Giovanni's: an engaging convergence of world cuisine

Although Giovanni’s in Murrieta has only been open for eight months, the diverse Italian restaurant is continuing a tradition of success that began with a Menifee establishment in 1991. Owned by John and Nila Gagon, a personable couple who love what they do, the restaurant has already become a busting hive of activity. “We love people and feel like we are having a big dinner party and inviting the world,” Nila commented.

Although the restaurant has an Italian name and a definite Tuscan decorative touch, the menu is a mix of several cuisines. “We serve basically everything we love to eat,” Nila said. There are fifteen various Italian Grinder sandwiches from which to choose and a complete menu of appetizers and salads. What would an Italian restaurant be without pizza? Giovanni’s offers several pizza choices such as Chicken Alfredo and Barbeque Chicken.

Giovanni’s Specialties are mostly Italian dishes with one exception called Thai Chicken, which was too good to leave off just because it wasn’t Italian. It is a generous serving of sliced chicken breast sautéed in peanut sauce and accented with julienne carrots, fresh garlic, peanuts and cilantro, then served on a bed of pasta with sweet onions. It’s an exotic blend and a bit spicy.

Even before the entree is served, a basket brimming with fresh baked garlic bread is set on the table. Dip it in the melted butter enhanced by balsamic vinegar and you will almost forget that there is more to come!

The desserts are culinary surprises, and one of the most engaging is the Cannoli, a recipe from Italy, which is reputed to have been around for two thousand years. It’s a dreamy confection made with a puffy pastry shell stuffed with white chocolate cream, then drizzled with dark chocolate and topped with whipped cream. In the mood for just coffee and dessert? The Cannoli is an elegant choice.

Giovanni’s is located in the Murrieta Spectrum at 25145 Madison Avenue, Suite 101, and is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Access the Web site http://www.giovanniinfo.com or call (951) 696-9191 for further information.