Il Fornaio is a celebrated Italian restaurant chain established in 1972 in Italy, built on a legacy of authentic Italian cooking techniques. Among its most beloved locations is Il Fornaio Coronado, situated at the iconic Ferry Landing in the picturesque coastal community of Coronado, California.
This location offers more than just great food. The restaurant features an elegant atmosphere with vaulted ceilings, wood-paneled windows, and breathtaking San Diego Bay views. The heated al fresco patio makes it a sought-after destination for romantic dinners, business lunches, and special celebrations.
The restaurant’s reputation is backed by impressive numbers, over 6,183 OpenTable reviews, 16,178 visitor reviews on Restaurant Guru with a 4.3 rating, and a 4.4 Google score. Signature offerings include housemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas with mozzarella imported from Italy, fresh seafood linguine, and classic desserts like tiramisu.
Beyond everyday dining, Il Fornaio Coronado also serves as a premier event venue for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and corporate gatherings. This article explores what makes it one of the most consistently recommended Italian dining experiences on the California coast.
Il Fornaio: A Simple Overview
How It Started
Il Fornaio began as a baking school in Italy in 1972. Later, in 1986, Larry Mindel turned it into a restaurant concept, and the first Il Fornaio restaurant opened in California in 1987. It started as a bakery but soon became a full-service Italian restaurant offering a complete dining experience.
Where You Can Find Il Fornaio
Il Fornaio mainly operates in California, where most of its restaurants are located. In 2019, there were about 20 locations, with 16 in California. Currently, there are around 18 locations, with a focus on California and Nevada.
Il Fornaio also has restaurants in Las Vegas, Nevada, at famous places like the New York-New York Hotel & Casino and The Venetian Resort Hotel. In the past, it had locations in Colorado, Seattle, and Virginia, but today, the focus is mainly on California and Nevada.
Il Fornaio Coronado Restaurant Menu With Prices
The menu at Il Fornaio Coronado features an array of culinary delights, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. Diners can savor a variety of dishes inspired by the diverse flavors of Italy’s coastal regions.
Antipasti
| Dish | Description | Price |
| CALAMARETTI FRITTI | Deep-fried baby squid, spicy marinara sauce | $22 |
| BRUSCHETTE ASSORTMENT | Garlic grilled ciabatta with 3 toppings: funghi tartufati, roasted cherry tomatoes, pesto & burrata | $16 |
| RICOTTINA AFFUMICATA | Cherry wood smoked fresh ricotta, rosemary honey, toasted almonds, grilled ciabatta | $15 |
| ARANCINI CON CREMA DI PISTACCHIO | Saffron carnaroli rice, fontina, pistachio crema | $17 |
| POLIPO CON PATATE | Grilled octopus, celery, cherry tomatoes, red onions, potatoes, lemon olive oil | $22 |
| BURRATA CON PROSCIUTTO | Burrata, prosciutto di Parma, arugula, grilled ciabatta, basil olive oil | $19 |
| POLPETTINE | Beef meatballs, tomato sauce, and fresh ricotta | $20 |
| CARPACCIO* | Piedmontese beef, grana padano, capers, wild arugula, lemon olive oil | $19 |
| CAVOLFIORI | Roasted cauliflower, roasted garlic, rosemary olive oil | $16 |
Vegan
| Dish | Description | Price |
| GNOCCHI GRATINATI | Housemade potato dumplings, truffled mushrooms, cream sauce, and grana padano | $16 |
| CAVOLETTI ARROSTITI | Brussels sprouts, caramelized onions, bacon, balsamic glaze | $16 |
| CESTINO DEL PANE (serves 4) | Fresh-baked bread, extra-virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar | $4 |
| Add roasted tomato spread & mixed olives | +$4 |
Pasta Fresca
(Fresh, handmade pasta; gluten-free options available)
| Dish | Description | Price |
| RIGATONI ALLA VODKA | Pasta tubes, bacon, vodka-cream-tomato sauce, grana padano | $23 |
| FUSILLONI | Large corkscrew pasta, roasted tomato sauce, burrata | $22 |
| Add chicken | +$14 | |
| Add salmon* | +$15 | |
| Add shrimp | +$15 | |
| GNOCCHI ALLA FRIULANA | Housemade potato dumplings, Italian sausage, mushrooms, tomato-cream sauce, grana padano | $27 |
| TAGLIATELLE BOLOGNESE | Egg pasta ribbons, traditional meat ragu, grana padano | $24 |
| LINGUINE MARE CHIARO | Thin pasta, clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops, roasted cherry tomato sauce, crushed red pepper, white wine | $33 |
| CASARECCE AL PESTO E POLLO | Short pasta twists, chicken breast, sundried tomatoes, traditional pesto cream sauce | $31 |
| LASAGNA FERRARESE | Pasta sheets, meat ragu, porcini mushrooms, grana padano, béchamel | $28 |
| RAVIOLI ZUCCA | Butternut squash & walnut ravioli, brown butter sage sauce, vellutata sauce, crispy sage, walnuts | $28 |
| RAVIOLI BRASATO NORCINA | Braised short rib ravioli, porcini mushrooms, grana padano-cream sauce | $32 |
Minestra e Insalate
| Dish | Description | Price |
| MINESTRONE DI VERDURE | Seasonal vegetable soup | Cup $11 / Bowl $12 |
| INSALATA DEL FORNAIO | Lettuce mix, grana padano, croutons, house vinaigrette | $15 |
