Salerno by Chef Pirozzi

Name: Salerno by Chef Pirozzi
Address: 220 Beach Street, Laguna Beach, CA, United States, 92651
Telephone: (949) 497-2600
Price range: $30 and under
Rating: 4.4

4.4

886 Reviews

$30 and under

Italian

Top Tags:

Salerno by Chef Pirozzi serves authentic italian cuisine, owned and operated by Certified Italian Chef Alessandro Pirozzi. It's menu consists of freshly homemade pastas such as Fettucini Alfredo, Black Ink Spaghetti & Clams, and Mamma's Meatballs, as well as authentic piattis Veal Parmigiana and Chilean Seabass.

Salerno by Chef Pirozzi serves a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages to complement each meal. This includes a wide selection of beers, wines, and now proudly offering a full bar! It is open during the dinner hour daily except Monday.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Oct 1, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 9 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Cuisines
Italian
Hours of operation
Thu 5:00 pm–8:00 pm Fri–Sun 5:00 pm–8:30 pm Closed Mon–Wed 5:00 am–12:00 am
Phone number
(949) 497-2600
Website
http://www.salernolb.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Business Casual
Executive chef
Alessandro Pirozzi

Location
220 Beach Street, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Neighborhood
Laguna Beach
Cross street
Forest Ave
Parking details
Public Parking (Lot 2), available directly behind the building. Also plenty of street parking available within a 1-2 minute walk.
Additional
Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Wine

Popular dishes

Nonna Ida Soup$12.99
Homemade chicken broth, organic zucchini, Roma tomatoes, fresh spinach, parmesan
Stracciatella Soup$14.89
Homemade spinach soup, chicken broth, local ranch fresh organic eggs, parmesan
Minestrone$13.99
Homemade chicken stock, tomato, organic vegetables, parmesan
Alla Luciana$20.89
Calamari & tiger shrimp sautéed in a lobster reduction sauce, Meyer lemon, se sal, black pepper and calabrian hot chili
Mamma Mia$21.99
Alessa's favorite meal 3 meatballs, ragú, burrata, fresh basil
Involtini$16.50
Organic zucchini rolled & baked with basil, homemade mozzarella, over spicy pomodoro, topped with more mozzarella
Olive Fritte$12.50
Fontina stuffed Castelvetrano olives, lightly flash-fried, Greek oregano
Cioppino
Black tiger shrimp, Tasmanian salmon, clams, calamari and fresh fish, oregano, garlic, white wine tomato broth
- Appetizer Size$18.50
Zucca (Must Try)$12.99
Organic butternut squash ricotta ravioli, brown butter sage sauce, amaretto almond
Calamari Fritti$19.50
Crispy-fried Calamari with a pinch of italian sea salt and lighty spicy arrabbiata sauce

Insalate

Chef alessandro supports local farmers by using locally grown organic vegetables

Casa
Organic baby mixed greens, fresh tomatoes, organic carrots, Italian herb vinaigrette, shaved parmigiano
- Side$11.50
- Full$12.99
Salmon Salad$18.50
Fresh Atlantic salmon filet grilled and served over romaine lettuce, arugula, organic strawberry and fresh raspberry shallots vinaigrette
Filet Mignon Salad$20.99
4oz center cut filet mignon marinated in rosemary, garlic, black pepper sliced and served over organic baby mixed greens, heirloom tomato bruschetta, avocado, shaved Parmigiano Italian herb vinaigrette, vintage Saba
Caprese$16.95
Roma tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, Kalamata olives, fresh basil, arugula, EVOO, Saba
Caesar
Shaved parmigiano, homemade croutons, anchovy-lemon dressing. Organic romaine or iceberg lettuce, subject to our Chef's quality judgment
- Side$11.50
- Full$12.99
Pere e Goat Cheese$15.99
Organic baby mixed greens, organic pears, goat cheese, caramelized pecans and homemade raspberry vinaigrette. Pairs with Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio

Carpaccio

The italian method to thinly slice meat, seafood and vegetables

Octopus & Tasmanian Salmon$22.85
Chef Alessandro's creation. Braised Italian octopus, thinly sliced sashimi grade Tasmanian salmon, unfiltered EVOO, teardrop peppers, lemon preserves, organic tomatoes & greens, Maldon salt flakes, capers
Filet Mignon$20.99
Center cut USDA Prime filet mignon. Thinly sliced carpaccio style, locally grown lemon juice, EVOO, organic fresh arugula, shaved parmigiano and italian capers
Golden Beets & Goat Cheese$19.50
Mixed baby greens, wild berry dressing, fresh raspberries, caramelized pecans
Heirloom Tomato & Burrata$21.50
Arugula, Castelvetrano olives with creamy homemade mozzarella, basil, sea salt, italian herbs infused olive oil

Pasta

Gluten free pasta available. Made daily with semolina, italian imported flour, organic local eggs

