14425 Newport Ave.
Tustin, CA 92780
714-832-3434
For close to two decades, Flavio Renteria was the dishwasher. Now he owns the place, and his name's on the sign. Don't expect Mozza by Batali. This is a neighborhood, red-sauce Italian joint where a karaoke machine is routinely rolled out and Wednesday nights are devoted to all-you-can-eat pasta. You should order the lasagna ($10.25), a perfectly executed dish served fuming under a blanket of cheese. We like Flavio's chicken Marsala ($11.95), which is as good and moist as breast meat ever gets. Olive Garden and Bucca Di Beppo be damned.
Flavio's has been one of regular weekly (if not more) stops for lunch and dinner. The food is excellent Italian...his soups are marvelous, home baked bread on his sandwiches..interesting pasta dishes and the best pizza! He has such pride of ownership..The restaurant is charming and his personality adds to the ambiance. You won't be disappointed!
I heartily concur with the distinction! I go to Flavio's weekly and the man has his sites on good old fashioned neighborhood Italian with a hint of real class in the menu and wine list! He has really made this place sing from the menu and presentation to the ambiance and genuine friendliness. There is literally no place like it!
