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A very nice Italian restaurant with super friendly staff and exceptionally delicious food. The sea bass was one of the best I’ve ever had, and honestly, everything we tried was outstanding. Wonderful atmosphere, great service, and amazing flavors, highly recommended.
Beyond embarrassed to say I have lived in Mission Viejo and San Clemente for over 25 years and have never stopped in to try Casanova Ristorante. What a mistake because this place is a gem! Also, I typically don't do the review thing, but after spending the course of over two hours experiencing this awesome restaurant with my wife, I felt the need to publicly thank them and let others know how good they are. From the moment we walked in, to the moment we left, we felt like family. Carla was our server and I cannot praise her enough. She was slammed with several other large party tables, but she took the time to smile, be warm and personable and graciously offer suggestions - she also took great care and genuine concern for my wife as she is allergic to any food containing egg. A lot of the time I'll contact the restaurant in advance so we don't bother the staff, but I failed to do so this time. We didn't get any eye rolls or huffs, and Carla made us feel absolutely validated and had no reservation to take care of us - which included her having to contact the chef on a few occasions to confirm dishes. Once dialed in, we ended up ordering a few cocktails, followed by the mozzarella caprese, lasagne al forno, chicken piccata, accompanied by a fantastic chianti and house merlot. So, needless to say, we dug in. After the first bite, I looked at my wife and she looked at me. SPEECHLESS! This was so damn good! (My ma was second generation Italian from New Jersey - she knew what was good and I can say, she woulda quit cooking if she ate here). I raved to Carla how good this food was several times - so she brought out the chef, Gabe. Kid you not, we sat and chatted with him for 10 minutes. He took the time to explain everything is freshly made by hand, usually the day of, with quality ingredients. Gabe was super friendly and completely understood the challenge folks have who have allergies. He also explained how we can order in the future for other items that may pose a problem. (For instance, there are some items they can prepare with olive oil instead of butter). Anyway, I'm rambling a bit, but I just want to be real and honest. Ultimately, these guys get it: wonderful hospitality, in an awesome environment (dimly lit dinner lamps in a very lush, romantic dining room with jazz music in the background) and absolutely jaw-dropping, mouth-watering dishes. Wrapping this up: don't be like us and wait to go there. GO NOW! We are heading back as soon as we can and we're bringing friends! Casanova's - Carla, Gabe and Omar - you guys made our night with amazing service and stellar food - thank you for helping us forget about life for awhile. By the way, my wife is telling me to add - the Espresso Martini's are the best she's ever had! and she's had a lot! :)
After living here in Dana Point for 30 years I have only been here twice but, both were in the last month since I discovered this GEM. I hope to get here at least once every month from here on out. Best food, excellent service & outstanding experience overall. Everything here is good and prices are reasonable. So happy I found it! Go and enjoy a terrific meal and you can thank me later 🤗🙏🏻
I placed a very late minute takeout order and they actually answered the phone call 15 minutes before they closed and I appreciate that because I was starving. The food was great. Those were literally the best mozzarella cheese sticks I’ve ever had in my life and the sauce that came with itto die for and I’m very picky like super picky. I will definitely be back.
Had dinner here with a big group, and it was such a great experience. The whole vibe of the place feels super authentic like a real Italian spot with amazing food and a cozy atmosphere. The staff were really welcoming and made us feel right at home, even with a big table. Everything we tried was delicious and full of flavor. Definitely one of those restaurants that makes you want to come back again. Perfect spot for good food, good people, and good energy! 🇮🇹🍝