Il Fornaio Manhattan Beach

I've been here several times. The food is good, not great. Service is so-so, and that has been the case every time I've been to Il Fornaio. I've had a different server every time.

The service staff are clearly attentive to the point of lurking over the table to quickly move the dinner along. The waiter didn't pace the meal and the drinks, appetizer, salad, and dinner were essentially on top of one another without the chance for us to relax and dine. I'll never return to this corporate fast food dining machine.

The food had no flavor whatsoever. The service took too long. The ambience was just not great disappointed I will never go back again 

Exceptional service by wait staff and the manager here. And such a gorgeous interior. Perfect for a special or just about any occasion.

We were celebrating our sons college graduation. We had two other large groups we were trying to sit with and they were able to accommodate us with our own room. It was perfect and made for a very special celebration. Thank you for your excellent service!!

This restaurant is a wonderful experience. Just being there is enjoyable. We find that the waiters and waitresses are like friends. And the menu is great. One other thing: If you want some variation that is not on the menu, they will make it happen.

Very nice place to bring a date or family. Prices reflect the elegance, service is alright. Waiter was cool but the guy cleaning up the table is rough around the edges and needs to work on his manners. My portion was a little small, seared scallops & prawns (forgot the Italian name), seafood was a little salty. Overall a nice place if you want to impress someone bring them here.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 4

Il Fornaio in Manhattan Beach, part of a global chain renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, offers a variety of dining experiences and unique private spaces like the East Loggia and Sala del Vino. While it’s known for fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and regional specialties, my recent visit left me underwhelmed. The vegetarian options, including pasta and minestrone soup, were fine but not exceptional. The pasta sauce lacked depth, though a side of pesto improved the flavor. The soup was under-salted but easily fixed, and the bread and olive oil were satisfying.

The ambiance was lively, with an open kitchen that created a bustling atmosphere, though it didn’t feel intimate or particularly special for a date night. However, it’s conveniently located with easy parking and could be a great spot for hosting large groups in their well-designed party rooms.

While Il Fornaio has its charm and remains a favorite for many (as reflected in its generally high reviews), my experience didn’t match the hype. Perhaps exploring their seasonal menus or signature wine pairings could reveal the true essence of what they’re celebrated for.

Would I return? For a special group event, yes, but for a personal dining experience, there are other options I’d prefer in town.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 5

Best ravioli I've had in my life.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Once we finally were able to get someone to wait on us, the food was served quickly and hot! Delicious.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 4

Italian food is amazing and the desserts are delicious

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Spaghetti and Meatballs, Tiramisù

Solid Italian for higher end chain. Nothing jumped and said wow. At a group meal so menu choices were limited. Espresso Martini hit the spot.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Caprese Salad, Calamaretti Fritti, Salmone Alla Griglia

Great Italian menu. Large dining area.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Minestrone Cup

Excellent pizza

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Filetto Al Vino Rosso

Great place for a romantic date night, loved the atmosphere and loved that they had a big parking lot so I didn't have to worry about that. The food was delicious and large in portion.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5