The best Italian restaurants in L.A.

What is it? Delicate housemade pastas, antipasti and a literal mozzarella bar from local celebrity chef Nancy Silverton within her three-restaurant Mozzaplex in Hancock Park. 

Why we love it: Though buzzy new Italian spots open all the time in Los Angeles, none manage the same level of refinement and consistency that emanates from Osteria Mozza. From Silverton’s famous ravioli oozing ricotta cheese and bright yellow egg yolk to the fresh, creamy mozzarella paired with all manner of accoutrements, this upscale, Michelin-starred osteria still fires on all cylinders a decade and change after its initial debut. Other highlights include Nancy’s Caesar—a playful tartine riff on the classic L.A. salad—and the duck rillettes crostino. Depending on your mood, you could also head to next-door outposts Chi Spacca (for bubbling, cheese-stuffed focaccia and grilled meats) and Pizzeria Mozza (for pizza, obviously)—all three provide refined takes on a different facet of Italian cuisine, plus the freshly made seasonal flavors of the same delightful gelato that has made Silverton a mainstay in the gourmet freezer aisle.  

Time Out tip: Though it’s tempting to forgo vegetables here, order at least one antipasti next time you visit. On a menu of greatest hits, it’s the primary section that still changes seasonally—demonstrating the kitchen’s excellence even when Silverton isn’t necessarily working the stove.

Address: 6602 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5:30–9pm, Fri 5:30–10pm, Sat 5–10pm, Sun 5–9pm

What is it? Nancy Silverton’s temple to flame-grilled meats, tomahawk pork chops, cured fennel salami and massive dry-aged steaks so big they almost feel like they’ll rock the table when they land. For those in search of a great steakhouse, this Italian one is worth the splurge.

Why we love it: Few restaurants can accomplish what Chi Spacca’s shoebox setting can. With one of the best charcuterie programs in the city and a stunning open kitchen, the talented team knows how to best work the cozy space for maximum meaty results. You may be spending over $200 on a steak (it’s enormous!), but don’t think about skipping the sides of roasted sustainable veggies—nor that bubbling focaccia di recco, which oozes stracchino cheese and comes with its own pizza stand. Throw in the generously portioned quartinos of wine, which easily turn into two servings, and Chi Spacca is one of the best places in town to wine and dine someone.

Time Out tip: For those who truly love pork, Chi Spacca hosts the Pig’s Head Dinner: An Ode to Pork—a $125 tasting menu that’s only available Mondays through Thursdays with two days’ notice. A minimum of four guests is required—but I recommend coming with six or more, or you won’t get through every course. The star of the show is a crispy, roasted pig’s head served with seasonal vegetables, sauces, and flatbread, but you’ll also receive Chi Spacca’s signature dishes like focaccia di Recco (topped here with ham) and the sumptuous pork tomahawk dusted with fennel pollen.

Address: 6610 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 6–9pm, Fri–Sat 5:30–10pm; Sun 5:30-9pm

What is it? The Beverly Hills crown jewel of Evan Funke’s city-spanning pasta empire, complete with a glass-encased pasta workshop, walk-in rooftop bar and priceless works of art on the walls.

Why we love it: While I’ve had great experiences at the chef’s other restaurants, it’s clear Funke and his pastry chef, Shannon Swindle, have switched their focus to this glitzy multi-level restaurant, where a brand-new section of hand-rolled pastas (“fatta a mano”) and an absolutely delicious sfincione palermitano ups the ante on the plush focaccia loaf first made famous at Felix in Venice. The ambience may not be as fun as Mother Wolf in Hollywood, but the quality of the food and service is far more consistent here at the moment. During my last meal at Funke, I loved the pesto trofie, carciofi alla giudea and Swindle’s seasonal meringata made with Harry’s Berries, a variation only offered in the summer months.

Time Out tip: Reservations, which are released seven days in advance at 9am on Resy, are practically required, so plan ahead. For a meal with less booking hassle, head to Felix or Mother Wolf instead for a pan-Italian menu that never fails to please, but be warned: I've found the latter somewhat inconsistent lately.

Address: 9388 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–9:45pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm

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What is it? An Eastside red-sauce neighborhood joint that’s worth all the hype and then some.

