There's just something about the savory aromas and mouthwatering flavors that make me feel right at home. With my extensive experience and a palate that never settles for anything less than amazing, I've taken it upon myself to explore all the culinary delights this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.

After sampling countless dishes and laughing my way through 13 different eateries, I can confidently present to you the crème de la crème of Little.italy's dining scene. From cozy trattorias to trendy bistros, join me as I unveil the best restaurants in Little.italy San Diego - guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and tickle your taste buds in the most lighthearted way possible.


Buon Appetito Restaurant

Buon Appetito Restaurant
🗺️ 1609 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-238-9880
🌐 Website
Sunday: 12–9:30 PM
Monday: 12–9:30 PM
Tuesday: 12–9:30 PM
Wednesday: 12–9:30 PM
Thursday: 12–9:30 PM
Friday: 12–10:30 PM
Saturday: 12–10:30 PM
Highlights
Welcoming staff
Amazing food
Great atmosphere
Delicious dessert
Excellent service

Upon entering the restaurant, I was greeted by a welcoming staff that made me feel like family. The atmosphere was lively and vibrant, with the aroma of Italian delicacies floating through the air. It was as if I had been transported to a trattoria in the heart of Italy itself.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh my, where do I even begin? The menu featured an array of traditional Italian dishes that left my taste buds dancing with joy. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, perfectly balanced and expertly executed. From the creamy risottos to the mouthwatering pasta dishes, Buon Appetito certainly knows how to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.

Of course, no meal is complete without dessert! And let me tell you, their selection of sweet treats is simply divine. I indulged in their tiramisu, which was light yet decadent, leaving me wanting more (and secretly wishing for a bottomless plate).

What truly set Buon Appetito apart from other restaurants in Little.italy San Diego was their excellent service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every need was met and every question answered. They were knowledgeable about the menu and provided helpful recommendations without being overbearing.

In conclusion, Buon Appetito Restaurant is a must-visit for any food lover seeking an authentic Italian dining experience in Little.italy San Diego. From the welcoming staff to the amazing food and great atmosphere, this place has it all. So grab your appetite and head on over – you won't be disappointed!

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Bencotto

Bencotto
🗺️ 750 W Fir St #103, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-450-4786
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Monday: 4–9:30 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Highlights
Delicious Italian food
Friendly and quick service
Cheese wheel pasta and tiramisu
Terrific homemade pastas
Great customer service

Imagine being transported to the heart of Italy, where the aroma of freshly made pasta fills the air. That's exactly what you'll experience at Bencotto in Little.italy San Diego. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of Italian cuisine, I can confidently say that Bencotto is a gem among gems.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and friendly faces. The staff at Bencotto truly know how to make you feel like an honored guest. The service was quick and efficient, allowing me to indulge in their delectable dishes without any unnecessary delays.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the food! Oh my taste buds, where do I even begin? Each bite was an explosion of flavor, a symphony for my palate. The homemade pastas were simply divine, cooked to perfection and tossed in rich and savory sauces. But what caught my attention was their signature dish - the cheese wheel pasta. Cheesus! Watching as they mixed pasta directly inside a giant wheel of cheese made me weak at the knees.

And let's not forget dessert! Bencotto's tiramisu was a slice of heaven on a plate. With each spoonful, I felt like I had been whisked away to an Italian grandmother's kitchen.

To top it all off, the customer service at Bencotto was top-notch. The attentive staff went above and beyond to ensure that our dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary.

If you're looking for an authentic Italian culinary adventure, look no further than Bencotto in Little.italy San Diego. Trust me when I say it will leave you saying "Mamma Mia!"

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Barbusa

Barbusa
🗺️ 1917 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-238-1917
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Monday: 4–10 PM
Tuesday: 4–10 PM
Wednesday: 4–10 PM
Thursday: 4–10 PM
Friday: 4–11 PM
Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
Highlights
Outstanding service and food
Accommodating for large groups
Fresh and delicious ingredients
Great view of open concept kitchen
Mixed classic and modern chic ambiance

Upon entering Barbusa, I was immediately captivated by its mixed classic and modern chic ambiance. The stylish decor and dim lighting created a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.

