Lodge + Dine announces a 5-star rating for Alessa after a day visit evaluating the guest experience. The restaurant excelled distinctively in authentic Italian cuisine, warmth and elegance ambiance, and helpful and friendly service.
Located along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, Alessa has earned its place as one of Orange County’s finest Italian dining spots, consistently delivering the authenticity and charm of Italy. This establishment has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike. At the helm is Chef Alessandro Pirozzi, whose Italian heritage and deep-seated family traditions shape every dish, from handmade pastas to vibrant antipasti.
The restaurant’s ambiance radiates warmth and elegance, with exposed brick walls adorned by a curated collection of framed photographs, lending a touch of nostalgia and charm. The lighting is thoughtfully dimmed, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners seeking an intimate dining experience. Outside, the alfresco seating offers a refreshing garden deck feel, perfect for people-watching amidst the lively Laguna Beach promenade.
The menu celebrates the heart and soul of Italian cuisine with his personal twists. The flavors are authentic yet innovative, spotlighting the finest ingredients that bring each dish to life. For a classic start, the Pesto Mozzarella offers creamy mozzarella complemented by a vibrant house-made basil pesto, introducing a fresh yet familiar taste.
One standout starter is the Zucca Ravioli, a delicate combination of butternut squash and ricotta with a brown butter sage sauce, topped with amaretto almond cookie crumbs. This dish’s subtle sweetness paired with the nutty richness of sage sauce feels like an embrace of Italian tradition. The Baby Kale Salad, with caramelized pecans and a date balsamic vinaigrette, showcases a sophisticated blend of textures and flavors, ideal for a refreshing interlude between courses.
This Italian restaurant’s carpaccio selections include the unique Octopus & Tasmanian Salmon, a dish that blends Italian tradition with a touch of the ocean’s freshness. The tender octopus pairs beautifully with sashimi-grade salmon, accentuated by sweet Peruvian peppers and Italian capers. Each bite offers a delicate balance of citrusy brightness and savory depth.
For pizza lovers, the Calzone is a must-try. Originating from Naples, this folded pizza encases ricotta, mozzarella, and spicy soppressata in a crispy, oven-baked crust. It’s an enticing blend of cheese and spice that encapsulates the comforting spirit of Italian street food. The Bucatini Arugula e Burrata, meanwhile, a pasta infused with ripe tomatoes and arugula, crowned with fresh burrata and a sprinkle of black sea salt—a tribute to simplicity that highlights the richness of quality ingredients.
To complement the meal, this establishment boasts a diverse selection of wines and cocktails, including Italian red wines and refreshing options like the Italian Margarita. For a sweet conclusion, the Chocolate Soufflé Cake, with a warm, molten center, served alongside vanilla gelato, rounds off the meal with indulgent finesse.
The service enhances the experience further, with staff who are both attentive and seemingly Italian themselves, bringing an extra touch of authenticity and charm to the meal. Their friendliness and knowledge of the menu ensure that each guest feels at home.
In every sense, Alessa is a journey to Italy—a place where flavors and traditions blend harmoniously to create an unforgettable dining experience. Chef Alessandro Pirozzi’s passion for Italian cuisine shines through in every dish, making this establishment not just a restaurant, but a celebration of Italy on the Californian coast.
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