Bucatini Arugula e Burrata$24.99
Homemade Bucatini pasta, infused with organic local baby tomatoes and arugula, tossed in EVOO, Italian herbs and garlic. Fresh burrata & black sea salt
Alla Carbonara$22.99
Caramelized pancetta cubes, shallots, organic eggs, grana padano creamy sauce over bucatini pasta
Capellini al Pomodoro$16.99
Angel hair pasta, garlic, fresh basil tomato sauce
Porcini Pappardelle$23.99
Homemade pappardelle pasta, mild spicy italian sausage made in house, mushroom sauce, truffle infused oil, parmigiano
Puttanesca$23.95
Black tiger shrimp, heirloom tomato, capers, gaeta olives, calabrian chili, capellini, parmesan
Farfallina Rosa$22.99
Bow-tie pasta, fresh grilled chicken, zuchini, Italian marinated artichokes in a tomato vodka cream sauce
Dolce Gabbana Ravioli$23.89
Edible rose petal infused, stuffed with mozzarella, prosciutto Cotto shallots, arugula, baby tomatoes, parmesan reduction
Nonna Titina Cheese Ravioli$20.50
Spinach and ricotta filled ravioli, tomato basil sauce
Nonna Ida Meat Ravioli$21.50
Meat filled ravioli, Bolognese sauce, pecorino cheese
Orecchiette$22.95
Little ear shaped pasta, house-made sausage, goat cheese, heirloom tomatoes, spinach, EVOO, grana padano sauce
Spaghetti con Polpette$24.85
Mamma Margherita's meatballs, light spicy tomato sauce
Linguine Clams$24.95
Manila clams, garlic, fresh parsley, white wine sauce
Pesto Conchiglie Shrimp$24.99
Imported seashell pasta, wild tiger shrimp, fresh basil, organic homemade pesto
Alfredo$18.99
Fettuccine made fresh in house every morning, Parmigiano cream sauce
Linguine Cacio e Pepe$19.85
Black pepper, pecorino cheese, italian older recipe
Tricolor Primavera$20.99
Fusilli pasta tricolor, organic garden vegetables, sauteéd in garlic & in a tomato sauce, basil
Gluten-Free Pappardelle$24.89
Pappardelle amatriciana Alessa's way
Lamb Pappardelle$23.99
Colorado16-hour slow braised lamb shoulder ragú, mushrooms, over fresh pappardelle
Short Ribs Fresh Pasta$23.95
Braised beef short ribs, fresh garden vegetables, over rosemary infused pasta
Limoncello$24.50
Invented by Chef Alessandro Pirozzi & his uncle Ugo D'Orso in 2006. Limoncello infused radiatore pasta, calamari, tiger shrimp, Pinot Grigio white wine sauce
Nonna Ida's Lasagne$21.89
Ricotta, meatballs, ragú, mozzarella
Linguine Marechiaro$24.99
Clams, calamari & shrimp, garlic white wine tomato sauce
Scampi Ravioli$24.95
Limoncello infused, stuffed with wild shrimp scampi, shallots, garlic, Meyer lemon, white wine cherry tomato sauce
Bolognese$22.99
Pappardelle pasta, Juventino's style bolognese sauce
Veal Osso-Buco Agnolotti$24.95
Veal Osso-Buco filled ravioli, wild mushrooms, brown butter sage sauce. Pairs with Buena Vista Pinot Noir Sonoma County
Lobster Ravioli$24.99
Maine lobster and roasted fennel filled ravioli, vodka pink sauce with fresh butterfly black tiger shrimp
Gluten-Free Ravioli$23.89
Stuffed with organic and Mozzarella, fresh veggies. Choice of San Marzano or Grana Padana sauce
Healthy Salmon Pasta$24.50
Chef AP invented a unique limoncello-infused fettuccine pasta, fresh salmon, peppery arugula and peruvian teardrops peppers

Gnocchi

Nonna titina's recipe potato dumplings

Cinghiale$21.99
Wild boar sausage, mushroom, Calabria chili, arrabbiata
Five Cheese$21.85
Gouda, affumicata, mozzarella, parmigiano, fontina

Risotto

Imported carnaroli italian rice

Gamberi Risotto$23.99
Tiger shrimp, organic zucchini, lobster reduction sauce
Funghi$20.50
Wild mushroom, shallots, parmesan, prosecco

Dinner

Fresh catch of the day, lamb chops and wild meat. Weekend specials upon request. Please ask your server

Eggplant Parmigiana$21.99
Served with Caesar salad. Lightly-breaded eggplant, mozzarella, pomodoro sauce
Cioppino$28.99
Black tiger shrimp, Tasmanian salmon, clams, calamari and fresh fish, oregano, garlic, white wine tomato broth
Pollo Limoncello or Marsala Sauce$26.50
All-natural fresh chicken breast, white wine limoncello caper sauce, served with spinach and rosemary potatoes
Pollo Parmigiana$26.50
Fresh chicken breasts, asiago, parmigiano, basil tomato sauce, penne al pomodoro
Filet Mignon (Two of 4 oz)
Center cut filet, wood-fired Idaho potatoes. Available with: Amarena cherry port wine reduction or porcini mushroom sauce
- Market Price
Fresh Salmon Filet$28.50
Grilled fresh salmon filet, Meyer lemon, heirloom tomato white wine sauce served with sautéed organic spinach

