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Chicken parmigiana and meatballs in California

A plate piled high with chicken parmigiana and meatballs is the only way to satisfy a craving for classic comfort food.

Based on 973 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Pazzos Italian image 1
Pazzos Italian image 2
Pazzos Italian image 3
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Southern Italian restaurant

Small family-run Italian spot offers a warm, welcoming vibe with a neighborhood pizza joint atmosphere. Guests can enjoy making their own pizza and pasta while watching games on big, nice TVs. The place feels chill and family-friendly, often hosting little helpers and allowing dogs inside.

Chicken parm sandwiches come with great flavor and a tasty sauce. Portions lean small, with some wishing for a bigger size.

Meatballs come with a light texture and a balanced sauce and cheese mix. Spaghetti and meatballs taste like a homemade masterpiece.

People are saying

"The pizza here is fantastic, especially the Sicilian style."

"The meatball sub was one of the best I ever had."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is really tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and operated, providing a homey atmosphere.

2

Pizza slices are a great size for the price, typically around $10 each.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets in the outdoor seating area.

02
Spirito's Italian Diner image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian diner with cozy layout and generous portions creates a laid-back, dive-like atmosphere. Authentic dishes like eggplant Parmesan and thin-crust pizza stand out despite simple surroundings. Seating includes tables and chairs, with some outdoor options.

Butterflied, breaded, and fried chicken sits on a French bread roll with melted cheese. The sandwich and dinner versions both deliver very good flavor that often invites a second order.

Hand-rolled meatballs star in the Meatball Sub and spaghetti dishes. The meatballs deliver solid flavor and pair well with sandwiches and pasta.

People are saying

"The lasagna is divine, just like Nona made it."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is delicious and flavorful."

"The spaghetti and meatballs here are fantastic and satisfying."

Good to know

1

You need to stand in line to order and pay.

2

I placed my order by telephone and was told it would be ready in 20-25 minutes.

3

There is plenty of free parking in the lot in front.

03
Anna Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, cozy space blends modern elegance with old-school touches and a family photo wall that adds warmth. Atmosphere feels like a community gem with a relaxing, authentic Italian vibe. Guests enjoy NYC-style pizza with fresh ingredients in a setting that suits casual dates and family hangouts.

Chicken parm comes as a slider and a full dish. The sliders stand out as killer bites. The full chicken parm pairs well with other Italian staples like Cacio Pepe pasta.

Meatballs come tender and homemade, with a light and airy texture. The meatball sub features soft yet crunchy bread that complements the filling well.

People are saying

"This New York-style pizza is chewy and delicious."

"The meatballs were so light and airy, it felt like magic."

"I loved the chicken parmesan sliders served on garlic knots."

Good to know

1

A slice costs $4-$6, making it an affordable option for lunch or dinner.

2

Anna Pizza offers a big selection of dishes, catering to various tastes.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

04
BMH Italian image 1

Deli space combines clean modern design with cozy lounge areas and a work-in-progress atmosphere. Sandwiches come wrapped in old-school brown paper, evoking classic deli traditions. The place draws people who appreciate authentic Italian ingredients and exceptional house-made bread.

Creamy texture stands out in the chicken Parmesan Alfredo pasta. The chicken parm pairs well with bada-bing sauce and comes highly recommended alongside the Caprese.

Meatballs come tasty and well-seasoned in a sub drenched with marinara and melted provolone. The sandwich uses soft sub rolls and delivers a satisfying, hearty flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"I loved the old-style Italian sandwiches here."

"The bread here is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside."

"I loved their delicious and creamy Chicken Parmigiana."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Take-home meals and sandwiches are available for quick dining options.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $41.

05
Sorrento's Pizza & Italian Restaurant image 1

Small, old-school Italian restaurant with cozy, nostalgic atmosphere resembling an Italian friend's home kitchen. Quiet and intimate setting fosters a family vibe with friendly energy. Decor feels like a time capsule from East Coast Little Italy, creating a welcoming, authentic experience.

Chicken Parmesan comes with spaghetti and generous portions that often leave enough for another meal. The dish is consistently excellent and pairs well with garlic bread and sauce.

Meatball sandwiches stand out with rich flavor and hearty portions. They also serve meatballs in spaghetti and lasagna, making them a solid choice for classic Italian meatball dishes.

