Welcome To GIO Restaurant

Previously known as the Village Garden Restaurant, GIO is a beautiful new restaurant in the heart of downtown La Mesa on the corner of Allison and La Mesa Boulevard. After nine months of renovation, GIO has transformed into a remarkable restaurant that includes a wine bar, coffee bar, and a full dining experience. With a covered patio and open terrace, our customers get to enjoy the wonderful San Diego weather.

Highlighted on our patio is a seven foot water wall, stainless steel outdoor fireplace and an electric patio cover that gives our customers the flexibility to enjoy the great weather and still gives the customers protection against the rain.

The outdoor terrace features countless umbrella covered tables and seats 266 guests. This unique venue is ideal for events, parties, and receptions.

Indoors the 25’ high barrel ceilings soar over a live entertainment mezzanine and open floor plan restaurant. An 18’ bar overlooking the pedestrian filled sidewalk in front allows customers to engage the street traffic while sipping one of our hand picked wines of savory tapas

GIO is named after the owner Gabriel Giordano and is a bold departure from the generations of antique shops in 100 year old buildings that line the one mile stretch of downtown La Mesa. GIO injects new life into a classic neighborhood.

Although GIO has the look of a hip downtown bistro, Gabriel, born, raised and still residing in La Mesa, could not resist adding the La Mesa touch to the menu. The Mt. Helix signature sandwich is a three layer parmesan crusted sourdough sandwich with grilled tomatoes, Haas avocado, Swiss and cheddar cheeses. The Lake Murray Omelette features asparagus and mushrooms, while The Jewel of the Hills Frittata featuring baby spinach and lump crab meat.

In addition to these La Mesa named specialties, GIO offers 35 select varietal wines by the glass, flight or bottle, local produce and the freshest seafood.

GIO is the perfect blend of sophistication, style, and charm. GIO is in position to rival any restaurant in San Diego County.