Wine

"Chi Beve Vino Campa Cent'anni" (Whoever Drinks Wine Lives A Hundred Years)

Champagne & Prosecco

Pirozzi, Prosecco, IT$11.99
Bright and clean with fresh floral and citrus finish
- Bottle$48.00
Le Grand Courtage Brut, FR
Delicate floral notes
- Split (187ml)$17.50
Taittinger la Francaise Brut, FR
Bright fruit & zesty mineral flavors
- Bottle$78.99
Canella Brut Rose, IT
Delightful, brilliant pink color, fragrant, fruity bouquet and a fresh, flavorful palate with gobs of character
- Split (187ml)$15.95

White Wine

Sycamore Lane PG
Sweet aromas and tropical flavors
- Glass$12.50
- Bottle$49.99
San Pietro, Gavi, Piemonte
Organic Peach, apricot, floral nose with a bright and lively attack
- Glass$16.50
- Bottle$64.99
Tomasella, Pinot Bianco
Delightful flavors, long finish
- Bottle$72.99
Falesco Vitiano, Bianco
Glicine flowers & peach nose, hints of hazelnut, clean and great consistency
- Glass$12.95
- Bottle$54.50
Venezia Giulia Pinot G
Delicate stonefruit and hazelnut notes
- Glass$15.25
- Bottle$58.95
Mastroberardino, Greco Ditufo Campania
Flavors of apricot, peach, and pear fruit. "Alessandro's Favorite Italian white"
- Glass$15.95
- Bottle$62.50
Jermann Dreams, IT
French oak, toast and yellow apple aromas Made predominantly with Chardonnay aged in oak barrels, ripe pear, white peach, vanilla & butterscotch. 2 Glasses Minimum
- Glass$24.95
- Bottle$98.50
Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio Bianco DOC
Wet stone and tropical notes
- Glass$14.95
- Bottle$56.50
Santa Margherita, PG
Fresh slight sweetness and tangy flavor
- Glass$16.95
- Bottle$65.50
Banfi Vermentino
Elegant dominated by citrus and stone fruits, delightfully fresh, intense
- Glass$17.50
- Bottle$77.99

Sauvignon Blanc

St. Supéry, Napa Valley
Tropical fruit and creamy finish
- Glass$14.95
- Bottle$58.50
Cakebread, Napa Valley
Melon, citrus, herbal notes
- Glass$15.95
- Bottle$78.50
Dog Point, Marlborough
Pale color. The aromas are bright, fresh, with elements of honeydew melon, pears and gala apples in the background
- Glass$16.50
- Bottle$64.50

Chardonnay

Sycamore Lane, CA
Layers of ripe fig, pear, and melon
- Glass$11.95
- Bottle$48.95
Cakebread, Napa Valley
Classic, pear and melon
- Glass$19.95
- Bottle$85.99
Kistler, Les Noisetiers, Sonoma Coast
Earthy and complex, creamy texture
- Bottle$129.50
Far Niente, Napa Valley
Melon, guava, ripe fig
- Bottle$115.95
Sonoma-Cutrer, Russian River
Generous texture with oak & vanilla
- Glass$14.95
- Bottle$58.95
Rombauer, Carneros
Buttery & toasted oak
- Glass$18.95
- Bottle$98.50
Hess Shirtail, Monterey
Full-bodied, full-flavored and impressive
- Glass$15.95
- Bottle$64.95

Chef Pirozzi Selezione

Premium Chardonnay
Medium body, toasty vanilla
- Glass$13.95
- Bottle$59.50
Italian Super Tuscan
Intense, blackberry fruits and spices
- Glass$17.95
- Bottle$77.50
Top Pinot Noir
Dark-fruited red and full-bodied
- Glass$17.50
- Bottle$75.50
Full Body Meritage
Intense aromas of black currant
- Glass$17.50
- Bottle$75.50
Premium Cabernet
Chocolate notes and oak
- Glass$17.95
- Bottle$77.95
Pirozzi Super Tuscan, IT
Plum, blackberry fruits and spices
- Glass$14.95
- Bottle$62.99
Pirozzi, Chianti Riserva
Elegantly textured, well structured
- Glass$16.95
- Bottle$62.99
Pirozzi, Chianti Classico
Black raspberry and tasty oak
- Glass$14.95
- Bottle$58.50

Pinot Noir

Lyric by Etude, Sonoma
Red fruit flavors
- Glass$13.95
- Bottle$58.50
De Loach, California
Red fruit flavors
- Glass$12.50
- Bottle$52.95
Buena Vista, Sonoma
Strawberry, mocha with tasty oak notes
- Glass$15.50
- Bottle$62.95
Ponzi, Willamette, OR
Soft tannins touched with orange zest
- Glass$16.95
- Bottle$69.50
Cakebread, Pinot Noir
With velvet tannins
- Bottle$98.95
Sonoma-Cutrer, Russian River
Aromas of dried cranberry, exotic spices
- Bottle$88.50