The outstanding service truly set Barbusa apart from other restaurants in Little.italy. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They were more than willing to accommodate our large group with a smile on their faces.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the food! Barbusa prides itself on using only the freshest and most delicious ingredients, and boy, does it deliver! From the first bite to the last, every dish was bursting with flavor and made my taste buds dance with joy. Their open concept kitchen allowed me to admire the skillful chefs as they prepared our meals, adding an extra layer of excitement to the dining experience.

One thing that particularly impressed me was their attention to detail. Each plate was meticulously presented like a work of art, making it almost too beautiful to eat (almost!).

To top it all off, Barbusa offers a great view of the bustling streets of Little Italy from its large windows. It's perfect for people-watching while enjoying your meal.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a restaurant in Little.italy San Diego that offers outstanding service, fresh and delicious ingredients, and a mixed classic and modern chic ambiance, then Barbusa is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared to have your taste buds blown away!

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Monello

Monello
🗺️ 750 W Fir St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-501-0030
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Monday: 4–10:30 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
Saturday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
Highlights
Great atmosphere
Amazing food
Excellent service
Fresh and delicious dishes
Accommodating staff

Walking into Monello, I was immediately captivated by its great atmosphere. The sleek and modern decor created an ambiance that was both trendy and inviting. As I settled into my seat, the friendly staff made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the amazing food. Each dish that graced my table was a culinary masterpiece. From the first bite to the last, I was transported to food heaven. The menu featured a delightful selection of Italian classics with a twist, and every item I tried surpassed my expectations.

The excellent service added another layer of enjoyment to my dining experience. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and happy to accommodate any request or dietary restriction. It truly made me feel like a valued guest.

Monello prides itself on its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, and it shows in their fresh and delicious dishes. Every ingredient seemed to burst with flavor, creating a symphony of taste in each mouthful.

I must also mention the accommodating staff at Monello. They went above and beyond to ensure that everything was perfect throughout my meal.

In conclusion, Monello is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in Little.italy San Diego. With its great atmosphere, amazing food, excellent service, fresh and delicious dishes, and accommodating staff, it's a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience. Trust me; you won't be disappointed!

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Petrini's San Diego

Petrini's San Diego
🗺️ 610 W Ash St #100, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-595-0322
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
Highlights
Excellent food
Friendly service
Delicious Caesar salad
Tasty white wine

Let me start by saying that Petrini's San Diego is a hidden gem in the heart of Little.italy San Diego. From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with a warm and friendly smile from the staff. The level of service provided was simply outstanding.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the food! Oh boy, where do I even begin? The menu here is a culinary masterpiece, with options to satisfy every taste bud. I opted for their famous Caesar salad, and let me tell you, it was an absolute delight. The freshness of the lettuce combined with the tangy dressing made my taste buds dance with joy.

Pairing my meal with a glass of their recommended white wine was a stroke of genius. The flavors complemented each other perfectly, creating a symphony of deliciousness in my mouth.

But what truly sets Petrini's apart from other restaurants in Little.italy San Diego is their attention to detail and commitment to excellence. Each dish is prepared with love and care, evident in every bite.

Overall, Petrini's San Diego is a must-visit for any food enthusiast looking for an unforgettable dining experience. With its excellent food, friendly service, and delightful atmosphere, this restaurant has earned its place among the best in Little.italy San Diego. So go ahead, treat yourself to a meal at Petrini's - your taste buds will thank you!

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Sogno Di Vino

Sogno Di Vino
🗺️ 1607 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-531-8887
🌐 Website
Sunday: 12–9:30 PM
Monday: 12–9:30 PM
Tuesday: 12–9:30 PM
Wednesday: 12–9:30 PM
Thursday: 12–9:30 PM
Friday: 12–10 PM
Saturday: 12–10 PM
Highlights
Large portion sizes
Delicious food
Attentive service
Homemade cheese-and-lobster stuffed pasta
High quality ingredients

Let me just start by saying, if you're looking for a place that serves generous portion sizes, then Sogno Di Vino is the holy grail of foodie dreams! Seriously, I could barely finish my plate and had to contemplate unbuttoning my pants in public. But let's not go there.

