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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown LA

Italian food spots

A bowl of pasta is the only thing that feels like a proper, grounding meal.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pizzeria Republica image 1
Pizzeria Republica image 2
Pizzeria Republica image 3
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Pizza restaurant

Wood fire oven creates authentic Italian flavors with handmade pastas and spicy marinara. Warm lighting and soft R&B set a stylish, inviting vibe. Full bar serves fresh margaritas, while patio seating adds relaxed charm.

Handmade pastas come cooked to perfection with comforting textures. Spicy marinara sauce elevates dishes like calamari, while pizzas and pastas consistently deliver authentic, mouthwatering flavors.

People are saying

"The food here was outstanding and prepared with care."

"I found the pasta here to be really good."

"This Italian food, especially the pizza, is some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted drinks and food.

2

During happy hour, pizzas are priced at $15 with a great beverage selection.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located just 0.2 miles from The Orpheum Theatre.

02
Pane Bianco image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers a casual vibe with fresh bread and flavorful crusts. Italian options shine with New York-style pizza and unique toppings like walnut pesto. Bright, modern space suits quick lunches or takeout with plenty of seating.

New York-style pizza and alla palla focaccia stand out with fresh, quality ingredients like mozzarella and cured meats. Salami pizza features thin slices with a salty flavor, while specials include toppings like cauliflower and walnut pesto.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's artisanal sandwiches have fresh, quality ingredients."

"I found some of the best pizza in the world here."

"The Italian food here has quality ingredients and flavorful mushrooms."

Good to know

1

They are only open until 3 pm, which limits visiting times.

2

Parking at the Row is easy and plentiful.

3

There is plenty of seating available inside and outside.

03
Mona Pasta Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy space with a grandma's kitchen vibe offers rich, authentic pasta like pappardelle bolognese and Cacio e Pepe. Excellent wine and artisanal drinks enhance the Italian food experience. Loud music and close tables create a lively, warm atmosphere.

Fresh pasta cooked perfectly stands out here, especially the pappardelle bolognese and Cacio e Pepe dishes. Wines pair well with the homemade pasta, creating a fantastic Italian food experience.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is divine and rich in flavor."

"The owner personally took care of us all night."

"It's a lovely, intimate place with a warm, cozy vibe."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended before visiting.

2

Parking can be tough in downtown LA.

3

The restaurant is open late for dinner service.

04
IL Bambino image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space with linen tablecloths offers authentic Italian dishes like carbonara and mushroom ravioli made from scratch. Extensive wine cellar complements the strong flavors, while outdoor seating adds a relaxed, cozy vibe.

Pastas made from scratch include lasagna, spaghetti, and penne, all cooked to perfection. Dishes like carbonara and mushroom ravioli stand out, with the carbonara resembling cacio e pepe. Risotto and chicken parmesan also deliver strong flavors.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the lasagna."

"The calamari was perfectly seasoned and not greasy."

"The pizza here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Street parking is available directly in front of the restaurant for free.

3

The menu features a white truffle soup priced at $10.50.

05
Pasta e Pasta by Allegro image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot offers rich creamy sauces and seafood toppings on pasta cooked al dente. Rustic furnishings and dim lighting create a cozy, elegant vibe. Tables sit close, making it lively and intimate for those seeking authentic pasta experiences.

Pasta dishes feature rich creamy sauces and are served al dente with generous seafood or beef toppings. The menu includes Japanese style pasta that tastes like comforting home cooking.

People are saying

"You have to try the uni pasta; it's creamy and fresh."

"The dim lights really added to the cozy atmosphere."

"The pasta here is delicious, especially the mentai cream."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, but there is a free lot available on weekends.

2

Expect wait times to exceed an hour during busy evenings.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties.

06
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1

Sleek design and perfect lighting create an upscale vibe. Lobster dashi pasta offers a unique twist on Italian food. Spacious interior suits families and intimate dinners, while sake cocktails and exceptional hand rolls highlight fusion flavors.

Lobster dashi pasta stands out with rich flavors and a unique twist. The menu also features truffle toro hand roll and bluefin burrata, adding variety to the Italian offerings.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy rice at this Lunch Spot; it's perfectly crunchy."

"The Wagyu short ribs were so moist and cooked just right."

