San Diego Chef's Restaurants Earn Rare International Distinction

Dora Ristorante and Cori Pastificio Trattoria recognized by Italy's Gambero Rosso guide

Mar. 3, 2026 at 5:55am

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Chef Accursio Lota's Dora Ristorante in La Jolla earned the prestigious Tre Forchette (Three Forks) award from Italy's Gambero Rosso, making it one of only 34 restaurants outside of Italy to receive the honor. Lota's other restaurant, Cori Pastificio Trattoria in North Park, was also recognized with Due Bottiglie (Two Bottles) for excellence in its wine program.

Why it matters

The Tre Forchette and Due Bottiglie awards from Gambero Rosso, Italy's leading authority on global Italian dining, are highly coveted distinctions that reflect the exceptional quality, service, and culinary expertise of Lota's restaurants. This recognition puts San Diego on the international Italian dining map and showcases the city's growing culinary scene.

The details

Dora Ristorante, which opened in November 2025, was praised for its design-forward yet warm atmosphere, Sicilian-influenced cuisine with contemporary California techniques, and thoughtful hospitality details. Cori Pastificio Trattoria was recognized for its exceptional wine program curated by Sommelier and Wine Director Federico Cavalleri, highlighting Italy's diverse regions and respected producers.

  • Dora Ristorante opened in November 2025.
  • Dora Ristorante and Cori Pastificio Trattoria were recognized by Gambero Rosso in 2026.

The players

Accursio Lota

Chef and owner of Dora Ristorante and Cori Pastificio Trattoria in San Diego.

Dora Ristorante

A restaurant in La Jolla's Theatre District that earned the prestigious Tre Forchette (Three Forks) award from Italy's Gambero Rosso guide.

Cori Pastificio Trattoria

A restaurant in North Park that was recognized with Due Bottiglie (Two Bottles) from Gambero Rosso for excellence in its wine program.

Federico Cavalleri

Sommelier and Wine Director at Cori Pastificio Trattoria.

Gambero Rosso

Italy's leading authority on global Italian dining, which awards the prestigious Tre Forchette and Due Bottiglie distinctions.

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The takeaway

This recognition from Gambero Rosso, Italy's premier authority on global Italian dining, solidifies San Diego's growing reputation as a culinary destination and showcases the exceptional talent and dedication of local chefs like Accursio Lota, who are putting the city on the international map.