Vessia Restaurant

I haven't eaten at Vessia for more than a year, and I remember how the food used to be so authentic and the only Italian restaurant, other than Antonello that I would bring guests to. I brought a friend this week, and was so disappointed in th ... more

I haven't eaten at Vessia for more than a year, and I remember how the food used to be so authentic and the only Italian restaurant, other than Antonello that I would bring guests to. I brought a friend this week, and was so disappointed in the food, that I'm wondering if there is a new chef in the kitchen, or maybe just an off night. We started with the Calamari Fritti, and they were excellent, as usual. Light delicate breading, tender seafood, and a beautiful tomato salsina to accompany them. A+ on this one. But, I should have stopped there. My friend ordered a pizza. The crust was limp and soggy. If it had been my pizza, I would have sent it back. I ordered the Tritico Adriatico, which I have ordered several times in the past. The menu said the sauce was a "spicy" tomato spice. Spicy? I think not. It was a bland and boring sauce, watery, and no amount of salt and pepper on it could make it nice. I left half of it on my plate, which is not something I normally do. Has anyone else experience the quality going downhill? I hope it was just an off night because I really thought Mr. Vessia had things in order. less

Vessia has been steadlily gaining popularity in spite of a less than visible location. Owner Franco Vessia has carefully assembled a superior staff of caring and knowledgable individuals who make every attempt to make your evening special. The p ... more

Vessia has been steadlily gaining popularity in spite of a less than visible location. Owner Franco Vessia has carefully assembled a superior staff of caring and knowledgable individuals who make every attempt to make your evening special. The pastas are some of the best and unique around. No one does bolonese or eggplant lasagna like Vessia. The wine list is very comprehensive and more than fairly priced. An upscale neighborhood reminiscent of traditional Eastern Italian restaurants. less

A higher end authentic Italian restuarant in the middle of Irvine. It is classy, clean, and the food is delivered with great service. Owner Mr. Franco Vessia is always on hand to greet every customer that comes in the door. Their pastas are don ... more

A higher end authentic Italian restuarant in the middle of Irvine. It is classy, clean, and the food is delivered with great service. Owner Mr. Franco Vessia is always on hand to greet every customer that comes in the door. Their pastas are done aldente' and the sauces are not laced with too much garlic if at all. Their daily specials are prepared by the chef with great care. The menu items are full of variety from the salads as well as their pastas (including their mouth watering Gnocchi). They have pizzas but since it is prepared in the traditional fire ovens it does take time to prepare. The only disadvantage they have is that they are tucked away on the corner and the restaurant name is not so readily seen from the street. They are also right next door to another more family orientated restaurant. It is located on one corner of the Crossroad Center in Irvine. Try their daily specials, it will be "love at first sight". PS: The major of Irvine often frequents the restaurant enjoying it's cuisine. less