Operacaffe

835 Fourth Ave, San Diego
(619) 234-6538

Recent Reviews

Sort by
Teri

Very good food I definitely recommend this restaurant. Don't waste money on a bread basket it's just plain flavorless bread. I thought for 3.50 you get a variety of fresh breads. Service was good.

Bart

Great food. Was a wet Sunday night so not a lot of traffic. Vibe could be better. But would definitely recommend it!

Alice

We had a lovely pre-show dinner. I hadn't been in a few years, but was pleased that they offered to make a pasta primavera that had stayed in my memory even though it was no longer on the menu. It was truly delicious, as were our other dishes -- the arugula salad (Patrizia) and mushroom-stuffed ravioli with a mushroom and truffle sauce. The service was excellent and the wines reasonably priced. We will be back.

Irene

Opera caffe is a gem of a restaurant on 4th street in downtown San Diego. I have enjoyed several different pasta dishes and they are all made to order and with love. Their appetizers are also very good. As well as their specialty cocktails and desserts. If you love homemade Italian food, you have to visit Opera caffe!

Jessica Wolff

I wish we would’ve taken pictures! Everything was delicious and service was great. Highly recommend it, especially if you are staying nearby. We were staying at the US Grant so it is almost right across the street. Will definitely be back! Owner is also Chef :)

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Marissa

Great food but slightly slow service for dinner. Casual laid back atmosphere which is just what we were looking for.

Adams Adam

Operacaffe truly delivers a memorable Italian dining experience right in the heart of downtown San Diego. Nestled in the Gaslamp Quarter with a cozy and romantic ambiance, this charming restaurant immediately makes you feel welcome with its warm lighting, elegant décor, and a vibe that’s perfect for both date nights and intimate gatherings.

The menu is a delightful celebration of authentic Italian flavors. The house‑made pastas are definite stars: I adored the penne speperina with its creamy mascarpone, spicy sausage, and mint — simple yet wonderfully balanced. The ravioli del fattore, filled with ricotta and spinach in a mildly spicy vodka‑cream sauce, was equally impressive. For a lighter option, the Patrizia salad was fresh and artfully composed, featuring creamy avocado, hearts of palm, and shaved Parmigiano Reggiano.

One mustn’t miss the playful I Coccoli—pillows of fried pizza dough draped with prosciutto and rich cheeses—utterly indulgent and irresistible. The main dishes, such as the tender ossobuchi Milanese served with saffron risotto, truly showcase the chefs’ flair and passion.

Service at Operacaffe is warmly attentive, making you feel personally cared for without being intrusive. Whether you’re craving sophisticated pasta, inventive appetizers, or comforting rustic entrees, this restaurant delivers it all with finesse and heart. I can’t wait to go back. Highly recommended!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Abigail Khushf

Bomb gluten free options! Italian at its best- not greasy, just full of rich and authentic ingredients.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Robert

This is our 3rd time at Operacaffe - it never disappoints. The food is delicious and flavorful and cooked to perfection....the limoncello cake is to die for! The service was perfect and we love the small cozy atmosphere. We'll be back many more times to come!! 😋❤️

Don

The food was all delicious, and was served hot. We had salad, bread, and main dishes. The marinara sauce was outstanding. Our server was friendly, helpful, and made our birthday celebration experience fantastic. I would definitely go back again, and would recommend this place to all others.

Tanmaya Kumar

Everything is made from scratch and the food tastes absolutely delicious. Quick seating and service too!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

KD

What a lovely restaurant. Great food, lovely friendly attentive service. Would definitely recommend

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Steve Bittel

Food was good but way over priced

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 4

Service: 3

Bridget Neils

Everything was incredible! Kika, our server, was so kind and helpful. I am celiac and she guided me through what would work for me! The food was delicious. We loved the vibe and greatly enjoyed our visit! 100% worth a visit!

Bridget Neils

Everything was incredible! Kika, our server, was so kind and helpful. I am celiac and she guided me through what would work for me! The food was delicious. We loved the vibe and greatly enjoyed our visit! 100% worth a visit!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Loading...