Testo Pepesto Italian Restaurant

From Ukraine to California, Testo Pepesto is a family story.

Our journey began when our family came to the United States from Ukraine and started building a new life in San Diego. Coming from a place where gathering around the table has always been an important part of life, owning a restaurant felt like a natural new beginning.

Italian food was especially close to us. In Ukraine, Italian cuisine has long been one of the most loved ways to gather with friends and family — pizza, pasta, good wine, and a table meant to be shared.

Even our name has a family story behind it. Years ago, while playing in the sandbox, our owner’s young son was making little creations in the sand and happily repeating the words “Testo Pepesto.” The phrase made the family smile and stayed with them. Years later, when it was time to name the restaurant, they knew exactly what to call it.

Today, Testo Pepesto Italian Restaurant is proudly family-owned and operated by a Ukrainian family. We’ve made El Cajon our home and created a place where people can come together over generous portions, comforting Italian food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

For us, Testo Pepesto is more than a restaurant. It’s our family’s new chapter — and we’re grateful to share it with yours.