Since opening in February 2025, CasaDamí has quickly established itself as one of the most compelling new additions to Newport Beach’s dining scene. Located on the Peninsula, this coastal restaurant and wine bar brings a refined yet relaxed European sensibility, one that prioritizes quality, ambiance, and the simple pleasure of slowing down and enjoying a meal.

Founded by Camilla Caremoli and Dave Shah, CasaDamí was born from a shared vision to create a space that blends thoughtful cuisine, curated wines, and a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of their favorite European destinations. The design feels intentional yet effortless, elevated but comfortable, with a warmth that encourages guests to settle in and stay awhile.

Shah, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, oversees the restaurant’s creative direction, partnerships, and overall guest experience. From the marble bar to the music, every detail is carefully considered to evoke understated sophistication. A Southern California native with an entrepreneurial background, Shah brings a unique perspective shaped by both his early career as a professional kitesurfer and his experience founding Wve Labs, a global digital product studio. His passion for wine is also central to CasaDamí, where he personally curates a list that balances boutique European producers with iconic estates like Domaine Ott and Sassicaia, earning recognition from both Forbes and Wine Spectator.

Complementing that vision is Co-Founder Camilla Caremoli, whose Italian roots and operational expertise underpin the brand. Born and raised in Milan, Caremoli developed a deep appreciation for hospitality and quality through her upbringing and her experience working alongside her father at Caremoli Group. After meeting Shah and relocating to Newport Beach in 2021, the two set out to create the kind of restaurant they felt was missing, one that combined exceptional food, a strong wine program, and an inviting, residential feel. Caremoli approached the design as if she were creating a home, ensuring the space feels warm, comfortable, and genuinely welcoming. Her pragmatic and analytical approach balances Shah’s creative vision, making the partnership both complementary and highly effective.

In the kitchen, Chef Rodney Gutierrez delivers a menu of high-quality ingredients and classic European techniques, while Beverage Director Allan Camarena leads a cocktail program that reimagines familiar favorites with an Italian twist.

While CasaDamí shines throughout the day, from coffee service in the morning to a lively Golden Hour and a refined dinner experience, we recently stopped in for Sunday brunch to explore some of their newest menu offerings.

We started, naturally, with bubbly on the patio, setting the tone for a relaxed, indulgent meal. Tapas included croquettes and whipped ricotta, both ideal for sharing. From there, standout dishes quickly emerged. The steak and eggs delivered a satisfying, elevated take on a classic, while the blue crab burger was rich, flavorful, and memorable. The Faroe Island salmon offered a lighter, well-balanced option that still felt substantial. You can’t go wrong with any of these dishes.

And then, dessert. We couldn’t leave without trying the olive oil cake, a signature for a reason. Light, moist, and full of flavor, it more than lived up to expectations and provided the perfect ending to the meal.

Beyond brunch, CasaDamí’s menu transitions seamlessly into an equally compelling dinner experience. Guests can expect European-inspired mains such as branzino and chicken Milanese, complemented by a selection of shareable tapas including empanadas and bluefin tuna crudo. For those looking to indulge, the chips and caviar offer a refined finishing touch. The cocktail program features signatures like the Bellini Damí, Grapefruit Americano, Espresso Martini, and Limoncello Spritz, while the wine list remains a defining element of the experience.

What ultimately defines CasaDamí is not just the menu, but the atmosphere it creates. It’s a place designed for connection—whether over coffee, a leisurely brunch, or a long dinner that stretches into the evening. There’s a clear intention behind every detail, resulting in a dining experience that feels both elevated and effortlessly approachable.

Location & Hours
2210 Newport Blvd
Newport Beach, CA 92663

Coffee: Friday - Sunday 10am - 2:30pm
Brunch: Friday - Sunday 10am–2:30pm

Golden Hour: Friday - Sunday 2:30pm - 5pm
Dinner: Monday - Thursday 5pm - 10pm and Friday & Saturday 5pm - 11pm

Phone: (949) 781-4644

Website: casadami.com
Instagram: @casadami.nb
Facebook: CasaDami