People are saying

"The owners make you feel like family when you're here for Italian food."

"The meatballs here feel like family, soulful and generous."

"I found the Chicken Parmigiana to be outstanding."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays and Thursdays feature chicken parmesan nights with special pricing.

2

They offer a two-person meal special that provides good value.

3

Portions are large, often leading to leftovers.

06
Scarlett image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers live jazz piano and energetic performances with tasteful decor including a leopard pool table and cozy tables. Atmosphere feels elegant and vibrant, perfect for dates or long dinners. Crowd enjoys Italian cuisine with standout cocktails and a memorable vibe.

The chicken parmigiana features well-cooked chicken with a satisfying texture. It pairs well with the meatballs, making a solid meal choice.

Meatballs come with a creamy polenta instead of bread, adding a unique twist. They taste amazing and often get served as a complimentary treat.

People are saying

"This dinner spot has a vibrant, theatrical atmosphere with live entertainment."

"The food, especially the tuna tartare, is fresh and balanced."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here feels like a vibrant, theatrical dinner spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

Expect to pay around $230 for a meal and drinks for two.

3

The menu features seafood, flatbreads, pasta, and meat options.

07
Sunday Gravy image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with quaint, funky decor and a no-frills, homey vibe. Atmosphere feels social and lively with a great playlist adding to the energy. Seating is limited and ordering happens at the counter before finding a table.

Chicken parm features superb breading and pairs well with sides like Brussels sprouts. Both chicken and eggplant versions hit the mark with solid flavor and texture.

Two well-endowed meatballs come with a zesty marinara sauce. They pair well with rich, creamy ricotta and show high quality.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the pasta and meatballs."

"The meatballs were moist and very flavorful."

"The Chicken Parmigiana tasted just like I wanted it to."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because it gets busy.

2

The parking lot is tiny and only has one way in and out.

3

Expect a wait after events at the nearby Forum and SoFi.

08
Jemma Hollywood image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and Harry Potter-themed decor create a welcoming and visually engaging space. Atmosphere ranges from vibrant and lively to occasionally noisy, with enough table spacing for comfort. Complimentary cocktail service adds a unique touch to the dining experience.

Chicken Parmesan stands out for its delicious flavor and satisfying taste. Every bite shows care in preparation and quality ingredients.

Meatballs come in varying quality here, sometimes good and sometimes a bit bland or cold. They pair well with spaghetti but can lack consistency.

People are saying

"The pizza and pasta at this dinner spot are incredible."

"The meatballs here were amazing and fire."

"The Chicken Parmigiana was a dream."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available at the bar, but not throughout the restaurant.

2

Valet parking costs $30 for dinner and the show.

3

Parking nearby costs $33, which is convenient for theatergoers.

09
Bianco's Italian Cuisine image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers a charming and inviting atmosphere with a cute indoor space and an adorable patio featuring games like pool and foosball. The vibe stays quiet and comfortable, making it suitable for any occasion. Music and TV add to the relaxed, pleasant setting.

Flavorful and hot chicken parmigiana stands out with its rich taste. It pairs well with cheese ravioli in pink sauce and comes alongside garlic Parmesan wings for a satisfying meal.

Homemade meatballs come in a huge sandwich and in spaghetti with meat sauce. Both options offer a delightful, hearty taste.

People are saying

"The pizza here has amazing flavor and fresh toppings."

"I found the Chicken Parmigiana to be awesome and flavorful."

"I found the meatball sandwich to be huge and so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9 p.m.

2

Lunch specials are available until 5pm.

3

The pizza wing drink combo is only $25.

10
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant blends modern design with traditional elements in a warm, inviting ambiance. Outdoor seating offers heated, shielded comfort ideal for conversation, while indoor space feels lively and energetic. Seating inside can be uncomfortable due to chair design.

Chicken parmigiana comes out delicious and well-prepared. It pairs well with other Italian dishes like bolognese and caprese.

Meatballs come as a top-rated appetizer and pair well with gnocchi. They show up in various dishes like lasagna and ravioli, always well done and flavorful.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes straight out of Italy."

"This Chicken Parmigiana tastes like it's straight out of Italy."

"The meatball appetizer here was a 10/10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can get crowded during weekends.