"You have to try the lobster pasta; it's incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00-6:30pm with special menu items.

2

Parking is free for two hours with validation from the restaurant.

3

Validated parking is available on E 3rd St and Aliso parking.

07
Good Clean Fun image 1

Speakeasy-style wine bar offers natural wine selection and cozy seating with heaters and blankets. Italian dishes like truffle pasta and meatballs pair perfectly with chilled red wine. Groovy DJ music adds to the intimate warmth and exclusive vibe.

Truffle pasta stands out with rich flavor. Meatballs, burrata, and various pastas pair well with chilled red wine. Salads and olives add fresh variety to the Italian offerings.

People are saying

"Ian and the staff provided fantastic service and a welcoming environment for wine."

"The food and wine pairings here are perfect."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The venue hosts monthly wine tastings featuring local winemakers.

3

Parking is available across the street for a small fee.

08
Master Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Casual spot offers well-seasoned burgers and impeccable chili cheese fries at low prices, perfect for quick meals near the medical center. Fettuccine Alfredo shines with fresh shrimp and rich flavors, making Italian options stand out despite the basic setting.

Fettuccine Alfredo stands out with both chicken and shrimp versions, featuring especially fresh shrimp and rich flavors. The pasta looks appealing and often draws attention for its presentation.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best I've ever had."

"The shrimp fettuccine is better than Italy's."

"The fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp is better than I had in Italy."

Good to know

1

Master Burger accepts EBT payments.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of options including burgers, pastrami, dinner, and breakfast.

3

The cleanliness of Master Burger was rated A1.

09
Archives Of Us image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop on a second-floor terrace offers outdoor seating with views of downtown and historic sites. Italian dishes like four cheese carbonara are rich and flavorful but can be overwhelming. Quiet, refined atmosphere attracts young professionals for work or study in a modern showroom style space.

Salads and pastas come at reasonable prices and taste good. The four cheese carbonara is extremely cheesy, almost like a cheese soup with noodles, making it hard to eat.

People are saying

"I found the matcha drinks had just the right balance of sweetness."

"This cafe has a really aesthetic and modern atmosphere."

"The spicy miso carbonara is surprisingly great value."

Good to know

1

Parking validation is available for 30 minutes with a purchase.

2

Parking costs $3 for the first hour after validation.

3

The cafe is located on the second floor, accessible by elevator.

10
The Factory Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Industrial chic space with exposed brick and an open kitchen creates a lively vibe. Fresh pasta, especially the ribbon pesto, steals the show alongside freshly sliced prosciutto. Cozy yet loud, perfect for date nights or business dinners with great music.

Fresh pasta shines with the ribbon pesto standing out as a must-try. Prosciutto arrives freshly sliced, paired with cheese for a unique taste. The open kitchen lets you watch pasta made and food cooked right in front of you.

People are saying

"The pesto pasta here is like heaven on earth."

"The industrial vibe here is offset by incredibly polished Northern Italian soul food."

"The Italian food, especially the pesto pasta, is like heaven on earth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Valet parking is available for $14 during dinner hours.

3

Street parking can be very difficult; consider using valet service.

11
Camphor image 1
Restaurant

Michelin-starred French spot shines with lobster ravioli and lobster risotto that blend rich flavors and delicate pasta. High ceilings and all-white decor create a refined, modern atmosphere. Open kitchen adds lively energy as chefs craft each dish.

Lobster ravioli and scallop ravioli stand out with rich, tender fillings and delicate pasta. The lobster risotto offers tender lobster and flavorful risotto, though it comes at a high market price.

People are saying

"The Dover sole and sea bream at these dinner spots are phenomenal."

"You have to try the desserts; they're unique and excellent."

"The ravioli here is incredibly delicious, especially the scallop version."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20 with a $2.50 convenience charge.

2

Reservations are recommended due to high demand.

3

The restaurant has a dress code; business casual is preferred.

12
Drago Centro image 1
Italian restaurant

Large restaurant features a huge glass wine cube and a lively outdoor patio with heaters. Italian menu shines with fresh pasta like truffle and pesto spaghetti. Cocktails steal the show, especially the espresso martini and Aperol Spritz.

Fresh pasta made in-house stands out with very fresh ingredients. The truffle pasta offers versatility, while the pesto spaghetti and burrata add variety to the Italian menu.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and amazing."