| INSALATA CESARINA | Romaine lettuce, grana padano, croutons, housemade Caesar dressing | $15 |
| INSALATA BIETOLE | Organic red & gold beets, wild arugula, toasted walnuts, goat cheese, red wine vinaigrette | $15 |
| CAPRESE TRADIZIONALE | Vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, mixed olives, basil olive oil | $16 |
| INSALATA REGINA | Wild arugula, couscous, avocado, tomatoes, red onions, capers, raisins, lemon-olive oil dressing | $15 |
| INSALATA DI PERE | Roasted pears, baby lettuces, seedless red grapes, gorgonzola, pecans, pomegranate dressing | $15 |
| Add Chicken | +$14 | |
| Add Salmon* | +$15 | |
| Add Shrimp | +$15 |
Pizza
(Thin-crust pizza using housemade dough)
| Dish | Description | Price |
| MARGHERITA | Mozzarella, tomato sauce, oregano, fresh basil | $20 |
| CALZONE APERTO | Open calzone, mortadella with pistachios, baby wild arugula, burrata, pistachio pesto | $21 |
| CALABRESE | Spicy salame, gorgonzola, mozzarella, tomato sauce, oregano | $22 |
| CRISTINA | Fresh mozzarella, prosciutto di Parma, grana Padano, mushrooms, wild arugula, and white truffle oil | $23 |
| FRADIAVOLA | Mozzarella, Italian sausage, tomato sauce, mushrooms, bell peppers, red onions, spicy pepperoncino | $22 |
Griglia
(Authentic Italian specialties from our rotisserie & grill)
| Dish | Description | Price |
| SALMONE ALLA GRIGLIA* | Grilled Norwegian salmon, lemon, extra-virgin olive oil, sautéed spinach, roasted Yukon gold potatoes | $38 |
| POLLO TOSCANO | Free-range rosemary chicken, broccolini, baby carrots, mashed potatoes | $34 |
| POLLO AI FUNGHI | Chicken breast, mixed mushrooms, marsala wine sauce, grilled asparagus, mashed potatoes | $35 |
| BRANZINO LIVORNESE* | Mediterranean seabass fillet, roasted tomatoes, olive & caper sauce, broccolini, baby carrots, roasted Yukon gold potatoes | $46 |
| GAMBERONI E CAPESANTE* | Seared scallops & prawns, lobster cream sauce, venere risotto, micro arugula | $44 |
| FILETTO AL VINO ROSSO* | Grilled beef tenderloin, red wine reduction sauce, mushrooms, sliced potatoes & onions | $55 |
| GRIGLIATA DI PESCE MISTO* | Fish fillet, scallops, prawns, salmon, lemon-olive oil sauce, broccolini, baby carrots, roasted Yukon gold potatoes | $41 |
| SCALOPPINE AL LIMONE* | Veal, white wine, capers, lemon sauce, sautéed spinach, mashed potatoes | $42 |
Note:
Served raw or undercooked or contains raw or undercooked ingredients. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Happy Hour Menu
Available in the Bar Area
Monday – Friday | 3 – 6 PM
Antipasti & Pizza
Antipasti
| Dish | Description | Price |
| CALAMARETTI FRITTI | Deep-fried baby squid, spicy marinara sauce | $13 |
| BRUSCHETTE ASSORTMENT | Garlic-grilled ciabatta with 3 toppings: Funghi Tartufati, Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, Pesto & Burrata | $9 |
| CAVOLFIORI | Roasted cauliflower, roasted garlic, rosemary olive oil | $10 |
| POLPETTINE | Beef meatballs, tomato sauce, and fresh ricotta | $12 |
| CAVOLETTI ARROSTITI | Brussels sprouts, caramelized onions, bacon, balsamic glaze | $10 |
| ARANCINI CON CREMA DI PISTACCHIO | Saffron Carnaroli rice, fontina, pistachio crema | $10 |
Pizza
| Pizza | Description | Price |
| PIZZA MARGHERITA | Mozzarella, tomato sauce, oregano, fresh basil | $12 |
| PIZZA FRADIAVOLA | Mozzarella, Italian sausage, tomato sauce, mushrooms, bell peppers, red onions, spicy pepperoncino | $13 |
Dessert
Dolci
Ricette Tradizionali
Desserts crafted from traditional Italian family recipes
| Dessert | Description | Price |
| TIRAMISÙ | Ladyfingers, mascarpone, espresso, rum, cocoa powder | $14 |
| TORTA DI FORMAGGIO | Cheesecake, mixed berries, graham cracker crust, strawberry compote | $15 |
| VULCANO | Warm chocolate cake, creamy center, caramel sea salt gelato | $15 |
| BUDINO DI PANE ALLA BANANA E NUTELLA | Warm bread pudding, hazelnut chocolate, Frangelico liqueur, banana, pecans, vanilla gelato | $15 |
Gelati
Desserts created with Italian gelato
| Gelato Dessert | Description | Price |
| AFFOGATO AL CAFFÈ | Espresso, vanilla gelato, whipped cream | $14 |
| Make it boozy | Add your choice of digestivi or liquori | +$6 |
| SPUMONE GELATO | Strawberry, chocolate hazelnut & pistachio gelato, cherries, chocolate chips, pistachios, raspberry & chocolate sauce | $15 |
| GELATI MISTI | Dark chocolate gelato, vanilla gelato, strawberry sorbet | $14 |
| SCOOP OF GELATO | Vanilla, dark chocolate, caramel sea salt, amarena cherry, strawberry sorbet | $9 each |
Cocktail Dolci
The perfect cocktail to finish the meal
| Cocktail | Description | Price |
| ICED TIRAMISÙ | SelvaRey chocolate rum, DeKuyper white crème de cacao, RumChata, freshly brewed espresso, and amaretto whipped cream | $15 |
| CREMONCELLO | Baileys Irish Cream, Lucano Limoncello, Disaronno Amaretto, lavender | $15 |
5 Must-Try Dishes from the Il Fornaio Menu
If you’re craving a true taste of Italy, Il Fornaio offers one of the best Italian dining experiences across multiple U.S. cities. Known for its handcrafted pastas, wood-fired specialties, and fresh, regional recipes, this upscale yet welcoming restaurant brings authentic Italian cuisine to your table.
