Award-winning

Catania

4.8

2063 Reviews

$31 to $50

Italian

Make a booking

2 people

16 Dec 2024

19:00

Booked 47 times today

Good for special occasions
Great for scenic views
Neighbourhood gem

Inspired by an Italy road-trip Chef Ryan and I (Arturo) took back in 2008, we’re pleased to introduce Catania, the newest member of the Whisknladle Hospitality family. Here, we’ll be featuring simple, seasonal and authentic Italian Coastal Cuisine (None of the Italian version of TexMex you see most other places). Our commitment to authenticity will be evident in our use of wood burning ovens and grills, an all Italian wine list as well as an exclusively craft Italian Beer program. (Yes, Italy has an amazing craft beer movement nobody’s heard about.)

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Italian, Contemporary Italian
Hours of Operation
Lunch Sat, Sun 12:00 pm–3:30 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–8:30 pm Fri, Sat 3:30 pm–9:00 pm
Phone number
(858) 551-5105
Website
http://www.cataniasd.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive Chef
Ryan Johnston
Private party facilities
Whether you’re planning a party or a meeting, enjoy the attentive service and personalized touches that take the average private dining experience to the next level with Whisknladle Hospitality. With four restaurants to choose from & a wide selection of menu options, the possibilities are endless. Email events@wnlhosp.com for more info.

Location
7863 Girard Ave, Suite 301, San Diego, CA 92037
Award-winning
1. MICHELIN Plate 2022
Area
La Jolla
Cross Street
Girard and Wall
Parking details
Street Parking
Additional
Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining

Popular dishes

Pizza FocacciaUS$7.00
olive oil, sea salt, rosemary, chili flake
Green Salad**US$14.00
meyer lemon vinaigrette, pistachio, black pepper, pecorino toscano
Apple Salad**US$16.00
radicchio, arugula, chicory, shaved fennel, gorgonzola, almonds, aged balsamic vinaigrette
Kale SaladUS$15.00
treviso, chickpeas, celery, parmesan, anchovy vinaigrette
AranciniUS$12.00
saffron risotto, parmigiano reggiano, tomato sauce
Wood Roasted Cauliflower**US$19.00
whipped ricotta salata, fresno chili salmoriglio, pomegranate, red onion, pistachio
Charred Savoy Cabbage**US$15.00
crispy garlic, shallots, mint, basil, calabrian chili, miso mustard vinaigrette
Crudo**US$20.00
local yellowfin, beet puree, blood orange, basil, poppy seed, meyer lemon
Crispy Octopus**US$22.00
chickpeas, lamb sausage, chili oil, capers, herbs
Smoked Duck Liver CrostiniUS$15.00
golden raisins, currants, dates, almonds, pickled shallot, parsley

Secondi

Pan Seared Scallops*US$41.00
honeynut squash caponata, carrot puree, prosciutto, golden raisins, pepitas
Whole Roasted Branzino*US$44.00
clams, garlic butter, white wine, charred broccoli, chili flakes, breadcrumbs
Grilled Mary's Duck BreastUS$35.00
farro salad, roasted apples, charred treviso, shallot vinaigrette
Rotisserie ChickenUS$33.00
honey mustard, baby carrots, almonds, mint, garlic butter
Abita Ranch Wagyu Beef ShankUS$37.00
fennel radish gremolata celery root-potato puree, porcini jus

Pizza

Italian MeatUS$24.00
fontina, pecorino, sausage, soppressata salami, pancetta
Sicilian PistachioUS$23.00
burrata, pecorino, pork mortadella, pistachio pesto
MargheritaUS$21.00
mozzarella, basil, tomato sauce, garlic
Wild MushroomUS$25.00
burrata, fontina, garlic confit, chili flake, sherry vinegar, thyme
DiavolaUS$23.00
mozzarella, tomato, spicy calabrese salami
Pear & GorganzolaUS$24.00
pancetta, pecorino, rosemary, honey balsamic, arugula

