We came to Il Fornaio Woodland Hills to celebrate two birthdays and chose it because their Yelp clearly said dogs were allowed. I even went in first to be courteous and confirmed with the host that it was fine - we were seated outside with no issue.
Our teacup Maltese was zipped in a front carrier, completely silent, barely more than a fluffy head poking out. Within 10 minutes of sitting down, some floor manager (not our server) came by to tell us she had to be “on the ground” because of “prior complaints.” Complaints about what exactly? A five-pound dog sitting quietly in a pouch? That makes no sense. The whole thing felt performative - clearly more about image than actual hospitality. The guy came off as condescending and more concerned with how things looked than how guests were treated. Ironically, our dog became more restless, but I guess that fit his vision better.
Then came the food. I asked about gluten-free options and was told the Pollo Toscano was fine. Twenty minutes after ordering it, the server returned to say the sauce had gluten. When I asked about switching to another dish, she said, “It’s already been made, but I can put the sauce on the side.” Translation: take it or leave it. The chicken came out dry - something she must’ve known since she immediately offered a different gluten-free sauce the moment it hit the table. It didn’t help.
The food was bland, the service careless, and the vibe fake-friendly with a layer of passive-aggression. Performative hospitality with a side of condescension. Won’t be back. Wouldn’t recommend.