Very nice restaurant with a great view of La Jolla sunset! Open air with inside and outside dining. Large drink menu, Coastal Italian cuisine. Bartenders are the best. Servers are very friendly and attentive, Casual dress, I will be back!
Sam D.
What a great place! Catania is run so properly; from management down. All of our food was great & the setting was perfect. But the standout was the Crudo. Also, Natalie was super helpful, kind & knowledgeable with guiding us through the menu. Great job to the manager, Steve & to his team.
Linh N.
We stumbled upon this place while walking around Downtown La Jolla. I liked how this place was a rooftop with indoor and outdoor seating. However, I was kinda disappointed we were seated in an awkward corner with no view and off to the side of everything. It felt like we were shoved there even though there was a lot of open seating elsewhere especially on a late Monday night. What we ordered: - Tagliatelle Alla Portofino ($25): It tasted very fresh and the sauce was super flavorful and creamy. Probably one of the best pasta I've had. - Margherita ($22): It was good but nothing special. - Semi Freddo: I liked it. It tasted like Ferrero Rocher. - Chocolate Nemesis: It just tasted like a chocolate mousse. Overall, I wish I got the full experience with the rooftop view, especially for the price I paid but I'd come here to get the tagliatelle again. Tip: You can ask for their freshly grated parmesan. They also have chili flakes and their chili oil!
Edward J.
This restaurant was recommended to us since we were stopping in La Jolla. First things first: I suggest calling the restaurant directly for a reservation. I tried using Open Table, and there were no reservations. I called directly at 4:20p, and they had a spot for me at 4:45p. It was just a nine minute walk from where we watched the sea lions. The ambiance was wonderful. We took a table top on the patio, and you could see the water beyond the rooftops. We were VERY casual in dress, almost too casual, but I expect they see all kinds. The wait staff was attentive, and they were kept busy enough to avoid the feeling they were hovering. We started with the smoked duck liver crostini. They did not skimp on the serving, which was wonderfully surprising given past experience with restaurants. It was plenty for two, good enough for four. It was rich and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness from the currants and peach jam. My wife had the braised beef ziti, and I had the duck sugo orecchiette. Both were very good in their own rights. The duck pasta was creamy and not overly cheesy.
Yummy
We were immediately seated per our time reserved. Had the Italian mule and aperol cocktails- very good and different tasting. Lemon heavy, in a good way. Started with kale salad and daviola pizza. Both were seasoned well. Second course of tagliatelle creamy tomato pasta with hint of basil. Whole Branzino for our main course with capers and olives. Probably the second best preparation of BranIno I've ever had. Finished off our meals with dessert trio- citrus panecota, semifredo (a Nutella cold cake) and flourless chocolate cake with crème fraise. This meal was shared amongst 4 people and was just right. We left content but not stuffed. A bit pricey but well worth it. Highly recommend.
Mary B.
The food at Catania is consistently good. The cauliflower appetizer is to die for, beyond delicious. The staff are very friendly and kind. The pizzas are all fantastic and their baked fish entree is also very fresh. The patio view is beautiful especially during sunset. Overall, I highly recommend here for dinner.
NMsnapdragon
Superlative cocktails- best we've had in years! The snap pea salad and Nutella semifreddo were standouts from the meal. I don't normally eat Nutella, but this dessert was amazing! 
Kris H.
Hidden Service charge! Unacceptable. This BS needs to stop. They are not giving it to the employees.
Crystal H.
This was such a great find. The service was stellar and so was the food. Having the ocean view was so nice since we were there at sunset. We shared the cauliflower appetizer and ziti with braised beef. It was delicious. Also enjoyed some wine and craft cocktails. I would order everything again but will probably try a salad next time.
Gerardo L.
Amazing food and service, Kevin was a great waiter. We really enjoyed! our evening!
One of my favorite restaurants in San Diego , great food , great service , pizza are really good , and Steve the Manajer go above and beyond to make you happy
AndreaO
First, the restaurant is on the 3rd floor with a patio facing the ocean! We started with the Crispy Octopus as an appetizer- so delicious! We then ordered the Sea Bass and the Sunchoke pasta dish. Both were amazing!! Truly an exceptional meal!
Bahaareh M.
Catania restaurant is nestled in the heart of La Jolla, offering a rooftop dining experience. The pizza I had was absolutely delicious, and the ambiance of the rooftop was delightful, creating a charming atmosphere. We opted to dine at the bar, and our server provided good service.
