Brisa is the latest venture from chefs Marco Provino and Vincenzo Loverso of San Diego Dining Group. The concept introduces a Tulum-inspired flair to the Little Italy neighborhood, blending contemporary Latin cuisine with Japanese influences, crafted cocktails, and a boho-chic ambiance complete with a stylish patio lounge.
The 3,000-square-foot space, previously home to Zinqué - a Los Angeles-based French bistro that quietly closed in October 2024 after five years - has been reimagined under the leadership of General Manager and Partner Jennifer Reinhart. Operating seven nights a week, Brisa offers dinner service with plans to introduce weekend brunch in the coming months.
The 3,000-square-foot space, previously home to Zinqué - a Los Angeles-based French bistro that quietly closed in October 2024 after five years - has been reimagined under the leadership of General Manager and Partner Jennifer Reinhart. Operating seven nights a week, Brisa offers dinner service with plans to introduce weekend brunch in the coming months.
The menu, designed by Montejano, a veteran chef who previously served as corporate chef for San Diego Dining Group, showcases a fusion of Latin and Japanese flavors. Highlights include shared plates like the Crab Nopal Tostada with avocado-jalapeño crema ($21) and Tangerine Tempura Camarones with mandarin-chipotle sauce ($22), alongside sushi rolls such as the Brisa Roll with yellowtail and seared tuna ($20) and entrees like the 12oz Picanha Wagyu Steak with chimichurri ($49). The raw bar features Brisa Oysters with truffle caviar ($22), reflecting Montejano’s innovative approach to blending culinary traditions.
San Diego Dining Group, led by Loverso, continues rapidly expanding in the local dining scene, with a portfolio that includes Greystone The Steakhouse, Osetra The Fishhouse, and the recently opened Romanisso in the Gaslamp. Loverso and Provino have a history of collaborations, having launched Rusticucina, Allegro, and Osteria Cotto e Mangiato, often partnering with restaurateurs like Antonino Cusimano and Alberto Mestre.
Montejano’s involvement adds a layer of expertise, drawing on his experience with the group to create a menu that caters to Little Italy’s diverse, food-savvy crowd. Chef Montejano has worked all across California, including under renowned chef chef restaurateurs like Michael Mina. Locally, he's worked at Pampelmousse in Solana Beach, La Valencia Hotel, Cardiff Seaside Market, and most recently, L'Auberge Del Mar Resort.
Little Italy’s dining scene has faced challenges recently, with the closure of the Little Italy Food Hall in February 2025, underscoring the competitive nature of the area. Brisa’s arrival follows the departure of Zinqué, which opened in 2019 as part of the AV8 mixed-use development but struggled to maintain its foothold amid shifting dining trends. Brisa aims to fill this gap with its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic menu, potentially benefiting from the area's high foot traffic. The restaurant’s boho-chic decor and patio lounge align with the neighborhood’s trendy vibe.
Brisa is located at 2155 Kettner Boulevard in San Diego's Little Italy. For more information, visit brisasd.com.
Originally published on April 6, 2025.