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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Monica's best

Italian food

Made for those who seek out the specific regional traditions and ingredients of authentic Italian cooking.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
Chelsea Restaurant image 1
Chelsea Restaurant image 2
Chelsea Restaurant image 3
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Upscale spot blends trendy decor with a quiet atmosphere perfect for dates or casual nights. Italian dishes like sweet corn ravioli and lobster linguine shine alongside inventive cocktails. Comfortable booths add to the relaxed yet lively vibe.

Sweet corn ravioli and boar ragu stand out, with the ragu leaning very sweet. Dishes like lemon ricotta gnocchi, lobster linguine, and sea bass add variety to the Italian offerings.

People are saying

"This place is perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual night out."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and super inventive."

"The Italian food and service here are excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy quickly.

2

Valet parking is available for $15, but street parking is also plentiful.

3

Dress code is business casual; avoid flip flops and shorts.

02
Orto Santa Monica image 1
Italian restaurant

Bright space with soaring ceilings and soft jazz sets a calm mood. Pasta shines with perfect ravioli and creamy gnocchi in vodka sauce. Outdoor courtyard adds charm, blending elegance and comfort.

Pasta stands out with perfectly cooked ravioli and fluffy homemade gnocchi in creamy vodka sauce. The menu features truffle pasta served with a cheese wheel and a superb burrata with Italian ham.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The Italian food here feels so authentic and romantic."

"The service here is so attentive, it makes for a great date spot."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a 20% service charge for large parties of six or more.

03
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm atmosphere perfect for families. Fresh, light pea pesto pasta impresses with savory flavors. Bright, spacious interior invites guests to relax away from noisy spots.

Pasta quality stands out with fresh, light pea pesto pasta loaded with pesto, peas, and sun-dried tomatoes. Salads and pasta offer a fresh and savory taste that impresses even those familiar with Italian food.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"This Local Spot's fresh, from-scratch cooking uses local ingredients."

"Their Italian food is handmade, from the pasta to the sauces."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

04
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy back patio with olive trees sets a chill vibe for dining. Antipasti offers a variety worth trying while chicken Parmesan delivers a crispy, flavorful bite. Sidewalk tables invite lively people-watching in a dog-friendly space.

Antipasti stands out with a variety worth trying alone. Chicken Parmesan has a crispy breaded chicken breast and light marinara. Pizza options include a meatball slice with balanced flavors and a prosciutto Neapolitan with a crispy crust. The white lasagna and cacio e pepe are notable dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza had a delicious, fluffy, and crunchy sourdough crust."

"The back patio seating is super cute and charming."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza, has a delicious, flavorful crust."

Good to know

1

A $5 per person cake cutting fee applies for birthday celebrations.

2

Expect to pay around $80 for two pizzas and two beers, including tip.

3

Online ordering may not work reliably; consider calling instead.

05
La Vecchia Cucina image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers an elegant, warm atmosphere with a spectacular bar and heated patio seating. Chicken parmesan shines with rich flavor, while pastas are perfectly al dente with bold sauces. Vibe stays relaxed yet classy, often buzzing and crowded.

Chicken parmesan stands out with its perfectly cooked texture and rich flavor. Pastas come al dente with sauces like Bolognese and carbonara that are full of taste.

People are saying

"Their Bolognese is the best Italian food I've ever had."

"I loved dining on the heated outdoor patio."

"The pizza here is really delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets quite busy.

2

Happy hour is available at the bar with limited seating.

3

It gets chilly by the sea in the evening; bring a warm layer.

06
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with a dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun vibe. Outdoor fire pits add warmth to the lively scene. Italian dishes like gnocchi and wild boar papperdelle offer rich, memorable flavors.

Gnocchi and mushroom risotto stand out for their rich flavors. The Wild Boar Papperdelle comes with bread to soak up the bolognese sauce, and the Nonna lasagna is consistently exceptional.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"Our Brunch server Robert was very attentive and accommodating."

"Our server Rico was so friendly and gave great recommendations."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

07
Bread Head image 1
Sandwich shop

Bright space with an eclectic gallery wall sets a lively, laidback vibe. Homemade focaccia bread shines with fresh, crunchy texture. Sandwiches mix classic Italian flavors and creative twists like turkey pesto with arugula and avocado.

Homemade focaccia bread stands out with its freshness and perfect crunch. Sandwiches blend classic Italian flavors with creative twists, like the turkey pesto featuring arugula, avocado, and garlic mayo.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were fantastic."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches on house-baked focaccia are incredible."

