Italian Restaurants

Adelmo Zarif’s restaurant has occupied a dazzling Art Deco space in downtown’s historic core since moving from West Hollywood in May 1997. Cicada fills the bottom two stories of the Oviatt Building, featuring towering mahogany pillars, plenty of gold, and pristine white tablecloths. Cicada is a fine-dining establishment that’s especially popular for birthdays, weddings and the occasional marriage proposal. Tokyo native Suzay Cha prepares northern Italian cuisine with Asian accents. The menu changes twice a year, but typically includes Ahi Tuna Tartar with Avocado, Piquillo Peppers and Wasabi Caviar and Pappardelle with Filet Mignon Bolognese Sauce.

Gaze out over the marina and allow your mind to drift lazily like the boats against the docks as you savor the fresh and tantalizing fare Executive Chef Niederkorn serves up daily. Only twenty minutes from the harried rush of LAX, Café Del Rey transports diners from the bustle of humanity to the calm oasis of a foreign seaside town. Chef Niederkorn presents elegantly prepared and simply adorned seafood dishes that shine by their own freshness and flavor. The Black Spaghetti is made with prawns, calamari, lobster, and bay scallops; and the Mediterranean Meatloaf is taken to another level by …

Locanda del Lago serves authentic cuisine from Bellagio and the Lake Region of Northern Italy. This Santa Monica locale overlooks Third Street Promenade and brings a taste of Italy to this coastal town. Since its opening in April of 1991, Lago has provided some of the tastiest dishes to foodies, celebrities and locals alike. Their warm décor and seasonal menu along with an air of casual class enhance the dining experience. Come out to Lago where Europe meets the West Coast and enjoy the outdoor patio for people watching and genuine California sunshine as well as some of the most …

For delectable fusion cuisine, blending flavors of the Pacific Rim, Provence, and Tuscany, travel no further than Restaurant Christine. Chef and Owner Christine Brown created an eclectic menu that is both unique and flavorful, incorporating Asian, Mediterranean and French influences to offer a wide variety of tastes. Located in Torrance near the foot of Rolling Hills, Restaurant Christine feels like a cozy Mediterranean villa, and provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a meal with friends and family or perhaps celebrate a special occasion. A reasonably priced wine list, friendly service, and excellent fare make Restaurant Christine an experience worth repeating.

With its earth-tone walls with floral accents and copious mirrors, Panzanella strikes a new balance between a formal dining venue and casual trattoria. Served along side a dozen classic pastas and risottos is a sizable soup selection including the signature bread-thickened ribollita.

Aroma settles in a quaint venue that is nestled away off West Sunset Boulevard. Patrons can feel like they are in a very homey Italian eatery surrounded by friends and family. The atmosphere is laid back and classy at the same time due to the inclusion of several paintings across the walls. Enjoy a great wine before dinner while browsing a menu full of pastas and meats with savory flavors. The staff and chef are always complimentary and love meeting customers and getting their opinions of the dishes.

If your idea of a great meal is garlic, garlic, and more garlic, head to Restaurant Row on La Cienega and visit The Stinking Rose. Executive Chef and owner Andrea Froncillo has created a garlic lover’s paradise, featuring great food in a wildly fun, garlic-themed atmosphere. Fantastic for large parties, the restaurant boasts a varied menu with specialties including roasted crab, prime rib, pastas, and giant tureens of steamed clams, all bathed in garlic. Don’t forget to visit "Dracula’s Grotto," one of many ornately decorated rooms, and to try Gilroy’s Famous Garlic Ice Cream.

Don't be surprised if you see the ever-present owner Robert Simon welcoming you to his restaurant. The cozy atmosphere is paired wonderfully with the classic, luxurious appearance of the restaurant. Some tasty bistro classics like baked brie and apples and maple leaf farm duck two ways are great dishes to try. Don’t leave without trying their chocolate soup, a chocolate soufflé served with vanilla bean ice cream. While the restaurant does offer great bistro classics, a majority of the food is a fusion of French and California tastes and cooking styles. With creative and delicious dishes, you will want to …

After seven years of success in the North Hollywood Arts District, Paul Hibler and David Sanfield took their Pitfire Pizza concept downtown in 2005. Across from St. Vibiana’s Cathedral and in the shadow of skyscrapers, office workers flood this modern Italian café at lunch for thin-crust pizzas, hearty pastas, and market-fresh salads. At night and on weekends, the rush subsides and Pitfire offers a more relaxed dining experience with the same value. Order at the counter, where a board lists seasonal specials and fresh-baked desserts are on display. To drink, there’s fresh sangria and watermelon lemonade, plus wine and beer.

Once surrounded by an enormous orange grove, this landmark jewel was built as a family home in 1909. The Victorian decor exhibits extravagance and splendor; with warm tones accented by soft lighting and tapestries exude elegance. The atmosphere is only outdone by the kitchen’s French-influenced Northern Italian fare. The menu is peppered with fame and glamour, with playfully-named dishes such as Sophia Loren Caviar and Cartier Calamari. With 12 private rooms, the White House is ideally suited for private parties and groups; while the elegant ambiance makes the White House an excellent destination for any special occasion, large or small.

New Port Beach's Cucina Alessa is an easy going, fun family restaurant. A great place for sunday brunches, lunches, and dinners, Cucina Alessa has been praised in both the OC Register as well as Coast for its Italian cuisine. With Master Chef Ugo D'Orso by its side this restaurant brings to Orange County some delectable Italian dishes for the entire family to enjoy!

With stunning lakeside views, Boccaccio's draws interest from all over Southern California. From Santa Barbara to Los Angeles, diners come to enjoy our serene, peaceful setting, exquisite service, and delectable menu. We host rehearsal dinners, bridal & baby showers, birthdays, anniversary parties, and corporate events.

Award Winning Food and Wine are just a few reasons why Christy's Ristorante continues to be a Local hot spot when it comes to fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Chef Miguel Aburto sources the highest quality meats and produce for his dishes while desserts and breads are both made fresh daily.

Ciao Trattoria has established itself since its opening in 1993 as one of the premier dinning destinations for guests patronizing the Performing Arts Center and Sporting events at the Staples Center and world and business travelers from around the globe.