Italian Red Wine

Masi, Campofiorin, Veneto
Sweet crushed red berries, vibrant
- Glass$12.99
- Bottle$58.00
Banfi Centine Tuscany
Red fruit flavors, strawberries and cherries
- Glass$12.95
- Bottle$55.00
Tommasi, "Rompicollo" Sangiovese
Medium bodied forward and clean
- Glass$13.95
- Bottle$60.00
Saia, Nero d'Avola, Sicilia
High tannins, medium acid, strong body
- Glass$15.95
- Bottle$62.00
Gattinara DOCG, Travaglini
Intense flavors of cherry & raspberry
- Bottle$85.95
Marchesi Antinori Solaia
Red - Bold and Structured
- Glass$13.50
- Bottle$58.95
Premium Nebbiolo
Ripe raspberry, and a hint of licorice
- Bottle$75.50
Tommasi, Amarone, Veneto
Well balanced fruit aromas
- Bottle$169.50
Tenuta di Biserno, Insoglio
Plenty of elegance on the plate
- Bottle$65.50
Michele Chiarlo, Barbera
Charming and supple
- Glass$15.95
- Bottle$66.00
Batasiolo, Briccoline Barolo
Maturing in wood to a soft, velvety, flavor
- Bottle$178.95
Organic, Barolo, Piemonte
Organic, rich and intensely scented nose
- Bottle$128.00
Michele Chiarlo, Barolo
Majestic and powerful dry, wild berries
- Bottle$93.50
Masi, Amarone Classico, Veneto, IT
Stylish dark cherry, elegant finish
- Bottle$139.95
Barbaresco, San Giuliano
Aromas of minerals and flowers blend well into a well rounded bright body
- Bottle$99.95
Barbaresco, Terre, Riserva
Dried cherry, anise, espresso, sage notes
- Bottle$199.95
Nebbiolo d'Alba, Piemonte
Ruby red, elegant notes of raspberry
- Glass$17.50
- Bottle$78.95
Sassabruna, Toscana
Smooth multi-layered fruit experience
- Glass$17.95
- Bottle$79.50
Zenato, Valpolicella Ripassa
Dried fruit, chocolate and coffee
- Glass$16.50
- Bottle$69.95
Le Serre Nuove, Toscana
Alessandro's Favorite Super Tuscan
- Bottle$125.50
Cabreo, "II Borgo", Toscana
Aromas of wild cherry and black currant
- Bottle$98.50
Brunello Riserva, Toscana
Earthy undertones, tobacco and spices
- Bottle$195.95
Sassicaia, Bolgheri, Toscana
Elegantly-textured, well-structured
- Bottle$389.00
Orenellaia, Bolgheri, Toscana
The palate is rich and dense, bright acidity
- Bottle$369.00
Brunello di Montalcino, Toscana Italy
The best vintages
- Bottle$128.50
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Rich ripe fruit tones, intense deep color
- Bottle$78.50
Castillo Banfi Brunello
Rich & elegant, notes of licorice & tobacco
- Bottle$138.50
Bruno Giacosa, "Falletto"
Notes of truffle and licorice
- Bottle$379.00
Gaja San Lorenzo, Piedmont, IT
Deep red wine, notes of exotic spices
- Bottle$849.00
Dal Forno Romano, Valpolicella Superiore, Veneto
Rich, concentrated with intense flavors
- Bottle$179.00
Tenuta Masseto #1 in Italy
Beautiful structure, bold, rich and long luscious finish
- Bottle$998.95

Cabernet

Sycamore Lane, CA
Black currant, cedar and cocoa
- Glass$12.95
- Bottle$52.50
J. Lohr, Paso Robles
Dark cherry, black currant and berry
- Glass$13.50
- Bottle$58.95
George de Latour, Napa
Inky red fruit, chocolate, leather and licorice all open in the glass
- Bottle$298.50
Tenute, Tomasella, Cab Franc
Intense, fresh and young
- Bottle$105.95
Stags Leap Napa Valley
Layered & complex, aromas & flavours of chocolate, black plum and woodsmoke
- Bottle$118.99
Austin Hope Paso Robles
Aromas of black cherry
- Glass$18.99
- Bottle$89.95
Chateau Montelena, Napa
Toasty oak and notes of cranberry
- Bottle$110.99
Trefethen, Napa Valley
The tannins are ripe and velvety
- Glass$19.99
- Bottle$99.95
Cakebread, Napa Valley
Lush, focused and intense
- Bottle$136.95
Jayson, Pahlmeyer, Napa
Lush, focused and intense
- Bottle$138.95
Bianchi, Paso Robles
A ruby-red wine, medium-bodied
- Glass$14.50
- Bottle$58.50
Justin Style, Paso Robles
Slightly toasted oak
- Glass$17.50
- Bottle$75.50
Caymus Vineyards, Napa
Dark in color, with rich fruit
- Bottle$134.95
Caymus Selection, Napa
Rich, fine-grained tannins, balanced
- Bottle$275.50
Silver Oak, Alexander Valley
Aromas and flavors of black currant jam, rose petals, chocolate, and sandalwood
- Bottle$139.95
Silver Oak, Napa Valley
Dark fruit notes of red cherry compote
- Bottle$191.95

