despite making a reservation for 7:00 pm, we were not seated until 7:28 pm. While the food was enjoyable, we were disappointed by the long delay between the first course and the main dish, which lasted approximately 40 minutes. Our concern about the wait led us to forego ordering dessert. Although we have previously had better experiences at this restaurant, we believe there is room for improvement. We suggest they enhance the dining experience by improving table assignments and course timing. Regrettably, we have decided not to return

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  2. OpenTable Diner

    Hawaii

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Juliana was amazing. Fast service. Very attentive.

    Is this helpful?

  3. OpenTable Diner

    Las Vegas

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Best homemade Italian food in San Diego bar none!!

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  4. NancyH

    San Diego

    33 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    33 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    Our new favorite, go-to spot. The staff are amazing. We marvel at the level of service this restaurant offers. And, the food is delicious. Everything we ordered, we were happy with.

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  5. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    7 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Food and service was amazing! I brought my friend and her family from Italy and they loved the food! Bathrooms could use more regular maintenance but didn’t detract too much from the experience.

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  6. OpenTable Diner

    Phoenix

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great meal, food was very fresh and the attention to detail is so obvious.

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  7. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    6 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    This restaurant is absolutely wonderful. If you want authentic Italian with homemade pasta this place, although off the beaten path.. is wonderful.. service was impeccable.

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  8. suzydiner

    Calgary

    9 reviews

    5.0

    9 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Enjoyed the wonderful gluten free pasta!! All sauces are gluten free as well! Thank you, great service from John and staff!!

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  9. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Food was delicious and the customer service was excellent!

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  10. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on December 1, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Very accommodating and great ambiance. If you go with a large group make sure to order and share.

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  11. OpenTable Diner

    Baja California

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on December 1, 2023

    1. Overall 3
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 3
    4. Ambience 3
    Sitting in the middle tables inside is not the greatest, it’s very loud and hard to hear the person you’re sitting with. Food is always great.

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  12. OpenTable Diner

    Seattle

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on December 1, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Could not have asked for a better place to spend an anniversary. All the staff wished us well and made the night so special. They thought of every detail down to blankets and bag hangers at the tables. Dessert was made in front of us and we will 100% be going back for more of everything ¨̮

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  13. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on December 1, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Easily one of the best experiences I’ve had at a restaurant. We came for my girlfriend’s birthday and they did not disappoint, the food was outstanding, the bread was a little too good (hard not to fill up!), drinks were amazing and the service was top tier. Daniele, our server, did everything he could to make it a special evening. We will be returning!

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  14. CoronadoDiner

    San Diego

    26 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    26 reviews

    Dined on December 1, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    It’s difficult to get a reservation at Cesarina for a good reason.. it’s a wonderful neighborhood restaurant. The tables inside are spaced comfortably apart, creating a pleasant atmosphere for dining and conversation. The service last night was outstanding. There was always someone there when we needed them. The food was unique and although not every dish is a sure winner, it shows that the chef is willing to take some chances. The romana salad was fresh and delicious and our pasta entree with shrimp and langostina was equally good. We will be back!

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  15. shellbelle

    San Diego

    31 reviews

    5.0

    31 reviews

    Dined on November 30, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    As always, for was outstanding as was the service! Cessarina is amazing every time and were really look forward to dining there!

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  16. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Cesarina San Diego offers an exceptional Italian dining experience. From the warm and inviting ambiance to the exquisite flavors of their dishes, every detail is thoughtfully curated. The menu boasts a delightful variety, showcasing authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The attentive staff enhances the overall experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of San Diego. I decided to get the paccheri vodka scampi and my friend got the short rib pasta. They both were delicious! The service was amazing and they even gave us the tiramisu on the house. Such a wonderful experience and amazing staff and I will definitely be coming back here again!

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  17. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Delicious food, charming patio setting, amd great service. A bit pricey, but worth every penny. Really appreciate how friendly they are to GF & vegan diners. Wonderful experience.

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  18. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Cesarina was the best experience I have ever had! The food was absolutely delicious and the vibe of the restaurant was incredible!!

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  19. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Our server Eric was great! It was my husband’s birthday and our first time at Cesarina. 5 stars!!

