Welcome to Buona Forchetta

LIVE THE BUONA LIFE

Experience a piece of the Buona Forchetta San Diego heritage through authentic Italian recipes that have been handed down through generations. Today, there are five locations around San Diego and our two newest in Orange County. Buona Forchetta’s seventh is NOW OPEN in Peninsula Village near the Newport Marina. Buona Forchetta’s Italian wood-fired pizzas—with the perfectly soft-yet-crispy crusts—continue to garner awards, including San Diego Magazine Best Pizza 2023 Critic’s Choice, Gambero Rosso Best Pizzeria, Gayot Best Italian Restaurant San Diego, OpenTable Diner’s Choice and more. Our handmade pasta dishes bursting with rich flavors, fresh seafood specialties, and decadent desserts will all leave you craving more. All Buona Forchetta locations also offer gluten-free Italian options and rotating specials.

Explore our menu, discover our story, and reserve your table online.
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The Story

This story begins with a passion for authentic Italian cuisine and a deep-rooted commitment to quality. In 2011, Italian-born Matteo Cattaneo launched Buona Forchetta to recreate the warm and inviting atmospheres of Italian trattorias. The demand for Buona Forchetta’s authentic Italian cuisine led to the opening of additional locations in Liberty Station, Encinitas, San Marcos, Coronado, and San Clemente, each one embracing the spirit and passion that defined the original. The newest addition to the famiglia, Newport, has fired up the oven for the first time this September. This is the second Orange County location.

The Buona Forchetta family has also grown to include five additional concepts including Matteo for a Cause, a nonprofit restaurant located in South Park, San Diego. 100% of Matteo’s profits benefit regularly rotating, community-based charities and causes. 

AWARDS + RECOGNITION

BUONA FORCHETTA CATERING

BRING BUONA TO YOU!

When it comes to Italian catering in San Diego, Buona Forchetta stands out as a premier choice for anyone looking to host an unforgettable event. Our Italian catering services bring the beloved flavors of Italy to your special events, whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering, or private celebration. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to create a customized menu that perfectly suits your taste and event style. From exquisite antipasti platters to handmade pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas made on-site, our catering offerings showcase the same authenticity and quality that have made Buona Forchetta a beloved destination for Italian food in San Diego. 

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More Than A Meal

"At Buona Forchetta, we believe that food is more than just sustenance—it is an experience that brings people together, creates lasting memories, and celebrates the simple joys of life."

NEWPORT IS NOW OPEN!

Book your table at our brand-new location in Peninsula Village in Newport Beach!