Il Fornaio Coronado

Had a pretty good time with family at Il Fornaio in San Diego! We arrived early enough to be among the first patrons of the day, which meant the restaurant was quiet, perfect for shooting some photos and video for my Forks UP! series. The bar staff was setting up, the chef was prepping for a day of culinary adventures, and I managed to catch some great behind-the-scenes footage before the crowd rolled in. Even if you visit during peak hours, the space is large and very accommodating. The restaurant exudes elegance, beautiful inside and out with tasteful décor that makes the whole experience feel a little extra fancy. There’s also a spacious bar and plenty of outdoor patio seating, ideal for soaking up that perfect San Diego weather. Now onto the food (we definitely ordered plenty!): Bruschetta – Delightful start! Fresh and full of flavor. Gnocchi Gratinati – Fluffy, flavorful, and maybe my favorite dish of the day. Gnocchi al Sugo di Cinghiale – Yummy!!!! Comfort food taken up a notch. Linguine Mare Chiaro – A total win for seafood lovers. Rigatoni alla Vodka – Perfect pick for the kiddos (and adults sneaking a bite). Pizzas (Fradiavola, Cristina, Margherita) – All solid choices — crisp, cheesy, and satisfying, though quite similar in taste. As for service, it was good overall. Our server handled our large group smoothly, keeping drinks filled and orders spot-on. While the personal touch could’ve been a bit warmer, everything ran seamlessly, which made for a relaxed and enjoyable afternoon. If you’re in the San Diego area, definitely check this spot out — it’s worth the visit! And keep an eye out for the Forks UP! video review on our socials, @colefamilyvalues.