Why we love it: Three years in, Angelenos still descend on Sunset Boulevard thirty minutes before opening, hoping to snag a seat at Donna's. This place feels like Cheers, if Cheers were set in Echo Park and had a cast of hipsters. The intimate dining room is both rustic and retro—you could spend the whole dinner getting lost in the floral wallpaper and knick-knacks you’d find at your nonna’s house. But you could also very well get lost in what is one of the best garlic breads and one of the best fusilli alla vodka renditions in town. The bread, country sourdough sourced from local baker Out of Thin Air, is piled with garlic, oregano, parsley, and Parmigiano. It’s decadent enough to last the meal and perfect for sopping up vodka sauce once you've stirred the dollop of whipped ricotta into your fusilli. The menu reads like a greatest hits of Italian-American classics: fried calamari, shrimp scampi with head-on blue Caledonian prawns, stracciatella, spaghetti and meatballs (meatballs available à la carte), linguine vongole with a kick of Calabrian chili, veal piccata, lasagna, and branzino. We haven't met a dish here we haven't loved, all the way down to the cannoli, tiramisu, and panna cotta. Leading the bar program, Karla Flores Mercado wants to know your name and your poison. As you’d intuit, negronis, spritzes, and martinis reign here. Plus, guests are properly sent off with a shot of limoncello to punctuate the meal. It’s a class act.  

Time Out tip: Lately, tables on the early side (5ish) are popping up 24 hours prior pretty reliably.  

Address: 1538 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Opening hours: Daily 5-10pm

What is it? A refined, multi-regional tour through Italy via the mind of one of L.A.’s best chefs. 

Why we love it: It’s not the only chef-driven Italian restaurant in town, but it’s one of L.A.’s most famous(ly busy) restaurants for a reason. Chef and co-owner Ori Menashe’s menu highlights still manage to delight and impress, no matter how many times we’ve ordered them. Despite having opened in 2012 (and the fact that owners Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis have opened two more restaurants), Bestia still requires a reservation on weekend evenings. The seasonal menu rotates slightly, but there are a couple of heavy hitters I always recommend, including the roasted bone marrow with spinach gnocchetti—one of the dishes that cemented my desire to write about food—and the sweet potato agnolotti. The latter consists of tiny mascarpone-stuffed pasta pockets topped with pine nuts, fried sage and crispy prosciutto; a combination these days that’s no longer novel, but still shockingly good. Paired with the industrial-modern digs and the sleek ambiance, it’s a place where we’re likely to linger until the staff starts bussing our dessert plates and wine glasses.

Time Out tip: Order your own dessert. Pastry chef and co-owner Genevieve Gergis’s sweets are all memorable, even on repeat visits, and god help anyone who tries to get in between us and a forkful of chocolate budino tart.

Address: 2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Opening hours: Daily 5–11pm

What is it? A first-rate Italian trattoria at the far edge of Abbot Kinney—and the home of pasta maestro Evan Funke’s culinary comeback.

Why we love it: Forget being some of the best pasta in Venice—Felix is the original home of some of the best pasta on the West Coast. Though head chef Evan Funke now divides his time between Funke in Beverly Hills (our favorite of his restaurants) and Mother Wolf in Hollywood (a concept since expanded to Vegas and Miami, and which we don’t recommend at all unfortunately), this cozy Venice bungalow is where the Chef’s Table star made a triumphant return in 2017, a few years after closing his original restaurant, Bucato. Every night, you’ll see workers rolling, cutting and forming noodles behind a pane of glass—and while the focus at Felix remains the handmade pasta, you’ll also find a phenomenal sfincione focaccia, blistered crust pizzas and antipasti so good you’ll be tempted to make a whole meal out of them. Years in, and it’s still packed, so make a reservation before heading over, or brave your luck at the cozy bar stools near the entrance.

Time Out tip: When it’s available, order the spaghetti con bottarga. The salted, cured fish roe offers a uniquely Italian blend of savory flavors that’s out of this world.

Address: 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–9:30pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm; Sun 5–9pm

What is it? An upscale Italian restaurant in Koreatown run by Chad Colby, the former head chef of Chi Spacca. 

