Food & Drink

Si, Grazie! Mangia Italiano at LA’s 19 Best Restaurants

Los Angeles is a city that is known for its diverse food culture. From street tacos to sushi, the city has it all. But when it comes to Italian food, LA does not disappoint.

The city boasts a plethora of Italian restaurants that cater to everyone's taste buds. Whether you are looking for a fancy night out or a casual dinner with friends, there is something for everyone.

Italian cuisine is known for its simplicity and fresh ingredients. The dishes are often prepared with a few key ingredients that are allowed to shine. From classic pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, Italian food in LA has it all.

What sets the Italian restaurants in LA apart is the use of locally sourced ingredients. Many of the restaurants pride themselves on using fresh produce and meats from local farms.

One of the best things about Italian food is that it is perfect for sharing. Whether you are digging into a plate of spaghetti carbonara or enjoying a slice of pizza, Italian food brings people together. The restaurants in LA are no exception.

Many of them offer family-style dining options that allow you to try a little bit of everything. So, whether you are dining with your significant other or a group of friends, Italian food is the perfect choice for a night out.

1. Maccheroni Republic

Maccheroni Republic
332 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (Google Maps)

Maccheroni Republic is a cozy Italian eatery that serves homemade pasta and delicious food.

The restaurant has a BYO wine policy and a covered patio for outdoor dining. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.

The menu offers a variety of Italian dishes, including signature spaghetti, zucchini soup, and tiramisu. The portions are reasonable, and the prices are good for the quality of food and service.

Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a casual dinner with friends, Maccheroni Republic is a great choice for authentic Italian cuisine.

2. Palermo Italian Restaurant

Palermo Italian Restaurant
1858 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (Google Maps)

Palermo Italian Restaurant is a vibrant, family-friendly spot that serves up delicious pizza and old-school Italian classics.

The staff is attentive and courteous, treating guests like family. The red-sauce Italian fare is unpretentious yet delicious. The portions are generous and the prices are fair.

The interior is classic and inviting, adding to the overall dining experience. It's a great place to go on a date with your spouse or take the family for a night out.

The restaurant is pet-friendly and offers outdoor patio-style dining. In short, Palermo Italian Restaurant is a hidden gem that's definitely worth a visit for those craving authentic Italian cuisine.

3. Chi Spacca

Chi Spacca
6610 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038 (Google Maps)

Chi Spacca is an upscale Italian steakhouse that offers a meat-focused menu prepared by a team of star chefs.

The atmosphere is Tuscan-inspired and the worn-wood tables add to the rustic charm of the place. The wait staff is attentive and knowledgeable, offering helpful recommendations.

The food is exceptional, with standout dishes including the pork chop and chicken baked on sourdough bread.

The restaurant is small and cozy, so reservations are a must. While the prices are on the higher side, the quality of the food and service make it worth it.

4. Oste

Oste
8142 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere, Oste is the place to be.

Serving up Roman-style pizza and a variety of pasta dishes, this restaurant impresses with its high-quality food and attentive service.

The cozy outdoor patio is the perfect spot for a date night or a dinner with friends. Don't miss out on the Pinsa flatbread and the arancini with truffle aioli – they're both exceptional.

Oste is a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious Italian meal in a casual setting.

5. Rao's

Rao's
1006 Seward St, Los Angeles, CA 90038 (Google Maps)

Rao's is an upscale Italian restaurant that offers homestyle Italian fare and wine.

The restaurant is a replica of the venerable New York eatery and provides an old-school Italian ambiance. The food is delicious and the service is excellent.

The standout dishes include the meatballs, carbonara, pork chops, and cheesecake.

The portions are shareable and the staff is friendly and welcoming. Rao's is a great place to enjoy an authentic Italian meal with friends and family.

6. La Bruschetta

La Bruschetta
1621 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024 (Google Maps)

La Bruschetta is a refined Italian restaurant that boasts an extensive wine list.

The atmosphere is serene and the service is top-notch. The menu offers classic Italian dishes that are expertly crafted and delicious.

Vegetarians will find plenty of options to choose from. The outdoor seating area is delightful and features a mini-golf carpet.

Hidden step in the back should be watched out for. La Bruschetta is a perfect place for a nice Italian meal and a great experience.

7. IL Bambino

Il Bambino
1403 Hooper Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90021 (Google Maps)

IL Bambino is a hidden gem of an Italian restaurant that serves up some of the best food in the area.

The portions are generous and the prices are very reasonable for the quality of food that is served.

The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with indoor and outdoor seating available.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making for an enjoyable dining experience. Don't let the location fool you, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit.

8. Locanda Veneta

Locanda Veneta
8638 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (Google Maps)

Locanda Veneta is a charming Italian restaurant that specializes in Venetian cuisine.

The restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere with white tablecloths and attentive service.

The menu features delicious dishes like squid ravioli stuffed with lobster and topped with a saffron sauce, lamb and veal saffron risotto, and grilled squid with sauteed greens, olive oil, and lemon.

The in-house Amaretto cheesecake is a must-try dessert. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making for an enjoyable dining experience.

9. Rossoblu

Rossoblu
1124 San Julian St, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Google Maps)

Rossoblu is an Italian restaurant that offers handmade pastas and a great selection of Italian wines.

The restaurant has a beautiful indoor and outdoor seating area, and the ambiance is lively and energetic. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that customers have a great dining experience.

