The service was really good, exceptional. The food was okay, nothing spectacular for the premium prices. Was not a bad restaurant at all.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 5
Wesley
We had the privilege of being served by Jordan and he was fabulous. Jordan recommended the Chicken Valdestano and it was perfect. My wife had the Mediterranean salad with a Super Tuscan wine. We finished with the lava cake and it was superb. This is a great Italian restaurant in IB that you don't want to miss!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Pam L.
Amazing, authentic food and atmosphere. Menu is clearly deliberately curated, regular changing specials and offerings, and never a disappointment! The service makes you feel like you really are family!
Maximus L.
The food is great. The service is good, they have a great variety of wine's to choose from. I also love they play an assortment of Italian opera music on the tv to listen to.
Megan M.
The food and service was phenomenal. I've been wanting to try this place for a while and was able to grab a lasagna Classico for Thanksgiving which was delicious. It came in a large tray along with a bowl of bolognese sauce and freshly grated Parmesan. Recently, I was able to enjoy their dine in service which didn't disappoint. I ordered the special, half of the vecchia modena & ravioli. It was amazing to say the least. They had plenty of entrees to chose from and a great wine list. Jordan, our server was excellent and really knows how to make a cocktail. My mom ordered a Long Island and said it's probably the best one she's ever had. I will definitely be back!!
Sailing_Sweetie
I always come here when I stay in Imperial Beach at the Hampton Inn. It's a one minute walk. I had their special Lobster ravioli. With a glass of Silicilian cabernet. And topped it off with a creme brulee. The food is all fresh made in house. Great service and good wine knowledge they also serve cocktails.
Charlon C.
Parking: Not an issue with parking, able to find a spot up front which is always greatService: Some of the best service that I've had this year! My family and I came around 4 which found out was a great time since we had the spot to ourselves. Jordan and Lorenza were all stars when it came to serving and giving us recommendations. It was our first time there and we were informed about all of their specials and we went with that. We're glad that we did!Food: We ordered the dual pasta with the veccing Modena, (hope I spelled it right)/lobster ravioli, with a cheese pizza and salad. Everything was delicious! You can taste that it was made in house and not elsewhere. The pizza was amazing also. I really have nothing bad to say about the food.We ordered tiramisu for dessert to go and it very flavorful.Ambiance: Ambiance was very welcoming. How each table was set up. The lighting, the photos, everything about it was saying "welcome home"Opportunities: Only one I can think of would be for their food specials. The drink specials were on a menu but the food items that were mentioned wasn't.Overall: I'll be back, whether by myself or with my family ( a joke...maybe) The team was very welcoming and supportive. They eventually became packed around 5 and there was also reservations. I'm glad that we came the time we did, but even when it started to flow with customers they were still taking time out to serve us as if we were the only ones there.5/5
Dung N.
Balsamico is truly a hidden gem in Imperial Beach. I started off with a mocktail and hubby got a glass of Remole and we were given complimentary bread and olive oil. The bread was presented in a Mutti can, which was really clever.We decided to try items that were their specialty, which I have not seen at other Italian restaurants. We got the Meditteranea salad, which had oranges, black olives, and olives- it was light and refreshing.The Vecchia Modena was stuffed pasta with ricotta and spinach, in a light cream sauce, with crispy bacon, balsamic glaze and shaved Parmesan. This dish was flavorful and very interesting! The Italian Job was a brunch special, featuring an egg frittata stuffed with prosciutto di parma, arugula, and shaved Parmesan. This was light! I wasn't used to having the egg used as replacement of bread slices, but it was tasty!Their lasagna classica had layers of fresh pasta, bolognese, béchamel, and parmesan cheese. It was a yummy classic pasta. He also tried a cocktail that had a splash of balsamic!For dessert, we agreed on the Nutella pizza topped with strawberry slices. It was the perfect ending to our lunch! We loved the balsamic so much that we bought a bottle, They import it from Italy and have different flavors as well!
Vin S.
Many people say that this is the best food in Imperial Beach. Although I've only eaten here once, I tend to agree. This place is first rate Italian, the real deal.The ambiance at Balsamico is very Italian kitchen with nice decorations and a very friendly and knowledgeable staff.I ordered grilled salmon with mixed grilled veggies and everything was cooked to perfection. Drinks are strong and I know I'll be coming back. Five stars all around!
Don S
Why fight the Coronado crowds when you can get authentic Italian food right here in Imperial Beach.The food was delicious and we can’t wait to get back again. Truly a hidden gem!
Went for a Wedding Rehearsal Dinner and the service, food, & atmosphere was completely wonderful. It was a prefix menu & since there was so much of us, the staff was accommodating on any changes or questions that we had. Whenever I find myself back in Imperial Beach, I will definitely head back because the food & the wine was TO DIE FOR
Archer A.
Nice atmosphere, good service and good food. The balsamic is delicious, but tiramisu *with balsamic* (house recommendation) is def not something I would do again.