Merlot

Merryvale, Napa Valley
Soft and pretty, berries and flowers
- Bottle$248.95
Sycamore Lane, CA
Black cherry and red plum flavors
- Glass$12.50
- Bottle$51.95
Cakebread, Napa Valley
Black currant fruit and light floral notes
- Bottle$98.99
Pahlmeyer, Napa Valley
Firmly structured
- Bottle$134.50

Zinfandel

Master's Selection, CA/IT
Boysenberry and strawberry fruit notes
- Glass$14.50
- Bottle$62.00
Earthquake, CA
Boysenberry and strawberry fruit notes
- Glass$14.50
- Bottle$62.00
Montevina Tdo, Amador
Powerful wine from 100 years old vines
- Bottle$67.95

Petite Syrah, Shiraz, Malbec

Premium Malbec, Mendoza
Firm tannins, hints of vanilla
- Glass$13.95
- Bottle$58.50
Michael David, Petite Petit, CA
Flavors of berries, espresso & dark chocolate
- Bottle$48.50
D'arenberg, Shiraz, Laughing
It is a dark, soft, syrupy, and vital red wine
- Bottle$62.95

Meritage

Wine Master's Selection, CA
Vanilla and cocoa notes
- Glass$14.95
- Bottle$62.50
Treana, Paso Robles
Floral & intense stone fruit flavors
- Glass$18.50
- Bottle$99.50
Beaulieu Vinyard Tapestry, Napa
Beautiful center palate of currants, berries, lemon rind and silky tannins
- Bottle$85.95
Cain Five, Napa Valley
Estate grown and organic Bordeaux style
- Bottle$175.95

Interesting Wines

Rosato, Rose, Sud Italia
Peach, citrus, and raspberry notes
- Glass$16.75
- Bottle$68.00
Riesling, Marlborough
Peach and apricot aromas
- Glass$12.95
- Bottle$52.00

Half Bottles

Sassicaia, Bolgheri, Toscana
- Bottle (375ml)$189.00
Tommasi Valpolicella Amarone
- Bottle (375ml)$68.50
Michele Chiarlo, Barolo, Piemonte
- Bottle (375ml)$55.25
Starmont Cabernet, Napa
- Bottle (375ml)$38.50
Starmont Pinot Noir, Carneros
- Bottle (375ml)$35.25
Cain Five, Napa Valley
- Bottle (375ml)$98.75

Dessert Wine

Limoncello
Homemade & Alessandro's favorite
- Glass$14.95
Moscato, California$12.50
Moscato d'Asti, Italy (375 ml)$15.25
Croft Distinction Porto
- Glass$16.00
Fonseca, Late Bottle Vintage Porto
- Glass$18.95
Taylor Fladgate, 40 Yr, Porto
- Glass$52.00

