The Italian expats behind San Diego's popular Cesarina restaurant are expanding, opening an “osteria-pizzeria” in Ocean Beach later this year.

Cesarina Group — OB residents Chef Cesarina Mezzoni and husband Niccolò Angius, and friend Giuseppe Capasso — will open Elvira at 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd.

The team behind Cesarina Group. | Photo via Cesarina Group

Keeping it in the family, it’s named after Angius’ late great-grandmother whose love language was food.

The restaurant’s design will mimic the charming, “storybook eateries” of Rome (think earth tones, thrifted artwork, family portraits). The menu will revolve around wood-fired, Roman-style pizzas, and also include handmade pastas, rotating seasonal dishes, wines, and cocktails made with classic Italian spirits.

The private dining area — "Cucina di la Nonna" — will feel just like being at Great-Grandma Elvira's house. | Rendering via Limes Architetti

Patrons will find nods to Great-Grandma Elvira all over, but especially in an 8-person private dining room called “Cucina di La Nonna” (grandmother’s kitchen) complete with family-style dining, music on vinyl, and a cabinet full of mismatched plates and flatware.

Update: Elvira opened in mid-November 2023 — check it out.