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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown LA

Italian food and steak

You want a steakhouse that understands the nuances of Italian cooking.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 2
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 3
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Sleek design and minimalistic branding create an upscale and inviting atmosphere with perfect lighting and beautiful wall art. Spacious interior suits families, large parties, or intimate dinners with a calm, non-flashy vibe. Sake cocktails and exceptional hand rolls stand out alongside fusion dishes and quality grill options.

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.

Wagyu beef melts in the mouth with perfect preparation. The steak sandwich features medium rare beef charred just right, layered on greens with a sauce that balances the fattiness.

People are saying

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

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

"The wagyu beef steak just melts in your mouth."

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.

02
IL Bambino image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space with linen tablecloths and carefully curated details creates a comfortable, lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy authentic Italian dishes made from scratch alongside an extensive wine cellar. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option in a setting known for its high-end yet 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.

Grilled perfectly, the New York steak pairs well with grilled vegetables. It appears as a healthier option on the menu and features in set menus alongside dishes like lentil soup and panna cotta.

People are saying

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

"The calamari was perfectly seasoned and not greasy."

"I ordered the New York steak and it was 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.

03
Sampa image 1
Filipino restaurant

Dark, moody space with black walls and ambient lighting creates an intimate, elegant vibe. A cool cave-like hallway leads to extra seating, adding a unique touch. Music from a DJ keeps energy chill while good acoustics allow easy conversation.

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.

Ribeye steak stands out with a solid flavor. The Ribeye Salpicao offers a good taste but comes at a higher price. Tamales and cucumber ribbon salad complement the steak well.

People are saying

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

"The ribeye steak with Filipino chimichurri was great."

"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.

04
Settecento DTLA image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio and garden with twinkling lights and live jazz music create a romantic, peaceful atmosphere. Interior features a library-themed decor surrounded by lush greenery. Cocktails and Italian dishes like truffle pizza complement the 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.

Filet mignon stands out with its tender texture and perfect cooking, served alongside mushroom sauce and buttery mashed potatoes. Every bite delivers rich flavor that melts in the mouth.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and reasonably priced."

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

"The filet mignon is so tender and flavorful."

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.

05
Drago Centro image 1
Italian restaurant

Large restaurant with huge glass wine cube at its center offers a classy yet comfortable atmosphere filled with Italian joie de vivre. Outdoor patio with heaters provides shaded, comfortable seating for mingling. Cocktails stand out as a highlight, 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.

Wagyu sirloin offers a rich flavor but can be a bit dry. Venison stands out as delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

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

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

"The steak here is amazing, and the service is professional."

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.

06
Cara Cara image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers beautiful city views with a cool atmosphere enhanced by heated lamps and fire pits. Cocktails stand out as phenomenal, complementing the relaxed yet vibrant vibe. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, adding to the casual, comfortable setting.

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.

Steak dishes include hanger steak with shrimp, served in smaller portions than typical steakhouses. The steak frites and skirt steak with salad stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The views here are amazing and breathtaking."

"I found the steak I had here to be absolutely amazing."

"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.

07
Camphor image 1
Restaurant

Michelin-starred French restaurant occupies a restored warehouse with high ceilings and all-white decor creating a refined, modern atmosphere. Open kitchen adds lively energy as diners watch chefs at work. Space feels upscale and comfortable, blending style with thoughtful details throughout.

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.

Steak comes pre-sous vide with a tender texture and good flavor. The steak tartare is seasoned perfectly and stands out as immaculate and well-prepared.

People are saying

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

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

"The steak was cooked perfectly, tender and juicy."

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.

08
Ristorante Per L’Ora image 1
Italian restaurant

Historic Italian restaurant occupies a beautifully restored former bank with stunning interiors and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Early opening hours attract a business crowd, while the rooftop offers great views and drinks. The space combines artful decor with a sense of hidden charm.

Offers an elegant and refined dining experience blending modern creativity with authentic Italian tradition. Features pasta made from scratch, including standout dishes like oxtail ragu, mushroom risotto, and ravioli stuffed with corn cream.

Filet stands out with its tender texture and pairs well with brussel sprouts. Steak options include veal and hamachi, offering variety beyond the usual cuts.

People are saying

"I loved the cozy vibe and Italian food here."

"It's like a cozy slice of Europe, a true hidden gem."

"I thought the steak was great."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available but can be expensive.

2

Aperitivo hour runs from 5-6 pm with discounted wine.

3

Happy hour features half-price appetizers from 4-6 pm.

09
The Factory Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Industrial chic space features exposed brick, steel beams, and an open kitchen where fresh pasta is made in view. The atmosphere is cozy yet loud, especially when crowded, with tables placed close together. The vibe suits date nights or business dinners with a lively energy and 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.

Steaks here bring a strong nostalgic flavor that recalls classic family cookouts. The Vitello steak serves as a middle-of-the-road option, and servers can be slow to provide a steak knife when asked.

People are saying

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

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

"This steak was one of the best I've ever had."

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.

10
Zinqué - DTLA image 1
French restaurant

Large space with massive ceilings and stylish indoor and outdoor seating creates a cozy, euro-urban vibe. Outdoor patio offers great people watching and a relaxed atmosphere. Energy is generally calm but can become hectic during busy times.

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 gruyère croissants.

Steak comes cooked to preference with crispy fries on the side. Servers often suggest chimichurri sauce to complement the dish.

People are saying

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

"I'd order the steak frites again, especially with chimichurri."

"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.

11
LALA'S Argentine Grill Downtown Los Angeles image 1

Argentinian restaurant offers cozy and vibrant atmosphere with good music enhancing the experience. Seating is comfortable but tight, limiting privacy due to close tables and loud acoustics. The menu features excellent steaks and fresh sangrias, creating a distinct dining focus.

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.

Steaks come perfectly cooked and juicy, with options like a 14oz ribeye and Steak Milanesa served with chimichurri and salad.

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."

"The steak here just melts in your mouth."

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.

12
CULTURAS RESTAURANT image 1

Restaurant features a warm and inviting ambiance with a cute tree centerpiece and live DJ music enhancing the atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a fabulous patio that complements the overall vibe. The bar offers creative and well-balanced drinks that add to the experience.

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

Steak comes out cooked perfectly with a rich flavor that stands out.

People are saying

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

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

"The steak here was cooked perfectly and really good."

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.

13
Bike Shed Moto Co image 1

Motorcycle-themed restaurant combines open air space, British decor, and a central bar to create a laid-back, fun vibe. It hosts a barbershop, tattoo parlor, and retail shops, attracting motorcycle enthusiasts and casual diners alike. Spacious seating with leather sofas and high ceilings adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

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.

A Tomahawk Steak serves two and comes with sides. The steak and eggs dish features a 10oz ribeye, confirmed by the staff.

People are saying

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

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

"The tomahawk steak is perfect for two people."

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.

14
Perch image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop bar with a breathtaking cityscape view and live music that enhances a relaxed, quiet atmosphere. The space feels crowded, requiring reservations due to limited capacity. Cocktails stand out as a distinctive feature complementing the setting.

Small dishes include arancini and burrata. Rabbit ravioli stands out as a memorable and genuinely good dish.

Steak comes out cooked to perfection with a focus on filet mignon and classic steak frites. The steak and fries combo delivers a mouth watering experience.

People are saying

"The rooftop view here is amazing, especially at night."

"The steak here has a view that's worth coming back for."

"The Italian food, especially the rabbit ravioli, was genuinely that good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary due to high demand, especially for brunch and dinner.

2

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

3

Live music occurs from 6-10pm, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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