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  20. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    I'd previously visited Cesarina with my father when we had the squash blossoms and papparadelle al cinghiale which he adored (I only allowed him one squash blossom lol), and I loved sharing as well! We fell in love with the tiramisu as well. This time, I brought my sister and brother-in-law to celebrate and welcome my up and coming niece to this world! We enjoyed the vongole and funghi and bolognese pastas- it was our first time trying the mafalde and it was perfect! We've never had a semolina flour that was so good. To top it off, we were gifted a tableside tiramisu for our celebration- such a joy to share together. Thank you so much for the lovely and considerate dinner!

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  21. BrianG

    San Diego

    27 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    27 reviews

    Dined on November 28, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The best food and service in San Diego. Cesarina has continuously maintained the highest level of service and cooking. You can taste the quality of the made-fresh-daily pasta in every bite. Absolutely delicious. I am already looking forward to returning to Cesarina again soon.

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  22. Grace

    Los Angeles

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on November 28, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    I read the reviews and had to stop in to try the food. The food, the service, the atmosphere did not disappoint! We arrived 30 minutes early and had drinks by the pasta making window. We ordered the ravioli with the arrabbiatissima sauce and another with the funghi sauce. Both were outstand but the arrabbiatissima is to die for! We really wanted to take home a gallon of this sauce! Look forward to going back the next time I'm in SD.

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  23. OpenTable Diner

    Tampa

    15 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on November 28, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Service and food were amazing! It seems like everything on the menu is good and it was hard to make a decision. Would highly recommend this restaurant!!

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  24. GiadaFan

    San Diego

    11 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on November 27, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The food and all staff are fabulous. We have been coming here since they first opened :)

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  25. CoryB

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    1. Overall 3
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The restaurant has great service, food, and ambiance. However, the prices are ridiculously high for what you get.

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  26. PayamA

    Las Vegas

    8 reviews

    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    As a long-term San Diego resident, this is my favorite Italian restaurant for our family by far. It is way better than these chains like North Italia and others in the community. Amazing food great ambience and friendly staff. 

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  27. BarbaraR

    San Francisco

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Excellent, the best for everything, from valet to the great food!!

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  28. Jourdan

    Philadelphia

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great atmosphere, delicious pasta and a tiramisu to die for. Servers attentive without being overbearing, gave great recommendations for both food and wine.

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  29. Trudy

    San Diego

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Delicious Italian food. Everything is made in house, and you can tell. It's all fresh and delicious!

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  30. OpenTable Diner

    Vancouver

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The fish and tiramisu were the favorites. The bread and squash flower appetizer was very good too.

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  31. Luke

    San Diego

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Jeff was awesome! Gracie was great! Food was fantastic we must go back!

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  32. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great time having a family dinner and the service was exceptional. They servers were super helpful and answered all of our questions.

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  33. AlexT97

    San Francisco

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Always an amazing experience at Cesarina! The staff are always lovely and take great care of us every step of the way. Took our Moms to dinner to celebrate the Thanksgiving weekend and it was a hit! I believe our waitress’s name wax Maeve and they were incredible! The food options are accommodating for my S.O., always delicious and with plenty of leftovers. Finished it off with a Limoncello to cap off the night and we cannot wait to come back for more.

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  34. NatiDC

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    This little gem is always delightful. The octopus is always perfectly cooked. The pasta options are delicious. And can never go wrong won’t eh deconstructed tiramisu. Love it every single time.

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  35. DandD

    Los Angeles

    50 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    50 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    First time at Caesarina and it did not disappoint. It’s reputation and tight reservation calendar is well deserved. Casual and comfortable but yet feels special. Home made pastas were over the top. Wild Boar with Cocoa Pappardelle was insane. So many incredible pastas, apps and mains, good luck trying to choose. Being dairy sensitive it was nice to great choices too. Bobboi Gelato and Sorbetto was a great surprise. Sorry many great desserts. Finally, great cocktails and wine selection. Do yourself a favor and make a reservation in advance. A bit pricey, but you’ll feel it’s a good value. Professional service team.

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  36. StephB

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Friends and family have visited me several times in the last month in San Diego. As I result I’ve been back to Cesarino three times recently. Each time has been fabulous all across the board - service, ambience, and food. Such a great place!