Why we love it: After selling takeout pizzas and cartons of gelato to survive the pandemic, Antico turned over a new leaf, hence the addition of “Nuovo.” These days, Colby’s fairly popular restaurant offers a seasonal, rustic-leaning menu centered around an unforgettably fluffy focaccia (accompanied by various spreads), housemade pastas, wood-fired mains and silky rotating flavors of gelato, which first became famous during lockdown. You’ll also find lightly dressed salads, beautifully roasted vegetables and traditionally prepared crudo. For mains, regulars swear by the pollo e crostone, or chicken roasted over focaccia, and I can’t find a single fault with Colby’s preparation of veal sweetbreads, which pairs the chicken nugget-like morsels with maitake mushroom and marsala jus. The pastas are lovely as well, though in truth the pasta and mains here have never wowed me quite as much as Funke, Chi Spacca and Osteria Mozza (while being just as expensive). For best results, order an item from every menu section and double up on gelato and, if you’re a focaccia superfan, an additional loaf of bread and spread. 

Time Out tip: If you ask nicely and the kitchen’s not too busy, Antico Nuovo will still sell you pints of gelato to take home.

Address: 4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

Opening hours: Daily 5:30–10pm

What is it? A zero-hype, one-hundred-percent-authentic Italian restaurant hiding in a modest two-story yellow house a street away from Abbot Kinney. Chef-owner Antonio Murè, formerly of the long-ago Michelin-starred La Botte, runs the show personally—welcoming guests, delivering dishes, and giving you the nonno treatment if he catches you taking photos instead of eating.

Why we love it: Head up the hobbit-like stairs to what might be the most romantic dining room in Los Angeles—low-angled ceilings, 17th-century castle lighting, and a hum of Italian accents (generous sound paneling makes it easy on the ears). Murè's OG dishes are untouchable: red beet tagliolini with Marsala quail ragù in taleggio fondue, cacao tagliatelle with wild boar ragù braised for three days in Amarone, Sicilian-style tuna tartare. Novel ones are just as thoughtful—a cream-less rabbit ragù pappardelle with prunes and porcini was inspired by an American Thanksgiving he attended. There are no cocktails, but you won't miss them; Murè will be the first to tell you pasta should be eaten with wine, and the list is mostly Italian and French.

Time Out tip: In the summer, the outdoor terrace, with its succulents and candlelight, is just as charming as the upstairs dining room. 

Address: 796 Main St, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon- Thu 5:30-9pm; Fri, Sat 5-10pm; Sun 5-9pm

What is it? A family-friendly Cal-Italian neighborhood joint from Zach Pollack (Sotto, Alimento, Cosa Buona) with perfectly executed pizza, too-easy-to-drink cocktails, and some of the best alfresco seating in Santa Monica.

Why we love it: A few of Pollack's greatest hits made the trip to the Westside—the chicken liver from Alimento, Cosa Buona's thrice-cooked buffalo wings, that leopard-spotted pizza crust—but Cosetta is largely new territory. Large pasta shells are doused in vodka arrabbiata, finished in the pizza oven for a nice char and dolloped with burrata—it’s an old-school dish that feels totally modern. The star of the menu is the porcini-rubbed wagyu tri-tip, wood-fired to a perfect medium rare and served sliced—add a salad, small plate, and pizza, and it’s a complete meal for three people. Speaking of pizza, Pollack's putting uni butter, Spanish clam conserva, and lemon slices on a pie. Red-sauce purists can delight in classics like margherita, Hawaiian with house-smoked coppa, or veg supreme (though it loses some magic on the reheat, so if you're debating another slice vs. leftovers, opt for the slice). Keeping in line with its family-oriented approach, kid-friendly items are elevated with adult flavors—smoked mozzarella sticks, lasagna with bone marrow bolognese, and chicken milanese with a Thai twist (fish sauce and chili). The only thing I haven't cared for is the farro and white bean soup—personally, I wouldn’t add another starch to an already starchy soup. For dolci, a Basque-ish cheesecake with semolina streusel and sour cherries is the clear winner.