Aizelle C.
Always, always, always hear out the specials or what the employees recommend. In this case it was their pasta duo: Carmelle Vecchia Modena and a Tortellini dish (I forgot the name but it was a creamy cheesy red sauce). We also got the calamari. For sure star of the show was the Vecchia. First bite in, my whole body sank and relaxed and I was so happy that I found this dish. It was a flavor combination that I've never had and it was sOOO GOOD guys. You truly do have to try it for yourself. I won't try to explain because that ruins the fun. TRUST ME. The second star of the show, fried calamari. I don't know how to explain it but it tasted like real squid. Like I feel like other restaurants use lowercase squid squid, but the squid at this place was like real uppercase SQUID SQUID. Then we got the tortellini which was good as well :) don't get me wrong, this one was really good, but when you put it next to the Vecchia. Like the tortellini started off strong, initially I liked this one more than the Vecchia, so that should give a good sense in its flavor. I still have leftovers of this in my fridge and I'm trying to eat it without my fiancé knowing so that way I have more. AND THEN, the service. They really take care of you at this place. You can tell they care about your experience and their restaurant. They're super attentive, super polite, and very family vibes. We will definitely be coming back!
Karl A.
A hidden jewel in Imperial Beach. Thought I would try this spot during SD Restaurant Week. Beginning with the bread, olive oil and balsamic (there own brand) was a prelude to a wonderful dinner. Started with appetizers Italian cheese board with honey, spicy and truffle balsamic and zucchini meatballs were savory and delicious. I had the seafood cioppino which is one of the best I have ever had. For dessert fresh peaches mascarpone and my daughter had the amaretto and raspberry semifreddo both still salivating the taste buds. The service was fantastic as the waiter was attentive and knew the menu making numerous recommendations.The ambiance had a nice feel to it with nice lamp on each table and even blankets for those who chose to sit outside. A great wine selection. This spot needs to succeed as they put a great deal of love and effort to deliver a wonderful dining experience!
P N.
this is a hidden gem located in imperial beach. we were staying at the hampton inn and decided to give this place try because i was craving pizza but not dominoes or little cheesers. it is spitting distance from the hotel. literally outside the door.we ordered the pepperoni pizza to go and it was one of the best pepperoni pizzas ive had in a while. it was big enough to feed me and my two teenagers. i would have ordered two if i knew it was so good! for $15.99 you can't beat that for a fine dining place.we will be going back to try the pasta dishes in the near future! Also the staff is very friendly and courteous!i hope this place stays around for a while.
The service was really good, exceptional. The food was okay, nothing spectacular for the premium prices. Was not a bad restaurant at all.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 5
We had the privilege of being served by Jordan and he was fabulous. Jordan recommended the Chicken Valdestano and it was perfect. My wife had the Mediterranean salad with a Super Tuscan wine. We finished with the lava cake and it was superb. This is a great Italian restaurant in IB that you don't want to miss!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing, authentic food and atmosphere. Menu is clearly deliberately curated, regular changing specials and offerings, and never a disappointment! The service makes you feel like you really are family!
The food is great. The service is good, they have a great variety of wine's to choose from. I also love they play an assortment of Italian opera music on the tv to listen to.
The food and service was phenomenal. I've been wanting to try this place for a while and was able to grab a lasagna Classico for Thanksgiving which was delicious. It came in a large tray along with a bowl of bolognese sauce and freshly grated Parmesan. Recently, I was able to enjoy their dine in service which didn't disappoint. I ordered the special, half of the vecchia modena & ravioli. It was amazing to say the least. They had plenty of entrees to chose from and a great wine list. Jordan, our server was excellent and really knows how to make a cocktail. My mom ordered a Long Island and said it's probably the best one she's ever had. I will definitely be back!!
I always come here when I stay in Imperial Beach at the Hampton Inn. It's a one minute walk. I had their special Lobster ravioli. With a glass of Silicilian cabernet. And topped it off with a creme brulee. The food is all fresh made in house. Great service and good wine knowledge they also serve cocktails.
