Barbarella

Barbarella, easily identifiable by its distinctive tomato red exterior, is a whimsical Italian bistro located in the heart of downtown La Jolla. Quirky contemporary art, suspiciously resembling year-round Halloween decorations, dresses up the cozy interior that consists of two small dining rooms. However, the traditional wicker chairs, white tablecloths, and heated countryside patio keep the bistro charming, rather than garish.

Italian basics from the creamy risotto to the delicately textured pizza are flawlessly prepared at Barbarella. The homemade ravioli filled with ricotta cheese and roasted garlic in a nutty butter sauce, served with bits of Yukon Gold potatoes is particularly worth notable mention.

It is no wonder that Barbarella has endured for almost 20 years as a destination for reliable, quality comfort food amidst an eccentric, warm atmosphere.