If I could give this restaurant 10 stars I would! my partner and I came for our anniversary and the staff made the evening special. The hostess was so sweet, great service as well and the menus came with a little happy anniversary message! Food was AMAZING and the drink menu had a larger variety of options. The ambiance was great as well, the outside has heat lamps so the setting was very intimate yet cozy and warm. We will definitely be returning!
Chef M.
Every year we come to Catania, not for Italian Food, but for real, authentic, creative recipes, amazing cocktails and a really good wine list. We start with our favorite appetizer that is always consistently good, their Cauliflower. Everyone at the table loves it. Kathe says: "The cauliflower is good side by side with the duck liver pate, and they both are 'wins' for me". Steven says: "I like the cauliflower too. It's got a nice spicy taste and isn't overcooked". Tararachelle says: "It's refreshing with a lot of different flavors". Personally, I don't know anyone who does Cauliflower better. Ryan Johnston is at his best at this restaurant for sure. His reputation precedes him and we are all finding that he is doing this restaurant proud. Sheri says, commenting about the venison (that people are surprised I order), "The sauce is amazing, contrasting with the texture of the chips that come with it. It's the combination of textures that I really like"... she adds. "When you bite into it, it melts in your mouth". Tararachelle agrees. She loves the bed of pureed sweet potatoes it sits on. Mike loves the pasta with pesto and red sauce. "It has the umami of a mushroom sauce, with a unique flavor I have not tasted before". And then there's Mike's favorite: The mushroom pizza. I think it's more than just Mike's favorite. We all love this pie. Sheri also says she likes the level of attention our waiter Robert pays to our group. He is someone we have enjoyed before and I personally trust his recommendations. Steven likes that the waiter anticipates our needs. I agree. Then there's dessert. A trio of all three: Kathe says: "The chocolate is rich and delicious. Yummy. Yummy. We all comment about light tangerine flavors and a hazelnut biscotti crust. We are again talking about how terrific our waiter is especially because we are not rushed and he is such a foodie himself. Kathe comments: "The food has the Italian backbone but then there's something different that you don't find at other regular Italian Restaurants". She adds: "I can sometimes go into restaurants and say 'I can make this at home', but I don't think I can make any of the things we ate tonight". And that's a great complement to the chef. Amazing food, hard to replicate, amazing waiter and of course you can't beat the company at our table. Another memorable meal at Catania! Best, Chef Marian
Very nice restaurant with a great view of La Jolla sunset! Open air with inside and outside dining. Large drink menu, Coastal Italian cuisine. Bartenders are the best. Servers are very friendly and attentive, Casual dress, I will be back!
What a great place! Catania is run so properly; from management down. All of our food was great & the setting was perfect. But the standout was the Crudo. Also, Natalie was super helpful, kind & knowledgeable with guiding us through the menu. Great job to the manager, Steve & to his team.
We stumbled upon this place while walking around Downtown La Jolla. I liked how this place was a rooftop with indoor and outdoor seating. However, I was kinda disappointed we were seated in an awkward corner with no view and off to the side of everything. It felt like we were shoved there even though there was a lot of open seating elsewhere especially on a late Monday night. What we ordered: - Tagliatelle Alla Portofino ($25): It tasted very fresh and the sauce was super flavorful and creamy. Probably one of the best pasta I've had. - Margherita ($22): It was good but nothing special. - Semi Freddo: I liked it. It tasted like Ferrero Rocher. - Chocolate Nemesis: It just tasted like a chocolate mousse. Overall, I wish I got the full experience with the rooftop view, especially for the price I paid but I'd come here to get the tagliatelle again. Tip: You can ask for their freshly grated parmesan. They also have chili flakes and their chili oil!
This restaurant was recommended to us since we were stopping in La Jolla. First things first: I suggest calling the restaurant directly for a reservation. I tried using Open Table, and there were no reservations. I called directly at 4:20p, and they had a spot for me at 4:45p. It was just a nine minute walk from where we watched the sea lions. The ambiance was wonderful. We took a table top on the patio, and you could see the water beyond the rooftops. We were VERY casual in dress, almost too casual, but I expect they see all kinds. The wait staff was attentive, and they were kept busy enough to avoid the feeling they were hovering. We started with the smoked duck liver crostini. They did not skimp on the serving, which was wonderfully surprising given past experience with restaurants. It was plenty for two, good enough for four. It was rich and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness from the currants and peach jam. My wife had the braised beef ziti, and I had the duck sugo orecchiette. Both were very good in their own rights. The duck pasta was creamy and not overly cheesy.