The first thing that struck me about Sogno Di Vino was their commitment to using high-quality ingredients. It's like they've made a pact with the culinary gods themselves. Every bite exploded with flavor, leaving my taste buds dancing in ecstasy. I mean, homemade cheese-and-lobster stuffed pasta? Need I say more?

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; it was the attentive service too. The staff at Sogno Di Vino made me feel like a VIP from the moment I walked through the door. They were knowledgeable about their menu and gave great recommendations without being pushy or overbearing.

One thing worth mentioning is that Sogno Di Vino isn't your average run-of-the-mill Italian joint. No, no! They've got something special going on here. Maybe it's their secret sauce or their passion for creating memorable dining experiences, but whatever it is, it's working.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a restaurant that offers large portion sizes of delicious food, served with attentive service and made from high-quality ingredients, then look no further than Sogno Di Vino. Just make sure you come hungry and ready to be wowed by their culinary prowess!

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RoVino Restaurant + Bar

RoVino Restaurant + Bar
🗺️ 2034 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-269-9341
🌐 Website
Sunday: 5–9 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 5–9 PM
Thursday: 5–9 PM
Friday: 5–10 PM
Saturday: 5–10 PM
Highlights
Phenomenal staff
Homemade and flavorful food
Best ravioli since northern Italy
Great attention to detail

Walking into RoVino, I was immediately greeted by a phenomenal staff who made me feel like a VIP. Their warm smiles and attentive service set the tone for what turned out to be an exceptional dining experience.

The menu at RoVino boasts a selection of homemade and flavorful dishes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. From perfectly cooked pasta to succulent seafood, every bite was a celebration of Italian cuisine. The highlight of my meal was undoubtedly the ravioli - oh boy, it was like being transported back to northern Italy! Each delicate parcel burst with rich flavors, leaving me craving more.

What sets RoVino apart from other restaurants in Little Italy is their great attention to detail. Every dish was presented beautifully, with vibrant colors and artistic flair. It's clear that the chefs here take immense pride in their craft.

The ambiance at RoVino is inviting and cozy, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date night or an intimate gathering with friends. The dim lighting and soft music create an atmosphere that is both elegant and relaxed.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a restaurant that combines exceptional service, homemade and flavorful food, and pays attention to even the smallest details, then look no further than RoVino Restaurant + Bar. Trust me when I say that this place will leave you wanting more... just don't blame me if you become addicted to their ravioli!

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Mona Lisa Italian Foods

Mona Lisa Italian Foods
🗺️ 2061 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-234-4893
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–9:30 PM
Monday: 9 AM–9:30 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–9:30 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–9:30 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–9:30 PM
Friday: 9 AM–10:30 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–10:30 PM
Highlights
Great dinner stop
Delicious gulf shrimp
Tasty and filling veal
Italian goods shop attached
Convenient parking in front

Walking into Mona Lisa Italian Foods, I knew I was in for a treat. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, with the delightful aroma of Italian spices wafting through the air. It was the perfect place for a great dinner stop.

As an avid seafood lover, I couldn't resist trying their gulf shrimp dish. And boy, am I glad I did! The shrimp were cooked to perfection, tender and succulent with just the right amount of seasoning. Each bite was bursting with flavor, leaving me craving for more. It was truly a seafood lover's dream come true.

But let's not forget about the veal. Oh my, where do I even begin? The veal at Mona Lisa Italian Foods is tasty and filling, making it an ideal choice for those looking to satisfy their carnivorous cravings. The meat was exceptionally tender, practically melting in my mouth with every bite. Paired with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and perfectly steamed vegetables, it was a match made in culinary heaven.

One unique aspect of Mona Lisa Italian Foods is that there's also an Italian goods shop attached to the restaurant. So after indulging in a delicious meal, you can browse through their selection of imported treats and take a piece of Italy home with you.

Another plus point is the convenient parking available right in front of the restaurant. No need to circle around endlessly searching for a spot – just park your car and get ready to dive into some delectable Italian cuisine.

In conclusion, Mona Lisa Italian Foods is a hidden gem nestled in Little Italy San Diego that should not be missed. With its fantastic food options, charming atmosphere, and added convenience of an attached goods shop and easy parking, it truly stands out among other restaurants in the area. Buon appetito!