What 886 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

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

4.4

4.4 based on recent ratings

4.5Food
4.3Service
4.4Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

886 Reviews

J
Jill
Los Angeles
13 reviews
5.0
13 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Delicious again! I love this restaurant. I had the bucatini with burrata. SO GOOD! Whenever I need a good Italian restaurant, Salerno never fails.
Is this helpful?
SK
StevenK
New York Area
2 reviews
vip
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 15, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
Everything was great. Greater promptly and quickly seated. Had a few app’s all very good, Meatballs Fantastic! Chicken parm for me pasta dish for my wife. Everything tasted great and portions were very generous for the price. Highly recommend based on my experience.
Is this helpful?
PE
PETERL
New York Area
12 reviews
vip
4.0
12 reviews
Dined on September 3, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience5
Great staff. Very good food quality and value. Definitely worth a return visit. Heard nothing but enthusiastic comments from other patrons prior to our visit and our experience is very consistent with the other compliments we heard. Sister restaurant’Alessa’ is very good. Salerno is noticeably better. Very much worth the visit. Salute’
Is this helpful?
SK
SteveK
Orange County
46 reviews
vip
4.0
46 reviews
Dined on September 3, 2023
overall4food4service4ambience4
It was very busy and a bit too noisey. it was a little hard to talk to my wife. Food was great as always
Is this helpful?
AB
AnyaB
Orange County
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 3, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
Great service , delicious food, wonderful presentation!
Is this helpful?
SL
SilverLakeTravelers
Los Angeles
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on August 28, 2023
overall5food5service4ambience5
We were drawn here by the selection of interesting sounding dishes versus other local Italian spots that had the usual dishes all Italian restaurants always have. We were early to our reservation and seated right away. All of our dishes were tasty, and the desserts (oreo gelato, limoncello sorbet) were a fitting finish.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on August 27, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
I love this restaurant! Daniel is the best and always takes excellent care of his customers. Food and service are exceptional. I always look forward to going here :)
Is this helpful?
KC
KeithC
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on August 26, 2023
overall3food4service2ambience1
I had the pasta with bolognese meat sauce as my entree. It was superb, as was the Super Tuscan red wine. Unfortunately, however, the Caesar Salad was quite poor; it was basically just lettuce and olive oil ... no anchovies, hardly any shaved parmesan cheese, no spices and no flavor. The server was a pleasant young guy, but so very inexperienced. We waited at least 10 minutes from the time we sat down until we were first acknowledged. We were not given a fresh wine glass with the second round of wine, nor clean silverware after the first course. The restaurant is EXTREMELY LOUD and much too small for the crowd of people. I had to shout in order for my dining partner to hear me. The prices were fair and reasonable.
Is this helpful?
B
Brad
San Diego
20 reviews
vip
4.0
20 reviews
Dined on August 24, 2023
overall4food4service4ambience2
A very broad variety of both food and wine choices. Prices are reasonable. The restaurant is small so the noise level is high, so go there to have an enthusiastic time, not for an intimate meal.
Is this helpful?
BK
BrigitteK
Las Vegas
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on August 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Tight seating so it seemed very noisy. Definitely will be coming back though.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on August 13, 2023
overall4food5service4ambience5
Food is great as always, the ambiance is nice. Wait staff is always kind and doing best they can, but still way to understaffed. Service is incredibly slow. Im a regular so I have patience knowing, but tourist don’t.
Is this helpful?
S
Sharibaby
Los Angeles
161 reviews
vip
5.0
161 reviews
Dined on August 13, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Always delightful and consistent! One of our go to restaurants while in Laguna Beach.
Is this helpful?
SQ
SugarQb
Los Angeles
9 reviews
5.0
9 reviews
Dined on August 12, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
We chose Salerno for a pre-theatre meal on a busy Friday in Laguna. The parking was hellish, but the food, service, and casual beachy atmosphere were all perfect. I think at a different time of year the parking wouldn’t be an issue, but with both festivals up and running space was limited.
Is this helpful?
K
Ktran92626
Exclusive
3 reviews
3.0
3 reviews
Dined on August 6, 2023
overall3food3service1ambience3
I was here on Saturday, August 5, 2023. Our reservation for 2 people was at 6:45pm. I checked in at 6:40pm, was not seated until 7:00p, did not order until 7:20pm, our food was not ready until 7:50pm (no bread or water (never offerred) or wine that we ordered). I understand it was a busy night but they were clearly short-staffed. We had to rush through our dinner because we had tickets to the Pageant of the Masters. To top it off, my cioppino was very soupy, not enough seafood.
Is this helpful?
KB
KatieB
Phoenix
3 reviews
vip
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on August 5, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Hands down the best meatballs I’ve ever had. Lamb pappardelle was also fantastic.
Is this helpful?
AN
ANTHONYC
Orange County
3 reviews
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on August 4, 2023
overall4food4service4ambience4
Dinner was great. We were a party of 8 and Daniel did excellent job for us.
Is this helpful?
H
H2dine
Chicago
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on August 3, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We celebrated two birthdays. We sat outside. It was lovely!
Is this helpful?
JW
JerryW
San Francisco
6 reviews
vip
4.0
6 reviews
Dined on July 30, 2023
overall4food5service5ambience3
The food is consistently delicious! The pesto is killer! The service is always good as well with a nice wine selection and a full bar. But it is cramped inside - very little space between tables and someone is usually bumping you. And because it is quite tight, it’s also quite warm and loud inside. On a busy weekend night, hard to have a conversation. But you will enjoy the food!
Is this helpful?
s
sergiom
Central Coast
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on July 29, 2023
overall4food5service5ambience3
Menu features many interesting dishes. Lasagna and short rib pasta are amazing. Service was very good. Not enough space in the restaurant. My chair was bumped by everyone walking by. Next time we’ll sit in the cozy window space. I would recommend this restaurant.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
1 review
vip
1.0
1 review
Dined on July 27, 2023
overall1food2service1ambience1
Worst service that I have ever experienced. Lied to and ignored by our server multiple times, including when he told us that he was the manager. Such a disappointing experience.
Is this helpful?
e
emag79
Orange County
8 reviews
vip
3.0
8 reviews
Dined on July 23, 2023
overall3food3service2ambience3
Waited for 30 minutes before anyone came to over to offer us water. Service was lacking for our outside table all night. Repeatedly asked for bread and never got it. Overall, disappointed.
Is this helpful?
LN
LNM1
New York Area
19 reviews
5.0
19 reviews
Dined on July 23, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
we had a fabulous dinner which included the eggplant parmigiana, Caesar salad, be the salmon! All amazing while taking in the street view! We enjoyed everything!
Is this helpful?
AD
AnneD
Chicago
5 reviews
vip
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on July 22, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We had an amazing dinner for 8 on a Friday night. They made the birthday girl feel special! Food was AMAZING! Service was terrific! We will be back again!
Is this helpful?
RF
RichF
Central Coast
2 reviews
1.0
2 reviews
Dined on July 22, 2023
overall1food1service2ambience3
