On my last trip to Ocean Beach, I was craving Italian food. A quick Google search led me to Cesarina. I called and reserved a table for one and a dog on a Monday night. It was the best decision ever. Read on to find out why you must try Cesarina.
The Ambience at Cesarina is Charming
Founders, Cesarina, Niccolo and Giuseppe (all Italian natives) have created a warm and welcoming environment. Their trattoria features two outside patios for al fresco dining. Both are dog friendly. Indoors, find an intimate space with custom made booths and bistro tables.
A wall of greenery around the restaurant ensures privacy. An abundance of plants and flowers boost the romance factor. Bright and colorful albeit mismatched tableware adds a whimsical touch. It is delightful.
Service is Impeccable
Dining alone can sometimes be intimidating. Not at Cesarina. From the hostess to the busser, everyone made me feel special. Not sure what to order? Don’t know what that word means on the menu? Your server is more than happy to help. It’s like being part of a large Italian family.
They even doted on Cooper with a large slice of fresh parmesan cheese.
“Everything is Made in House” is the Credo of Cesarina
When the restaurant has a pastificio (pasta factory) behind a glass wall where you can watch the pasta being made, you know it is fresh. Their menu focuses on regional Italian entrees with authentic flavors. Vegan options are available. Don’t miss out on the tiramisu made tableside.
Choose from a variety of Antipasti and Insalate creations to start your meal. I picked the Caprese Invernale and added Prosciutto di Parma. A mouthwatering tower of heirloom tomatoes, arugula, cherry tomatoes, basil, pesto and Burrata arrived at the table. The flavors complimented each other beautifully.
While they offer a “make your own” pasta dish menu where you choose the pasta shape, sauce and topping, I went with the Gnocchi Porcini Gamberi e Tartufo from Cesa’s Fave Pasta for my entrée. This dish consists of house made gnocchi, garlic, shrimp, porcini mushrooms, black summer truffle and Peperoncino in a creamy sauce. Presented in a copper pot, it is AMAZING!
For dessert, I sipped on an Amaro recommended by my server. Amaro is an herbal Italian liqueur. Next was a scoop of dark chocolate gelato. Both were fantastic. I left full and satisfied.
What Else You Should Know About Cesarina
- Cesarina won a Michelin Bib Gourmand award which recognizes restaurants for good quality and good cooking at a good price.
- At the time of this writing, Cesarina rates 4.8 stars on Yelp and 5 stars on Open Table.
- There are only 2 parking spaces at the restaurant. Nearby public parking is around $5 per hour, or you can try your luck at street parking. Cesarina does have an agreement with Cabrillo Corner Valet which provides valet parking Thursday through Sunday from 4:30pm to 10:00pm. They are located underneath Catalina Lounge at 2216 Catalina Blvd and it’s only a one-minute walk to the eatery. Of course, you can leave the car at home and use ride share. Cooper and I took an Uber Pet which was easy and convenient.
- Cesarina is open daily for lunch and dinner. The word is out, and this place gets packed. Reservations are strongly recommended.
- Take out is available through online ordering on the website.
- Plan your next event at Cesarina. Let them assist you with private dining. You can even buy-out the whole restaurant for larger parties.
Trust me, Cesarina should be on your radar for delicious Italian food. Have you already been? Tell me and Cooper about your experience below.
Check out my blog post all about Ocean Beach here to plan the perfect dog-friendly beach vacation.