Marisi

Marisi is an upscale Italian restaurant and wine bar located in La Jolla, California. It offers a sophisticated dining experience combining traditional Italian hearth cooking with modern culinary techniques.

Established in 2022, Marisi has quickly become a notable destination for locals and visitors seeking authentic Italian cuisine in a refined setting.

The restaurant's ambiance is designed to transport guests to the Italian coast. Features include a 10-foot brick and tiled Italian hearth, an expansive sunlit patio, high arched walkways, and a private dining room called 'The Lemon Room.'

The interior is adorned with vintage art prints, mosaic bar tops, and custom wall décor. The color palette of yellows, greens, blues, and pinks creates an inviting and elegant atmosphere.

Menu and Culinary Offerings

Marisi's menu showcases handmade pasta paired with wood-fired dishes from the hearth. The emphasis is on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Signature dishes include:

• Agnolotti with corn, California crab, Aleppo pepper, and chives
• Pappardelle with duck ragu Genovese, Tehachapi rye, and preserved lemon
• Chicory Salad with salami, tomato, red onion, almonds, oregano, and Piave Vecchio cheese

The restaurant also offers dry-aged locally sourced fish and beef, available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Beverage Program

The beverage program is curated by Bar and Spirits Creative Director Beau du Bois. It includes an array of Italian aperitivos, homemade limoncello, rare spirits, and an Italian Pilsner brewed specifically for the restaurant.

Marisi honors Italy's historic ties to vermouth with a selection of over thirty brands. Guests can enjoy tableside Martinis made with Bordiga's Extra Dry Vermouth.

Wine Director Chris Plaia leads a wine program that focuses on unique Italian varietals, micro-producers, and progressive wine styles, offering a diverse and enriching wine experience.

Leadership and Ownership

In April 2025, Marisi underwent significant leadership changes with the departure of Executive Chef Cameron Ingle and General Manager Steve Schwob. Chef Ingle, who joined in August 2023, cited a strategic shift led by culinary director Damien Bibb.

The restaurant is owned by the Adler family, known for their successful Mexican restaurant chain Puesto.

Locations

Marisi operates primarily in La Jolla, California, with its main location at 1044 Wall Street.

In addition to the La Jolla location, the restaurant has expanded to other locations in Southern California:

• San Diego, CA, USA
• El Cajon, CA, USA

Guests can contact the La Jolla location at (858) 401-6787 for reservations or more information.