Al Dente

Came here for dinner as part of a group of 5 around 7:30 on a Thursday. It was not busy at all and was seated right away. There is seating inside and on the patio, but we took a table inside. We were provided water right away and given time to look over the drink and food menu. Our server also provided recommendations and some insight on the chefs and their food. The pasta is said to be freshly made. We ordered appetizers for the entire table to share. The Artichoke alla Romana, Frittura di Calamari, and Zucchini Blossoms where delicious. I ordered the Linguine Vongole, which had good flavor. My wife ordered the Tonnarelli Carbonara which she had parmesan cheese added, and it was delicious. My friend ordered the Pecorino wheel for the Pasta of the Day, which was finished at table-side. Having it finished table-side cooled it off some, so it wasn't as hot as the rest of the food. To drink most of us ordered one of their sangria, which I got a white sangria. The sangrias were a little on the weak side. To finish the meal, we got a Tiramasu fir the table to share. It was soft and great taste. The friendly service and atmosphere was great. There isn't a parking lot onsite, only street parking around the area. I would come back if I'm in the area wanting Italian.

Had a great spot on the patio for some delicious Italian food. David our server took great care of us and made my boyfriend and I feel like we were celebrating although it was just a normal weekday. We had the garlic bread, lobster ravioli and clam linguine. All 10/10. Don’t forget a slice of tiramisu for dessert!

We were greeted very warmly by our server upon arrival at Al Dente. A cozy, sleek spot that offers a varied Italian menu. We were surprised to find such a vacant spot that was reviewed so well upon research prior to our arrival. Our server gave us some prosecco in addition to the Pinot we ordered as a gesture of good faith in our return. Of course we accepted this generous gift! Thank you!

We ordered (as pictured) the Bruschetta first. The bread was fantastic. While we weren’t the biggest fans of the portioning of the burrata, it didn’t take an overall detraction from the hors d’oeuvres. It had a great combination of flavor and the bread was slightly toasted, yum!

I ordered the short ribs, however I really debated the Carbonara as both were described deliciously. The mashed potatoes served with the short ribs were so consistently fluffy and tasty. The short ribs were perfectly cooked, albeit missing a couple notches of spice (which was totally fine!) and was greatly enjoyed.

My fiancée ordered the Gnocchi, adding shrimp. This was some of the best Gnocchi we’ve ever had. Soft, dense, and coated in a taste worthy sauce that we couldn’t get enough of.

Last but certainly not least, the Tiramisu. SO DAMN GOOD! We were very surprised with how much creamy fluff made up the Tiramisu, as we’re used to more densely made ones, but it did not disappoint at all. Probably the best Tiramisu we’ve had in a long time. Recommended!

Al Dente is a staple italian spot, located quaintly and their service and cost provided great value. Overall, a fantastic experience. When we come back to San Diego we will do our best to return!

delicious food (highlights: duck pappardelle, carbonara, involtini) and wonderful service! portions are very generous, come hungry or expect a take-home portion. hope to come again for live music on thursdays!

What can I say besides an amazing experience and an equally delicious meal. We were greeted with cheer as we arrived. And seated promptly in the urban loft style dining room with the pasta making station in the kitchen has glass windows so one can watch the pasta being prepared fresh. The table service was impeccable, everyone made sure that we were satisfied, but not overwhelmingly. It was my birthday and besides the short rib ravioli which I highly recommend, they surprised me with what I believe to have been the best tiramisu that I have ever tasted. It was moist and the perfect balance of cafe to sugar ratio. Thank you sharing your passions.