the food was poor. ordered eggplant parmesan. it was just 3 round individually deep fried slices of eggplant sprinkled with mozzarella. not only that. it was cold. the puttanesca wasn't bad, just very average. the waiter never followed up with us to ask how our meal was. we had to flag him down. he seem bothered that we weren't satisfied and not happy to fix the issue. he just microwaved the eggplant and brought it back to us. needless to say, we're not going back.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Los Angeles
8 reviews
vip
1.0
8 reviews
Dined on July 16, 2023
overall1food1service1ambience2
Definitely not coming back. We made a reservation for outdoor seating, but the restaurant said they had no record of that and sat us inside - fine, maybe a glitch with Open Table. My husband ordered the Elderflower Spritz (the first drink on their cocktail menu), but it was served without the mint. When my husband asked, we were told they were out of mint. Had the waiter mentioned they were out of mint he would not have ordered it. He ordered a beer instead, that took way too long to get (no charge for the original drink). The heirloom tomato and burrata appetizer had the thinnest sliced tomato we’ve ever had (it was maybe half of a tomato in total). And there were two caselvetrano olives (definitely expected more). Definitely not worth $22.99. All 3 of us had bland dishes. I had the orecchiette but the “house-made sausage” had way less flavor than the Costco sausage we use to make a similar dish at home. Husband’s cinghiale gnocchi definitely didn’t seem homemade and had the same sentiments about the sausage. Our son also said his porcini pappardelle was flavorless. Individually, each of the above wouldn’t be a big deal, but all combined didn’t make for a great dining experience. It also took a long time to get our food, and we had to ask again for the sparkling water we ordered. We were looking to find a great new Italian place, this definitely wasn’t it. I usually don’t leave detailed restaurant reviews, but hoping to help others.
Is this helpful?
BS
BobS
Los Angeles
5 reviews
3.0
5 reviews
Dined on July 16, 2023
overall3food5service1ambience3
Very busy small restaurant with very good food. Service was slow and could certainly be improved.
Is this helpful?
MB
MicheleB
Baltimore
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on July 16, 2023
overall5food5service4ambience4
Delicious unique food. I had the limoncello infused pasta and calamari and shrimp. Delicious
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Kansas City
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on July 13, 2023
overall5food5service4ambience4
The food was delicious. The restaurant was a bit warm so we moved to a patio table and they were very accommodating. The pollo Parmesan was delicious.
Is this helpful?
LW
LisaW
San Diego
17 reviews
vip
3.0
17 reviews
Dined on July 13, 2023
overall3food5service2ambience3
Food was excellent and staff friendly. However, our waiter was overwhelmed and too busy to refresh our water (not once) or bring any more bread— we got one small piece for each of 6 of us. Bathroom was not well stocked and even after telling staff it was not remedied. Cute place, great lasagna and salmon, and bread.
Is this helpful?
NE
NathanE
Coastal Georgia
15 reviews
3.0
15 reviews
Dined on July 9, 2023
overall3food3service3ambience5
great spot in Laguna Beach. Nice ambience very friendly service staff, and good value for the money. I gave it a three instead of a four because it took forever between appetizers and main course. It took one hour from when we sat down to when our main course order was taken. I believe they may have been short staffed, and everyone was running around to take care of clients. We would definitely go back.
Is this helpful?
M
Marat
San Diego
13 reviews
vip
1.0
13 reviews
Dined on July 9, 2023
overall1food1service3ambience5
I was honestly excited to try this restaurant before our Pageant of the Masters show. However, after eating here, I can honestly say that I will not return. I don’t understand the 4-5 star reviews on line. Just a quick summery of why this experience was NOT good. 1. The 2 salads we ordered were extremely bad. The lettuce looked like it was a week past it’s fresh date; wilted and browning. The goat cheese salad had no goat cheese. When we asked for a serving of goat cheese, they brought us a small sliver as though the restaurant had run out, and it took them 25min to get it to our table. Since we were the first customers and the restaurant was not full, it was odd that it took so long. The Amici salad had what tasted like canned sardines and wilted arugula with almost no dressing. Truly awful. Why would anyone serve greens so wilted, so long past it’s fresh date. It honestly embarrassing. The bucatini with burrata was extremely bland. The burrata was barely present … like the goat cheese salad, the barely provided enough wet the plate..and they served it with none of the cream. It was just the husk. The Cacio e Pepe… overly creamy and bland as well. The gnocchi.. no surprise… bland and did not taste freshly made. It had a rubbery texture to it. All of these combined really made for a bad experience. The gross salad, the bland pasta. Was it really worth $200? No, no it was not. It’s sad to me because the decor had this rustic Italian bistro feel. If only the food could match the ambiance. Personally, I wouldn’t even give this restaurant 1 star… but since I have to give a star, it gets 1. First and last time for me eating here.
Is this helpful?
JC
JanC
Las Vegas
13 reviews
vip
5.0
13 reviews
Dined on July 7, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
The healthy salmon pasta is amazing. A huge portion, so I can enjoy leftovers for lunch. Always a treat eating there.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
7 reviews
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on July 2, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
I love this little place. Great ambience, a nice place to sit and have a relaxing meal. Our server Daniel was very attentive and knowledgeable. Food is always great! Thankyou for a lovely evening
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 30, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We come here every year before going to the Pageant of the Masters. It is ALWAYS delicious.
Is this helpful?
BG
BethG
Central Coast
11 reviews
vip
5.0
11 reviews
Dined on June 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
This is by far our family's favorite Italian restaurant. We love the food and the ambiance.
Is this helpful?
TM
TeoM
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Overall one of the best Italian restaurants I’ve been too.
Is this helpful?
BG
BobG
Orange County
7 reviews
4.0
7 reviews
Dined on June 17, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience5
Wonderful service and area. Great place to go for a nice meal
Is this helpful?
j
jamzmax
Los Angeles
5 reviews
3.0
5 reviews
Dined on June 16, 2023
overall3food2service3ambience4
Very disappointing. We have great memories of Salerno, as far back as the early '80's. We were glad to see some familiar features in the decor, so it felt very comfortable. The food, however, was very average. I was excited to try the Alla Luciana, but it didn't live up to the menu - Tiger prawns, if they were, were average like frozen shrimp from a market; the 'lobster' reduction was basically a pleasant tomato marinara; and zero evidence of Calabrian hot chili. When I asked for more of that, the very nice server brought a shaker of dried chili flakes, pizzeria-style. My wife's ribeye salad was ok, but the ribeye was good quality. And my white sardine appetizer was a pile of arugula with anchovies spread around the plate. Also no evidence of the calabrian oil. It wouldn't take much to take this menu to the level it conveys on the menu. The memory of being back, and remembering our parents, was worth it in the end.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Orange County
44 reviews
vip
5.0
44 reviews
Dined on June 16, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Always the best presentation on every level. Always fresh and forward in concept . It not not italian but more ITALIAN as if there.
Is this helpful?
LR
LRed
Palm Springs
6 reviews
vip
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on June 16, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great local italian restaurant. The staff is very friendly and the food is wonderful. We love the lamb chops!
Is this helpful?