The menu includes unique twists on traditional Italian recipes, and the dishes are flavorful and well-presented.

The restaurant also offers a variety of cocktails and a good selection of whiskey. If you're looking for a great Italian dining experience, Rossoblu is definitely worth a visit.

10. Pace

Pace
2100 Laurel Canyon Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (Google Maps)

Pace is a hidden gem that offers classic Italian cuisine in a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

The menu features locally sourced and organic ingredients, which are expertly crafted into delicious dishes by the skilled chefs.

The service is attentive and friendly, making for a delightful dining experience.

The outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy a meal in the fresh air. Highly recommended for those seeking a charming Italian restaurant.

11. Bottega Louie

Bottega Louie
700 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90017 (Google Maps)

Bottega Louie is a vibrant Italian eatery and gourmet market that offers a wide range of delicious pizzas, pastas, and small plates.

The restaurant is bustling with activity and serves weekend brunch and macarons to-go. The staff members are excellent and provide refined service without being pretentious.

The open kitchen runs efficiently, and the chefs are very professional. The desserts are a must-try, especially the macarons, which are next level delicious.

The restaurant is a bit on the pricier side, but the food is worth every penny. Whether you're looking for a business meeting spot, a large group outing, or a lunch date, Bottega Louie is definitely worth a visit.

12. Colori Kitchen

Colori Kitchen
2019 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90006 (Google Maps)

Colori Kitchen is a cozy Italian restaurant that offers a great variety of food.

They have excellent vegan and vegetarian options for those with dietary restrictions. The restaurant is BYOB and there is no corkage fee.

The service is friendly and attentive, and the food is delicious. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get quite busy. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great place for a cozy meal.

13. Palmeri Ristorante

Palmeri Ristorante
11650 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049 (Google Maps)

Palmeri Ristorante offers delicious, authentic Northern Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

With impeccable service and knowledgeable staff, this restaurant is a refined destination for those seeking a taste of Sicilian cuisine. The homemade pasta and seafood dishes are particularly outstanding.

While the corkage fee may be a bit pricey, the quality of the food and service make it worth the cost.

Whether you're looking for a fancy night out or a relaxed dining experience, Palmeri Ristorante is a great choice for Italian food in the area.

14. Bacari W. 3rd

Bacari W. 3Rd
8030 W 3rd St #3/4, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (Google Maps)

Bacari W. 3rd is a must-visit Italian restaurant with an enchanting ambiance and delicious food. The tapas-style menu is perfect for sharing and trying different dishes.

The shawarma tacos, margherita pizza, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower are all highly recommended.

The drinks are also fantastic, especially the Bacarita. The service is excellent, and the prices are reasonable.

The outdoor patio is a lovely spot to enjoy a meal. This restaurant is a great option for a date night or dinner with friends.

15. Ceci's Gastronomia

Ceci's Gastronomia
2813 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 (Google Maps)

Ceci's Gastronomia is an Italian restaurant serving up some seriously delicious food.

The focaccia is a standout, with just the right amount of salt and a perfect texture. And don't miss out on the tiramisu for dessert – it's a must-try.

Whether you're in the mood for pasta, pizza, or something else entirely, Ceci's Gastronomia has got you covered with their extensive menu.

The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a date night or a family meal. If you're looking for authentic Italian cuisine, look no further than Ceci's Gastronomia.

16. Supremo Ristorante

Supremo Ristorante
901 S La Brea Ave #2, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (Google Maps)

Supremo Ristorante is a hidden gem that offers authentic Italian cuisine at a fair price.

The small, cozy atmosphere creates a perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The staff is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu.

The food is fresh, delicious, and prepared with quality ingredients. From the pizzas to the pastas, everything is made to perfection.

The restaurant also offers takeout and delivery options. If you're looking for a great Italian restaurant, Supremo Ristorante is definitely worth a visit.

17. Scopa Italian Roots

Scopa Italian Roots
2905 Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90292 (Google Maps)

Scopa Italian Roots is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for an amazing Italian dining experience.

The food is cooked to perfection and packed with flavor. The menu offers a great variety of dishes, and the appetizers are perfect for sharing.

The staff is knowledgeable and professional, and the service is quick and friendly. The atmosphere is cool and inviting, making it a great spot for a date or a night out with friends.

The prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and service easily justifies it. Book ahead to secure a table and prepare to be impressed.

18. Monarca Pasta & Grill

Monarca Pasta & Grill
2703 S Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90007 (Google Maps)

Monarca Pasta & Grill is a small but impressive Italian restaurant that offers delicious food at affordable prices.

Their menu features a variety of Italian and Mexican dishes, including pasta primavera, chicken fettuccini, and grilled beef tacos.

The staff and owners are friendly and the restaurant is clean. While the area may not be the best, the food more than makes up for it.

Parking can be tricky, but it's worth the effort. If you're looking for a great meal that won't break the bank, Monarca Pasta & Grill is definitely worth checking out.

19. Antico Nuovo

Antico Nuovo
4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004 (Google Maps)

Antico Nuovo is a hidden gem that offers one of the best Italian dining experiences in LA. The upscale and stylish eatery serves traditional pasta and wood-fired meats in an elegant yet laid-back setting.

The menu is diverse and the dishes are simple but perfect, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.

The service is exceptional, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Don't miss out on the ice cream, which is worth every penny.

If you're looking for a top-notch Italian restaurant in LA, Antico Nuovo is definitely worth a visit.