Authentic Italian Enters La Jolla Via Acquavite Ristorante

Eater readers asked us to look into a new restaurant in La Jolla, where Italian food is once again a focus in the Coast Walk complex across from La Jolla Cove. The space, occupied by Trattoria Acqua for almost 20 years before it shuttered in 2011 has been remodeled by new proprietors, who recently opened Acquavite Ristorante on Prospect Street.

The property's landlord was looking for another Italian concept to fill the ocean view spot, which includes a small patio; managing partner Nicola Balsamin spent a decade in Italian restaurants in Los Angeles while executive chef Filippo Piccini last cooked at a AAA Four Diamond Marriott property in Hawaii.

Citing a lack of authentic Italian food in downtown La Jolla, the partners created an eatery that features traditional dishes from all over their native country. Piccini hails from town in the Tuscany region, represented by wine-braised wild boar, but his menu also includes beef carpaccio, slow-cooked octopus with oranges, olives and fennel, and a selection of fresh pasta, made daily.

Acquavite is currently serving dinner Tuesday through Sunday and lunch on weekends, but will eventually expand lunch service to include weekdays.