Buca Di Beppo

I think the atmosphere is loud by design. I went during early dinner hours to the bar (at the downtown location), when it was quiet and fairly empty, and read a book as I waited. The manager stared at me (at least he was smiling) and then turned the lights down on me. I suppose I was ruining the ambience.

I had to scream in the ears of my friends at the location on Westview Parkway to be heard.

I first visited this restaurant for a friend's birthday dinner celebration. This is one of the best places in San Diego for a festive family style dinner. Portions are large, delicious, and made for sharing. Large groups are best so you can order lots of dishes and try a bit of everything. My favourite dish there is the marsala chicken. In addition to great food, the atmosphere is energetic and fun. The walls are painted in bright colours, while the decorations and music make you feel like you might actually be in Italy.

Buca Di Beppo is by far my most favorite Italian food restaurant, from the arrangement of the restaurant to the variety of quality dishes. All the food are fairly prices and serve family sized dishes. I love their pasta dishes, salads, pizzas... basically everything! That includes their housebread as well. And the interior decorating is more fun than any restaurant I've ever visited. Definitely worth a visit, if you are simply into food.

PROS: Decorating, quality food, bread, salads, pasta
CONS: The Kalamari was not the best, and meals occasionally get slightly pricey