Restaurant Reservations - Free • Instant • Confirmed
HomeMobileHelp
Restaurant Reviews
Learn More
PrintPrint this page
Restaurant reviews by area
Akron / Canton
Alabama
Anchorage
Arkansas
Atlanta / Georgia
Atlantic City
Austin
Baltimore / Maryland
Boston / New England
Calgary / Alberta
California Central Coast
Charlotte
Chicago / Illinois
Cincinnati / Dayton
Cleveland
Coastal North Carolina
Columbus
Corpus Christi / McAllen
Dallas - Fort Worth
Denver / Colorado
East Tennessee
Edmonton / Alberta
El Paso / Southwest Texas
Greensboro / Winston Salem / Highpoint
Hawaii
Houston
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Jackson Hole / Wyoming
Jacksonville / Northeast Florida
Kansas City
Kentucky
Key West / Florida Keys
Lake of the Ozarks
Las Vegas
Los Angeles / Orange County
Manitoba / Saskatchewan
Memphis
Miami / Southeast Florida
Michigan
Minneapolis - St. Paul
Mississippi
Montana
Montreal / Quebec
Naples / Southwest Florida
Nashville
Nebraska
New Mexico
New Orleans / Louisiana
New York / Tri-State Area
North Dakota
Northwest Florida
Nova Scotia / New Brunswick
Oklahoma
Orlando / Central Florida East
Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities
Philadelphia / New Jersey - South
Phoenix / Arizona
Pinehurst
Pittsburgh
Portland / Oregon
Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill
Sacramento / Central Valley
San Antonio
San Diego
East County (173)
North San Diego (3,838)
Carlsbad (557)
Del Mar (1,642)
American (240)
Californian (86)
Contemporary American (404)
Contemporary French (77)
Italian (111)
Seafood (536)
Steak (135)
Steakhouse (53)
Encinitas (155)
Escondido (391)
Fallbrook (12)
Oceanside (297)
Rancho Sante Fe (314)
Solana Beach (470)
San Diego (12,460)
Temecula / Wine County (539)
San Francisco Bay Area
Seattle / Washington
South Carolina
South Dakota
Southwest Indiana / Tri-State Area
Springfield / Branson
St. Louis
Tahoe / Reno Area
Tampa / Central Florida West
Texas Panhandle
Toledo
Toronto / Ontario
UK / London & Ireland
Utah
Vancouver / British Columbia
Virginia
Washington, D.C. Area
West Virginia
Western North Carolina
Wisconsin
Find Restaurants in Your Area
Reserve now:
Learn More
Restaurant Reviews List > San Diego Restaurant Reviews > North San Diego Restaurant Reviews > Del Mar Restaurant Reviews > Italian Restaurant Reviews

Restaurant Reviews for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Il Fornaio - Del Mar reservations Il Fornaio - Del Mar

1555 Camino Del Mar
Del Mar, CA 92014

Step inside Il Fornaio and take a culinary journey through Italy. Early mornings bring rustic, crisp crusted bread hot from the oven accompanied by the scent of fresh brewed espresso. During lunch and dinner hours, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while meats and vegetables roast over hot coals. Bottles of wine from small, regional wineries are uncorked to complement the dishes, which have been crafted in the custom of Italy's chefs, bakers and homemakers. Specialties include wood-fired rotisserie and grilled meats, poultry and game; house made pastas; pizzas from an oak wood burning oven; fresh salads and house made soups; a wide variety of desserts; and fresh baked bread made daily from scratch. Winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2007.

Dining Style: Casual Dining
Price: $30 and under
Parking: Valet
Cross Street: 15th Street
See more Il Fornaio - Del Mar details
Average Diner Rating
Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 4.0 out of 5 (111 Reviews)
Food 4.1 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 3.8 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.1 out of 3 (Moderate)
Summary of Special Features

Diners classify this restaurant as:

  • scenic view (56)
  • great for outdoor dining (41)
  • special occasion (39)
  • neighborhood gem (33)
  • fit for foodies (31)
  • romantic (30)
  • good for groups (28)
  • notable wine list (21)
  • great for lunch (19)
  • hot spot (14)
  • vibrant bar scene (12)

Il Fornaio - Del Mar Reviews List
Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Their delicious bread is better than ever and the food was terrific. Haven't been there for a while and think it has improved over the years. We will return soon."

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 03/19/2010
(review submitted 03/20/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 2 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
"We really enjoyed the food. The flavor was excellent! Unfortunately, the service was fair because our waitress was overloaded with demanding tables next to us. She was a nice server though. I was dissapointed that we had to sit at a tiny two top no where near the view even though I made reservations for a special birthday evening."