FAQs

Salerno by Chef Pirozzi offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (949) 497-2600.

Salerno by Chef Pirozzi is rated 4.4 stars by 886 OpenTable diners.

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

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Oct 1, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 9 times today

Order delivery or takeout

220 Beach Street, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Additional information

Cross street
Forest Ave
Neighborhood
Laguna Beach
Hours of operation
Thu 5:00 pm–8:00 pm Fri–Sun 5:00 pm–8:30 pm Closed Mon–Wed 5:00 am–12:00 am
Cuisines
Italian
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Business Casual
Parking details
Public Parking (Lot 2), available directly behind the building. Also plenty of street parking available within a 1-2 minute walk.
Payment options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Alessandro Pirozzi
Additional
Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Wine

Website
http://www.salernolb.com/
Phone number
(949) 497-2600

Salerno by Chef Pirozzi

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Caesar

Limoncello

Salmon Salad

To Start

Nonna Ida Soup$12.99

Stracciatella Soup$14.89

Minestrone$13.99

Alla Luciana$20.89

Mamma Mia$21.99

Involtini$16.50

Olive Fritte$12.50

Cioppino

Zucca (Must Try)$12.99

Calamari Fritti$19.50

Insalate

Casa

Salmon Salad$18.50

Filet Mignon Salad$20.99

Caprese$16.95

Caesar

Pere e Goat Cheese$15.99

Carpaccio

Octopus & Tasmanian Salmon$22.85

Filet Mignon$20.99

Golden Beets & Goat Cheese$19.50

Heirloom Tomato & Burrata$21.50

Pasta

Bucatini Arugula e Burrata$24.99

Alla Carbonara$22.99

Capellini al Pomodoro$16.99

Porcini Pappardelle$23.99

Puttanesca$23.95

Farfallina Rosa$22.99

Dolce Gabbana Ravioli$23.89

Nonna Titina Cheese Ravioli$20.50

Nonna Ida Meat Ravioli$21.50

Orecchiette$22.95

Spaghetti con Polpette$24.85

Linguine Clams$24.95

Pesto Conchiglie Shrimp$24.99

Alfredo$18.99

Linguine Cacio e Pepe$19.85

Tricolor Primavera$20.99

Gluten-Free Pappardelle$24.89

Lamb Pappardelle$23.99

Short Ribs Fresh Pasta$23.95

Limoncello$24.50

Nonna Ida's Lasagne$21.89

Linguine Marechiaro$24.99

Scampi Ravioli$24.95

Bolognese$22.99

Veal Osso-Buco Agnolotti$24.95

Lobster Ravioli$24.99

Gluten-Free Ravioli$23.89

Healthy Salmon Pasta$24.50

Gnocchi

Cinghiale$21.99

Five Cheese$21.85

Risotto

Gamberi Risotto$23.99

Funghi$20.50

Dinner

Eggplant Parmigiana$21.99

Cioppino$28.99

Pollo Limoncello or Marsala Sauce$26.50

Pollo Parmigiana$26.50

Filet Mignon (Two of 4 oz)

Fresh Salmon Filet$28.50

Wine

Champagne & Prosecco

Pirozzi, Prosecco, IT$11.99

Le Grand Courtage Brut, FR

Taittinger la Francaise Brut, FR

Canella Brut Rose, IT

White Wine

Sycamore Lane PG