Time Out tip: Parties of two opt for eating at the bar—they’re the most comfortable seats in the house and blissfully kid-free. And don't overlook the zero-proof cocktails. All functional and featuring psychoactive ingredients. E.g., the calma, an herbal riff on the penicillin with valerian root that’s the perfect NA digestif and will down-regulate your nervous system. 

Address: 3150 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 11:30am-2:30pm, 4-9:30pm; Fri-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm, 4-10pm; Sun 11:30am-2:30pm, 4-9pm

What is it? Your quintessential Venice cafe by day and vibey, vinyl-spinning, Cal-Italian restaurant by night, from the couple behind Gnarwhal Coffee and Quarter Sheets alum chef Jack Goode.

Why we love it: It's a good sign when you see a chef rocking leather loafers at an Italian restaurant. Even better when his grandfather is sitting at the table beside you, complimenting him on the pizza in a thick New York Italian accent. You're in good hands at Goode, no matter what you order from the small-but-mighty menu. I'm incredibly partial to the focaccia with fig butter, the arugula crispy rice salad chock-full of seasonal fruit, and the exquisitely al dente radiatore all'arrabbiata with stracciatella and garlic slivers. Goode also makes impeccably crispy, New Haven-inspired pizza and keeps things simple with only two pies. You can go classic (tomato, mozzarella, parmigiano) and add anchovies or pepperoni. Or get “The Klaus” with Peads & Barnetts spicy pork sausage, red onion and sweet hot peppers (my go-to). But Goode's greatest achievement is the chicken cutlet, gloriously crispy despite being drenched in vodka sauce and finished with dollops of stracciatella, basil and parmigiano. It's a sight to behold and quite the undertaking for a party of two (leftovers eat just as well). Mainstay desserts include cannoli and delectable house-made ice cream (strawberry on my visit), plus a seasonal cake on rotation that has yet to disappoint. Drinks-wise, the equally small-but-mighty list of boutique, natural wines pairs beautifully with Goode's food.

Time Out tip: Companion recently launched a weekend brunch menu (Saturdays and Sundays, 8am–2pm, featuring chopped salad, club hoagies, and focaccia French toast.  

Address: 1700 Lincoln Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon 7:30am-2pm; Tue 7:30am-3pm; Wed-Thu 7:30am-2pm, 5-9pm; Fri-Sat 7:30am-2pm, 5-9:30pm; Sun 7:30am-2pm, 5-9pm

What is it? A Middle Eastern-inspired pasta bar in West Adams with an impossibly trendy seafood sibling next door.

Why we love it: I’ve enjoyed Avner Lavi’s plates of beet spaghetti and uni squid ink pasta since the days he used to set up shop inside Downtown’s Mignon, and the Bestia alum hasn’t missed a beat since opening Cento’s brick-and-mortar form back in 2021. I’m less than enthused with Cento Raw Bar, the restaurant’s new, influencer-baiting younger sibling, but Cento’s streamlined menu of small plates, pastas, mains and desserts still comprises one of the most all-around delicious Italian dining options in town. The handful of global flourishes work unexpectedly well: a sprouted cauliflower with olives and plump golden raisins, a classic carbonara topped with chili crunch, a tres leches cake dripping in passion fruit curd. These days, the patio area is a total scene that spills into the buzzy Cento Raw Bar, but those in search of a more laidback environment can opt to dine indoors, where you’ll find a marble-topped chef’s counter and larger-than-life themed piece of pasta art.

Time Out tip: In no particular order, the sweet corn agnolotti, spicy pomodoro and beet spaghetti are my favorite pastas here. If you’re coming in a group of three or more, order them all.

Address: 4921 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5–11pm; Sun 5–10pm

What is it? An all-you-can-eat, Italian-ish Eating Menu from the focaccia sandwich slingers at Vesti, served at an eight-seat counter in a temporary residence at Maydan Market, through December 31.

