By Will McCurdy

Thanksgiving is a time to spend with family around a newly cleaned table, waiting to carve into

a dead avian stuffed with an assortment of spices and bread, while ignoring offensive political

comments from someone who dipped into the wine a bit too early.

For those who are unable to experience a traditional Thanksgiving with family due to a lack of

funds or the inability to travel and reunite with kin, come together with like-minded individuals

for a college Thanksgiving at Del Mar’s Mia Francesca.

Located on 12955 El Camino Real in the scenic Del Mar Heights Plaza of San Diego, the newest

west coast member of this chain of Italian restaurants brings a new twist to the holiday with

gnocchi and truffle oil replacing sweet potato pie and cranberry sauce.

For around 30 to 40 dollars, you and a friend can enjoy a full-course meal with garlic bruschetta,

tomato and blue cheese salad, a shared pizza or individual pasta dishes and finish with a slice of

tiramisu or a cup of coffee.

For those who suffer from a gluten allergy, there is a separate menu to accommodate need.

There are multiple food options to choose from; however, previous visits have rendered a mild

verdict as for what to recommend to even the most discerning of palates.

Although odd at first glance and concerning to those worried about raw meat, the carpaccio

tricolore is an excellent appetizer with a variety of flavors best enjoyed with water or a weak

beverage so as not to overwhelm the taste buds. This is best followed by the ever popular Caesar

salad to quench any remaining acidity.

Best options for the main course would be either the napoletana pizza served with cherry

tomatoes, parmesan and arugula or a personal favorite: the gnocchi bolognese with parmesan

cheese (you can request a different type of pasta to be served with it).

For dessert, a good option is the panino gelato, which despite the name is not related to gelatin.

However, if in need for a more classic approach, a café latte accompanied by tiramisu also makes

for a tasteful dessert.

So, while you may be bereaved of company during the holiday season, there is no need to

wallow in isolation. Save up your money, don that sweater you’ve been saving for a special

occasion and make your way to Del Mar to celebrate the holiday, Italian style.