Top Italian Restaurants in Santa Monica – Best Pasta and Pizza Spots

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The Best Italian Eats in Santa Monica

Are you craving authentic Italian cuisine but don’t know where to start in Santa Monica? As a longtime resident of the area, I’ve dined at my fair share of Italian restaurants and want to help you zero in on the top options. Whether you’re looking for casual pizza and pasta or a special occasion splurge, keep reading to uncover Santa Monica’s best Italian eateries.

Buono Restaurant

For Northern Italian specialties done to perfection, look no further than Buono. Located just off Main Street, this cozy bistro has earned a loyal following for its seasonal menus crafted by executive chef and owner Massimo Fabbri. From my experience, you can’t go wrong with starters like truffle deviled eggs or shrimp crudo, followed by handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas. However, save room for dessert – the tiramisu is to die for. Reservations are a must, especially on weekends.

Father’s Office

Beer and burgers may be this popular pub’s specialty, but their wood-fired pizzas are nothing to sneeze at either. Sort of like a laidback pizza parlor with a beer list that would put most bottle shops to shame, Father’s Office is a go-to for locals who want great grub without pretense. On weekends, expect to wait – the pizzas are that good. Pro tip: order a “Figgy Piggy” topped with creamy Gorgonzola, fig preserves, and speck. Pair it with a craft brew and you’ve got a seriously satisfying meal.

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Gjelina

To splurge on California-Italian fare, head to Gjelina next to the Pier. The restaurant embraces outdoor seating with breathtaking ocean views that are stunning, no matter the season. I have faced situations where special occasions call for the finest ingredients and creativity in the kitchen – that’s where Gjelina delivers. Dishes like charred octopus, smoked trout carpaccio, and homemade pastas push boundaries while honoring tradition. By all means, save room for Gjelina’s crusty wood-fired pizzas or sorbets for a cool finish. This is a spot worth celebrating at.

Parallel Pizzeria

  1. Modern yet cozy setting in downtown Santa Monica
  2. Build-your-own pizzas from a choice of housemade doughs and toppings
  3. Be sure to try the margherita, pepperoni, or spicy salami options
  4. Craft beers and housemade sodas pair perfectly
  5. Kid- and pup-friendly vibe for a more casual Italian meal

Parallel Pizzeria fits the bill if you’re searching for a chill pizza joint without frills or fuss. Basically, this downtown spot nails the essentials – thin-crust pies with simple yet stellar flavor combinations. From my experience, the customizable pizzas let diners craft their perfect pie. If deciding proves tough, can’t fail standards like the margherita deliver big flavors. While pizza is the star, Parallel also does creative salads and sandwiches to please any palate. Plus, its dog-friendly patio equals serious bonus points in my book. Affordable, laidback and totally tasty – this pizzeria is worth a visit!

Piccolo Restaurant & Pizzeria

Family-run Piccolo maintains old-school charm and hospitality while serving seriously good Italian. Located in a quiet residential area, stepping into this longtime neighborhood gem transports you straight to the streets of Naples. Here’s a real-life case from my experience – one visit years ago introduced me to Piccolo’s housemade mozzarella, blistered tomatoes, and tender meatballs that had me coming back time and again. Classics like pici cacio e pepe, osso bucco risotto, and of course wood-fired pizzas never disappoint. Prices are reasonable, and you’ll find multigenerational locals packing the cozy room most evenings. Reservations are wise on Fridays.

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Santa Monica Seafood

While its name touts seafood, this Italian-American trattoria on Main Street is also tops for landlubbing fare. Basically, homemade pastas, wood-grilled meats and seasonal specials give diners plenty of options on each menu. I occasionally pull all-nighters at the office and crave comfort food – that’s when Santa Monica Seafood satisfies. Co owner Brian Babcock’s family recipes shine in cozy dishes like lasagna Bolognese, chicken parm sandwiches and tiramisu. At the same time, seafood lovers will swoon over cioppino stew, Dungeness crab cakes and wood oven-baked branzino. For a casual yet polished meal, this neighborhood bistro never disappoints.

Tommaso’s

Over in the beach town of Santa Monica, family-style Italian dining doesn’t get much cozier than Tommaso’s. Housed in a charming cottage, this longtime trattoria oozes warmth and hospitality. Executive chef Maurizio Ferretti helms the kitchen, putting his authentic Italian heritage to delicious use. From my experience dining here, rustic specialties like pici al cinghiale, potato gnocchi, and wood-grilled meats shine with nuanced seasoning. On the other hand, lighter options satisfy those craving seafood. Regardless of your order, save room for homemade tiramisu or gelato – it’s simply amazing. With its charming ambiance and honest cooking, Tommaso’s is an Italian gem worth seeking out.

In closing, Santa Monica offers an impressive assortment of top-notch Italian eateries. Whether you go for casual slices or a splurge-worthy tasting menu, the city’s restaurants deliver authentic flavors and hospitality. From independent gems to buzzy newcomers, the options cater to all tastes. By following the above recommendations, I’m confident you’ll discover your new favorite Italian spot. Of course, let me know if you have any other questions! Buon appetito!

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Top Italian Restaurants in Santa Monica

Restaurant Address Cuisine Average Check Notable Dishes
Guiseppe’s Ristorante 2323 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405 Northern Italian $40-$60 Osso Bucco, Risotto Milanese
Sassi 114 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Neapolitan Pizza $15-$30 Margherita Pizza, Lasagna
Santa Monica Farmers Market Arizona Ave & 3rd St Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Multiple food stalls $5-$15 Focaccia, Calzones, Paninis

FAQ

  1. What are some top Italian restaurants in Santa Monica?

    Places like Giorgio Baldi and Fig Restaurant are considered some of the best Italian eateries in the area. Giorgio Baldi is known for authentic Northern Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. Fig’s seasonal menus focus on ingredients from local farms.

  2. What kind of cuisine do they serve?

    Most serve traditional Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, chicken or veal Parmesan. However, some places kind of put their own spin on classics or feature seasonal menus. For example, Fig often highlights ingredients from local farms.

  3. Are any restaurants more casual or family-friendly?

    Michelini Gourmet Deli & Kitchen has a laidback atmosphere and serves Italian classics like panini and gelato. They also offer stuff for kids. Tra Di Noi is another solid, casual choice for families.

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  4. What about price range? Are any more affordable?

    It varies but most are on the pricier end. Perhaps A Voti Pizza Bar with its BYOB policy has reasonable prices. Grazie Restaurant + Bar has creative small plates that won’t totally drain your wallet either. For something more budget-friendly, look to Italian markets serving good deli fare.

  5. Are any restaurants open late?

    For those seeking late night Italian, Sant’ella Trattoria is open till midnight on weekends. Craig’s in Santa Monica also offers small plates and pizzas alongside drinks and live jazz until 1AM nightly. Tra Di Noi stays open till 10PM if you’re looking for a cozier, family-style option.

  6. How do I make a reservation at a popular spot?

    Some of the best Italian joints require reservations, especially on weekends. Make plans at least a couple weeks in advance for places like Fig or Giorgio Baldi. You can also check their websites or call to see if reservations are accepted or if they offer waitlists or bar seating on busy nights.