50 Best Italian Restaurants near Universal City

“Excellent food and Judy was an excellent host she put up with us Australians 🍺🍺😀😀😎“

“Didn’t even get a chance to take a photo of me and my boyfriend’s food because we were so hungry!!And lemme tell you we tore that shit up!! The garlic bread and the pizza was hella greasy but hella delicious 😂 you must seriously try it

Vegetarian options: Cheese pizza, garlic bread, side ceasar salad“

“The little plates are yummy. I love the pita bread that came with the hummus (Salatim plate). The other plates were good also. I loved the bread pudding (I think it's better than the best cake). What I like the most about Bacari, besides the beautiful ambiance, is the friendliest staff.“

“Delicious authentic Roman cuisine …“

“Our family had an excellent meal at Mother Wolf last night. The pasta was out of this world and the Italian wine selection was great. The decor is very nice and conducive to an overall excellent experience.“

“The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, attentive without being intrusive, and genuinely passionate about the food they serve👍👍“

“Great food, great atmosphere, great host, great hospitality, great presentation 💯“

“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.“

“Went here last night with some friends who raved about this place, and it did not disappoint! We asked our server, Mickey, to bring us her favorites, with wines chosen by Rachel, our sommelier. The quality of the food, wine pairings and service rank among the best I've experienced -- and I say that having dined at Central in Lima, Peru (#1 restaurant in South America and #2 in the world) in 2022. An amazing meal!!“

“Are you kidding me it’s always good“

“Love Claudio & the team here. They are so welcoming and have the best Happy Hour in the Arts District!

We hosted our Baby Shower here and they were so accommodating. It's a great location for a private party or a large group. Definitely recommend!

They do validate for parking - pull into the Aliso building lot by Arrowhead Brewery.

Try the squash blossoms, Lambrusco & spicy calabrese pizza. Everything is so yummy.

Highly recommend a reservation on the weekends - they get busy!

Parking: They do validate for parking - pull into the Aliso building lot by Arrowhead Brewery.“

“Angelini Osteria totally lived up to the hype! We had a great dinner there that night and I can't wait to go back again soon. Let's start with the star of this show: uni pasta. Oh my gosh, it was divine! The uni was so fresh and creamy and the pasta itself was cooked just right. Every bite was an explosion of flavor. We also tried the baked lasagna and it was delightful. The layers were perfectly balanced and each bite was full of rich, savory flavors. Let's not forget dessert! We shared a few different things and they were all great. The tiramisu was fluffy and decadent and the chocolate mousse was rich and smooth. Overall, Angelini Osteria is definitely a must-try for Italian food lovers in Los Angeles. The food is incredible, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. We can't wait to come back and try more dishes on the menu!“

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

“100% recommend. thank you“

“OMG!! we came here before the Angus and Julia Stone concert (around the corner from the Orpheum Theatre) the last Saturday in June and what a cozy little joint this place is! We sat at the bar

Service was spot on, my wine was delicious (a Chenin Blanc) and the Bolognese Pappardelle was mouthwateringly good! The wine list consist of natural wines. Such a chill vibe in here but we were early in our reservations so keeping that in mind I'd say it might get busier the later the hour. Also be aware they do NOT take cash for payment of your meal. They do, of course for tips just not for the meal.

Not a lot of room in here so don't come with the thought of a romantic dinner for two where you can whisper sweet-nothings to one another without someone else overhearing hahaha.

Parking lot was well lit behind the building, it is shared with the Theater.

Respectfully Reviewed.“

“Wow! This is a gem in Hollywood you cannot miss. Not only is the food amazing, but the service is unparalleled. My husband and I came here last minute on a Saturday before a Pantages show, sat at the bar… and everything from beginning to end was fantastic. As Pantages season ticket holders, this will definitely be our new go to spot before our shows moving forward!“

“Went to Chloe’s birthday party this past weekend and it was my first time trying Sogno Toscano’s food.

The catering was impressive. Everything looked so beautiful… and the flavor of the sandwiches was incredible…

All those cheeses and meat really got me!