Why we love it: Next Food Network Star alums Adam Gertler and Shane Lyons run their counter less like a restaurant and more like a comedy show. it helps that Lyons, a former cast member of Nickelodeon's All That, is a natural entertainer. A meal here mirrors a night at the Groundlings: the chefs riff, the guests play along, and you leave feeling better than when you arrived. There are, however, a few ground rules if you're going to partake in what might just be the best-tasting, best-priced degustation (sorry, “Eating Menu”) in LA ($70 per person, gratuity not required). Rule number one: No one is chef. This is a non-hierarchical kitchen, so don't you dare call Adam or Shane anything other than their first names. Rule number two: don't call the Eating Menu a tasting menu. There's no set number of courses, and no two experiences (even back-to-back seatings) are the same. Instead, there are three seatings a night, at 4pm, 6pm and 8pm, and the kitchen keeps firing courses until the clock runs out or you wave the white napkin, whichever comes first. Not full by the end? Say the word and they'll fix that. Getting full? Grab a "memory box" and take home as much as you want. Rule number three: keep your preferences to yourself (dietary restrictions are, of course, welcome). Not a fan of something, like, in my case, blue cheese? You'll still get the dish, and you can choose to engage or not. If you engage and still don't like it, they'll bring you something else. Out of about 10 courses (I lost count with all the theatrics), blue cheese was the single offense in my book. Dishes I loved included a bright persimmon, fennel and granita starter delivering the bite and freshness of a crudo; Butcher Bar Wagyu tartare with a kick; Japanese sweet potatoes in a pool of zhoug-meets-salsa-macha; impeccable Calabrian chile Korean-style wings; 'nduja and mustard green lasagna; chicken stuffed with farce (not a comedy); and Wagyu flank steak with gremolata. On a special night, you might get a Wagyu tomahawk, and consider yourself lucky if whiskey caramel bread pudding is the dessert on deck.

Time Out tip: Vesti doesn't pour alcohol, but you can order drinks from the other Maydan vendors on your phone and have them brought to your seat. Wine is the move here, obvi. I highly recommend a glass of Camins 2 Dreams cab franc from wife-and-wife winemakers Mireia Taribó and Tara Gomez—a member of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Gomez is the first Native American winemaker to be recognized by the California State Legislature. And if you can't snag one of the eight seats, walk up for a sandwich or pizza instead, but still get that cab franc. 

Address: 4301 W Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016

Opening hours: Tue-Sun, seatings at 4pm, 6pm, 8pm

What is it? The upscale, all-day Cal-Italian dining destination along Abbot Kinney that helped usher in the era of Venice’s full-blown gentrification.

Why we love it: Whether you love or hate it, Gjelina has quite a few disciples, and for good reason. Even in the dead of winter, the seasonally focused menu, eaten alongside a mix of tourists, locals and influencers, can’t help but bring in the sunshine. Founding chef Travis Lett has long since departed the kitchen—you can find him cooking at RVR, an izakaya located down the street—but current management has maintained the quality, consistency and seasonality of cooking that Gjelina is well-known for. On my most recent visit, oyster mushrooms grilled in tarragon butter and lemon were as delicious as the first time I tried them. And the ever-present anchovy pizza and orecchiette with beef cheek bolognese never cease to satisfy. Be it breakfast, lunch or dinner, Gjelina delivers a great meal anytime.

Time Out tip: My favorite seats in the house are on the back patio, particularly during weekend brunch.

Address: 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Daily 9am–10:30pm

What is it? An unfussy longtime osteria on Beverly Boulevard beloved among neighborhood locals.

Why we love it: For over two decades, Angelini Osteria has been a go-to spot for countless Angelenos for a simply prepared Italian meal.  Every night, the no-frills space packs in diners devoted to the soulful, homestyle cooking of Emilia-Romagna–born chef Gino Angelini. Praises abound for branzino that’s salt-crusted and roasted whole and weekly specials like Saturday-only porchetta stuffed with garlic and herbs and finished in the wood-burning oven. Personally, I’ve found the cooking here to be a little inconsistent; on my most recent visit, the salad and tagliolini limone I ordered were slightly oversalted, though the salt-crusted branzino was cooked perfectly. In spite of the occasional off night, tons of Angelenos are still head over heels for Angelini Osteria—and for a charming, homestyle Italian meal in Central L.A., I can’t say I disagree. A handful of the pasta items even have devoted cult followings, including the signature lasagna verde “Nonna Elvira,” which pays tribute to the Old World with beef and veal ragú and handmade pasta layers topped with wilted spinach.

