Get ready to say “Basta!” to ordinary dining experiences and welcome in a new era of Italian-inspired cuisine as celebrated chef and television personality, Sam Zien (better known as Sam the Cooking Guy), launches his newest concept, BASTA!, in the heart of Little Italy. Led by Chef Gavin Mills, Director of Culinary, guests can expect new, fun twists on classic Italian dishes as well as signature ‘Sam the Cooking Guy’ bites. The grand opening is set for Thursday, June 6.
Situated in the vibrant Piazza della Famiglia, BASTA! is more than just a restaurant—it’s a culinary gathering place where friends become family and every meal is a celebration. BASTA! has an inviting, lively atmosphere and a patio perfect for soaking up the sunshine or cozying up by the firepits under the stars.
“We are thrilled to introduce BASTA! to San Diego,” said Sam Zien in a statement. “Our menu, filled with Italian-inspired eats and inventive cocktails, is designed to ignite your taste buds and foster connections, just like a family gathering. Basta means ‘enough’ in Italian, and here, it’s about reaching that sweet spot of satisfaction and wanting more.”
BASTA!’s menu, crafted by Sam Zien and Chef Gavin Mills, offers a fusion of Italian-inspired dishes such as Bone Marrow Garlic Bread, Sardines with Calabrian chili and greomolata, Chicken Liver Mousse, Crispy Herb Gnocchi, Handmade Cavatelli with Santa Barbara uni, and Ricotta Tortellini with asparagus, lemon, and crème fraiche. Whether you’re looking for casual, small bites or an elevated entrée, there’s something for everyone. These dishes, among others, exemplify the creative culinary artistry that BASTA! brings to the table.
BASTA! transcends being merely a word; it’s a culinary manifesto. At BASTA!, “enough is enough” becomes “enough is just the beginning.” When guests have savored their fill, they can venture into the Piazza della Famiglia or the Little Italy Food Hall to extend the experience with more cocktails and soak up the vibrant ambiance and energy of San Diego’s favorite neighborhood.
BASTA! is the latest concept by the Grain & Grit Collective, a hospitality group led by CEO Michael DiNorscia and dedicated to creating exceptional dining experiences. The Grain & Grit Collective is behind several popular ventures including Carnitas Snack Shack, Not Not Tacos by Sam the Cooking Guy, Little Italy Food Hall, Coo Coo’s Nest by Sam the Cooking Guy, and Samburgers by Sam the Cooking Guy.