Pasta

Gluten free pasta available

Aglio e Olio PeperonciniUS$21.00
spaghetti, evoo, chili flake, parsley, parmigiano reggiano
Tagliatelle alla PortofinoUS$24.00
basil pesto, creamy tomato sauce, parmigiano reggiano
Butternut Squash RavioliUS$27.00
hazelnuts, sage, parmesan, brown butter, aged balsamic, brussel sprouts
Duck Sugo OrecchietteUS$29.00
braised duck, tomato, porcini mushrooms, juniper, parmesan
Bucatini alla'AmatricianaUS$26.00
pork cheek, tomato, calabrian chili, pecorino sardo
Spaghetti & ClamsUS$27.00
clams, garlic, white wine, chili flakes, breadcrumbs
Shrimp Risotto**US$28.00
fennel, tomato, fresno chili, parmigiano reggiano

Cocktails

$16

Aperol Spritz
aperol, prosecco, soda, orange - served tall on the rocks
Isola
mezcal, bourbon, pineapple amaro, orange, lime juice, simple syrup - served in a coupe
Collina
vodka, cocchi americano, apple cider, lemon, apple-cinnamon simple - served on the rocks
Bacchus
vodka, cocchi rossa, lemon, simple, grapes, soda float - served in a collins glass
Verde Colada
rum, vanilla liquor, pineapple, matcha, macadamia nut orgeat, lime - served on the rocks
Succosa
bourbon, yellow chartreuse, pear & rosemary simple, st. george pear, lemon - served in a coupe
Moncalieri
malfy gin, mediterranean fever tree tonic, orange and sage - served on the rocks
Santa Maria
fresno chili infused tequila, lime, dimmi, ginger, agave - served on the rocks
Melograno
pomegranate, tequila, ancho reyes, lemon, amaro sirene, walnut bitters - served on a large rock
Vestito
mezcal, amaro D'arancia rossa, yellow chartreuse, lime, grapefruit soda - on the rocks
Corvo
rittenhouse rye, baltamoro coffee amaro, frangelico, crème de banana, bitters, nutmeg - served on a large rock

Bianchi

Pinot Grigio | Fasoli Gino | VenezieUS$13.00
lemon, lime, crisp green apple, and floral honey suckle
Sauvignon Blanc | Scarbolo | Friuli Venezia-GiuliUS$16.00
melon, yellow flowers, and lemon zest with a clean and refreshing finish
Gavi di Gavi | Villa Sparina | PiedmontUS$15.00
crisp, refreshing, lemon, pear, and minerals
Zibibbo | Donna Fugata Lighea | SiciliaUS$15.00
orange blossom hints of citrus, exotic fruit, mineral finish
Chardonnay | Talbott | Santa Lucia HighlandsUS$20.00
rich aromas toasted oak, tree-ripe pear, and apple with touches of brown sugar

Spumanti / Rosato

Prosecco | Bisol | NVUS$12.00
dry, crisp, toasted hazelnuts
Rose Brut | Bisol | VenetoUS$14.00
floral, berries, currants
Rose | Benanty | SicilyUS$15.00
pomegranate, rose petals and citrus
Lambrusco | Bruno Zanasi | Emilia RomagniaUS$14.00
dry, red fruits, violet

Rossi

Schiava | Kaltererse | Alto AdigeUS$13.00
red fruit dried herbs, light earth, spice
Barbera d'Asti | Michele Chiarlo | PiedmontUS$14.00
purple flower, berry, supple tannins, fresh acidity
Pinot Noir | Siduri | Santa LuciaUS$16.00
dark berry, cherry, espresso, candied flowers
Sangiovese | Nunzi | ChiantiUS$15.00
violets, cherry, minerals
Super Tuscan | Le Difese | TuscanyUS$20.00
ripe raspberries and cranberries, notes of violet and vine-ripened tomatoes
Cabernet Sauvignon | Austin Hope | Paso RoblesUS$25.00
layers of vanilla, coco powder, juicy cherry, baking spices and signature tobacco

Birre | 10oz

Pilsner | Modern Times 4.8%US$9.00
balanced palate with mildly bitter with lemon and floral notes
Blonde | Gravity Heights 5.2%US$9.00
pleasant hop flavors, clean, refreshing
Oatmeal Stout | Fremont 8%US$9.00
dark, yet silky oatmeal stout balanced by a firm hop handshake
Hazy IPA | Gravity Heights 6.8% ABVUS$9.00
balanced citrus rind bitterness and tropical aromas