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic dinner or a group gathering, the Il Fornaio menu delivers something special for every palate. Here are five must-try dishes that stand out:
1. Calamaretti Fritti
Lightly floured baby squid fried to golden perfection and served with a zesty spicy marinara sauce. It’s crispy, tender, and a perfect way to start your meal.
2. Carpaccio
Thinly sliced Piedmontese-style beef served with lemon, capers, arugula, and shaved Grana Padano cheese. A light yet flavorful appetizer that sets the tone for a traditional Italian experience.
3. Rustichella Flatbread
Topped with goat cheese, mozzarella, tomatoes, red onions, olives, fresh basil, and oregano, this wood-fired flatbread is savory, aromatic, and satisfying with every bite.
4. Linguine Mare Chiaro
A seafood lover’s dream! This linguine features clams, mussels, prawns, and scallops tossed in a roasted cherry tomato and white wine sauce. It’s fresh, light, and bursting with coastal Italian flavor.
5. Risotto al Barolo con Manzo
This creamy risotto is slow-cooked with Amarone wine and paired with tender beef and porcini mushrooms. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for colder nights or hearty appetites.
The Coronado Experience: Service and Events
At Il Fornaio Coronado, service is paramount, greatly contributing to the overall dining experience. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, always ready to make personalized recommendations and ensure every guest feels welcomed.
The restaurant also hosts special events and promotions unique to the Coronado location.
From live music on select evenings to wine tastings that celebrate regional producers, the vibrant events calendar keeps the dining experience fresh and exciting. Additionally, Il Fornaio is a suitable venue for special occasions, offering private dining options for celebrations ranging from intimate gatherings to corporate events.
Quick Guide About Il Fornaio Coronado
| Details | Information |
| ⭐ Rating | 4.4 ★★★★☆ (2,648 Google reviews) |
| 💲 Price Range | $30–$50 per person |
| 🍝 Cuisine | Italian Restaurant |
| 🌐 Website | For Il Fornaio Coronado’s full menu, visit the official website here. |
| 📍 Address | 1333 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118, United States |
| 🕒 Hours | 11:30 am–9 pm |
| 📞 Phone | +1 619-437-4911 |
| 📅 Reservations | opentable.com |
| 🍽 Service Options | Outdoor Seating · Fireplace · Great Cocktails |
| 📝 Description | Upmarket chain for Italian dining, including freshly made pasta & bread from an in-house bakery. |
Hours of Operation
- Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
- Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location on map:
Il Fornaio Coronado Ca Reviews
Overall Reviews: 4.4/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) Based on 2,648 reviews. Google Reviews.
FAQs
What does Il Fornaio mean?
Il Fornaio means “The Baker” in Italian.
Who owns Il Fornaio?
Il Fornaio is owned by a restaurant group called King’s Seafood Company.
What is De Rossi Il Fornaio Verona?
De Rossi Il Fornaio Verona is another restaurant that serves Italian food in Verona, Italy.
Did Il Fornaio close in Seattle?
Yes, Il Fornaio has closed its location in Seattle.
What is the dress code at Il Fornaio Coronado?
The dress code at Il Fornaio Coronado is smart casual, so dress nicely but comfortably.
Conclusion
Il Fornaio Coronado, California, stands out not only for its exquisite coastal setting but also for its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine and exceptional dining experiences. With its warm ambiance, delicious menu offerings, and commitment to service, this restaurant invites all to experience the delightful tastes of Italy by the sea.
🍽️ Book your reservation today to experience the taste of coastal Italy at Il Fornaio Coronado! Visit the website to view the menu and make your reservation.
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