Compiled by Rachel Johnson, Assistant Administrative Analyst, Dana Point Community Development
Casanova Ristorante
33585 Del Obispo Street, Suite C
949.496.0992
www.casanovaristorante.com
The city of Dana Point has chosen Casanova Ristorante as the Business of the Month for January.
In 1968, owner Chris Lagaris and Stefano Xenos, general manager, came to the United States from Greece and started working in the family restaurant business. After saving up $9,000, the two cousins opened their first restaurant together.
For the past 47 years they have owned and operated 27 successful restaurants in Southern California.
Lagaris and Xenos have continually strived to make their restaurants comfortable, inviting and with personality, so that anyone who walks in their door feels at home, they said.
When the opportunity came up for them to buy the restaurant in 2012, the duo found the friendly environment of Dana Point to be a perfect fit with how they have always envisioned their restaurants. Not only was the restaurant a perfect fit, but so was Dana Point, they said, as it reminds them of their town in Greece right by the water.
For the past three years Casanova has blossomed and while still holding on to that friendly neighborhood restaurant feeling, it has become a destination restaurant attracting people from all over the country.
The most popular menu items include the Burrata Plate, Cioppino alla Venezana and the Shrimp fra Diavolo.
Casanova is packed every day during happy hour from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. with many familiar faces as well as many new customers.
Giving back to the community that they enjoy so much is important to Lagaris and Xenos. They proudly support the Ark of San Juan, Dana Hills High School, and often provide meals for the Twilight Dinners at the Dana Point Senior Center.
The City Council and staff congratulates Casanova Ristorante for being selected as the Business of the Month for January and wishes Lagaris and Xenos many years of continued success in Dana Point.
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