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Civico 1845

Civico 1845
🗺️ 1845 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-431-5990
🌐 Website
Sunday: 12–9 PM
Monday: 12–9:30 PM
Tuesday: 4–9:30 PM
Wednesday: 4–9:30 PM
Thursday: 12–9:30 PM
Friday: 12–10 PM
Saturday: 12–10 PM
Highlights
Gluten free pasta
Almond ricotta
Freshness of food
Outdoor seating
Flavors of dishes

Walking into Civico 1845, I was immediately charmed by its cozy and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant boasts an impressive menu with a range of culinary delights, but what really caught my attention were the gluten-free pasta options. As someone who appreciates a good pasta dish but also has dietary restrictions, I was thrilled to find such a diverse selection.

But it wasn't just the gluten-free pasta that impressed me; it was the almond ricotta filling in their ravioli that truly stole the show. The combination of rich flavors and creamy texture made every bite a delight for my taste buds. This unique twist on a classic dish is something I haven't encountered elsewhere, and it left me craving more.

What sets Civico 1845 apart from other restaurants in Little.italy San Diego is their commitment to freshness. You can taste it in every bite, from the vibrant vegetables to the perfectly cooked proteins. It's evident that they take pride in sourcing high-quality ingredients and crafting dishes that highlight their natural flavors.

If you're lucky enough to visit on a sunny day, be sure to take advantage of their outdoor seating area. There's something special about enjoying your meal under blue skies and warm sunshine while savoring the flavors of Italy.

In conclusion, Civico 1845 offers an exquisite dining experience that combines innovative twists on traditional Italian dishes with impeccable freshness. With their extensive gluten-free pasta options and delectable almond ricotta filling, they have definitely earned a spot on my list of best restaurants in Little.italy San Diego. So if you're looking for flavors that will transport you straight to Italy, make sure to visit Civico 1845 - your taste buds will thank you!

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Sorrento Ristorante

Sorrento Ristorante
🗺️ 1646 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-546-0365
🌐 Website
Sunday: 12–11 PM
Monday: 3–10 PM
Tuesday: 3–10 PM
Wednesday: 3–10 PM
Thursday: 3–10 PM
Friday: 3–10 PM
Saturday: 12–11 PM
Highlights
Great food
Authentic atmosphere
Spicy marinara sauce
Delicious complimentary bread and calamari
Excellent customer service

Walking into Sorrento Ristorante, I was immediately greeted by an authentic Italian atmosphere that transported me straight to the charming streets of Italy. The dim lighting and rustic decor set the perfect ambiance for a delightful dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, the food! From the first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The menu boasted an array of mouthwatering options, but it was their spicy marinara sauce that stole the show. It had just the right amount of kick to awaken my taste buds without overpowering the dish.

But wait, there's more! As soon as I sat down, I was presented with a basket of warm, complimentary bread. And let me tell you, this bread was so good it could've been mistaken for dessert. It was soft on the inside with a perfectly crisp crust - pure carb heaven!

And speaking of heaven, their calamari was simply divine. The crispy coating gave way to tender rings of seafood delight. It wasn't greasy or rubbery like some places tend to serve. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me wanting more.

Now, let's not forget about the excellent customer service. The staff at Sorrento Ristorante went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was top-notch. They were attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, making fantastic recommendations.

Overall, Sorrento Ristorante is definitely one of Little.italy San Diego's hidden gems. With its great food, authentic atmosphere, delicious complimentary bread, spicy marinara sauce that packs a punch, and excellent customer service – it truly stands out among other Italian eateries in the area. So if you're looking for a playful yet professional dining experience in Little Italy San Diego, make sure to give Sorrento Ristorante a visit!

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Isola Pizza Bar

Isola Pizza Bar
🗺️ 1526 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-255-4230
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
Monday: 2:30–9 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 2:30–9 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
Highlights
Fresh Burrata cheese
Spicy salami pizza
Great atmosphere
Extensive wine list

Let me start by saying that Isola Pizza Bar is a culinary delight! As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant had a rustic charm with its exposed brick walls and cozy seating arrangements.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The highlight of my meal was undoubtedly the Fresh Burrata cheese. It was so creamy and delicate, it practically melted in my mouth. Each bite was like a little piece of heaven. Note to self: find out if they sell it by the truckload.