11
Eddieโ€™s Kitchen image 1

Renovated space features live edge slab tables and comfortable seating with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere suited for family or date nights. Friendly staff and a violinist playing live music add to the relaxed vibe. Casual setting includes a beer and wine bar with several beers on tap.

Chicken parmigiana features tasty chicken served with polenta. It pairs well with salads like Caesar and arugula, plus bruschetta.

Spaghetti and meatballs come with classic flavors and pair well with pasta alfredo. The meatballs stand out alongside fresh bread and a crisp Caesar salad.

People are saying

"The dinner here is amazing, truly exceptional food."

"I loved their spaghetti and meatballs."

"I thought the Chicken Parmigiana here was the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available within 10 minutes.

2

Expect entrees to be priced over $30, which may be considered high.

3

Happy hour is available weekly, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

12
Filomena's Italian Kitchen & Market image 1

Italian restaurant combines cozy rustic decor with an authentic East Coast deli vibe and an adjacent fresh pasta market and bakery. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with soft lighting and aromas of baked bread and simmering sauces. Small, intimate setting suits quiet dinners and casual gatherings.

Massive portions of chicken parmesan come with options like Sunday sauce over spaghetti or angel hair pasta. The dish pairs well with sides like ravioli and pesto and offers a hearty, satisfying meal.

Meatballs come with perfectly spiced flavors and rich marinara sauce. The Sunday gravy adds a deep, savory touch, and the meatball sub stands out for its delicious taste.

People are saying

"The Grocery Store staff is so helpful and attentive."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is outstanding and clearly homemade."

"The spaghetti and meatballs were filled with the perfect amount of spices."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating, especially during dinner hours.

2

The market offers a wide variety of fresh pasta, meats, cheeses, and Italian specialties.

3

Expect generous portion sizes; one lasagna can easily serve two people.

13
Bruno's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian trattoria with classic vintage design and traditional Italian music creates an authentic atmosphere. Outdoor patio overlooks the pier, blending Italian and Californian vibes. Staff speak Italian, enhancing the genuine feel.

Chicken parmigiana comes with a flavorful red sauce and generous portions. It pairs well with pasta and offers more food than expected.

Huge meatball subs stand out here, alongside a meatball panini and ravioli with meatballs. The meatballs appeal to all ages, including picky eaters.

People are saying

"The pasta and gnocchi here are delicious."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here has a delicious, flavorful red sauce."

"I especially liked their meatballs."

Good to know

1

Expect large portions; sharing is recommended.

2

A $3.60 charge applies for each additional topping on pizzas.

3

They charge extra for protein additions to dishes.

14
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1

Multiple rooms filled with old pictures, cultural statues, and red and white gingham tablecloths create a unique, lively atmosphere. Friendly energy rises with roaming photographers and birthday songs adding to the experience. The setting feels like an Italian dining room with a cozy, homey vibe.

Chicken parmigiana stands out with its rich mozzarella and flavorful breading. It pairs well with classic Italian sides like spaghetti and minestrone soup.

Very large, spicy meatballs come doused in marinara and fill you up for hours. The meatball roll and spaghetti with meatballs stand out as tasty and filling options, often enjoyed over multiple meals.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and perfection."

"The Chicken Parmigiana service was perfection; I never had to ask for anything."

"The meatballs here are large, delicious, and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect large portion sizes; a normal serving feeds about five people.

3

Meatball Mondays offer 50% off any meatball item, including sandwiches and pasta.

15
Buon Gusto image 1
Italian restaurant

Old building with spacious outdoor patio and plenty of seating creates a warm, authentic Italian vibe. Bar area features multiple TVs showing sports, adding a casual, lively energy. Atmosphere blends friendly, inviting mood with touches of Little Italy charm.

Huge portions define the chicken parmigiana here, with a taste that was once described as amazing and the bomb. Recent visits show a drop in quality, suggesting a possible change in cooks.

Big, flavorful meatballs stand out here, especially in the sub and side dishes. The sauce complements the meatballs well, showing clear skill in preparation.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is huge and amazing."

"The meatballs are big and flavorful."

Good to know

1

There is no corkage fee if you bring your own bottle of wine.

2

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible from either side of the street.

3

Expect food to be served quickly, usually within 20 minutes.

