Best Restaurants with Private Rooms in La Mesa

We had a lovely new years brunch (though I do wish they actually served brunch fare). Everything was very delicious! The service, while very friendly and accommodating, got a little slow toward the end as it got busier, which is understandable. It would’ve been okay except we were in a booth that was one of two they have for parties of six but maybe six short, slim people? Pretty uncomfortable, especially in that corner spot, I spent the whole meal with my arms up over the back of the booth. I’m chubby but the rest of my party were regular sized men and one slim woman and we all felt squashed. But otherwise, a beautiful meal on a lovely day.

My wife and I had such a great evening at Giardino Neighborhood Cucina in Lemon Grove. The food was incredible – the Pappardelle Bolognese was rich and flavorful, the Tiramisu was perfect, and the wine selection really brought everything together. Roberto, our server, was amazing—so friendly and attentive. After dinner, we checked out Zest, the wine bistro right next door, owned by the same people as Giardino. Heather was working there and gave us great recommendations for wine, making it a perfect way to end the night. If you’re looking for delicious Italian food, awesome service, and a great spot to relax with a glass of wine, Giardino and Zest are a winning combo. We can’t wait to come back!

The great news: service was excellent, food spot on. We had bread (must have), beets, and a charcuterie plate to start, which was plenty for four of us. All was excellent, but the charcuterie was the standout: perfectly balanced, beautifully presented, and even came with notes so you knew what you were eating. For dinner, we had filet mignon, wagyu skirts, and a ribeye. All were superb and cooked exactly to specification. Desserts and drinks were also very good. The less fabulous: We asked for a quiet corner since it is a busy and crowded spot, and while we were in a corner of the private room in the back, so was a loud party of 6 or 8. We asked if they could do something, but nothing was done. Parking: Even at 5:30 on a Sunday, it was not easy to find a spot close by.. If there'd been valet, we'd have definitely used it. All in all, we'd do it again for a special occasion. The manager did listen to our noise issue, and acknowledged it impacted our experience tonight, so I don't expect it to happen again

We had a party of 10, and were pleasantly surprised when directed to a private room. The service was fabulous and the food did not disappoint. We had everything from teriyaki chicken to sashimi. This was our first time coming to this restaurant, and I look forward to revisiting many more times to come.

We celebrated my adult son's birthday here with Sunday brunch in December. The food was amazing, and the service was just right--attentive, but not hovering. I gave a 2/4 on noise level because the restaurant was fairly quiet and not filled to capacity for this holiday weekend brunch, but I imagine that it would be much more festive on a regular weekend evening. We will definitely return to sample their dinner menu.