Whether you’re craving an iconic NYC-style slice, a romantic candlelit dinner of lobster ravioli, or just a simple but sublime bowl of cacio e pepe, this sprawling city has it all. This are some of the best Italian restaurants according to Observer.

Cento Pasta Bar

921 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016

This tiny West Adams hideaway has quickly become a Michelin-approved hot spot for handmade pasta perfection since opening in 2020. At the intimate 14-seat chef’s counter, you can watch the meticulous preparation as satisfying dishes like the spicy pomodoro with creamy ricotta or pillowy gnocchi get crafted right before your eyes. The breezy back patio provides a romantic al fresco ambiance, while the signature banana tiramisu is an absolute must for dessert.

Colapasta

1241 5th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

This under-the-radar Santa Monica gem sources local, organic ingredients to create decadent Italian specialties with a unique twist. Fan favorites include the beautiful beet-stuffed casunziei (half-moon ravioli in browned butter) and the heavenly moringa agnolotti, bathed in an earthy truffle cream your taste buds won’t soon forget. With its warm, rustic vibe and intimate environs, Colapasta offers the ideal setting for a celebratory date night or special occasion splurge.

Angelini Osteria

7313 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

For over 20 years, this iconic Beverly Grove establishment has remained one of LA’s essential upscale Italian dining destinations. Originally hailing from Italy, chef Gino Angelini now also has a second Osteria location in Pacific Palisades, but his original classic still can’t be topped. From sublime antipasti like swordfish carpaccio to the legendary lasagna verde, Angelini’s satisfies with elegant, refined takes on Old World staples. Just be sure to pick up some jars of the famous lemon tagliolini sauce from the adjoining gourmet shop on your way out.

Donna’s

1538 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

This new-ish Echo Park hotspot seamlessly channels old-school NYC Italian-American vibes with a menu that checks all the boxes for red sauce joint perfection. Sip on one of their playful signature spritzes while sharing an order of cheese-stuffed peppadew peppers, followed by decadent entrees like shrimp scampi, chicken parmesan, or the classic meatballs. But no matter what, save room for dessert – the tiramisu here is possibly the best in the entire city.

Ospi Venice

2025 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291

This modern Italian stunner from the brilliant minds behind acclaimed restaurants like Felix, Kratogo and Petit Trois takes a more refined, contemporary approach to the country’s culinary canon. While you can’t go wrong with any of the top-notch pastas like the signature spicy rigatoni alla vodka, the real star is the crispy provolone starter drowned in addictive vodka sauce that you’ll want to sop up with their fresh-baked focaccia. End with an espresso martini and the sublime Nutella mousse for a next-level sweet finish.

Felix Trattoria

1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Speaking of Felix, chef Evan Funke’s homage to the timeless pasta palaces of Rome has emerged as one of LA’s preeminent temples of Italian gastronomy. Between the open kitchen’s giant pasta-making window, the puffy wood-fired pizza crusts, and showstopping plates like the trofie pesto or tagliatelle ragu, this Abbot Kinney institution offers the complete sensory experience for any pasta aficionado. Just don’t skip the famous caesar salad with crunchy breadcrumbs or the decadent lemon linguine.

Antico Nuovo

4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

With its exposed wood beams, crackling fireplace, communal tables, and open kitchen with wood-burning grill lending smoky char to every dish, Antico Nuovo absolutely nails that welcoming, countryside vibe every trattoria aspires to. Dishes rotate frequently based on what’s fresh and seasonal, but mainstay highlights include pillowy housemade focaccia, rich beef cheek pappardelle in red wine sauce, and creamy hand-churned gelato to finish. Their all-Italian wine list provides the perfect accompaniment.

Forma Restaurant

1610 Montana Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403
110 Navy St, Venice, CA 90291

Don’t sleep on these Westside sister restaurants offering refined Cal-Italian fare in chic yet relaxed settings. While you could make an entire meal out of the decadent starters like fried pizza dough with burrata or crispy artichoke hearts with lemon, be sure to save room for heavenly pasta plates like the signature truffle tortellini. Heartier proteins like the seared branzino with salsa verde also satisfy, while the bubbling olive oil cake transports you to the Amalfi Coast with every bite.

With so many amazing Italian restaurants to choose from across Los Angeles, there’s really no excuse not to carbo-load like a proper paisano on the regular. From show-stopping $30+ pasta tasting menus to walk-up slices that rival NYC’s finest, LA truly offers something to satiate every Italian cuisine craving at any budget. I sincerely hope you like reading this “Craving Italian, Check Out LA Best Italian Restaurants-Your Taste Buds Will Thank You” article.

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Quick Succession of Break-Ins

The first alarm sounded around 3 AM at the Maria’s Italian Kitchen in Woodland Hills, prompting operations manager Peggy Gonzales to rush to the San Fernando Valley site. While awaiting police, Gonzales received a call that the security company had detected a break-in at the Encino location. Just 15 minutes later, the Sherman Oaks restaurant also alerted them to a burglary in progress.

Extent of Damage and Loss

“Incredible. They hit all three restaurants in less than an hour, causing damage more expensive than anything we kept in the safes,” said Maddy Alfano, owner of the local Italian restaurant chain. Surveillance footage shows the culprits speeding off with two safes in a vehicle after the coordinated heists.

Cashless Transactions Debate

Many LA restaurants have transitioned to cashless transactions during the pandemic, but Alfano still kept some cash reserves on hand. A proposed Los Angeles City Council bill would require businesses to accept cash payments, to accommodate unbanked groups like the elderly and unhoused.

Councilmember Heather Hutt, sponsor of the cashless ban bill, argues it would build equity. But Alfano contends that most people now have debit cards or can convert cash to gift cards. By potentially fueling burglaries, she believes going completely cashless would make operating restaurants in Los Angeles safer and easier.

Police Investigation and Community Response

The Los Angeles Police Department is actively investigating the break-ins and asks anyone with information to contact them. The targeted Woodland Hills site was also burglarized earlier this year, indicating an organized crime ring focusing on the restaurant group.

Resilience and Solidarity

As lawmakers debate cashless legislation and police pursue the culprits behind the early morning crime spree, the family-owned Italian eateries face repairs and reinforced security measures. But the safety of their staff and customers remains priority number one after the unprecedented series of robberies.

Impact on Community and Resolve

Targeting beloved local restaurants, the early-hour burglars stole more than just cash. They took community touchstones, violating the sense of comfort diners expect when breaking bread. But the owners and patrons stand ready to fight back against such brazen criminal acts. I sincerely hope you find this “Thieves Rob 3 LA Italian Restaurants in Just One Hour-Full Story Inside” article helpful.

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