Los Angeles’s temperate climate breeds the ideal environment for the flavors and cooking techniques of Italy, with breezy coasts for soaking in gently cooked seafood or hillside hideaways better for satisfying pasta. While Italian immigrants and its culture
have had a long history in Southern California, with some diaspora members introducing wine growing in the region, Los Angeles’s Italian imprint can be traced to places like Bay Cities Deli, Miceli’s, Barone’s, and Colombo’s Steakhouse. In more modern times, restaurants like Valentino, Peppone, and Angelini Osteria introduced more upscale Italian food with chefs at the forefront. Today, the city’s approach to Italian food explores various regions of Italy while incorporating California ingredients. Here are the best Italian restaurants to try right now in Los Angeles.
New this update: Osteria La Buca’s outpost in Sherman Oaks, the Helms Design District’s Pasta Sisters, Melrose mainstay Chi Spacca, and Cento Pasta Bar join the list.
Note: For this guide, we’re mostly omitting pizzerias or restaurants that primarily serve pizza as Eater already has a pizza map. Looking for just pasta spots? We have you covered.
