Cardellino
San Diego
Cardellino is an Italian chophouse in San Diego celebrated for its handmade pastas and prime steaks, with the spicy vodka rigatoni and tender ribeye frequently praised as the standout pairing. Guests also rave about desserts like the carrot cake and tiramisu cheesecake, as well as classic starters such as calamari and sourdough. Adding to its appeal, the restaurant secretly houses Ciao Carlo, a moody, vintage-inspired speakeasy tucked behind a wine wall.
Commenters share immense enthusiasm for Cardellino, consistently hyping up the vodka pasta, ribeye, and carrot cake as must-try dishes. Happy hour drinks, the burger, and lamb lollipops also earn solid praise, though minor complaints touch on high pasta pricing and occasional dishes being overly buttery or inconsistent.
- Order the go-to pairing: prime ribeye steak and spicy vodka rigatoni
- Ask to add braised short rib to the spicy rigatoni for an upgraded dish
- Save room for dessert, particularly the carrot cake or tiramisu cheesecake
- Seek out Ciao Carlo, the hidden speakeasy bar tucked behind the wine wall
- Drop in for happy hour to catch drink specials and their well-regarded burger
Summaries are created based on reviews, notes, and social media posts.
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