Osteria Romantica•San Diego, CA

Italian•$30 and under

We are located in the heart of la Jolla shores, a short walk from the beach. The Shores area has one short main street with a few stores and restaurants. It has the look and feel of a town square. In this simple but wonderfully comfortable setting, Osteria Romantica generates good feelings as one dines on its good food. The voices of Pavarotti and other famous singers emerge from the background, filling the room softly with operatic melodies. An outside patio provides seating for diners who wish to enjoy the sunny afternoons and cool La Jolla evenings. The restaurant was opened by Fabio Speziali and Antonio Mastellone in 2004. Speziali grew up in the Lake Como region of northern Italy. Mastellone, who also owns several other local restaurants, grew up in Sorrento, Italy. Speziali said, "and we are from different regions of Italy. But we create together and offer dishes from all of Italy. We have our regular menu and daily specials. Our breads and pasta are always fresh and homemade."