"The wine selection here is amazing and the sommelier is great."

"The Italian food here has phenomenal staff and recommendations."

Good to know

1

They validate parking for up to two hours, which is convenient for downtown.

2

Most regular pasta items on the menu range from $25 to $35.

3

There is valet parking available, and the restaurant validates.

13
Sampa image 1
Filipino restaurant

Dark, moody space with ambient lighting sets an intimate mood. Fresh pasta made with Italian flour shines alongside crispy pasta and garlic ravioli. A cool cave-like hallway and chill DJ music keep energy relaxed and unique.

Fresh pasta made with Italian flour stands out here. The crispy pasta and garlic ravioli deliver unique flavors, while the tortellini and pasta tasting menu offer solid Italian options.

People are saying

"The Filipino food here is fresh and creatively elevated."

"This fine dining reimagines Filipino classics with a refined sensibility."

"You have to try the crispy pasta; it's the best Italian food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

There is a public parking lot across the street.

2

Sampa does not have a liquor license yet; only mocktails are available.

3

Reservations are recommended for the tasting menu.

14
Settecento DTLA image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio with twinkling lights and live jazz sets a romantic, peaceful atmosphere. Italian dishes like truffle pizza and homemade pasta offer authentic flavors. Library-themed decor surrounded by greenery adds an elegant, relaxed vibe.

Homemade pasta and pizza stand out with authentic Italian flavors. Desserts like tiramisu and fruit tarts add a delightful finish. The menu also features tender filet mignon and finely prepared salmon.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and reasonably priced."

"The outdoor seating offers great drinks and an upscale crowd."

"The Italian food here is solid, with good pasta and pizza."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2pm to 6pm, ending at 5:45pm.

2

Live music is available from Wednesday to Saturday evenings.

3

The restaurant validates parking for $6 for three hours at the Library parking lot.

15
Savoca image 1
Italian restaurant

Open-concept design creates a noisy yet airy atmosphere blending elegance with comfort. Freshly made pasta dishes like rigatoni bolognese shine alongside standout mushroom pizza and seafood pasta. Upscale yet welcoming vibe suits casual and special occasions.

Pasta dishes like rigatoni bolognese and fresh ravioli are made in-house and cooked perfectly. Mushroom pizza and seafood pasta also stand out, with flavors holding up well even for takeaway.

People are saying

"The pasta here is made fresh and cooked to perfection."

"Augosto's professionalism made our Date Spots experience amazing."

"The breakfast buffet had a large selection, including eggs to order and hot meats."

Good to know

1

The breakfast buffet costs $39, which is considered expensive.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers a vegan option on the menu.

16
Zinquรฉ - DTLA image 1
French restaurant

Massive ceilings and stylish seating create a cozy, euro-urban vibe with a calm energy that can get hectic. Pasta dishes like lasagna and Bolognese shine alongside Italian-inspired items such as prosciutto croissants. Outdoor patio offers great people watching and a relaxed atmosphere.

Pasta dishes stand out with options like lasagna and Bolognese. The menu also includes variations like green lasagna and Italian-inspired items such as prosciutto with gruyรจre croissants.

People are saying

"The steak and fries are amazing for date spots."

"I loved the salmon tartine with avocado."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was the best item I had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers three appetizers for $22, making it a great deal.

2

Reservations are advisable, especially during busy hours.

3

Public parking is available next door for $15 all day.

17
Imperial Night Market image 1

Alleyway with old train tracks offers a unique walk and a quiet, family-friendly vibe. Food vendors rotate, serving fresh, high-quality tacos and sushi plus flavorful Italian pastas and seafood dishes.

Pastas stand out with very good flavor and texture. The seafood dishes also complement the Italian offerings well.

People are saying

"I found a great variety of good food options here."

"You have to try the large, yummy chicharrรณn and mixed tacos."

"I thought the Italian food pastas were very good."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $6 as of June 2023.

2

The market is not recommended for families due to explicit content.

3

The market is not accessible for someone in a wheelchair or on crutches.

18
Hill Street Bar & Restaurant image 1
New American restaurant

Large open space with exposed brick and high ceilings creates a lively yet calm vibe. Seven Hour Bolognese with homemade pasta shines for Italian food lovers. Steady atmosphere supports live bands and sports on TVs, drawing locals and beer lovers alike.