"The Italian food here, especially the focaccia, is delicious and perfectly crunchy."

Good to know

1

The joint is small, so seating is tough.

2

Expect long queues around lunch hour.

3

They don't accept cash, only touchless payment methods.

08
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery image 1

Traditional Italian deli offers meatball subs and cured meats in a cozy, bustling spot. Outdoor stone picnic tables invite quick bites with a quaint charm. The vibe echoes Little Italy with authentic groceries and a lively cafรฉ feel.

Meatball Subs come with meatballs, spaghetti sauce, and parmesan cheese. The hot bar offers meat-filled lasagna priced at $8. Sandwiches like the Godmother and Don Lorenzo feature Italian cured meats and fresh bread with rich toppings.

People are saying

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

"The bread here is remarkably fresh and enhances every sandwich."

"You have to try the Godmother sandwich; it's amazing Italian food."

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.

09
Ugo Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian spot offers homemade gnocchi with rich basil pesto and solid portions of Pappardelle Bolognese. Cozy atmosphere with a lovely patio and soft music creates a calm, inviting vibe. Warm, simple setting ensures a relaxed dining experience.

Homemade gnocchi shines with a rich basil pesto that tastes authentic and comforting. Dishes like Pappardelle Bolognese and fried calamari come in solid portions and showcase real Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian, bursting with fresh flavors."

"The Italian food's gnocchi is perfectly soft and delicious."

"The atmosphere feels light and cozy with a calm vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features Italian beer like Peroni on tap.

2

An automatic 20% gratuity is added to all bills.

3

The restaurant charges $5 for card payments.

10
Locanda Portofino image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant Italian dining offers fresh burrata and unique pasta like sea urchin spaghetti. Warm, inviting atmosphere with romantic outdoor seating creates a cozy, authentic vibe. Classic East Coast energy blends with porcini mushroom risotto for a true Italian experience.

Fresh burrata cheese pairs well with bell peppers, and pasta dishes include sea urchin spaghetti and black squid ink tagliolini. Gnocchi options feature gorgonzola and creamy pesto, while risotto highlights porcini mushrooms. Desserts like torta della nonna and panna cotta finish the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the chocolate dessert was perfect."

"The food here is perfection, especially the amazing pasta."

"I thought the Italian food here was authentic and legit."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available for same-day dining, but it's best to call ahead.

2

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Parking can be difficult during busy times, so plan accordingly.

11
Bruno's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian trattoria offers authentic atmosphere with vintage design and traditional music. Outdoor patio with pier view blends Italian and Californian vibes. Menu shines with ravioli and fresh fettucine alfredo, while staff speak Italian for a genuine feel.

Ravioli stands out as a fantastic dish here, paired with fresh, hot fettucine alfredo that tastes authentic. The menu also features great pizza and pasta, along with chicken parmigiana and cannoli.

People are saying

"The pasta and gnocchi here are delicious."

"This pizza is fresh, delicious, and perfectly baked."

"It's a cozy place with a classic atmosphere."

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.

12
Spumoni Pizza Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy indoor space and heated patio create a calm vibe for casual diners. Fresh homemade pasta and ravioli shine with perfect cooking and generous portions. Pasta alla puttanesca delivers a flavorful, spicy kick, paired with delicious marinara sauce.

Fresh homemade pasta and ravioli stand out with perfect cooking and generous portions. Pasta alla puttanesca offers a flavorful, spicy experience, complemented by a delicious homemade marinara sauce.

People are saying

"The wine here is fantastic and the waiter is knowledgeable."

"The warm bread with olive tapenade was phenomenal."

"The Italian food here is really tasty and delicious."

Good to know

1

Monday night offers 50% off food from 5 PM to 9 PM.

2

Seating is available without a reservation on Sundays at 6 PM.

3

Metered street parking is available nearby.

13
Wally's Santa Monica image 1

Walls lined with hundreds of wine bottles set a wine cellar vibe with upscale decor and marble surfaces. Loud music creates energetic vibes where guests enjoy spicy salami pizza and seafood risotto with bold, complex flavors.

Spicy salami pizza stands out with bold flavors. The menu also features truffle pasta, brie bread, and a notable seafood risotto with complex sauces.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and exquisite."

"I enjoyed the massive wine selection and delicious food."

"The Italian Food here is amazing, with wine bottles covering the walls."

