Your favorite Italian restaurant in Santa Monica

Some restaurants are created to serve food. Others are created to bring people together. 

Caffè Delfini was born in 1990, when three lifelong friends turned their dream of opening an authentic Italian restaurant into reality along the beautiful coastline between Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades. Inspired by their travels and shared love for Italy, they created a place where guests could enjoy genuine Italian cuisine, heartfelt hospitality, and the feeling of gathering around a family table.  Even our name has a story. The dolphin in our logo was inspired by a statue in London, where the founders shared unforgettable memories during the 1980s. More than three decades later, it remains a symbol of friendship, adventure, and the journey that gave life to Caffè Delfini.  While the years have brought new chapters, the soul of the restaurant has never changed. Alex, one of the founders, continues to guide Caffè Delfini with the same passion that inspired its opening day. Alongside him are his wife Teri and Riccardo, a proud Tuscan whose love for authentic Italian cooking and warm hospitality helps carry the tradition into a new generation.  Today, Caffè Delfini continues to be a beloved neighborhood destination where timeless family recipes, fresh ingredients, and genuine Italian hospitality come together in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're joining us for a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, a celebration with family and friends, or simply a glass of wine after a day by the ocean, our goal is always the same: to make you feel at home.  For us, every guest is part of the Caffè Delfini family, and every meal is an opportunity to create lasting memories. We believe that the best dining experiences are about more than great food; they are about sharing stories, laughter, and the simple joy of being together.  

 We look forward to welcoming you and sharing a little piece of Italy with you.  Con affetto, Alex, Teri and Riccardo