Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

4.8

1065 Reviews

$30 and under

Italian

Make a reservation

2 people

Dec 21, 2024

7:00 PM

Booked 24 times today

Experiences are available.

Neighborhood gem
Great for outdoor dining
Charming

Located in the middle of Lemon Grove’s charming downtown area, Giardino is a welcoming and casual Italian inspired cucina where the neighborhood gathers for fresh and flavorful classic dishes found throughout Italy.

Giardino offers an Italian-inspired menu of seasonally-driven dishes that use timeless Italian techniques and fresh ingredients. Guests will find items such as fresh seafood, pastas, pizzas and salads, as well as a variety of elements made in-house.

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

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View details

Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Italian, Vegetarian, Pizza Bar
Hours of operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Daily 11:00 am–4:00 pm Dinner Daily 4:00 pm–9:00 pm
Phone number
(619) 825-7112
Website
http://www.giardinosd.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Private party facilities
We offer spaces to gather from intimate dinners to large soirees. No matter the occasion, we've got a table for your guests.
Private party contact
Karina Kravalis: (855) 831-2911

Location
8131 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945
Neighborhood
Lemon Grove
Cross street
Washington
Parking details
Street parking is also available
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Delivery, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

Christmas Eve
Dec 24, 2024 only
Serving a downsized version of our regular menu with holiday specials.
Christmas Day Brunch Buffet
$49.00 per person
Dec 25, 2024 only
Rise early for a brunch buffet serving breakfast classics and Giardino favorites from 10am to 2pm. Adults are $49 and kids under 12 are $25.
Christmas Day Dinner
$65.00 per person
Dec 25, 2024 only
For dinner, which starts at 3pm, Giardino is offering a 3-course preset menu with holiday specials and Italian classics. Dinner is $65 for adults and $25 for kids under 12.

Offers

Cheese Wheel Pasta Mondays
Multiple dates available
Mon - 4:00 PM - 8:45 PM
Rotating pastas served table side from a giant parmesan cheese wheel. Every Monday night.
Half Off Wine Wednesdays
Multiple dates available
Mon - Tue - 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM,Wed - 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:45 PM,Thu - Fri - 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Every Wednesday, get half off select bottles of wine all day.
Pizza Tuesdays
Multiple dates available
Mon - 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM,Tue - 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:45 PM,Wed - Fri - 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Every Tuesday, get any pizza from the menu plus a carafe of house wine or sangria for only $25.

Popular dishes

Garlic Bread$5.00
balsamic / pomodoro sauce
Garlic Knots$10.00
pomodoro sauce
Parmesan Truffle Fries$8.00
Cheese and Charcuterie Board$28.00
chef's daily selection of 3 cheeses & 3 meats / fig jam / grain mustard / olives / crostini
Bruschetta$12.00
tomato / garlic / red onion / oregano / basil / shaved parmesan
Meatballs$15.00
beef / pork / garlic / pomodoro sauce
Stuffed Mushrooms$17.00
white mushroom / crab meat / roasted bell pepper / onion / bread crumbs / parmesan / baked in herb and butter sauce
Mussels, Clams & Chorizo$23.00
steamed / garlic / tomato / white wine / crostini
Eggplant Rolls$13.00
ricotta / parmesan / tomato sauce / mozzarella
Crispy Gorgonzola Brussels Sprouts$15.00
bacon / gorgonzola cheese / bread crumbs
Arancini$15.00
arborio rice / bolognese sauce / peas / mozzarella / pesto aioli
Calamari Fritti$19.00
calamari / lightly breaded / pomodoro sauce / chipotle aioli

Insalate & Soups

Add a Protein: chicken $7, shrimp $10, salmon $15

Soup of the Day
- MP
Lobster Bisque$12.00
Mixed Greens Salad$9.00
cherry tomatoes / italian dressing / balsamic
Classic Caesar$10.00
romaine / caesar dressing / parmesan
Roasted Pear Salad$13.00
roasted pear / mixed greens / shaved parmesan / roasted almonds / champagne vinaigrette / balsamic
Wedge Salad$14.00
romaine / gorgonzola crumbles / bacon / cherry tomatoes / bleu cheese dressing
Burrata & Prosciutto Salad$19.00
burrata / tomato / arugula / prosciutto / balsamic