Seven Hour Bolognese features a rich, concentrated sauce simmered for seven hours with wide pappardelle noodles that soak up the flavor. Homemade pasta and a robust sauce make the Bolognese stand out, while pasta primavera offers a lighter option.

People are saying

"The burgers here are nicely flavored and the bread is a highlight."

"The Seven Hour Bolognese is a must-try dish here."

"The Seven Hour Bolognese has a rich, robust sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Lunch rush hour is busy; avoid visiting between 11:45am and 12:30pm.

3

Parking in the area is challenging, and the restaurant does not offer validation.

19
Cara Cara image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop dining offers beautiful city views and a cool atmosphere with heated lamps and fire pits. Italian dishes like mushroom focaccia and dungeness crab pasta impress. Cocktails are phenomenal, and outdoor seating is dog-friendly, creating a relaxed vibe.

Focaccia bread shines with options like mushroom focaccia standing out. Pasta dishes include dungeness crab and shrimp, both well-prepared. The avocado bruschetta and fries also catch attention.

People are saying

"The views here are amazing and breathtaking."

"The staff here makes dinner spots feel extra special and welcoming."

"The shrimp and crab pasta dishes were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:30 pm, so plan accordingly.

3

Valet parking is available for guests.

20
LALA'S Argentine Grill Downtown Los Angeles image 1

Argentinian restaurant shines with excellent steaks and fresh sangrias in a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. Pasta Primavera with Pink sauce offers a full-flavored, refreshing Italian option. Seating is tight, so expect lively, close quarters.

Pasta dishes here have a full flavor and a refreshing feeling that avoids heaviness. The Pasta Primavera with Pink sauce stands out as a meat-free option that holds its own in taste.

People are saying

"The mashed potatoes here are creamy and fantastic."

"This Italian food is full of flavor and I had the best pasta ever."

"I found the atmosphere to be nice and quiet."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Parking is available at a public lot across the street for $10.

3

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

21
CULTURAS RESTAURANT image 1

Warm ambiance with a cute tree centerpiece and live DJ sets a lively mood. Outdoor seating shines on a fabulous patio perfect for relaxing. Italian dishes like fresh pesto and chicken Alfredo offer tasty, unique flavors.

Pesto stands out with its fresh flavor and the chicken Alfredo offers a refreshing take on a classic dish.

People are saying

"The Peruvian food here is authentic, fresh, and flavorful."

"The cocktails here are flavorful and perfectly balanced."

"The pesto and chicken Alfredo were tasty and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 9 pm on Fridays with half-price on the second drink.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

22
Bike Shed Moto Co image 1

Motorcycle-themed spot blends British decor with a lively barbershop and tattoo parlor. Italian dishes shine with vegan rigatoni and rich mushroom risotto. Spacious seating and leather sofas create a laid-back vibe perfect for enthusiasts and casual diners.

Rigatoni with vegan sausage stands out as a flavorful vegan option. Mushroom Asparagus Risotto offers a rich, earthy taste. Pappardelle with Bolognese sauce serves well in small portions. Tiramisu comes light and tasty.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the wagyu beef burger."

"It's a really cool spot with an awesome, modern vibe."

"I had the best roast I've ever had in America."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 5-7 PM with great deals.

2

They host special events regularly, so check in frequently for updates.

3

MotoGP watch parties and bike nights are popular events held here.

23
Zaya image 1
Restaurant

Large bar and intimate tables create a cozy vibe with live music energizing the space. Shrimp Alfredo and pizza shine with well-seasoned flavors and fresh servings. Elegant decor blends with a cosmopolitan vibe for a lively night out despite stuffy air.

Shrimp Alfredo and pizza stand out with well-seasoned flavors and hot, fresh servings. Pasta dishes, including shrimp pasta and Alfredo, come in appropriate portions and maintain consistent quality.

People are saying

"The live music here creates a really polished, downtown vibe."

"The food and drinks here are delicious and impressive."

"The Italian Food here has a great vibe and lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Salsa and bachata dancing happens every Monday at 8 pm, followed by social dancing.

2

Happy hour runs from Wednesday to Friday, 5-8 pm with discounted drinks.

3

Comedy shows take place every Tuesday night, providing a fun midweek option.

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