Recently, I have been seeing social media chatter about Spositos Cuban and Italian Cuisine in Temecula, and since its a stones throw from the office I decided to give it a go last week.

The heat wave was in full bloom and the open and airy dining room was a nice respite from the sun.

I was greeted by a friendly server and immediately seated next to a window with a nice view of the restaurant. Ceiling fans whirled and gentle music created a relaxing vibe.

The menu is an interesting collaboration of Italian and Cuban dishes, and I was committed to trying a bit of both.

Based on the recommendation from the server, I went with the empanadas ($7.50) to start. Other appetizer options included tostones rellenos stuffed green plantains ($10.50), caprese salad ($9.95) and cioppino ($17.95). Yes, its an appetizer.

The empanadas arrived and were larger than I expected. I broke one open and liberally dipped the golden crust into the house-made chimichurri sauce. The meat was perfectly seasoned with a slight kick while the crust was crisp on the outside yet soft on the inside.

Typically I have a dining companion but on this outing I flew solo. Still, I ordered two main dishes. Dont judge.

I selected the penne arrabbiata ($12.50) and the ropa vieja ($16.50).

The server first brought the pasta dish, which was steaming hot and smelled delicious. I sprinkled Parmesan cheese on top and dug in. The level of spice was just right and lingered which I loved. Its a simple and tasty dish with marinara sauce, garlic, crushed red pepper and parsley.

Other pasta choices include lasagna ($14.95), spaghetti with mussels and tomatoes ($16.95) and linguine with mussels, clams, shrimp and calamari ($21.95).

Next up was the ropa vieja, slow-cooked shredded beef with onion, red peppers and Cuban spices. White steamed rice and a small bowl of black beans adorned the plate as well.

Although the pasta was great, I preferred the Cuban selection. The meat melted in my mouth while the beans and rice complimented the big savory flavors.

Next time I want to try the Cuban roast pork ($14.50) and of course the classic Cuban sandwich ($11.95).

I was too full for dessert but took a peek at the case filled with scrumptious looking sweets such as tarts, cakes and custard.

I left very satisfied and with plenty of leftovers, which my daughter devoured.

Spositos Cuban and Italian Cuisine Where: 28120 Jefferson Ave., Temecula Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; closed Sundays Entrees: $7.50-$29.95 Beverages: Beer, wine and specialty coffees Reservations: Accepted Information: 951-676-1629, spositos.com

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Sposito's Cuban and Italian Cuisine offers a variety of tasty dishes in Temecula - Press-Enterprise