28 Best Italian Restaurants in Santa Monica

“My wife and I went to the Grove in Los Angeles last night and we had dinner at "Sogno Toscana," an it was outstanding. It was perfect in every way; great food, great drinks, outstanding and friendly staff, beautiful location, etc. I love Italian food but I can't think of one Italian restaurant that I like, until "Sogno Toscano." The food was outstanding, and there was so much more we saw go by that we can't wait to go back and try. And the drinks were outstanding. I love martini's and they served the best martini I've ever had. Giacomo was our server and took great care of us. He's from Italy and "Sogno Toscana" brought him to America when they opened their New York restaurant, and now he's in LA for this new restaurant. Although very busy, the entire staff were very fun to be around, and most of them are Italian which is also great.“

“Beyond expectations! Best meal & service in at least 10 years. I’ll be back!“

“The pasta was delicious, but we had to wait 15 minutes to be acknowledged, and when they did take our order, it was for everything and they “ran out of bread we run out all the time” at 7pm on a saturday. Restaurant 101: greet guests quickly, offer them some wine / drinks, even if you’re delayed on taking their order. Also offer more salad options or appetizers and we would’ve easily ordered dessert if it was offered.“

“Always a great experience and meal at Orto, strongly recommended!“

“Sooo yummy and good service!“

“Good fare at a fair price...“

“I would give via Venetto five stars based on their delicious food alone, but unfortunately it took forever to get served. I realize it was a Saturday night and they were busy, but it took quite a bit longer than it should have. The food is top-notch- and I'm super picky especially about Italian food. “

“We had the most delicious and delightful evening at Caffe Delfini last night. The restaurant itself is a charming and old school Italian restaurant. The menu is extensive and filler with classic dishes. The pastas are all homemade and delicious!! The owner is very personable and attentive. He made our evening even more enjoyable. All in all a great time at this little gem of a restaurant.“

“great venue. great customer service, excellent appetizers.“

“old school~ great food~ great host~ a treasure~“

“Perfect in Italian American food that really hit the spot. The boys ate the buttered pasta like it was gold and my wife and I enjoyed the entrees, I had gnocchi and it was perfect. The staff were wonderful and very kind to us with two littles, but I also really enjoyed how kind and involved they were with each other.“

“10/10 Recommend. When I’m in the area, I always gravitate to this spot. I love everything on the menu.“

“Very good food very nice Ambiance great service if you are in Los Angeles this is definitely a restaurant to put in your check list. Thank you, Luca and Valentina.“

“Best Pasta in Los Angeles!🤤😋🍝🍷“

“A friend and I visited Il Forno Trattoria last Saturday. After we left, my friend realised she had lost her grandmother's ring, of great sentimental value. We telephoned the restaurant even though it had already closed for the night, and the team immediately invited us back to search. When we arrived, the staff were cleaning up but had already started to look for the ring and helped us look through the restrooms and, kitchen. At least three or four employees actively helped, including providing gloves and helping us go through the trash to ensure it was lost in a restroom trash can. It was clear that everyone was genuinely concerned and willing to do whatever they could. Although the ring was not found, their professionalism, empathy, and willingness to stay late and actively help without question have left a lasting impression. I mustn’t forget the meal itself had been excellent: well‑prepared dishes, attentive yet unobtrusive service, and a well‑chosen wine list. Taken together with the staff’s extraordinary support, the experience showed Il Forno Trattoria at its best. It is the epitome of excellent service. Whether you are looking for quality Italian cuisine or a restaurant where the team truly cares about its guests, I cannot recommend Il Forno Trattoria highly enough.“

“I'm a huge fan of cheese, and was looking for an opportunity to try some new ones. They had a very bold Parmesan that wasn't overly salty. The 10 year aged cheddar melted in my mouth. The coconut Gouda from Holland was a surprise hit with the table. But my personal favorite was the french triple cream. I'm going to have to see if I can find some when I fly home.“

“This is my go-to spot with my cousin and some girlfriends. We usually get the mushroom pizza and the garlic bread knot. The drinks are always great (we alternate between their cocktails and the wines). We especially love the outdoor patio area—the ambiance is nice and relaxed. It's a spot that we will definitely come back to again and again.“

“It was fun! And pretty environment. Food was delicious“

“Incredibly fabulous food. Very professional wait staff. Can't thank Roberta and Elena enough. Thanks so much.“

“Never had the pleasure of going to the Palisades location, but this spot is awesome. We loved the chicken parm and the penne vodka. As someone from the east coast, I’ve been looking for an authentic penne vodka that tastes like it did in my childhood and I finally found it here!!“

“Great afternoon lunch with delicious food and wonderful service“

“Food, service and ambience were excellent, we love it !“

“Great customer service, very good espresso, tasty fresh pastries.“

“What a great variety of pizzas and salads. Tha pastas are exceptionally good. Great device and place to go with freinds. lots of parking to boot. Ive been here multiple times and plan on carrying on:) Will definitely them for catering very soon.“

“This rundown will ensure you enjoy the greatness of Capo. Start with the Filet Tartare accompanied by the grilled Ceaser. Move on to a split pasta plate of the Ragu and Corn Ravioli with truffles. Finish up with the Veal Scallopini while knocking back the last few sips of the incredible Grenache. Yes. I recommend Capo.“

“I feel like it's a solid sandwich overall. I tried four of them.

They do produce large sandwiches, but they're perfect if you're hungry. I was a tad underwhelmed by the number of add-ons - and their expense for each item. This is no Chipotle, where most items are included. La Summer - tasty and light. La Paradiso was also a favorite.“

“This hidden back patio is one of my favorite places in LA!

The food is delicious, I love their salads and pizza but come for their sandwiches every time. This time I got their meatball and my boyfriend had a slice of pepperoni pizza.

Stop by Jyna Issac’s on your way out for some fresh bread and pastry.“

“Brentwood has multiple Italian restaurants, but I keep going back to Rosti. It stands out by having free parking, a rewards program with points and with good deals via email, plus a large and diverse menu. The food is always fresh and delicious!“