Good to know

1

Weekly tequila tasting events occur every Saturday, offering a fun experience.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Live performances take place on Monday nights, adding to the venue's atmosphere.

14
MUSE Santa Monica image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French restaurant offers an intimate, stylish space with art deco decor and moody lighting. Guests enjoy exceptional culinary craftsmanship including standout saffron risotto and memorable desserts. Cocktails complement the elegant, inviting atmosphere perfectly.

Saffron risotto stands out with its aromatic and technically well executed preparation. Tuna tartlets and eggplant pasta add variety with solid flavors.

People are saying

"The French food here is amazing, with such attentive and friendly service."

"The staff's attentiveness and warmth made it feel so intimate."

"The brioche here is the best bread I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at the restaurant.

2

Valet parking is suggested as parking is limited in the area.

3

Expect to spend between $400 and $500 for two people, including drinks.

15
MARELLE Santa Monica image 1

Enjoy lemon mushroom rigatoni and fresh crab cake with ocean views. Indoor and outdoor seating offers a breezy coastal charm and live DJ sets. Perfect for casual meals or large events with a Tulum-style design and beach-front vibe.

Lemon mushroom rigatoni stands out with a surprising flavor. The crab cake also adds a notable touch to the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and totally worth it."

"The outdoor space overlooks the pool and ocean."

"The Italian food here, like the calamari with saffron marinara, is to die for."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and the restaurant is usually not busy at night.

2

Parking validation is available for $10 off valet parking.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

16
Giorgio Baldi image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot offers handmade pastas like pumpkin ravioli and corn agnolotti with fresh flavors. Seating is tight, ranging from quiet indoor to lively patio with sea views. Valet service adds ease to dining in this intimate, charming setting.

Handmade pastas like pumpkin ravioli and corn agnolotti stand out for their freshness and flavor. The langoustine linguine offers a subtle sweetness, while the gnocchi with meat sauce and classic spaghetti deliver solid, delicious options.

People are saying

"The pasta portions here are small, but the flavor is fantastic."

"The cuisine here is so authentic, it feels like stepping into Italy."

"The Italian food here has big flavor but small portions."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required by phone as the restaurant is usually fully booked.

2

Valet parking costs $17 cash or $20 if paid by credit card.

3

Expect a wait of 15-20 minutes for valet service during busy times.

17
The Georgian Hotel image 1

Hotel boasts oceanfront views and vintage glamour in spacious suites. Italian dishes shine with fresh focaccia bread and perfectly al dente spaghetti in zesty tomato sauce. Lively atmosphere thrives with a speakeasy bar and terrace restaurant featuring live music.

Freshly baked focaccia bread offers a perfect balance of softness and crispness with just the right amount of olive oil. Spaghetti comes perfectly al dente, dressed in a light tomato sauce that is both delicious and zesty.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so polite and helpful with everything."

"The ocean view from our suite was breathtaking."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was so good I wanted more."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a speakeasy opening this summer.

2

The Georgian Room will open in about a month.

3

Check-in is available as early as 11 AM.

18
Capo image 1
Italian restaurant

Old-world style Italian restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with soft lighting and authentic artwork. Pasta dishes like Bucatini with Lamb Ragu shine, with half portions to sample more flavors. Lively conversations and eclectic music keep energy balanced and inviting.

Pasta dishes stand out with options like Bucatini with Lamb Ragu offering deep flavors and corn truffle ravioli delivering a perfect balance. The menu allows ordering half portions to try more, and the service includes helpful recommendations for pairing dishes.

People are saying

"I loved getting their handmade pasta; it made other Italian restaurants look bad."

"I had one of the greatest dinners of my life here."

"The handmade pasta here is so good, it makes other Italian food look bad."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices; a truffle pasta costs around $250.

2

A mandatory 20% service charge is added to all bills.

3

Valet parking is available for $15, but metered street parking is also nearby.

19
Citrin Restaurant image 1

Dining space feels elegant but cramped with loud music, creating a bar-like vibe. Outdoor patio offers a romantic and quiet setting perfect for dates. Italian dishes shine with truffle risotto and lobster bolognese, though portions are small and decor mixes new and dated elements.

Truffle risotto and lobster bolognese stand out among the Italian dishes. Pasta options are solid, though the truffle spaghetti is quite basic and the risotto portions are small.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal and beautifully presented."

"The service here is top-notch and attentive."

"The Italian food, especially the Lobster Bolognese, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required well in advance for prime weekend seating.

