Editorial Review of
Davanti Enoteca
It’s officially time to meet the Francesca Group’s first San Diego restaurant, Davanti Enoteca, described as an urban Italian wine bar with the seasonal cuisine of Italian farmhouses and fishing villages, handcrafted by chef and owner, Scott Harris, a James Beard Restaurateur of the Year award semi-finalist. The Francesca Group operates several award-winning restaurants in Chicago, and is now taking the San Diego food scene by storm. Located in the former Zagarella’s space, Davanti Enoteca boasts a cozy, energetic indoor ambiance and a spacious outdoor patio built for people watching in the vibrant Little Italy community. Menu items range from a starter insalate with shaved hearts of palm, lolla rosa, lemon, chili oli and pink peppercorn; to the “24 Hour Risotto” with arborio rice, toasted onion and veal glaze; and inventive entrees including the Bistecca con Ravanelli e Funghi – oven roasted wagyu tri tip with roasted radish, grilled oyster mushrooms, saba and salsa verde. Pair your dish with your choice off the extensive international wine list. The Francesca Group’s second project, an additional Davanti Enoteca and Mia Francesca, will open in Del Mar Highlands in September.