Los Angeles’s longtime old-school favorite Andre’s Italian Restaurant recently reopened in Mid-Wilshire after 59 years of operating across from the Original Farmers Market. The family-owned red sauce specialist found a new home inside the historic Dominguez-Wilshire Building on Wilshire Boulevard and Cloverdale, much to the delight of loyal patrons. In this article we talk about Italian 59 years old Eatery Andre Reopens After Years in Mid-Wilshire, L.A.
Though the new space is considerably bigger with stunning interiors, guests can still line up cafeteria-style for heaping plates of spaghetti, lasagna, and other Italian comfort foods. Outdoor seating and gelato service will also be added soon for alfresco dining and dessert. Glance up at the painted mural depicting Andre’s rich 6-decade history in LA while enjoying a meal inside.
New Location With Deep LA History
Andre’s owners were forced to close the original location in 2022 to make way for a new development. They quickly found a new home in the short-lived Eleven City Diner building inside the Dominguez-Wilshire Building. Constructed in 1928, this historic structure also housed the original Van de Kamp Bakery and LA’s first all-women operated radio station.
The building’s revival is bringing new life to LA’s old-school Italian dining scene. The new Andre’s occupies a sprawling 8,500 square feet, allowing owners to serve more guests with quicker turnover.
Keeping Alive Founder’s Legacy
Co-owner Stephanie Gagliarducci is the grandniece of Andre’s founder Dominic Andreone. In 1963, Andreone opened the first Andre’s at the Town and Country shopping center across from the Farmers Market. He operated the red-checkered tablecloth eatery for over 35 years before retiring.
Sadly, the 99-year-old Andreone passed away in 2022, before the new location opened. His family is proud to carry on his legacy with their homemade Italian comfort foods. Many menu items use Dominic’s original recipes, like the meatballs, marinara sauce, and tiramisu.
What to Order at Andre’s
While the new space offers table service, guests can still order meals cafeteria-style from the kitchen line. Expect heaping portions of pasta classics like spaghetti and baked lasagna along with chicken parmesan, eggplant rollatini, and other Italian-American favorites.
Andre’s is best known for red sauce classics, but also serves salads, soups, sandwiches and daily blue plate specials. Save room for tiramisu or spumoni ice cream for dessert. Outdoor patio seating and gelato service will also be added soon.
The Verdict
Andre’s diehard fans will be happy to know the restaurant’s affordability and old-school charm remain fully intact. The new location allows owners to preserve founder Dominic Andreone’s legacy while expanding offerings for more guests.
Drop in Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. to enjoy a taste of LA history at 5400 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036. Be sure to admire the custom wall mural depicting Andre’s 6 decade journey as you dine! I sincerely hope you like reading this “Italian 59 years old Eatery Andre Reopens After Years in Mid-Wilshire, L.A – Here’s What You Need to Know” article.
Julio Figueroa is a seasoned chef with over 12 years of experience in fine dining. He holds a degree in Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu and is passionate about culinary innovation. As the lead contributor to chefdecuisinelosangeles.com, Julio shares his expertise and unique recipes with food enthusiasts. Connect with him on Instagram for more culinary inspiration.