2

The meal typically takes about 2.5 hours to complete.

3

A 4% opt-out service charge is added to the bill.

20
The Cloverfield image 1
American restaurant

Large outdoor patio offers a dog-friendly space with heaters and fires for chilly nights. Shrimp Pasta delivers strong flavors while tiramisu is sour and pricey. Smooth jazz and a cozy bar room create a warm vibe perfect for groups and families.

Shrimp Pasta stands out with strong flavors. The tiramisu tastes sour and old, and costs $25 for two pieces.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating has a great vibe and atmosphere."

"The large patio is dog friendly and they even give pups a treat."

"The short rib bucatini here is so flavorful and cooked perfectly al dente."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on the premises.

2

Reservations are required for outdoor seating.

3

Happy hour, called social hour, offers special deals.

21
Cosetta image 1
Italian restaurant

Open air dining with a large, heated patio creates a cozy Italian style atmosphere that invites lingering. The space combines a tasteful interior design with ample outdoor seating and a fire pit, supporting both lively and romantic vibes. A bar area complements the setting, making it suitable for casual drinks or date nights.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the steak and prawns."

"The Caesar salad here is generously topped with crunchy bacon."

"The Italian food, especially the pizzas, had bold, flavorful toppings."

Good to know

1

Reservation is highly recommended during weekends and peak hours.

2

Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant with two hours of validation.

3

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 5 pm on weekdays.

22
Fia Restaurant image 1
Californian restaurant

Outdoor garden with fire pits and cozy seating under pine trees creates a magical vibe. Spicy arrabbiata pasta shines with bold, fiery flavor, while house-made pastas impress. Space heaters and blankets keep the intimate setting warm for modern American brunch and dinner.

Spicy arrabbiata pasta stands out with its rich, fiery flavor and boldness. All pastas are made in house and well put together, with tortellini and Caesar salad also notable.

People are saying

"The brunch here is amazing, especially the chilaquiles."

"The pasta here is rich, fiery, and unapologetically bold."

"The outdoor seating is wonderful with cozy lighting and heaters."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for brunch, especially on weekends.

2

Brunch for four people costs around $460, so plan your budget accordingly.

3

Happy hour is available from 4:30 to 5:30 PM on weekdays.

23
The Galley image 1
Steak house

Rustic steakhouse shines with high-quality steaks and a nautical-themed decor that feels intimate. Italian dishes like seafood pasta stand out, blending well with the casual vibe. Large, heated patio and fun staff make it perfect for relaxed, late-night dining.

Pasta dishes like shrimp pasta, pasta marinara, and linguine with clams or mussels stand out here. The seafood pasta and steak sandwich also get attention, while the fried shrimp divides opinions.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers tasted excellent."

"The clam chowder here is hearty and full of fresh clams."

"The Italian food here has a great atmosphere and is a lovely place to meet friends."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5-7pm with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant offers late-night food service until 1am.

3

Expect some menu items to be marked as 'market price.'

24
Diner Antonette image 1
American restaurant

Old building hosts an American diner with retro-inspired decor and cozy booths. Fresh in-house-made pasta shines in lobster and crab dishes, while burrata with peaches adds a unique twist. Patio offers airy, bright settings perfect for gatherings.

Fresh in-house-made pasta stands out, especially in the lobster and crab dishes. Burrata pairs surprisingly well with peaches, adding a unique twist to the menu.

People are saying

"The diner's fried chicken is wonderfully spiced and crispy."

"It's a warm, retro-inspired atmosphere with a modern, curated vibe."

"The homemade pasta here is incredible, better than in Italy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks before 7 PM on weekdays.

2

Kids meals are available for $5 each.

3

Parking is generally available on the street, but check for meters.

25
Santa Monica Pizza Kitchen image 1

New York style pizza shines in a chill spot with baseball games on TV and spacious seating. Chicken parmesan boasts great sauce and mozzarella, while lasagna has homemade noodles cooked al dente. Prices vary but the vibe stays relaxed and easy-going.

Chicken parmesan stands out with its great sauce and plenty of mozzarella, cooked well in a sub. Lasagna features homemade noodles cooked al dente, with sauce and cheese full of flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always tastes fresh."

"This New York Style Pizza is simple, yummy, and generously topped with ricotta."

"The chicken Parmesan here is really, really good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

Online menu prices may not match in-store prices; check before ordering.

3

A slice of pizza costs about $4.

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Santa Monica, California

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