San Diego’s Busalacchi Restaurants (Barbusa, Nonna, Zucchero) has officially opened doors to its newest restaurant and cocktail bar, Lala, at 1919 India Street in Little Italy.
Lala is one door north from its sibling restaurant, Barbusa. The launch marks a 40-year milestone for Busalacchi Restaurants serving the San Diego community.
Executive Chef Nino Zizzo’s menu mirrors modernized Italian classics and comfort foods served at the family’s other concepts. The bar program was created by Busalacchi Restaurants’ Antonio Gonzales (Juniper & Ivy, Stake Chophouse & Bar).
“We wanted to create something that our family and the community would be proud of, providing the same level of care and hospitality as my dad and uncle’s restaurants,” says PJ Busalacchi, part of the next generation of brothers helming the business. “Lala is quaint and intimate, welcoming everyone into the space like you’re a part of our family.”
From Lala’s kitchen, look for slow-simmered Cioppino and savory Veal Parmigiana, Lala Caviar blinis with crème fraiche, Steak Tartare with Chicharrones, “Loaded Potato” Gnocchi, and a decadent New York Strip.
A nod to Italian charm with a touch of moody decadence, Lala’s aesthetic takes a more-is-more approach, layering eclectic design influences and tasseled textures. Interior designer Taylor Shaffer (LPA Design Studio and a former founding partner of Open Gym) echoed the flirtatious atmosphere of Lala’s Italian-influenced neighborhood through two-toned olive leather and velvet furnishings, eclectic lighting and décor, antique mirrors, and curved walnut paneling juxtaposed by natural stone and hues of coral and burnt sienna throughout.
Lala is open daily from 5-11 p.m. with future plans for an extended late-night service on weekends. Reservations are highly encouraged. For more information go to: Lala. SDSun