16
Da Boyz Original Pizza & Pasta Italian Eatery image 1

Spacious Italian eatery offers high tables and booths, a cozy bar, and seating on a patio. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a family-friendly vibe and lively music. Many TVs add to the energy, while generous portions and a varied menu draw a steady crowd.

The chicken parmigiana appears in dishes like the Vodka Chicken Parmesan Alfredo and the hot honey chicken parm vodka rigatoni. It comes with a crispy fried coating and pairs well with rich sauces.

Spaghetti and meatballs stand out with homemade sauce and generous portions. Appetizer meatballs offer a tasty start alongside other Italian dishes.

People are saying

"This Italian food is so flavorful and delicious."

"I've never had a better Vodka Chicken Parmesan Alfredo pasta."

"I thought the spaghetti and meatballs were the best in the world."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a large menu with options including pizza, pasta, and subs.

2

Happy hour deals are available, providing discounts on select items.

3

The restaurant has generous portion sizes, making it ideal for sharing.

17
Mama Cozza's image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint old school Italian restaurant with nostalgic ambiance and warm, inviting atmosphere like a family gathering. Live music on weekends adds lively energy, blending jazz and rock with occasional comedy. Spacious venue includes a banquet room ideal for group events, combining casual decor with a full bar.

Chicken parm comes with a classic Italian style and pairs well with pasta and salad. It consistently earns positive remarks for its flavor and preparation.

Spaghetti and meatballs stand out with rich flavor and a satisfying texture. The meatball sandwich features fresh bread and a delicious filling that complements the sub well.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the fried mozzarella, is delicious."

"The spaghetti and meatballs were amazing and delicious."

"I enjoyed the Chicken Parmigiana."

Good to know

1

The banquet hall is available for hosting events and parties.

2

Lunch meals cost around $16.11, including lasagne, soup or salad, and a drink.

3

Parking can be challenging, so plan accordingly.

18
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery image 1

Traditional Italian deli combines market, cafรฉ, and quick-stop in a bustling, cozy atmosphere with authentic Italian grocery offerings. Outdoor seating includes stone picnic tables for enjoying sandwiches. The vibe recalls Little Italy in Manhattan with a quaint, small-town charm.

The chicken parmesan sandwich stands out with its sweet peppers that add a rich layer of flavor. It is messy but very tasty, making it a solid choice alongside other sandwiches like meatball.

Meatballs come moist and evenly cooked with a perfect sauce and parmesan cheese. The sandwich bread holds up well, making the meatball sub a solid, flavorful choice.

People are saying

"The Godmother sandwich with the works is the best choice."

"The meatball sandwiches here are out of this world."

"The Chicken Parmigiana sandwich is messy but very tasty."

Good to know

1

They accept only cash and debit card.

2

You need to grab a ticket with a number and wait until they call out the numbers.

3

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

19
Pizzeria Pappo image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with exposed brick and a 50's vibe creates a cozy, neighborly atmosphere. The space feels authentic and relaxed, avoiding loud music or brash energy. Seating is limited, making early arrival important to avoid waits.

Chicken parm features juicy chicken with a light and fresh taste. It matches the classic flavor expected for this dish.

Meatballs come out perfectly made every time and serve as a great start. Dipping the crust in the leftover marinara complements the dish well.

People are saying

"This food is so delicious, fresh, and flavorful."

"The Chicken Parmigiana was juicy and tasted exactly as expected."

"I thought the meatball appetizer was perfectly made."

Good to know

1

They do not take reservations, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

Expect a 60-90 minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking is conveniently located right next door.

20
Pasta Amore image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant combines cozy, romantic garden vibe with colorful flashing lights and EDM music, creating a unique mix of chill and lively atmosphere. Large screen TVs show random content, adding an unusual touch to the setting. Pasta comes in huge portions and is served quickly on paper plates.

Chicken parmigiana features a very cheesy topping with good flavor. It consistently rates as amazing and well-prepared.

Spaghetti and meatballs come with a strong sense of love and tradition in every bite. The meatballs pair well with classic Italian-American dishes like rigatoni Bolognese and spicy vodka rigatoni.

People are saying

"The all-you-can-eat pasta deal for $13.99 was amazing."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is so cheesy and has great flavor."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat pasta for an amazing price."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat pasta costs $14 and allows dish-to-dish changes.