I can’t wait to come to the restaurant and experience a full lunch and dining experience!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“A wonderful local place run by people who used to work at some high class places decided to run their own business. The sauces are great. They have specials all the time. I'm shocked how the prices are still low. Crowded even on a Wednesday.
You will not be disappointed.“

“Amazing delicious food and love the ambiance. The servers were awesome!!“

“This is the 2nd time in 10 days that we had dinner at Vinici! We came both times with friends who were visiting from out of town. The food was amazing at both visits and so was the staff. Food - consistent and delish! The Pane with butter and Brussel Sprouts are a favorite of both visits! Service - Everyone is friendly and attentive. Ambiance - Love the music they play in the dining area!“

“Had such a lovely birthday dinner at this restaurant. It's a hidden gem for sure in Burbank. I had the shrimp scampi, the hubby had the lasagna and our son had a cheese pizza. They were all delish!!! The service and ambiance was great! Our first time but definitely won't be the last!!!“

“best pastas ever!!! And the tiramisu was fabulous“

“Really great service, way ahead of most LA restaurants. Food is delicious, staff is very attentive and well organized. There is always a “but”. Hostess are typical LA style “we are too important and fancy” girls making the very beginning of the evening pretty unpleasant. The rest of the night is 100% worth the time.“

“Why go 3000 miles away it’s just as good as Pat steaks and they got a roast pork sandwich too“

“If I could give the service rating 6 stars, I would. This shop feels like it was started by a bunch of your friends from the neighborhood. Everything I've gotten there has been delicious too. The Dominic de cocco drink has probably been my favorite. And then on Wednesdays and Thursdays the chicken parm sandwich is a must try.“

“The creamy pasta is my favorite.“

“Atmosphere was great! Service was fabulous. Drinks were tasty! Margarita Pizza lacked cheese but the Sweet Cheeks was amazing 🤩.“

“Everything about my reservation was great. The entire staff is so friendly and accommodating. The food was fantastic. We left thinking about when we'd be back just to have the Fusilli alla Vodka again.
Pro tip! If you can’t find a reservation, set notifications on Resy for the times you are available. A few usually open up. Just be sure to have your credit card on file, they go fast! ?“

“This was our first visit to Rao's. We came on a recommendation for a friends birthday. It was a perfect evening! The staff was on point - super friendly. They sat us on the back patio which was awesome. We (of course) had the meatballs and they were incredible! The Parmesan crisps served when we sat down were so good! We all loved our meals - veal parm, pasta carbonara, pasta oilo and the pear/fennel salad to start was delish! The highlight of the night was meeting/chatting with Johnny Roastbeef. He made the night magical and so much fun with his stories of how the brand became so popular and telling us about the other restaurant locations in Harlem and FL. All in all 10 out of 10! Highly recommend!“

“best pastas ever!!! And the tiramisu was fabulous“

“We live in Laguna and were up in Westwood for an art exhibition. We were referred to Ospi Brentwood by a friend. Upon arrival, we found the atmosphere alive and energetic, replete with college grads and their families and couples out for a nice evening. The mozzarella was phenomenal and the tagliatelli delicious.

The star of the play however was our waiter, Christian. He has this electrifying personality that is engaging, warm, really fun. He saw to our every need and was detailed oriented, which we love. The surprise of the evening was when Christian brought a newly frosted martini glass, unprompted. I've ordered martinis a million times, all over the world and never has anyone cared that much, or thought of the detail.

Christian is a true professional that has that balance to keep things light, fun, and all business.“

“Wow I love this cute little place, it’s going to be my new favorite morning spot. The food is incredible - focaccia so light, fluffy, and flavorful you feel like you teleported to Italy - and they make the most perfect tart crust I’ve had in years, which Francesca described as “home” to her. Both (the prosciutto and fontina grilled sando + apricot tart) paired beautifully with their americano. Chefs kiss!“

“Friendly Comfortable neighborhood spot“

“I absolutely loved having dinner with my fiance here. This was our second time here. Service was excellent; attentive & charismatic. The food was absolutely delicious, flavorful & fresh. That chicken parm was crunchy & juicy - fried to perfection - with the most tangy & forward thinking marinara sauce on top. I left feeling completely satisfied & happy we spent our money.“

“Great place and very welcoming staff. Food was delicious and very Italian. Highly recommended.“

“Try to stop by every time we stay in Glendale. Good food and very reasonable prices. Service is beyond excellent.“

“My first meal in L.A. and I couldn't have selected a better restaurant. The service was excellent, he was attentive and gave a great recommendation. we selected the goat cheese salad to start. It was delicious. Main courses were the chicken lasagna and seafood medley pasts. The portions were perfect. I will definitely return.“

“I've never been there but i have to say i love what they doing and hopefully we'll get to know each other and taste the beautiful pasta dishes“

“I looooooove this place so much. They play the absolute grooviest music/best DJ (please add a dance floor 😭🙏🏾) and amazing service!! Great vibes all around. Great to stop at for a drink and vibe.