From the Oven

Gluten Free crust +$2, cauliflower crust +$4

The Queen$13.00
classic margherita pizza
Americana Pizza$19.00
sausage / bacon / salami / pepperoni / mozzarella
Roasted Pear Pizza$18.00
roasted pear / caramelized onions / crispy arugula / gorgonzola / balsamic reduction
San Danielle Pizza$20.00
prosciutto / burrata / arugula / parmesan / tomato sauce / mozzarella
Pepperoni Pizza$15.00
pepperoni / mozzarella / parmesan
The Chef Flatbread$19.00
mascarpone / pancetta / spinach / fig jam / parmesan
Truffle Bianca Flatbread$19.00
mushrooms / white sauce / mozzarella / truffle burrata / truffle oil

Pasta

split a plate fee: $5; gluten free penne available: +$2

Spaghetti Meatballs$19.00
homemade meatballs / garlic / pomodoro / parmesan
Lasagna Rosa$21.00
bolognese / mozzarella / parmesan / béchamel
Fettuccine Carbonara$23.00
pancetta / onion / egg yolk / brandy cream sauce
Penne Salsicia$24.00
sausage / peas / diced tomato / vodka cream sauce
Spaghetti di Mare$43.00
lobster tail / mussels / clams / baby shrimp / calamari / spicy marinara
Truffle Risotto$27.00
wild mushrooms / truffle cream sauce / truffle oil marscapone
Crab & Shrimp Ravioli$27.00
vodka cream sauce / baby shrimp
Fettuccine Alfredo
alfredo cream sauce / parmesan
- Chicken$19.00
- Shrimp$23.00
Pappardelle Ragu$26.00
beef & pork bolognese / mushroom / parmesan
Fettuccine Maremonte$29.00
baby scallops & shrimp / mushrooms / truffle brandy cream
Gnocchi Caprese$21.00
burrata / pomodoro / pesto
Cheese Ravioli$19.00
ricotta / parmesan / fontina / pesto cream

Meat

Chicken Parmesan$28.00
mozzarella / basil / spaghetti pomodoro
Steak Siciliano$45.00
16 oz. boneless ribeye / bread crusted / vegetables
Osso Buco$39.00
bone-in braised lamb shank / saffron risotto
Short Rib$36.00
creamy polenta / red wine reduction
Pork Roll$34.00
stuffed with spinach / mozzarella / bacon / mushroom cream sauce / mashed potato

Seafood

Chilean Seabass$39.00
pan seared / asparagus risotto / mustard-chardonnay cream sauce
Cioppino$37.00
mussels / mixed fish / baby shrimp / calamari / lobster tomato broth
Grilled Salmon$31.00
spinach / garlic / sun-dried tomato / cream fingerling potatoes

Sides

Lobster Mac & Cheese$19.00
Garlic Mashed Potatoes$8.00
Creamy Polenta$8.00
Seasonal Vegetables$9.00
Broccoli Origanati$9.00

What 1,065 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

4.8Food
4.7Service
4.7Ambience
4.6Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

San Diego
Best Food
San Diego
Italian
East County
Best Overall
East County
Best Food
East County
Best Service
East County
Best Ambiance
East County
Best Value
East County
Great for brunch
East County
Good for groups
East County
Hot spot
East County
Neighborhood gem
East County
Great for fine wines
East County
Great for outdoor dining
East County
Good for special occasions
East County
Most Booked

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Giardino Neighborhood Cucina is a hidden gem in Lemon Grove, offering "delicious food" and "incredible service." The warm, inviting ambiance and attentive staff make every visit special. Dishes like the Chilean seabass and steak Siciliano are favorites, and there's a delightful range of Italian classics. Perfect for gatherings or a romantic dinner.

