Chef Accursio Lota’s San Diego Restaurants Capture Rare International Distinction

This week in Los Angeles, Chef Accursio Lota’s Dora Ristorante in La Jolla earned Tre Forchette – Three Forks – from Gambero Rosso’s 2026 international guide, the highest honor from Italy’s leading authority on global Italian dining. Dora was the only San Diego restaurant to receive the distinction this year.

Sister restaurant Cori Pastificio Trattoria in North Park was also recognized with Due Bottiglie – Two Bottles – for excellence in its wine program, marking a rare dual international honor for one local operator.

What Tre Forchette Actually Means

If you’re not deep in the Italian dining world, here’s the context. Gambero Rosso’s Tre Forchette is often compared to Italy’s answer to the MICHELIN star system. It’s awarded to restaurants that demonstrate excellence across cuisine, service, and wine.

In 2026, only 34 restaurants globally – outside of Italy – earned the distinction. Just 11 of those are in the United States. Dora now sits in that company. For San Diego to have the sole recipient in the county this year is a big deal, and it reflects how far our culinary scene has come.

From La Jolla’s Theatre District to the International Stage

Dora opened in November 2025 in La Jolla’s Theatre District and quickly established itself as one of the city’s standout new restaurants, even earning “Best New Restaurant Concept” from the Union-Tribune.

The space is design-forward but warm, rooted in Chef Lota’s Sicilian heritage while embracing contemporary California technique and seasonal ingredients.

Thoughtful hospitality details – like a roaming amaro cart and a pre-theatre menu inspired by productions at the nearby La Jolla Playhouse – make it feel both transportive and distinctly local.

Now, with Tre Forchette, Dora isn’t just one of San Diego’s most exciting tables – it’s firmly on the international radar.

Cori’s Wine Program Gets Its Moment

Over in North Park, Cori Pastificio Trattoria continues to shine. The restaurant received Due Bottiglie – Two Bottles – from Gambero Rosso, recognizing excellence in its wine program.

Under the direction of Sommelier and Wine Director Federico Cavalleri, Cori’s cellar highlights Italy’s diverse regions alongside Old World verticals and globally respected producers.

The recognition underscores the depth, intention, and cultural integrity behind the program – and adds another layer to Lota’s growing impact on San Diego’s Italian dining scene.

A Win for San Diego Dining

For Chef Accursio Lota and his teams at both Dora and Cori, the awards reflect consistency, care, and a commitment to representing San Diego on a global stage.

For the rest of us, it’s another reason to feel proud of the talent in our city – and maybe finally lock in that reservation.