Bottiglia

Lager Bionda | Menabrea | Piedmont 4.8%US$9.00
light with hints of citrus and fruit
Amber | Menabrea | Piedmont 5%US$9.00
malty, hops, citrus
Blonde Ale "Birria Nazionale" | Birreria Baladin | Piedmont 6.5%US$14.00
chamomile, citrus fruits, and gentle bitterness of Italian hops
IPA | Birreria Baladin | Piedmont 5.5%US$14.00
citrusy notes of tangerine are complement ed by notes of melon and mango
Witbier "Isacc" | Birreria Baladin | Piedmont 5%US$14.00
citrus, flower, spice
Saison "Wayan" | Birreria Baladin | Piedmont 5.8%US$14.00
hazy, spice, fresh pepper
Non-Alcoholic German Lager | Erdinger | GermanyUS$7.00
lemon, grass, malts
Hard Seltzer | High Noon | California 4.5%US$7.00
peach

Analcolica

PressatoUS$8.00
fresh grapefruit, thyme, ginger - served on ice in a wine glass
Italian SodasUS$8.00
Birreria Baladin | Piedmont. Mela Zen- Apple and Ginger; Agrumata – Citrus and Bergamot

What 2,063 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8

4.8 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.7Service
4.7Ambience
4.5Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Catania in La Jolla delights with "excellent service" and "fantastic food," offering a variety of Italian dishes that are both "creative" and "delicious." Diners rave about its "stunning ocean views" and "inviting ambiance." This popular spot is praised for its "thoughtful staff" and memorable dining experiences.

2,063 Reviews

C
Cathy
San Diego
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
This was our second visit, and everything was excellent -from the beautiful holiday decor, the excellent wait staff, to the food . The server Valerie's timing was impeccable, the cocktails very generous, and even the temperature was perfect. The first time we dined here, we had a seasonal appetizer of poached peaches, prosciutto, and whipped burrata on country bread that was one of the best things I have ever eaten. We live out of state - otherwise would be dining here often.
Is this helpful?
H
Holly
San Diego
19 reviews
vip
5.0
19 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Per the usual - delicious. As an added treat, we had the seasonal wood-fired cauliflower to start, and it’s amazing. The shrimp was delicious, and the bucatini never disappoints! Our server was friendly, knowledgeable and had great timing. Thanks for another great evening out!
Is this helpful?
M
Marcia
San Diego
27 reviews
vip
5.0
27 reviews
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had a lovely time at Catania last night. The food was wonderful and the service was great. We were able to sit outside with the view of the ocean. The ambience was fantastic. We will come back here again.
Is this helpful?
a
andrew
Columbus
28 reviews
vip
5.0
28 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
We went for a little later reservation…..and it was well worth it as they had me at a high top outside with an amazing view. The pear and persimmon salad was fabulous. The pasta was extremely tasty and the noodles were cooked perfectly. I would definitely return. This is a standout amongst all the restaurants in LaJolla.
Is this helpful?
D
David
San Francisco
14 reviews
5.0
14 reviews
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent tasty food and friendly service! The best we’ve had of both in La Jolla.
Is this helpful?
F
Frank
New York City
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on 5 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Awesome place. I’m an east coast Italian kid coming from nyc and this place didn’t disappoint. Waiter recommended a desert they are known for and we declined as we were too full. He brought it to us anyway on the house and it was amazing. Nice touch
Is this helpful?
C
Cory
Minneapolis
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on 26 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Incredible meal! Fresh pasta and the service was top notch. My kids 11 & 9 enjoyed their meal as well. Truly one of the best dining experiences we’ve had.
Is this helpful?
A
Andrea
Las Vegas
2 reviews
vip
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on 24 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Fantastic restaurant with a great view of La Jolla! The handmade pasta was to die for, and my husband cannot stop raving about the Rivoltella cocktail (rye whiskey, espresso liqueur, vanilla, mole bitters, hellfire bitters). We will be back soon!
Is this helpful?
P
Patricia
New York City
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on 23 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
Excellently executed food. But cold even indoors.
1 person found this helpful
M
Mary Kay
San Diego
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on 23 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Catania is a local treasure. The food always delicious and innovative. Lovely wine list. Wonderful staff.
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FAQs

You can order delivery directly from Catania using the Order Online button.

