Piazza 1909
About
Roberta Ruffini and Stefano Ceresoli met in Milan, where he ran a bakery, pasta, and focaccia shop. After Roberta moved to San Diego for her master's degree in 1993, they married in 1996 and opened Caffè Bella Italia in Kearny Mesa, later adding a Pacific Beach location and Solare in Liberty Station. In 2014, after selling their previous ventures and taking six months off with their kids, they purchased the historic 1909 La Jolla beach house known as "The Brodiaea" alongside business partner Brent Nelson. Today, their son Alberto manages operations while his brothers work the floor, and Stefano's Milan heritage shows in every Pizza Napoletana made with 00 flour, Flor di Latte mozzarella, and San Marzano tomatoes. Chef Stefano's award-nominated cuisine earned Tripadvisor's top ten percent recognition, alongside a Best Italian Chef nomination in La Jolla. Multiple heated patios with banana plants and bamboo walls surround the original cottage, creating a Mediterranean setting inspired by the Italian piazza—a vibrant gathering place. Happy hour runs Tuesday through Thursday (4:30-5:30pm) with Half Off Wine Tuesdays, served on the large front patio with an outdoor wine bar.
Signature Dishes
Margherita
Pizza Napoletana with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh Flor di Latte mozzarella, and basil on handmade dough
Piazza Diavola
San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and spicy Calabrese salame
Vegan Garden
Tomato sauce, vegan mozzarella, fried organic zucchini, eggplant, broccoli, asparagus, artichokes, and sweet bell peppers
These signature dishes are what makes Piazza 1909 special. Be sure to try them on your visit!
What to Order
Don't miss these customer favorites and staff recommendations:
Details
Pizza Style
🇮🇹 Neapolitan
Neighborhood
La Jolla
Status
Unclaimed
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