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 03/13/2010
(review submitted 03/16/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 3 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
"We love this resturant, but made the mistake of going last night when Cirque du Soleil was in town and the service was HORRIBLE. We ended up getting our own condiments, extra spoons, sugar and water refills. Fortunately the food did not suffer. Our waitress than closed out our tab without offering us dessert. Check to see what is going on locally before booking here as it can't handle the crowds."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, scenic view

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 1.0 out of 5 (Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 03/13/2010
(review submitted 03/14/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 4 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"We love Il Fornaio Del Mar and dine here often. Great regular menu and special menu, beautiful patio dining with heat lamps when necessary. Always good service and never had a bad meal."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 03/12/2010
(review submitted 03/14/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 5 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"We had a 2pm lunch date. After we were seated, the waitress took our drink order, and then took a full fifteen minutes (in a nearly empty restaurant)to return with the drinks. After I told her that was unacceptable, everything else went fine."

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, romantic, scenic view

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 03/12/2010
(review submitted 03/14/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 6 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"Good food at reasonable prices. The bread was outstanding. Main courses (two kinds of chicken and ravioli at our table) were very good. The wine was perfect (recommended by the waiter). We did not have dessert."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 03/09/2010
(review submitted 03/11/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 7 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"Service was slow for mid-week. Looked like they were short staffed."

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 03/09/2010
(review submitted 03/11/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 8 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
"We frequently dine at Il Fornaio in Coronado, so we were expecting the same level of expert service at the Del Mar location. Alas, it was not to be. Our server was not at all on the ball . She brought my wine, meant to be paired with my entree, out with my before dinner cocktail. When our soup arrived, we had no spoons and she seemed surprised when we asked for them; she then brought us teaspoons. After dinner, our coffee arrived sans cream or sugar. Again, she was surprised that we asked for them! She was happy to oblige and brought a few packets of Sugar in the Raw (good thing we didn't want Equal!). Luckily we had teaspoons from our soup appetizers, so were able to wipe those off on our napkins and use them to stir our coffee."

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/27/2010
(review submitted 03/01/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 9 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"Very good as usual, but I still wish that they would offer European service; in particular, that plates would only be cleared after all diners have completed the course."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/26/2010
(review submitted 02/28/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 10 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Great food and the service and location were fantastic. A little loud as it go more crowded as the evening went on. My only suggestion would be that if you can, try to agree on and order a bottle of wine instead of by the glass. I ordered a glass of red and our friend ordered a glass of white, and the servings were absolutely tiny. For $12 a glass we were expecting at least 1/2 a glass of wine in the good size glasses they have. A little weird that they give you a perfect size wine glass but the wine barely (and I mean barely) took up 1/4 of it. Next time we'll go for a bottle."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, special occasion, scenic view

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/26/2010
(review submitted 02/28/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 11 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"The Hostess and the food was excellent, the service fair, we will come back soon"

Special Features: great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, scenic view, great for lunch

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 1.0 out of 3 (Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/16/2010
(review submitted 02/24/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 12 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"My experience at Il Fornaio for brunch was AMAZING...everything was cooked perfectly (especially the bacon and the orange juice!!) and the waiters were great. Me and my boyfriends Valentines Day could not have been better, we will definetly be coming back!!!! The only thing I think they could have done better was put some rosemary in the poatoes for flavor but they were also DELICIOUS!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/24/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 13 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
"Great location, beautiful views but mediocre food and service. Bummer."

Food 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 1.0 out of 3 (Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/21/2010
(review submitted 02/24/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 14 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"Food was good, but it was extremely NOISEY! We could barely hear each other talk. Also Il Fornaio has changed there menu and do not have the selection I am used to. For example, I order gnocies about 75 % of the time I ear there, and it was not available."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Ambiance 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Service 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 1.0 out of 3 (Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/13/2010
(review submitted 02/19/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 15 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Great food, wine, service was outstanding, we were treated like royalty"

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/19/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 16 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"Bad service it seemed the hostess didn't want to be there. I'm thinking go home then! Appetizers were brought with no plates! Dessert was brought with no additional silver wear!"

Special Features: special occasion, scenic view

Food 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 1.0 out of 3 (Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/16/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 17 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"Great Meal! We arrived a few minutes early were greeted and seated intantly. Service was attentive and the food excellent. We were in Italy last summer and the deor and food are representative examples of the great food we encountered in Italy. Opne Table was provided a great reservation and addition to the dinning experience. Valentines evening is a busy night that was well managed and not a hurried rush. Our compliments to the wait satff and of course the chefs!
Bravo Bellisimo!"

Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/16/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 18 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"I am from Roseville, california and live near an excellent Il Fornaio. Il Fornaio Del mar was sub-par. As a veteran of the kitchen, the bolognese was akin to packaged meat sauce, the polenta was too soft and did not hold consistency next to a veal paired with a no-frills marsala sauce. We were packed into a 2-top table in between 2 other tables in half bench half chair booth area designed for a 5-top max. We also noticed there was several 4-top tables being occupied by two persons. I'd have been inclined to stay longer and enjoyed a bottle of wine and dessert if we were comfortably seated. My girlfriend wanted champange but there was no room remotely near the table to keep a champange bucket."

Food 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Ambiance 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/13/2010
(review submitted 02/15/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 19 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"Despite having a 7:30 reservation, it was 7:40 before we were sat...not a HUGE deal at all, though. It was a little crowded, but what do you expect for a Friday night. Honestly it was okay...nothing fantastic, but we may go."

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/12/2010
(review submitted 02/15/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 20 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"Food was decent besides being out of lamb at 8 pm on a sat night! Noise level was rediculous though.
Hard to hear a word myself and girlfriend were saying. Service was ok but what really irritated me was that
the manager went to the surrounding 3 tables and did not stop at ours to check in on us. Just because we are a
younger couple should be no reason not to treat us with the same respect. Other that it was decent. Won't
be returning though because of the loud loud noise and disrespect from the management."

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Service 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/13/2010
(review submitted 02/15/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 21 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Very nice atmosphere. Good food & service."

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/05/2010
(review submitted 02/07/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 22 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"I confess I go to Il Fornaio Del Mar once a month for their wonderful regional menu.I love that they recommend wines from the region that go well with each regional dish. The pairings really hit the mark and make the dinner even more enjoyable. Add that to good service, and a European atmosphere, and I'm in heaven.Thanks, Il Fornaio."

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 1.0 out of 3 (Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 02/02/2010
(review submitted 02/04/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 23 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
"The restaurant came highly recommended but we thought it was overrated. The food was ok, the service was less than stellar (the server forgot every single one of my husband's entrees) and the outside seating was very noisy. I hear that the Coronado location is far superior. Perhaps I will give it a try."

Special Features: notable wine list

Food 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Ambiance 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Service 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/08/2010
(review submitted 02/02/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 24 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"This is probably the most consistent restaurant in the area. The food is uniformly well prepared, and sometimes outstanding, the ambience is the most European in Del Mar, and the wines by the glass are decent. The specials are usually the best choice on the menu, although one of our favorite meals is sharing a salad and a pizza, all of which are good. The restaurant is very family friendly, with pizzas for kids that are always popular. The only problem is that the service can be very spotty, despite the numerous wait staff. It's hit or miss, depending upon your server."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view

Food 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/29/2010
(review submitted 01/31/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 25 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"Good food good selection reasonable prices felt rushed by as server"

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/29/2010
(review submitted 01/31/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 26 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"I love it! Great food and service always!"

Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 1.0 out of 3 (Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/25/2010
(review submitted 01/27/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 27 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
"Unpleasant. The service was terrible and the food marginal."

Food 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 1.0 out of 5 (Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/23/2010
(review submitted 01/25/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 28 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"It's a lovely restaurant with a good menu, I haven't been there in years and it was better than I remembered. The only thing I didn't like was the high noise level."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, scenic view

Food 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/15/2010
(review submitted 01/17/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 29 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"This was our second time dining at Il Fornaio and we will definitely be back again. The food is fantastic. We were seated in a nice cozy booth toward the back of the restaurant, which was nice."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/07/2010
(review submitted 01/11/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 30 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
"It is a beautiful restaurant, architecturally pleasing and very vibrant. The food however, aside from the bread, was terrible. My entre was actually burned on the top, and tasted like nothing. Our water glasses remained empty and the service was not terrible but they wanted to turn the table and that was obvious. I would go back for drinks but never dinner."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, hot spot

Food 1.0 out of 5 (Poor)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/09/2010
(review submitted 01/11/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 31 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"We go for the regional menu every month, alternating between Del Mar, Coronado, San Jose, and Irvine. Del Mar has always been problematic when it comes to service, but they really got back in the game this month. Service was near-perfect. The only complain (and it's minor) is that the entrees followed the appetizers a bit too closely. Other than that, we had an absolutely wonderful experience. Our faith is restored!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/08/2010
(review submitted 01/10/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 32 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"They outdid themselves on this month's "Regional Dinner" options!"

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 01/04/2010
(review submitted 01/05/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 33 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"This was our second time dining at Il Fornaio, and both experiences have been excellent. The food is delicious and the wine list extensive, and combined with attentive service in a very classy yet comfortable environment, this is one of our new favorite restaurants."

Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/31/2009
(review submitted 01/03/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 34 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"Our reservagtion at Il Fornai was for New Year's Eve. Our reservation was for 7:00pm and we were able to walk right in, announce ourselves, and were seated immediately. A "view" seating arrangement had been requested, and we were accommodated by being seated on the inside isle, on the window/ocean side of the restaurant. Our waiter was excellent. The food preparation quality was evident and the portion size fitting to the price. Very good dining experience--I would recommend to any/all friends."

Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, scenic view

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/31/2009
(review submitted 01/02/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 35 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"I am Sicilian and mom cooked me food for most of my life. I also worked at Italian restaurants for about 10 years of my life. This was by far the cleanest, best food, best service restaurant I have ever been to. The chef is also from Sicily, so that surely has something to do with how good the food was."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/31/2009
(review submitted 01/02/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 36 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Our dinner was delicious and our waitress was delightful. We enjoyed a New Year's Eve dinner with good friends. We especially enjoyed the festive atmosphere. We will surely visit again soon!"

Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/31/2009
(review submitted 01/02/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 37 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 1.0 out of 5 (Poor)
"The service was extremely slow, the food was cold when served, there were open tables despite the slow service. The food is average at this restaurant, but the service was absolutely horrid. Do not recommend."

Food 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
Ambiance 1.0 out of 5 (Poor)
Service 1.0 out of 5 (Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/31/2009
(review submitted 01/01/2010)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 38 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"I was disappointed that they were out of the Lamb Shanks, but the beef tenderloin with the Balsamic reduction sauce was pretty amazing. I had the polenta appetizer which was almost a meal in itself. The polenta was served in a rustic porridge style instead of a nice neat cut out shape. Pretty excellent food."

Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/27/2009
(review submitted 12/29/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 39 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Their monthly regional menu is one reason my family, my friends and I continue to return
to this attractive restaurant. Food and service is consistently excellent. We go to Il Formaio to celebrate special occasions, and when relatives from out of town come to visit. Although the outside dining area has a beautiful ocean view, the area gets very noisey as the tables fill up. Sadly it makes conversation almost impossible. Dine inside if you want to hear your friends across the table !"

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/16/2009
(review submitted 12/29/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 40 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"We all enjoyed the food and the service. Very attentive. Food quality and presentation was great."

Special Features: neighborhood gem, scenic view, hot spot

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/26/2009
(review submitted 12/28/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 41 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Excellent spot - for any occasion. Fabulous food, service and view. Can't ask for more!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 1.0 out of 3 (Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 11/22/2009
(review submitted 12/17/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 42 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Our evening at Il Fornaio in Del Mar was truly outstanding. From the moment we walked in, we could smell the succulent aromas coming from the open kitchen, garlic, rosemary and thyme stemming from the brick roasting oven. The casual, yet upscale ambiance made the spot special. Some dinners relaxed at the bar, others enjoyed the fantastic ocean view from the terrace, others, like me, inside, flanked by the long white marble kitchen counter amidst amber light, surrounded by buzzing activity. However, the most outstanding feature of this restaurant was the food, accompanied by a well-stocked wine list, and first rate service. Kudos!"

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/04/2009
(review submitted 12/06/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 43 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"This is one of our favorite restaurants. A great place for after work drinks as well."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion, scenic view

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 1.0 out of 3 (Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 12/02/2009
(review submitted 12/04/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 44 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
"Our experience was excellent while dining for lunch with a potential client. The assistant general manager, Barry Fagen, was especially accommodating and pleasant."

Special Features: great for lunch

Food 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 11/24/2009
(review submitted 12/03/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 45 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
"I thought the food was good, and reasonably priced. The service was excellent and the manager even stopped by to thank us for coming in. I would will be back!"

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view

Food 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 5.0 out of 5 (Outstanding)
Service 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 11/27/2009
(review submitted 12/02/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs

Review 46 for Il Fornaio - Del Mar

Overall Rating 2.0 out of 5 (Fair)
"waitress kept interupting our conversation - seemed overwelmed"

Food 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Ambiance 3.0 out of 5 (Good)
Service 1.0 out of 5 (Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 3.0 out of 3 (Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on 11/27/2009
(review submitted 12/02/2009)
Share this Review: Facebook Digg DelIcioUs
Ratings-Only Reviews for Il Fornaio - Del Mar Based on the average of (65) ratings-only reviews
Overall Rating 4.1 out of 5 (Very Good)
Food 4.2 out of 5 (Very Good)
Ambiance 4.0 out of 5 (Very Good)
Service 3.9 out of 5 (Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level 2.0 out of 3 (Moderate)
160*600 Advertising Space