1,065 Reviews

S
Suzanne
San Diego
7 reviews
5.0
7 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
I along with the rest of party chose a different holiday dinner, all were wonderful. The service and experience is always amazing. We look forward to what new creative dishes they with put out for the new year.
Is this helpful?
E
Eric
San Francisco
3 reviews
4.0
3 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 3
I took my mom there for a birthday brunch. We were very pleased with the food and the service was great.
Is this helpful?
T
Teresa
San Diego
2 reviews
3.0
2 reviews
Dined on December 5, 2024
1. Overall 3
2. Food 2
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
I have loved this place since the beginning. But the last two times I have dined here the food is not up to the standards I expect. Hope it’s temporary.
Is this helpful?
T
Thomas
Philadelphia
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 29, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Awesome food! Incredible service. Thankful on Thanksgiving 🦃
Is this helpful?
e
eric
San Diego
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 28, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The staff was very nice and hospitable. The food was great and we have no complaint whatever my family and I were really pleased and we can’t wait to go back
Is this helpful?
M
Melissa
San Diego
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on November 25, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Customer service was excellent. The spicy pomegranate cocktail was divine. Food was soooo delicious. Lamb chops were amazing!! Would order that again!! Carbonara was on point. Lobster mashed potatoes is just okie with the flavor. Tiramisu and lemon cake was a perfect ending to our dinner! We definitely recommend this place..
Is this helpful?
S
Sarah
VIP
San Diego
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on November 24, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
What a great holiday spot! I had the short rib with polenta, the short rib was soft and flavorful! My husband had the ragu with pappardelle and cleaned his plate. I like that they have full bar so I can get my dirty martini! I love coming here because the owner always greets you and asks how things are, I feel like family!
Is this helpful?
A
Allison
San Diego
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on November 22, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Honestly the food was probably some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life. I loved it. Price matched the food for sure. Ambiance was nice as well.
Is this helpful?
J
Josh
San Diego
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 16, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Very good food and outstanding restaurant very laid back and chill good for a romantic dinner.
Is this helpful?
S
Sarah
VIP
San Diego
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on November 11, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had a great time at the restaurant for our Sunday dinner with friends, amazing wine, and I absolutely love the gluten-free pizza crust! It’s my favorite gluten-free crust in San Diego, I get the Bianca white truffle pizza!
Is this helpful?

FAQs

Giardino Neighborhood Cucina offers delivery in partnership with Postmates. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (619) 825-7112.

Giardino Neighborhood Cucina is rated 4.8 stars by 1065 OpenTable diners.

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

Make a reservation

2 people

Dec 21, 2024

7:00 PM

Booked 24 times today

Experiences are available.

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

8131 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945

Dining areas

Additional information

Cross street
Washington
Neighborhood
Lemon Grove
Hours of operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Daily 11:00 am–4:00 pm Dinner Daily 4:00 pm–9:00 pm
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Italian, Vegetarian, Pizza Bar
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Street parking is also available
Payment options
AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Counter Seating, Delivery, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.giardinosd.com/
Phone number
(619) 825-7112
Private party facilities
We offer spaces to gather from intimate dinners to large soirees. No matter the occasion, we've got a table for your guests.
Private party contact
Karina Kravalis: (855) 831-2911

Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Dining areas

Additional information

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day Brunch Buffet

Christmas Day Dinner

Cheese Wheel Pasta Mondays

Half Off Wine Wednesdays

Pizza Tuesdays

Calamari Fritti

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Parmesan

Antipasti

Garlic Bread$5.00

Garlic Knots$10.00

Parmesan Truffle Fries$8.00

Cheese and Charcuterie Board$28.00

Bruschetta$12.00

Meatballs$15.00

Stuffed Mushrooms$17.00

Mussels, Clams & Chorizo$23.00

Eggplant Rolls$13.00

Crispy Gorgonzola Brussels Sprouts$15.00

Arancini$15.00

Calamari Fritti$19.00

Insalate & Soups

Soup of the Day

Lobster Bisque$12.00

Mixed Greens Salad$9.00

Classic Caesar$10.00

Roasted Pear Salad$13.00

Wedge Salad$14.00

Burrata & Prosciutto Salad$19.00

From the Oven

The Queen$13.00

Americana Pizza$19.00

Roasted Pear Pizza$18.00

San Danielle Pizza$20.00

Pepperoni Pizza$15.00

The Chef Flatbread$19.00

Truffle Bianca Flatbread$19.00

Pasta

Spaghetti Meatballs$19.00

Lasagna Rosa$21.00

Fettuccine Carbonara$23.00

Penne Salsicia$24.00

Spaghetti di Mare$43.00

Truffle Risotto$27.00

Crab & Shrimp Ravioli$27.00

Fettuccine Alfredo

Pappardelle Ragu$26.00

Fettuccine Maremonte$29.00

Gnocchi Caprese$21.00

Cheese Ravioli$19.00

Meat

Chicken Parmesan$28.00

Steak Siciliano$45.00

Osso Buco$39.00

Short Rib$36.00

Pork Roll$34.00

Seafood

Chilean Seabass$39.00

Cioppino$37.00

Grilled Salmon$31.00

Sides

Lobster Mac & Cheese$19.00

Garlic Mashed Potatoes$8.00

Creamy Polenta$8.00

Seasonal Vegetables$9.00

Broccoli Origanati$9.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Review summary

FAQs

Does Giardino Neighborhood Cucina offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant rated?

Is Giardino Neighborhood Cucina currently accepting reservations?