Such a sweet corner gem, great place to stop by on a Saturday night.“

“Me and Vidhisha had an excellent meal. The owner talked to us throughout the night with a infections smile. I could taste the love in the food. Very accommodating to my dairy intolerance. I will be enjoying another dish from Spumoni sometime soon.“

“From the very entrance you can feel the atmosphere of a family restaurant. At the very beginning we got a piece of pizza, as apprentices. The main course also included a salad or soup. The main course consisted of 2 plates. In my case, I got pasta with tomato sauce, and on the second plate there was a huge chicken breast with cheese and tomato sauce. My husband had a delicious pizza. We received free refills for the cola we ordered. The food was excellent, and such service is often not available in the best hotels. Standard of service, like in Waldorf
After paying the bill, we received a delicious piece of tiramisu for free.
I recommend this place with all my heart.“

“I would describe De La Nonna as an elevated pizza restaurant. As with most pizza joints, they serve up beer, salad and pizza, but this not your standard fare.

Start off with a craft beer, wine, or a fancy cocktail (or mocktail). Lots of choices to be had.

For starters, we ordered the market salad which had a fantastically light tangerine(?) dressing. The dressing on the ceaser salad was a bit heavy, but it was still tasty.

The eggplant caponata appeared to have been lightly fried and coated in a sweet and savory sauce. Very good.

As for the pizzas, all were insanely good. Each was like a pillowy soft deep dish pizza and they all came with the best crispy edges.

IMO the roasted mushroom pizza was the best — and I'm not a fan of mushrooms.

Prices are a bit higher than you would find at a typical pizza place, but again, these are not your typical pizzas. The staff was friendly and the atmosphere, chill.

Dietary restrictions: They were able to accommodate customers with celiacs.“

“It's delicious. The price is also right.“

“Good fare at a fair price...“

“Wonderful experience and great food“

“Excellent Italian cuisine. Our favorite: the duck confit. A quartino of Sangiovese paired very well. Service was attentive and friendly. Atmosphere was LA hip and inviting. BTW, the bartender made an excellent Old Fashion.

Parking: Use valet only. Trust me.

Kid-friendliness: Not for kids.

Wheelchair accessibility: Yes.“

“We catered a Christmas dinner for 8 with Il Moro and all the food was delicious! We especially loved the melt-in-your-mouth short ribs, divine vegetables and pasta with olives dishes. We will definitely be back!“

“Ottima cucina italiana, atmosfera elegante e accogliente, staff gentilissimo“

“Great Food, Great Service...“

“ABSOLUTELY THE MOST AMAZING CUISINE I HAVE HAD IN LOS ANGELES .. or anywhere I been lately for that matter COMPLIMENTS TO THE CHEFS … . I’m
SOOOO IN LOVE with this place I am mad I don’t live in LA ..I’m from Vancouver CANADA .. visiting LA for the first time , Let me tell you . I had the octopus ( that was off a side menu that might have been their daily specials ) as a starter and I ate it soooo slowly cus I was in HEAVEN with every single bite I took .. I didn’t want to finish it but couldn’t wait to take another bite .. the flavours were so amazing and cooked to perfection. Next up I had the Ravioli Verdi di Spinaci e Ricotta
and omg again… OUTSTANDING cooked Al dente as I love it and although I was full after that.. I stayed and gave myself some time to digest my food cus I wasn’t leaving without having the crème brûlée .. and I’m glad I did cus it was phenomenal . I wanted to try everything on the menu .. Andrea is a culinary GENIUS . Shoutouts to Pablo ,Sara for being so welcoming and the rest of the amazing staff . I can’t wait to eat here again .. ?????
HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE ..

Thank me later

With love
Cecilia“