Restaurant Review – Caffe Bella Italia

With a commitment from the gals to get out on the town more (and to help re-introduce me to my hometown after being overseas for 8+ years), we met in Pacific Beach to try Caffe Bella Italia, as well as take advantage of a Groupon offer.

We weren’t the only ones who had waited until the last minute to use the Groupon. We had to take an early reservation and were seated outside due to the high volume of Groupon reservations (this is when the whole coupon thing becomes unappealing to me).  Fortunately it was a pleasant, warm evening and so a patio seat and our bottle of wine set the tone for girl talk.

My friends ordered the lobster ravioli and the lasagna. I opted for the saffron gnocchi.  Once our order arrived, we claimed the dishes to be “tasty” “delicious” or “really good.”  The portions were well-sized, but none of us finished our meal.  To be truthful, there was nothing special about the food, presentation or menu.  It’s hearty Italian food without any fuss or pizazz.

Unfortunately, there’s nothing special to write about. Caffe Bella Italia does advertise Happy Hour, discounted bottles of wine and wine tasting specials, but after a lackluster meal, I’m not sure that we would make a return visit before trying out a plethora of options in PB or elsewhere.  It’s hard for me to dislike Italian food, but this was a miss for me.

Likes: Wine and location (while busy and tight for parking, it’s a hot spot)

Dislikes: Unimaginative menu, no WOW factor. That and – What’s up with that logo?

Cheers!

Caffe Bella Italia is located at:

1525 Garnet Ave.

Pacific Beach

San Diego, CA 92109

858 273.1224

http://www.caffebellaitalia.com/