But wait, there's more! The spicy salami pizza made me weak in the knees. The thin crust was crispy and perfectly charred, while the combination of spicy salami and tangy tomato sauce created a symphony of flavors on my palate. It was like an explosion of deliciousness that left me craving for more.

To complement the delectable food, Isola Pizza Bar boasts an extensive wine list that would make any wine connoisseur weak at the knees. From full-bodied reds to crisp whites, they have something to please every discerning palate.

In conclusion, Isola Pizza Bar is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience. With its fresh ingredients, mouthwatering dishes, and inviting ambiance, it has truly earned its place among the best restaurants in Little.italy San Diego. So go ahead and treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Isola Pizza Bar - your taste buds will thank you!

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Herb & Wood

Herb & Wood
🗺️ 2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-955-8495
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10 AM–2 PM
Sunday: 5–9:30 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 5–9:30 PM
Wednesday: 5–9:30 PM
Thursday: 5–9:30 PM
Friday: 5–9:30 PM
Saturday: 5–9:30 PM
Highlights
Great atmosphere
Fantastic service
Impressive size
Delicious food

Walking into Herb & Wood, I was immediately captivated by its great atmosphere. The sleek and modern interior design, combined with soft lighting, created a warm and inviting ambiance that made me feel right at home. The restaurant's spacious layout gave me plenty of room to enjoy my meal without feeling cramped or crowded.

What truly set Herb & Wood apart was the fantastic service I received. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, providing recommendations and answering all my questions about the menu. Their attention to detail was commendable, ensuring that every aspect of my dining experience was taken care of.

Speaking of the menu, let's talk about the food! Herb & Wood boasts an impressive size menu filled with a variety of mouthwatering options. Each dish is carefully crafted with high-quality ingredients that resulted in delicious food bursting with flavor. From their tender steak served with a delectable sauce to their creative vegetarian options, there was something for every palate.

The culinary journey at Herb & Wood left me thoroughly satisfied and impressed. This gem in Little Italy San Diego lives up to its reputation as one of the best restaurants in town. So if you're looking for a memorable dining experience with great atmosphere, fantastic service, impressive size, and delicious food—Herb & Wood is your place to be! Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Kettner Exchange

Kettner Exchange
🗺️ 2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-255-2001
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–12 AM
Monday: 5 PM–12 AM
Tuesday: 5 PM–12 AM
Wednesday: 5 PM–12 AM
Thursday: 5 PM–12 AM
Friday: 5 PM–1 AM
Saturday: 5 PM–1 AM
Highlights
Happy with the food
Great social atmosphere
Friendly and attentive service

Walking into Kettner Exchange, I was instantly greeted with a buzzing and lively social atmosphere. The dimly lit restaurant had an air of sophistication and chicness that made me feel like I had stepped into a trendy hideaway.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, was I happy with what Kettner Exchange had to offer! Each dish was exquisitely crafted with a perfect balance of flavors that danced on my taste buds. From the juicy steak to the delicate sushi, every bite was a culinary adventure.

But what truly set Kettner Exchange apart was their friendly and attentive service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every guest felt welcomed and taken care of. They were knowledgeable about the menu, offering insightful suggestions and recommendations.

The highlight of my experience at Kettner Exchange was undoubtedly the rooftop bar area. With its breathtaking views of Little Italy and the city skyline, it provided the perfect backdrop for sipping on expertly crafted cocktails while enjoying good company.

In conclusion, Kettner Exchange is not just a restaurant; it's an experience. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends, this place has got you covered. So go ahead, treat yourself to some fantastic food in a vibrant setting – your taste buds will thank you!

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Brad Thomas

With a true passion for exploring all that San Diego has to offer, Brad takes great pleasure in discovering new spots and sharing his experiences with his readers. From hidden gems to tried-and-true favorites, he doesn't miss a beat when it comes to exploring different corners of town. When he's not writing or dining out, Brad can be found soaking up some sunshine at the beach or taking an outdoor adventure around SoCal.