Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen
About
Alex Massir grew up in a Philadelphia family that owned and operated pizza shops dating back to the 1950s, but when he moved West, he discovered something: California demanded healthier options. In April 2016, Massir and partner Greg Provance (35+ years restaurant experience with the Cohn Restaurant Group) opened Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen in San Diego's Rolando neighborhood near SDSU, bringing Sicilian tradition with a California twist. Their Mission Valley location at Westfield opened in 2021, serving signature creations like the Pesto Perfecto—mozzarella, ricotta, pecorino romano, cherry tomatoes, topped with house pesto, arugula, and parmesan—alongside the Pistachio Pizza with grilled zucchini, ricotta, pesto, and crushed pistachios. The open layout splits between indoor dining and a heated patio perfect for people-watching, with happy hour Monday through Friday ($7 craft beer, wine, and cocktails), Wednesday kids-eat-free nights, and Thursday live music. The original SDSU location closed in January 2024, but the Mission Valley outpost keeps serving that Philadelphia-meets-California vision.
Signature Dishes
Pesto Perfecto
Mozzarella, ricotta, pecorino romano, cherry tomatoes, topped with house pesto, fresh arugula, and shaved parmesan
Pistachio Pizza
Grilled zucchini, mozzarella, ricotta, house pesto, roasted garlic, topped with crushed pistachios and fresh basil
White Pizza
Mozzarella, ricotta, pecorino romano, cherry tomatoes, garlic, topped with prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic drizzle
These signature dishes are what makes Pesto Italian Craft Kitchen special. Be sure to try them on your visit!
What to Order
Don't miss these customer favorites and staff recommendations:
Details
Pizza Style
❓ Other
Neighborhood
Mission Valley
Status
Unclaimed
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