2

Pasta Amore stopped serving iced or tap water by the glass; only bottled water is available.

3

Adding meat to the all-you-can-eat pasta costs an additional $3.

21
Paisano's Italian | Pechanga Resort Casino image 1

Italian restaurant offers an open kitchen concept with warm, dim lighting creating a cozy, elegant atmosphere. The space feels relaxed and quiet, with well-spaced tables enhancing comfort. Reservations are often necessary due to popularity.

Chicken Parmesan comes out delicious and filling. It pairs well with salads and calamari, making for a solid meal.

Wagyu meatballs stand out with their tender texture and rich flavor. Spaghetti and meatballs feature impressive, tender meatballs that complement the dish well.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is great, especially with Sean as your server."

"The bread here is warm, fresh, and delicious with garlic oil."

"The meatballs here have a wonderfully cozy and relaxing atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Making reservations is essential to avoid a three-and-a-half-hour wait.

2

Dinner for two is available for $60 on couple nights, Monday and Tuesday.

3

Expect long wait times if you arrive without a reservation.

22
Roma Italian Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with simple Italian decor and a family-friendly vibe. The environment feels clean and inviting, blending a chill mood with high-end food quality. A self-serve soda fountain and TVs showing MLB baseball add to the relaxed setting.

Chicken parmigiana comes with spaghetti in marinara sauce, though some prefer meat sauce. The dish is consistently good to excellent, fitting well among other classic Italian options like lasagna and meatballs.

Spaghetti and meatballs come with generous portions and fresh ingredients. Meatballs serve well as an appetizer or alongside dishes like lasagna and ravioli, offering a delicious, satisfying flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"I tried the spaghetti with meatballs; it was delicious."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect a 40-minute wait for food during peak hours.

2

Credit card payments incur a 3.99% surcharge.

3

Portions are generous, often enough for two people.

23
Andre's image 1
Italian restaurant

Building features Art Deco style with high ceilings and white glazed brick create a spacious, historic setting. Atmosphere blends sophisticated yet welcoming vibes with some noise, resembling a nostalgic cafeteria. Crowd tends to be friendly, enjoying a mix of vintage charm and contemporary decor.

Chicken Parmesan comes with a tasty marinara sauce and pairs well with spaghetti. The dish features a satisfying blend of mushrooms and cheese in the pasta served alongside.

Freshly made meatballs come with spaghetti or ravioli and often include garlic bread. The meatballs have a homestyle flavor that can vary between visits.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is so authentic and delicious."

"I thought the Chicken Parmigiana was the best I had ever had."

"These meatballs feel like a nostalgic trip back in time."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $2 for 90 minutes with restaurant validation.

2

The back of the restaurant has a parking lot with an attendant.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

24
Rosemary Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating with charming decor and overhead heaters on the patio. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a family vibe and local regulars. Wine selection stands out, especially crisp Pinot Noir that pairs well with seafood.

Chicken parmigiana features a crispy breaded chicken topped with melted cheese and sauce. Some servings come with an over toasted crust that adds extra crunch.

Soft texture and cooked to perfection define the meatballs here. They come with sauce by default, even when declined, and the waiter checks repeatedly about sauce preferences.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious and homemade."

"Steven was so helpful and friendly finding us."

"I had the best Chicken Parmigiana Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is every day from 3-5pm with half off all wines and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

3

A 20% gratuity is added for parties of five or more without prior notice.

25
Italian Express Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Courtyard seating offers a cozy, old-school Italy vibe with a welcoming, romantic atmosphere. The place draws a crowd looking for authentic, thin-crust pizza and fresh pasta sauces made from high-quality ingredients. It stands out for its generous portions and wood-fired pizzas with luscious cheese.

Chicken parmigiana comes with mozzarella layered over broccoli, which is unusual. The dish pairs with penne in pink sauce and garlic cheese bread.

Cheesy meatballs come with a generous portion and a strong lasagna pairing. Some batches have a strange chemical taste that stands out sharply.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was authentic Italian-style and delicious."

"I found the Chicken Parmigiana with pink sauce to be tasty."

"The meatballs here are absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Italian Express Pizza only offers takeaway food.

2

They are open until late night, making it a good spot for late-night cravings.

3

Ten of these huge wings cost only $13.99.

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