This local chain is known for its signature salads, pizzas and pasta dishes -- made with a delicious California-meets-Mediterranean flair. Appetizers include tapas and other items to share, and a nice bar selection includes alcoholic or non-alcoholic concoctions. Its wide menu, and even special gluten-free dishes, will please the pickiest eater. If you feel like splurging, the "Messy Sundae" is deliciously decadent.
If you're looking for authentic Italian food, Pietro's is the place. Owner Pietro DiMeglio, who hails from Napoli and the island of Iscia, prepares pizzas and a varied assortment of pasta, meat or seafood entrees. Lunch specials are offered, while dinners come with your choice of soup or salad, garlic bread or rolls. Eat-in or take-out, but the dark and cozy surroundings invite you to linger over a glass of wine, or perhaps an espresso with your choice of tiramisu, cappuccino mousse cake or cannoli.
Tiramisu Trattoria is an Italian restaurant located in the heart of downtown La Mesa. This restaurant serves authentic Italian favorites like lasagna Bolognese, linguini frutti di mare, saltimbocca Romana, thin-crust, Italian-style pizzas, and a variety of appetizers, such as polenta, carpaccio, stuffed artichoke hearts and calamari. The Trattoria has an extensive wine list and a full bar. Customers can sit in the main dining room or on the large patio.
This small family-owned restaurant serves local La Mesa residents a variety of traditional Italian cuisine. Authentic recipes are used, passed down generations, and if the owners are not in house, they are likely visiting family in Italy. Inside or outside seating is available.