Time Out tip: Angelini Osteria also offers reasonably priced catering trays for Thanksgiving, Christmas and other major holidays. 

Address: 7313 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Opening hours: Daily 11:30am-3:30pm, 5–10pm

What is it? A no-reservation casual staple in Downtown’s Historic Core that’s been making its own pasta since 2012.

Why we love it: When you imagine an ideal old-school Italian dining experience, Maccheroni Republic is probably what you’re jonesing for. For the last decade and change, the restaurant has quietly been serving some of the best pasta in Los Angeles. Started by Jean Louis DeMori and chef Antonio Tommasi, who also founded Beverly Grove’s Locanda Veneta (which they’ve since sold to new owners), Maccheroni Republic first drew rave reviews from the late food critic Jonathan Gold in 2014. Since then, the roaring hype has died down to a mere whisper, but the plates of maccheroni stellari (star-shaped extruded pasta in a spicy tomato sauce) and bianci e neri (black and white spaghetti with shrimp, mushroom and pancetta in a creamy bisque) are delicious as ever. Tommasi also offers unique regional favorites like tortini di gamberi—a deep-fried shrimp cake—and a classic homey minestrone. Plus, the secluded, string-lit outdoor patio space also feels a world away from the often sketchy streets of the Historic Core.

Time Out tip: The berry-studded olive oil cake and flourless chocolate cake are both standouts on the dessert menu.

Address: 332 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11am–2pm, 5–9:30pm; Fri–Sun 11am–9:30pm

What is it? A longtime Italian favorite in the Arts District, beloved for its mandilli di seta, a silky handkerchief pasta bathed in a Ligurian-style almond-basil pesto.

Why we love it: The pasta might be the obvious standout at the Factory Kitchen, but so is everything else. Since 2013, owner Matteo Ferdinandi and chef Angelo Auriana have been churning out some of Downtown’s most consistently delicious Italian cuisine. In the last decade, the restaurant’s mandilli di seta has cemented itself as one of L.A.’s most iconic dishes, and the Ligurian-style focaccia, a.k.a. focaccia di Recco, is one of the best versions of bubbling, cheesy, crunchy flatbread in the city. (The absolute best, however, is still served at Chi Spacca.) Other menu standouts include the slow-roasted Italian-style porchetta and the prosciutto di Parma, sliced razor thin and served with sage-dusted savory doughnut puffs and creamy stracciatella cheese. More recently, the Factory Kitchen has expanded to Las Vegas, where you’ll find many of the kitchen’s greatest hits inside a restaurant known as Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano inside the Venetian. 

Time Out tip: Order the cannolis for dessert. Plump and stuffed to the brim with mascarpone cheese, the addition of pistachios and orange marmalade really sends the dish over the top.

Address: 1300 Factory Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11:30am–2:30pm, 5–9:30pm; Fri 11:30am–2:30pm, 5–10:30pm; Sat 5–10:30pm; Sun 5–9pmm

What is it? An old-school Italian restaurant beloved by celebrities like Justin Bieber (and plenty of Westside locals, too).

Why we love it: The first time I visited Il Pastaio, I was prepared to hate everything about it. But the efficient, thick-accented waiters and reasonable prices—yes, even in Beverly Hills—wore me down, and now I love it. The cooking here is simple yet of high quality, with plenty of options for large groups and those with dietary restrictions. During my visit, I ordered the paccheri “alla Justin Bieber,” which turned out to be a subtle pink vodka sauce, and the timballo di zucchine, a light vegetarian version of the dish featured in Stanley Tucci’s cult classic Big Night. The place bustles with locals of all ages, including families and couples on dates, and is open all day (and until midnight on weekends), so you can grab a relaxed midafternoon meal if the occasion calls for it. Still, if you’re coming on a weekend, I’d book a reservation or be prepared to wait—this well-oiled machine of a restaurant fills up fast and is pretty much busy at all hours.

Time Out tip: You can order the black truffle pastas with a $28 cheese wheel add-on, which adds a bit of tableside flair. Off taste alone, I wouldn’t recommend it, exactly, but it’s fun if you’re in the mood to splurge.