Parking: Not an issue with parking, able to find a spot up front which is always greatService: Some of the best service that I've had this year! My family and I came around 4 which found out was a great time since we had the spot to ourselves. Jordan and Lorenza were all stars when it came to serving and giving us recommendations. It was our first time there and we were informed about all of their specials and we went with that. We're glad that we did!Food: We ordered the dual pasta with the veccing Modena, (hope I spelled it right)/lobster ravioli, with a cheese pizza and salad. Everything was delicious! You can taste that it was made in house and not elsewhere. The pizza was amazing also. I really have nothing bad to say about the food.We ordered tiramisu for dessert to go and it very flavorful.Ambiance: Ambiance was very welcoming. How each table was set up. The lighting, the photos, everything about it was saying "welcome home"Opportunities: Only one I can think of would be for their food specials. The drink specials were on a menu but the food items that were mentioned wasn't.Overall: I'll be back, whether by myself or with my family ( a joke...maybe) The team was very welcoming and supportive. They eventually became packed around 5 and there was also reservations. I'm glad that we came the time we did, but even when it started to flow with customers they were still taking time out to serve us as if we were the only ones there.5/5
Balsamico is truly a hidden gem in Imperial Beach. I started off with a mocktail and hubby got a glass of Remole and we were given complimentary bread and olive oil. The bread was presented in a Mutti can, which was really clever.We decided to try items that were their specialty, which I have not seen at other Italian restaurants. We got the Meditteranea salad, which had oranges, black olives, and olives- it was light and refreshing.The Vecchia Modena was stuffed pasta with ricotta and spinach, in a light cream sauce, with crispy bacon, balsamic glaze and shaved Parmesan. This dish was flavorful and very interesting! The Italian Job was a brunch special, featuring an egg frittata stuffed with prosciutto di parma, arugula, and shaved Parmesan. This was light! I wasn't used to having the egg used as replacement of bread slices, but it was tasty!Their lasagna classica had layers of fresh pasta, bolognese, béchamel, and parmesan cheese. It was a yummy classic pasta. He also tried a cocktail that had a splash of balsamic!For dessert, we agreed on the Nutella pizza topped with strawberry slices. It was the perfect ending to our lunch! We loved the balsamic so much that we bought a bottle, They import it from Italy and have different flavors as well!
Many people say that this is the best food in Imperial Beach. Although I've only eaten here once, I tend to agree. This place is first rate Italian, the real deal.The ambiance at Balsamico is very Italian kitchen with nice decorations and a very friendly and knowledgeable staff.I ordered grilled salmon with mixed grilled veggies and everything was cooked to perfection. Drinks are strong and I know I'll be coming back. Five stars all around!
Why fight the Coronado crowds when you can get authentic Italian food right here in Imperial Beach.The food was delicious and we can’t wait to get back again. Truly a hidden gem!
Restaurantji Recommends
Went for a Wedding Rehearsal Dinner and the service, food, & atmosphere was completely wonderful. It was a prefix menu & since there was so much of us, the staff was accommodating on any changes or questions that we had. Whenever I find myself back in Imperial Beach, I will definitely head back because the food & the wine was TO DIE FOR
Nice atmosphere, good service and good food. The balsamic is delicious, but tiramisu *with balsamic* (house recommendation) is def not something I would do again.
Always, always, always hear out the specials or what the employees recommend. In this case it was their pasta duo: Carmelle Vecchia Modena and a Tortellini dish (I forgot the name but it was a creamy cheesy red sauce). We also got the calamari. For sure star of the show was the Vecchia. First bite in, my whole body sank and relaxed and I was so happy that I found this dish. It was a flavor combination that I've never had and it was sOOO GOOD guys. You truly do have to try it for yourself. I won't try to explain because that ruins the fun. TRUST ME. The second star of the show, fried calamari. I don't know how to explain it but it tasted like real squid. Like I feel like other restaurants use lowercase squid squid, but the squid at this place was like real uppercase SQUID SQUID. Then we got the tortellini which was good as well :) don't get me wrong, this one was really good, but when you put it next to the Vecchia. Like the tortellini started off strong, initially I liked this one more than the Vecchia, so that should give a good sense in its flavor. I still have leftovers of this in my fridge and I'm trying to eat it without my fiancé knowing so that way I have more. AND THEN, the service. They really take care of you at this place. You can tell they care about your experience and their restaurant. They're super attentive, super polite, and very family vibes. We will definitely be coming back!
A hidden jewel in Imperial Beach. Thought I would try this spot during SD Restaurant Week. Beginning with the bread, olive oil and balsamic (there own brand) was a prelude to a wonderful dinner. Started with appetizers Italian cheese board with honey, spicy and truffle balsamic and zucchini meatballs were savory and delicious. I had the seafood cioppino which is one of the best I have ever had. For dessert fresh peaches mascarpone and my daughter had the amaretto and raspberry semifreddo both still salivating the taste buds. The service was fantastic as the waiter was attentive and knew the menu making numerous recommendations.The ambiance had a nice feel to it with nice lamp on each table and even blankets for those who chose to sit outside. A great wine selection. This spot needs to succeed as they put a great deal of love and effort to deliver a wonderful dining experience!
this is a hidden gem located in imperial beach. we were staying at the hampton inn and decided to give this place try because i was craving pizza but not dominoes or little cheesers. it is spitting distance from the hotel. literally outside the door.we ordered the pepperoni pizza to go and it was one of the best pepperoni pizzas ive had in a while. it was big enough to feed me and my two teenagers. i would have ordered two if i knew it was so good! for $15.99 you can't beat that for a fine dining place.we will be going back to try the pasta dishes in the near future! Also the staff is very friendly and courteous!i hope this place stays around for a while.