Ciccia Osteria

We were delightfully surprised not only how good the food was but also how reasonable the prices were. The restaurant was recommended on the Michelin restaurant review guide as a place to stop by. The owner really cares about both the food and the guests experience. When asking for wine recommendations he recommended a less expensive but just perfect pairing that was a local Italian. Dessert was fantastic as well. Definitely recommend!

Ciccia Osteria is a true gem that shines brightly! The pasta dishes served here are nothing short of divine, with flavors that are both authentic and bold. Every bite transports your taste buds to Italy and leaves you wanting more. The atmosphere is lively and charming, making you feel like part of the family. The service is top-notch; friendly and attentive servers enhance the overall dining experience. Ciccia Osteria is a must-visit for exceptional Italian cuisine that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds!

My wife and I eat at Ciccia’s regularly but this is our first review after 4 years. Sorry Francesca and Mario! (In my defense I practically never ever write a review.) We keep coming back for the food, ambiance and hospitality. **We’ve gone 3 times in the last week! The crab gnocchi is my wife’s favorite. I get something different almost every time. Every visit I ask Mario about the specials as I like to sample the beef and/or fish (Branzino!) they prepare in addition to pasta. Try the Tomahawk steak if it’s a special that day (call ahead) and you will be amazed. Too many times we fill up on appetizers like mushroom flan, breaded zucchini, calamari, antipasto, and the choices go on! But that’s what to-go containers are for. So much good food to eat at Ciccias we tend to order too many things. It is simply fun to dine there. Once you’re inside the restaurant area (patio area or indoor area) the ambiance is quaint and cozy. Ciccia’s is not big and it’s always filled, but we never feel like it’s too crowded. The energy is always fun and upbeat. Which makes people stay awhile, so let me recommend getting reservations. We’ve had to wait 10-15 minutes but nothing’s perfect! If you want a breezy quick dinner before going off to an event you may want to go to Ciccia’s on another night. Hospitality is what you would expect of a small Italian restaurant run by the owners. Terrific!! If it’s your first time, read their story on the website before you go. They are bona fide top chefs who followed their dreams to open their own place. What a gem it is tucked inside Barrio Logan. One thing regulars may notice is that staff doesn’t appear to turn over much as I’ve seen the same faces working there for years. I think that reflects well on the restaurant. I don’t take pictures of food very often but last night I did. We stopped by at around 9 just to get dessert and a cocktail. My wife had the ricotta cake with apricot and habanero sauce (wow!) and I had cassata siciliana which is traditional cake from Sicily. Pretty to look at and yes, it’s delicious. They do a good job with making an Old Fashioned, which always pairs well with dessert 😜 Buon appetito!

Chefs Francesca Penoncelli and Mario Casineri serve authentic, homemade Italian cuisine! Delicious Lasagna, Tiramisu, Cannoli, and Cappuccino! Chef Francesca has daily specials. Warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like an Osteria in Italy! Friendly, attentive staff! Ciccia Osteria is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, which “will also leave you with a sense of satisfaction, at having eaten so well at such a reasonable price.” Ciccia is a term of endearment, similar to “sweetie” – Ciccia Osteria endeared itself to me!

If I could give this place 6 stars, I would. Everything was fantastic, and this was even better than most restaurants in the Italian quarter. The owner Mario is such a lovely guy - so nice and friendly and takes personal interest in helping you with the menu and even suggests wine selections. The place is very very cute and the meal is super affordable for the quality of ingredients + taste. Definitely my best meal in San Diego. I will come back!