Address: 400 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 11:30am–11pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am–midnight; Sun 11:30am–10pm

What is it? A neighborhood restaurant in Old Town Pasadena beloved across Northeast L.A. for seasonally inspired northern Italian cuisine. 

Why we love it: Nestled into a little side street, Union isn’t exactly the type of date night spot I recommend driving across town for, but the charming atmosphere and excellent cooking still translate into one seriously excellent Italian restaurant option for anyone living in Northeast L.A. Head chef Sandro Hernandez sources much of the produce from the farmers’ market, from roast potatoes made with Weiser Farms’ famous Magic Myrnas to Tamai Farms broccolini served with sundried tomato crema, pickled sungolds and a dusting of Parmesan. The handmade pastas—I especially like the squid ink lumache and classic spaghetti and meatballs—barely manage to outshine the likes of fra diavolo half chicken and herb-crusted lamb. For dessert, Hernandez keeps it simple with classics like olive oil cake, panna cotta and a hazelnut torte. The ingredients are local, the wine is flowing and the vibe is always relaxed and centered on the food—and how could it not be, with such delicious cuisine?

Time Out tip: Union also offers takeout-only pasta dinners designed to serve four. 

Address: 37 E Union Street, Pasadena, CA 91103.

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–9pm, Fri–Sun 4–9pm

What is it? A timeless red-sauce joint in West Hollywood that’s been beloved among locals, celebrities and local celebrities since 1964.

Why we love it: Few go to Dan Tana’s simply for the cooking. It’s not that the old-fashioned Italian American fare is bad: It’s more that the Old Hollywood atmosphere is wonderfully thick. The longtime servers can tell you what L.A. was like back when this red-sauce joint was cutting-edge, a time when they were much younger but Dan Tana’s looked the same. The menu is full of inside joke-like nods to regulars, including a few dearly departed celebrities and industry bigwigs, but focus in on the chicken (or alternatively, veal or eggplant) parm, various steak cuts and potatoes Beckerman—essentially cottage fries topped with crispy deep-fried onions. The spaghetti marinara that comes with every entrée is old-school Italian American at its most endearing (read: the noodles are rinsed off with water, and it’s much better as a side than a main event). One word of warning, however: The maître d’ does play favorites when it comes to reservations, which are only taken over the phone, and the wait for walk-ins can stretch to an hour or more, particularly on weekend evenings. Generally, however, even newbies can score a table here if they call three weeks in advance—which is what I recommend doing.

Time Out tip: For dessert, order the cappuccino ice cream and a slice of cheesecake. 

Address: 9071 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Opening hours: Daily 5–11pm

What is it? A fast-casual pasta option in Santa Monica, Mid-Wilshire, Marina del Rey and Studio City from the same team behind Sugarfish and Hiho Cheeseburger.

Why we love it: Through a feat of global supply chain wizardry, Uovo serves plates of fresh pasta that were made in a commissary kitchen in Bologna, Italy and overnighted to L.A. Sure, they could make the pasta here, but why do that when they can serve fresh noodles crafted with the choicest eggs and flour in the epicenter of pasta? As with Sugarfish, both the service and menu are no-frills, with classic renditions of pastas from Bologna and Rome, all for under $20 a pop. Think a dairy-free ragú made using a recipe dating back to the 1950s, delicately folded tortellini floating in a simple broth, and a traditional spinach green lasagna thick with bechamel sauce and layers of beef, pork and cheese. Of course, you’ll find Roman classics like arrabiata, carbonara and cacio e pepe, plus newer, vegetarian-friendly options like fazzoletti piccanti and cheese ravioli. Plus, with vegetable sides at $9 apiece and a trio of tasting menus topping out at $38 per head, Uovo is one of the most affordable ways in Los Angeles to dine Italiano—and it’s definitely cheaper than a flight to Bologna. 

Time Out tip: Order the tiramisu for dessert, which draws inspiration from Rome’s iconic Felice a Testaccio.

Address: Multiple incl. Mid-Wilshire, Pasadena and Santa Monica

Opening hours: Daily 11:30am–10pm