Catania is rated 4.8 stars by 2063 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a booking

2 people

16 Dec 2024

19:00

Booked 47 times today

Order delivery or takeout

7863 Girard Ave, Suite 301, San Diego, CA 92037

Additional information

Award-winning
1. MICHELIN Plate 2022
Cross Street
Girard and Wall
Area
La Jolla
Hours of Operation
Lunch Sat, Sun 12:00 pm–3:30 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–8:30 pm Fri, Sat 3:30 pm–9:00 pm
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Italian, Contemporary Italian
Dining style
Casual Elegant
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Street Parking
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive Chef
Ryan Johnston
Additional
Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining

Website
http://www.cataniasd.com/
Phone number
(858) 551-5105
Private party facilities
Whether you’re planning a party or a meeting, enjoy the attentive service and personalized touches that take the average private dining experience to the next level with Whisknladle Hospitality. With four restaurants to choose from & a wide selection of menu options, the possibilities are endless. Email events@wnlhosp.com for more info.

Catania

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Duck Sugo Orecchiette

Crispy Octopus

Pizza Focaccia

Antipasti

Pizza FocacciaUS$7.00

Green Salad**US$14.00

Apple Salad**US$16.00

Kale SaladUS$15.00

AranciniUS$12.00

Wood Roasted Cauliflower**US$19.00

Charred Savoy Cabbage**US$15.00

Crudo**US$20.00

Crispy Octopus**US$22.00

Smoked Duck Liver CrostiniUS$15.00

Secondi

Pan Seared Scallops*US$41.00

Whole Roasted Branzino*US$44.00

Grilled Mary's Duck BreastUS$35.00

Rotisserie ChickenUS$33.00

Abita Ranch Wagyu Beef ShankUS$37.00

Pizza

Italian MeatUS$24.00

Sicilian PistachioUS$23.00

MargheritaUS$21.00

Wild MushroomUS$25.00

DiavolaUS$23.00

Pear & GorganzolaUS$24.00

Pasta

Aglio e Olio PeperonciniUS$21.00

Tagliatelle alla PortofinoUS$24.00

Butternut Squash RavioliUS$27.00

Duck Sugo OrecchietteUS$29.00

Bucatini alla'AmatricianaUS$26.00

Spaghetti & ClamsUS$27.00

Shrimp Risotto**US$28.00

Cocktails

Aperol Spritz

Isola

Collina

Bacchus

Verde Colada

Succosa

Moncalieri

Santa Maria

Melograno

Vestito

Corvo

Bianchi

Pinot Grigio | Fasoli Gino | VenezieUS$13.00

Sauvignon Blanc | Scarbolo | Friuli Venezia-GiuliUS$16.00

Gavi di Gavi | Villa Sparina | PiedmontUS$15.00

Zibibbo | Donna Fugata Lighea | SiciliaUS$15.00

Chardonnay | Talbott | Santa Lucia HighlandsUS$20.00

Spumanti / Rosato

Prosecco | Bisol | NVUS$12.00

Rose Brut | Bisol | VenetoUS$14.00

Rose | Benanty | SicilyUS$15.00

Lambrusco | Bruno Zanasi | Emilia RomagniaUS$14.00

Rossi

Schiava | Kaltererse | Alto AdigeUS$13.00

Barbera d'Asti | Michele Chiarlo | PiedmontUS$14.00

Pinot Noir | Siduri | Santa LuciaUS$16.00

Sangiovese | Nunzi | ChiantiUS$15.00

Super Tuscan | Le Difese | TuscanyUS$20.00

Cabernet Sauvignon | Austin Hope | Paso RoblesUS$25.00

Birre | 10oz

Pilsner | Modern Times 4.8%US$9.00

Blonde | Gravity Heights 5.2%US$9.00

Oatmeal Stout | Fremont 8%US$9.00

Hazy IPA | Gravity Heights 6.8% ABVUS$9.00

Bottiglia

Lager Bionda | Menabrea | Piedmont 4.8%US$9.00

Amber | Menabrea | Piedmont 5%US$9.00

Blonde Ale "Birria Nazionale" | Birreria Baladin | Piedmont 6.5%US$14.00

IPA | Birreria Baladin | Piedmont 5.5%US$14.00

Witbier "Isacc" | Birreria Baladin | Piedmont 5%US$14.00