University City is one of San Diego’s hottest bustling neighborhoods, combining new luxury amenities with the comfort of well-known established eateries and shops. In this week’s episode of Let’s Drink to That, I’m giving you a sneak peek inside one of my favorite University City Italian restaurants: Lorna’s Italian Kitchen.
Located inside the Golden Triangle (the area of University City named for its position between 3 key San Diego freeways), Lorna’s has everything you could want when your taste buds are begging for Italian food. Steve Stern opened the doors to this family restaurant in 1988 after a disappointing experience eating pizza with a buddy; that experience led him to realize there was a need for quality Italian food in the neighborhood, a niche that he could fill. Having moved on from a partnership in Los Angeles and on the hunt for a new location to start fresh, Steve decided that University City would become home to his new venture.
31 years later and Lorna’s is a household name in the neighborhood, with a tradition of delicious food, great service, and multigenerational employees that keep the legacy alive. Diners from all over San Diego come to this neighborhood icon to enjoy their wide selection of Italian classics and great family atmosphere. Have a glass (or two) of wine while dining on the patio with some of their signature ciabatta bruschetta, or cozy up inside while the smell of fresh baked pizza and calzones wafts throughout the dining room. Traditional checkered tablecloths and charming décor will take you away to a simpler time and place (like a quaint Tuscan village), while the friendliness of the staff reminds you that great service still exists in 2019.
If you’re not much for eating out, Lorna’s also offers catering and delivery for the home-loving connoisseur. After all, who doesn’t want to chow down on lasagna in their pajamas from the comfort of their own couch? You can get a pint of their Homemade Pistachio Ice Cream to go as well (among other delicious desserts) to round out your in-home dining experience and end your night in on a sweet note.
One of my favorite things about Lorna’s is how affordable they keep their menu while not skimping on the quality of their meals. This lets everyone in the family enjoy a great night out (or in) without breaking the bank and is part of why this little gem has continued to flourish in University City.
Lorna’s Italian Kitchen is just one part of what makes University City such a great place to put down roots. Conveniently located near parks, schools, and the Westfield UTC Mall, you’ll have everything you need within a few minutes’ drive to make the most out of your neighborhood. Stop at Lorna’s and you’ll get a taste of what San Diego living is all about!
Look for more episodes of Let’s Drink to That as I let you in on the best kept secrets of San Diego living.