Ciao Pasta Trattoria

I was in need of finding something I was halfway between Orange County and Oceanside. I discovered Ciao Pasta in San Juan Capistrano. This charming eatery is a testament to the authentic Italian dining. Upon entering, I was greeted by the warm and inviting ambiance that promised an evening of delightful indulgence. The selection of local California wines. For starters we prosciutto with mozzarella was The lemon pasta was al dente, coated in a light and zesty lemon sauce, was a refreshing twist on a classic dish.

Great Italian Restaurant

Ciao Pasta came up when I was researching on where to eat in San Juan Capistrano. After a morning walking around Mission, we went to Ciao Pasta for a late lunch. They recommended these two pasta dishes: Ciao Pasta in a tomato cream sauce and Mezze Maniche with a touch of cream. Both were freshly made and at the top of my list of best fresh pasta that I have ever tried. Dining al fresco was also a plus!

We went on a busy Saturday evening, my first visit. I had a last minute change with my reservation, and they graciously accommodated me. We were seated inside (got lucky), but the noise level was quite high. Food was overall very good: > the house bread with olive spread was very good > Della Casa (green salad), just OK > Brasato di Manzo (short rib with pasta), very good cut of meat, tasty pasta in tomato sauce > Tiramisu, excellent flavor, nice size serving Service was good, friendly and fairly quick I was disappointed that my reservation thru OpenTable, where I was asked if it was a special occasion (it was our 50th anniversary) was not noticed by the restaurant. If they ask about special occasions, but don’t respond to the information, what’s the point of asking ? Recommended.

Great spot. They have a large outside area which is the only place i have ever been sat. The chicken parm is great. The service is good and quick. Parking is a bit tricky, but there are are a couple of lots where you can usually find some spots.

As first-time guests, we enjoyed our experience, although inside dining was pretty noisy on a weeknight. Will try the outdoor patio next. I had the chicken parmigiana and the chicken breast served was delicious and absolutely HUGE. And, yes, as noted previously, the bread is excellent. Service was friendly, efficient and attentive. We'll return again.

Amazing place amazing staff food is to die for

Went for birthday dinner with family. Delicious food. I had the halibut and my husband had the sea bass. Margherita pizza, fettuccine,Mac and cheese for the little guy. Definitely will go back next time we're in CA

Today at 9:30 am when restaurant is closed the driver of the van with restaurant name came to my car where I was sitting and eating my breakfast and personally told me that I cannot park here and that it is the area to park for the restaurant at 9:30 am??? The parking lot was empty. Every day for the last 10 years I come to get my coffee at the coffee house and walk downtown of my town with no problem. I am out of this parking lot by 10 am. I pay taxes in this city and I want to enjoy my walk and cup of coffee and massage with no driver of restaurant disturbing my privacy. I think it is an overreach of the driver of the van to personably disturb the owners of parked cars. There is a parking police to go it. Very inappropriate and scary.