After 15 years as a cherished destination for authentic Italian cuisine in San Diego's Pacific Beach, Enoteca Adriano is preparing for a change in ownership.
Longtime owner and chef Francesco Tassone, who opened the beloved neighborhood Italian restaurant in 2009, will soon pass the torch of ownership of Enoteca Adriano to fellow Italian-born chef Giuseppe Ciuffa, bringing new energy to this local institution while honoring its roots.
Franco Tassone, born in Italy into a family of six chefs and restaurateurs, discovered his love for cooking at a young age, often helping his mother in the kitchen. His passion and curiosity for the culinary arts led him to study and work abroad, from Italy to Australia, Canada, and America. After moving to San Diego in 1989, Tassone became a pioneer in the city's Gaslamp District, helping to open La Strada.
From 1992 to 2004, his restaurant La Terrazza in La Jolla Cove became a beloved spot for locals and travelers, while his sushi restaurant, Zao Sushi (1998-2003), showcased the artistry of San Diego’s top sushi chefs. He also introduced Isola Lounge (2003-2007), the first to feature global tapas, Italian cuisine, and sangria on the beach.
Since opening Enoteca Adrianoon a quiet stretch of Cass Street in northern Pacific Beach, Franco and his team have welcomed guests for offering authentic Italian dishes paired with wines from 13 of Italy’s wine regions. The menu boasts a selection of more than 30 wines by the glass and bottle, allowing diners to explore Italy’s vast array of grape varieties. With regional specialties like fresh burrata, savory pasta, seasonal salads, and delectable desserts, Enoteca Adriano has created a casual yet refined dining experience reminiscent of Italy’s enotecas. Now, with Ciuffa taking ownership, this Pacific Beach favorite is set for a new chapter.
Chef Giuseppe Ciuffa, another Italian native, brings with him decades of experience in the San Diego dining scene. Originally from Italy, Ciuffa made the move to San Diego's La Jolla community in 1998, where he quickly established himself as a culinary force. He first purchased Come On In! Café, a neighborhood spot that he grew into a successful chain with multiple locations, including a prominent café at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. However, after several years, Ciuffa decided to sell his stake in the café to pursue larger ventures.
In 2001, Ciuffa launched Giuseppe Restaurants & Fine Catering, a hospitality group that would go on to create and manage a range of restaurants over the next 18 years. One of his more notable ventures was Bottega Americano, a bold concept that blended Italian-inspired cuisine with a specialty food marketplace in San Diego's East Village. Though the restaurant closed in 2018, Ciuffa’s influence on the city's culinary scene remained strong. Ciuffa currently operates a collection of popular La Jolla eateries, including Caroline’s Seaside Café at the Scripps Forum, Candor, and Giuseppe's at The Conrad.
As Ciuffa takes ownership of Enoteca Adriano in November, he is committed to preserving the restaurant's legacy while making thoughtful enhancements. The menu will largely remain unchanged, ensuring that loyal patrons can continue enjoying their favorite dishes - from traditional antipasti to classic Italian pasta dishes, as well as indulgent desserts like the famous Pope's Pillow.
While Ciuffa plans to introduce some new menu items and make subtle design updates to refresh the space, his approach will be one of respectful evolution rather than drastic change. The focus will remain on offering authentic Italian cuisine that embodies the warmth and richness of Italy, paired with an exceptional wine selection.
In 2001, Ciuffa launched Giuseppe Restaurants & Fine Catering, a hospitality group that would go on to create and manage a range of restaurants over the next 18 years. One of his more notable ventures was Bottega Americano, a bold concept that blended Italian-inspired cuisine with a specialty food marketplace in San Diego's East Village. Though the restaurant closed in 2018, Ciuffa’s influence on the city's culinary scene remained strong. Ciuffa currently operates a collection of popular La Jolla eateries, including Caroline’s Seaside Café at the Scripps Forum, Candor, and Giuseppe's at The Conrad.
As Ciuffa takes ownership of Enoteca Adriano in November, he is committed to preserving the restaurant's legacy while making thoughtful enhancements. The menu will largely remain unchanged, ensuring that loyal patrons can continue enjoying their favorite dishes - from traditional antipasti to classic Italian pasta dishes, as well as indulgent desserts like the famous Pope's Pillow.
While Ciuffa plans to introduce some new menu items and make subtle design updates to refresh the space, his approach will be one of respectful evolution rather than drastic change. The focus will remain on offering authentic Italian cuisine that embodies the warmth and richness of Italy, paired with an exceptional wine selection.
Franco Tassone expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his wonderful staff and loyal patrons, who have supported Enoteca Adriano over the years. As he transitions ownership, Tassone shared that he will be spending half the year living in Italy, where he plans to open Gnocchi Franco, a restaurant dedicated to serving homemade gnocchi in Peschiera on Lago del Garda, near Verona.
Enoteca Adriano is located at 4864 Cass Street in San Diego's Pacific Beach. For more information, visit enotecaadriano.com.
Enoteca Adriano is located at 4864 Cass Street in San Diego's Pacific Beach. For more information, visit enotecaadriano.com.
Originally published on October 3, 2024.