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  37. OpenTable Diner

    Monterrey

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 24, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Recientemente tuve el placer de cenar en “Cesarina”, un encantador restaurante italiano que prometía una experiencia gastronómica auténtica, y debo decir que superó todas mis expectativas. Desde el momento en que entré, la atmósfera acogedora y la decoración elegante me transportaron a una pequeña trattoria en Italia. La atención del personal fue excepcional, siempre atentos y dispuestos a recomendar los mejores platos del menú. Empecé con un plato de pulpo, una verdadera obra maestra. Cocido a la perfección, cada bocado era una mezcla de sabores marinos y texturas suaves, complementado con hierbas aromáticas y un toque de aceite de oliva. Explorar el menú fue una aventura; cada plato que probé estaba lleno de sabores auténticos y frescos. Desde las pastas caseras hasta las pizzas al horno de leña, cada bocado era un recordatorio del amor y la pasión que Cesarina pone en su cocina. Y por último, pero definitivamente no menos importante, el tiramisú. Aunque ya estaba bastante satisfecho, no podía dejar pasar la oportunidad de probar este postre clásico. Y debo decir, fue la decisión correcta. Suave, cremoso, con el equilibrio perfecto de café y licor, este tiramisú fue el final perfecto para una comida excepcional. En resumen, mi visita a “Cesarina” fue una experiencia que no olvidaré pronto. Este restaurante no solo sirve comida, ofrece un viaje culinario a Italia que recomiendo fervientemente a cualquier amante de la buena cocina. Definitivamente volveré.

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  38. nataliam

    New York Area

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 20, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    My boyfriend and I had such a wonderful time at Cesarina. We were seated outside and the back garden was so lovely despite the cold. The heaters were turned on, and the restaurant thoughtfully provided a blanket for every table. Service was very attentive-- asked about allergies, switched out an ice water pitcher for room temp at our request, and used Italian greetings which I thought was a cute touch! We started with the Cesarina salad and then got two vegan pasta dishes. Both were very good and had lots of sauce. I definitely recommend this place for anyone celebrating a birthday because everyone serving made sure to ask whose birthday it was, we got a complimentary vegan tiramisu, and even got our photo taken on a polaroid (the custom film said "happy birthday" in Italian).

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  39. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    This is one of our absolute favorite restaurants. It never disappoints. This time we had the bolognese and the special - ravioli with prosciutto and burrata. Fantastic dishes. If you visit San Diego (or live here) you cannot not try this place! Delicious!!

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  40. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    Excellent service but food wasn’t that great considering how pricey it was for two people.

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Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

You can order delivery directly from Cesarina using the Order Online button. Cesarina also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (619) 226-6222.

Cesarina is rated 4.9 stars by 4553 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
9:30 PM
Booked 207 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Cesarina

4161 Voltaire St, Ste B, San Diego, CA 92107

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2023
    2. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2022
  • Cross street
    Catalina Blvd
  • Neighborhood
    Ocean Beach
  • Hours of operation
    Lunch Mon–Fri 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu 4:00 pm–8:30 pm Fri–Sun 3:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    Italian
  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking details
    We know how challenging it is to find parking and truly appreciate your patience and understanding. VALET PARKING is available in front of the restaurant, Thursday to Sunday, from 4:30pm to 10pm GUEST PARKING LOT is available across the street from us, at 4154 Voltaire St NOT AVAILABLE DURING VALET HOURS PAID PUBLIC PARKING LOT is available across the street from us, at 4148 Voltaire St, next to the “ MATT KALLA INSURANCE AGENCY”
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Cesarina Mezzoni
  • Additional
    Beer, Cafe, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Website
    http://www.cesarinarestaurant.com/
  • Phone number
    (619) 226-6222
  • Catering
    We offer Catering options for parties of 20 guests or more. To inquire about our Catering options, please complete the Event Contact Form at https://cesarinarestaurant.com/events/, and Simone, our event coordinator will reply via email within 48 hours
  • Private party facilities
    For all parties of more than 8 guests, we only offer private dining. To inquire about our Private dining option, please complete the Event Contact Form at https://cesarinarestaurant.com/events/, and Simone, our event coordinator will reply via email within 48 hours

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