Hello dear
Welcome to Pernicanos Family Italian Restaurant
At Pernicanos Family Italian Restaurant, we celebrate the rich heritage of authentic Italian cuisine, nestled in the heart of El Cajon, California. This beloved family-owned eatery has become a local staple, known for its warm ambiance and welcoming service. The menu is a delightful homage to traditional flavors, featuring standout dishes such as the delectable Veal Marsala and creamy cheese tortellini with pesto. Guests rave about generous portions, perfect for sharing or savoring as leftovers. With a nostalgic charm and outdoor seating, Pernicanos invites you to enjoy a taste of Italy in a friendly atmosphere that feels like home.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Pernicano's Sampler
1/2 Order of Fettuccini Primavera
Full Order of Shells with Meat Sauce
Full Order of Linguini with Red or White Clam Sauce
About
Pernicanos Family Italian Restaurant
Welcome to Pernicanos Family Italian Restaurant, a cherished gem located at 1588 E Main St, El Cajon, CA 92021. This family-owned eatery brings a slice of Italy right to your table, offering an inviting atmosphere that resonates with nostalgia and warmth. Known for its generous portions, friendly service, and a menu that celebrates Italian culinary traditions, Pernicanos stands out as a must-visit destination for food lovers.
As you step inside, you’ll instantly be charmed by the quaint décor that echoes the restaurant’s long-standing history. Although some might describe the interior as “a little dated,” many patrons feel it adds character and personality to the dining experience. The outdoor seating option is equally delightful, allowing guests to enjoy their meals under the California sun.
Pernicanos boasts a diverse menu that caters to all palates:
- Gourmet Pizzas and Calzones: Whether you’re craving a classic cheese pizza or a more adventurous Chicken Breast and Broccoli calzone, the meals here are crafted with fresh ingredients and a special touch that truly honors Italian flavors.
- Satisfying Sandwiches: Try the torpedo sandwich, an absolute favorite among regulars. It’s crafted with an assortment of Italian meats, cheese, and a zesty dressing that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
- Hearty Pasta Dishes: From Spaghetti with Marinara to the rich Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, each dish is hearty and delectable, embodying the essence of classic Italian cooking.
Customer reviews highlight the culinary delights of Pernicanos. Samantha Madnick raves about their lasagna and creamy pesto cheese tortellini, praising the generous portions that often leave diners with delicious leftovers. Eder appreciates the swift service and variety of meals, noting that it’s a nostalgic spot in El Cajon and plans to return. Meanwhile, Brandy Blazen emphasizes the fresh ingredients and reasonable pricing, making it a beloved choice for both dining in and take-out.
Your visit to Pernicanos Family Italian Restaurant promises to be a rewarding culinary experience. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey through Italian flavors served with a generous helping of family warmth. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make every visit feel special, ensuring that you’ll want to come back for more. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner or celebrating a special occasion, Pernicanos is the place to savor authentic Italian cuisine that feels like a home-cooked feast.
For inquiries or to place an order, feel free to contact them at +1 619-444-4546. Treat yourself to the comforting taste of Italy at Pernicanos!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ So to be honest, I've actually never been inside of here both times we've got food. My husband has picked it up. Both times we've ordered.My husband has got the Veil Marsala and he really likes it and the first time I got the lasagna which was really good this time.I got the cheese tortellini with creamy pesto, which was also really good. Both times we get a side of their meatballs, and both meals come with small pieces of bread, so we have mini meatball subs, which is really awesome. Two meals per person, meaning we have leftovers for 50.Totally worth it. My husband said the staff was very nice and welcoming and helpful, even just for pickups. We will be going back a third time and more. Yum! ”
“ Food 4/5, service and atmosphere 5/5 for sure. One of the oldest nostalgic restaurants in el cajon. Dine in, outdoor seating. Variety of meals. Very fast and helpful service. Huge food portion. Reasonable prices. Indoor seating is a little dated and could use some enhancements, but with todays economy and fluctuations I don't mind it. I'll be back for sure. ”
“ Love to dine in and take out. Love this family owed Italian restaurant. Service is great. Food is always fresh. Reasonably priced. Interior is on the older side but gives it personality. ”
“ I love eating here! The service is great and the food is so good! I love the torpedo sandwhich in particular! Will continue to eat here! ”
“ Been wanting to try this place for a long time. Really cute from the outside. They have an awesome front door. I love the mustache handles. I enjoyed the white pizza. Delicious. I love the crust. I'm looking forward to having the sausage pepperoni pizza next. I took my pizza to go however the inside of the restaurant was darling. They also have outside. The ladies that were working were super friendly and nice. I highly recommend this place. ”
“ Pernicano's Family Italian Restaurant is one of my favorite restaurants of all time. It’s an Italian restaurant, and who doesn't like Italian, huh?? So, tonight I took my friend there who I haven't seen in years! I started off with the salad, a traditional salad, but what makes it great is the dressing - blue cheese, with chunks of real blue cheese!! For dinner, my friend and I both ordered the Saturday special of spaghetti and raviolis. It comes with a salad and rolls. The first bite had me; it was insanely good! I am giving Pernicano's 5 stars because it was a fine Italian dining experience without the hefty price tag. The atmosphere is quiet, perfectly lit, and the customer service was impeccable !! Not to mention, the food was great, the portions enormous, and the price was just right. (38 for two people.) Lastly, Pernicano's respects Veterans. The owner even came over and thanked me for my service. (I wonder if I can convince the Marine Corps. to put Pernicano's in the MRE's?? ”
“ This place is so good I love it,,,,, the ravioli , the buffalo chicken pizza and the chicken Alfredo ..... even the salad, and the mozzarella sticks !!!!! My new go to :P ”
“ We stumbled upon Pernicano’s after leaving San Diego airport headed for Yuma, and found an absolute treasure! We started with a HUGE, beautiful salad, and I had the Italian dressing. I’m here to tell you that I have never had a more refreshing salad dressing. Next came the fried mushrooms. They were amazing. Then the main course. I had the Saturday evening special (spaghetti with meat ravioli), and my wife had the chicken Parmesan with fettuccine Alfredo on the side. We quite literally moaned when we tasted it. Now the food was amazing, and the SERVICE! Maddie was an absolute delight, with a wonderful personality, and she was right there as if she could sense we might need something. Really, just top notch service. Now for the piece de resistance: Gary Pernicano came out to shake my hand and personally thank me for coming in to dine at his place. He is a WONDERFUL man, and he took the time to give me the history of the place passed down through the generations. He spoke lovingly about his parents, and told me that he started washing dishes in the place when was five years old. He also spoke of his brothers and other family members all of whom had 10 Pernicano’s restaurants throughout Southern California. If you drive by this place and don’t stop, you are missing a treasure! Six out of five stars. ”