We were immediately seated per our time reserved. Had the Italian mule and aperol cocktails- very good and different tasting. Lemon heavy, in a good way. Started with kale salad and daviola pizza. Both were seasoned well. Second course of tagliatelle creamy tomato pasta with hint of basil. Whole Branzino for our main course with capers and olives. Probably the second best preparation of BranIno I've ever had. Finished off our meals with dessert trio- citrus panecota, semifredo (a Nutella cold cake) and flourless chocolate cake with crème fraise. This meal was shared amongst 4 people and was just right. We left content but not stuffed. A bit pricey but well worth it. Highly recommend.
The food at Catania is consistently good. The cauliflower appetizer is to die for, beyond delicious. The staff are very friendly and kind. The pizzas are all fantastic and their baked fish entree is also very fresh. The patio view is beautiful especially during sunset. Overall, I highly recommend here for dinner.
Superlative cocktails- best we've had in years! The snap pea salad and Nutella semifreddo were standouts from the meal. I don't normally eat Nutella, but this dessert was amazing! 
Hidden Service charge! Unacceptable. This BS needs to stop. They are not giving it to the employees.
This was such a great find. The service was stellar and so was the food. Having the ocean view was so nice since we were there at sunset. We shared the cauliflower appetizer and ziti with braised beef. It was delicious. Also enjoyed some wine and craft cocktails. I would order everything again but will probably try a salad next time.
Amazing food and service, Kevin was a great waiter. We really enjoyed! our evening!
Restaurantji Recommends
One of my favorite restaurants in San Diego , great food , great service , pizza are really good , and Steve the Manajer go above and beyond to make you happy
First, the restaurant is on the 3rd floor with a patio facing the ocean! We started with the Crispy Octopus as an appetizer- so delicious! We then ordered the Sea Bass and the Sunchoke pasta dish. Both were amazing!! Truly an exceptional meal!
Catania restaurant is nestled in the heart of La Jolla, offering a rooftop dining experience. The pizza I had was absolutely delicious, and the ambiance of the rooftop was delightful, creating a charming atmosphere. We opted to dine at the bar, and our server provided good service.
If I could give this restaurant 10 stars I would! my partner and I came for our anniversary and the staff made the evening special. The hostess was so sweet, great service as well and the menus came with a little happy anniversary message! Food was AMAZING and the drink menu had a larger variety of options. The ambiance was great as well, the outside has heat lamps so the setting was very intimate yet cozy and warm. We will definitely be returning!
Every year we come to Catania, not for Italian Food, but for real, authentic, creative recipes, amazing cocktails and a really good wine list. We start with our favorite appetizer that is always consistently good, their Cauliflower. Everyone at the table loves it. Kathe says: "The cauliflower is good side by side with the duck liver pate, and they both are 'wins' for me". Steven says: "I like the cauliflower too. It's got a nice spicy taste and isn't overcooked". Tararachelle says: "It's refreshing with a lot of different flavors". Personally, I don't know anyone who does Cauliflower better. Ryan Johnston is at his best at this restaurant for sure. His reputation precedes him and we are all finding that he is doing this restaurant proud. Sheri says, commenting about the venison (that people are surprised I order), "The sauce is amazing, contrasting with the texture of the chips that come with it. It's the combination of textures that I really like"... she adds. "When you bite into it, it melts in your mouth". Tararachelle agrees. She loves the bed of pureed sweet potatoes it sits on. Mike loves the pasta with pesto and red sauce. "It has the umami of a mushroom sauce, with a unique flavor I have not tasted before". And then there's Mike's favorite: The mushroom pizza. I think it's more than just Mike's favorite. We all love this pie. Sheri also says she likes the level of attention our waiter Robert pays to our group. He is someone we have enjoyed before and I personally trust his recommendations. Steven likes that the waiter anticipates our needs. I agree. Then there's dessert. A trio of all three: Kathe says: "The chocolate is rich and delicious. Yummy. Yummy. We all comment about light tangerine flavors and a hazelnut biscotti crust. We are again talking about how terrific our waiter is especially because we are not rushed and he is such a foodie himself. Kathe comments: "The food has the Italian backbone but then there's something different that you don't find at other regular Italian Restaurants". She adds: "I can sometimes go into restaurants and say 'I can make this at home', but I don't think I can make any of the things we ate tonight". And that's a great complement to the chef. Amazing food, hard to replicate, amazing waiter and of course you can't beat the company at our table. Another memorable meal at Catania! Best, Chef Marian