Cesarina Group to open traditional Roman pizzeria in Ocean Beach

Elvira is set to open at the former site of BO-beau kitchen + bar.

SD Elvira restaurant

A vision for the warm, cozy, Rome-inspired pizzeria coming to OB in late summer 2023.

Rendering via Limes Architetti

The Italian expats behind San Diego’s popular Cesarina restaurant are expanding, opening an “osteria-pizzeria” in Ocean Beach later this year.

Cesarina Group — OB residents Chef Cesarina Mezzoni and husband Niccolò Angius, and friend Giuseppe Capasso — will open Elvira at 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd.

SD Cesarina Group

The team behind Cesarina Group.

Photo via Cesarina Group

Keeping it in the family, it’s named after Angius’ late great-grandmother whose love language was food.

The restaurant’s design will mimic the charming, “storybook eateries” of Rome (think earth tones, thrifted artwork, family portraits). The menu will revolve around wood-fired, Roman-style pizzas, and also include handmade pastas, rotating seasonal dishes, wines, and cocktails made with classic Italian spirits.

SD Cucina di la Nonna Elvira restaurant

The private dining area — “Cucina di la Nonna” — will feel just like being at Great-Grandma Elvira’s house.

Rendering via Limes Architetti

Patrons will find nods to Great-Grandma Elvira all over, but especially in an 8-person private dining room called “Cucina di La Nonna” (grandmother’s kitchen) complete with family-style dining, music on vinyl, and a cabinet full of mismatched plates and flatware.

Update: Elvira opened in mid-November 2023 — check it out.

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