Mamma Rosa Italian - El Cajon

To end the night, we tried to look for an Italian spot that was in El Cajon and we came across Mamma Rosa's. The outside of the restaurant doesn't do the inside as much justice. The inside of the restaurant in the evening has a special ambiance with the dimmed lights. Among everyone there, we ordered and shared 2 Fettuccine Alfredo's with shrimp and a chicken and broccoli, 2 pizzas, a lentil soup, a minestrone, fried calamari, and a caesar salad. It's convenient that they offered a full and half sized portion for the pastas, because we ate earlier and ya girl was trying not to overdo it and throw up lolz Our waitress, Shelby, was very helpful and funny. She did what she does best and helped my family get well-accommodated especially for us coming in an hour before closing. Our service was very good and the food was just as good as well.

What a great experience at Mamma Rosa's! We had to beat lasagna which is some of the best we've ever had. And we have been to Italy mini mini times.

Outstanding family meal. Portions were great and the best part was the taste. Service was excellent.

For such a small place they've done a really nice job of mixing a homey feel with a modern touch. Family owned it was wonderful to hear this has been passed down through the generations. Prices are very reasonable and staff is friendly. Food is made to order so expect to spend some nice time with your company catching up. We really enjoyed Helen whose enthusiasm for the restaurant is infectious. Ok, the food! Mom loves testing new restaurants by their spaghetti. She liked the sauce and I concur. It wasn't a fatty sauce, it was well balanced, not greasy. Noodles were perfectly al dente, not too soft, not too hard. (lol momma bear). Dad thought his pastrami sandwich was Ok which is actually high praise from him. I enjoyed my 1/2 portion lasagna as it was just the right size. Bread was fresh and soft with just the right amount of toast. Aside from the noise (wish there was something to absorb more of the sound), it was a nice evening out. We are enjoying exploring local El Cajon gems like these.

First time here; wow. Blown away. Total awesome mom and pop vibe, delicious food. The servers really take the time to get to know you, and listen to you when you order. This will be a new go-to.