Best Casual Restaurants in Normal Heights

First, service was as good as it could be, given that they were short-handed and the owners were therefore waiting tables (I ordered a salad, which I eagerly anticipated, but it never arrived; however, it also didn't appear on the bill). We were seated immediately, even though the restaurant was VERY busy. At our server's recommendation, we ordered the special appetizer, a whole artichoke, roasted in the pizza oven, and served with THE most divine garlic-herb oil. The artichoke was already cut into four pieces, so each of us grabbed one. Although it could scarcely be heard over our "oohs," "aahs," and sounds of sopping up oil with the excellent homemade bread, two of us remarked that this appetizer was so delicious, we just might order it instead of salad, and another instead of an entree. Suffice to say, if available, do NOT miss it. We had a bottle of luscious Montepulciano for the table; our friends shared a Burrata pizza, my husband had the Sofia pizza, and I, after consulting with our server, got the ravioli melanzane. Somehow, our friends' pizza had one piece left over, but my husband devoured the entire Sofia, and I ate all but about 1-1/2 ravioli. Yes, I got a to-go box for the ravioli and slice of Burrata pizza, as it would've been criminal to let food this exceptional go to waste (regrettably, we neglected to take the remaining bread from the basket). Siamo Napoli is a self-styled neighborhood spot, casual and unpretentious, but we've had Michelin-starred meals that weren't remotely this exquisite, this perfect, at four times the price, and walked away hungry, to boot. I almost hesitate to properly sing its praises, lest we have to wait months for our next taste of nectar, but it surely deserves to have a months-long waiting list, at least for weekend night tables, and when word gets out, they can probably fill a space 2-3 times as large. We drove 2-1/2 hours each way for this meal, and it was truly worth every second. We cannot WAIT to go again!

We loved this fun breakfast place! The food is yummy and the lattes are delicious. Servers are all friendly. I highly recommend reservations - we got there at 10 (and we had reservations). They took us in right away but there were many people waiting for tables. Also, parking is tough in the area - it is all street parking and the area is very very busy.

Truly one of the finest dining establishments in all of San Diego. The fact that it is in the heart of the most vibrant community SD has (Little Italy) puts this place over the top. Whether its an intimate date or a corporate Christmas Dinner (like we hosted last night), this place is always the perfect option. Food is 5 stars, ambiance is too! See you soon Barbusa!

Celebrating my Daughter’s Birthday. It was a beautiful sunny day. We had a table view by the harbor but it was extremely hot. We were hesitant to ask to move seats. We decided it was too uncomfortable to eat there. The staff moved us without a problem and we had a wonderful meal. We ordered Fish tacos and a Lobster BLT sandwich it came with a taste of lobster bisque soup. We had decided to share the meal, there was plenty to share . Took one of the three tacos home. After finishing up our meals the server presented a complimentary mini apple crumble pie for my daughter’s birthday with a candle. It was delicious and the service & staff was wonderful.

An escape to a faraway place. A place where plants are the only food source, and where creativity of cuisine is necessary to survive. The air is breathable by humans and there are plenty of tasty libations. Gravity in the bathroom malfunctioned briefly but other than that, it was a very enjoyable experience. 👽 🚀 🛸