Best Italian Restaurants in El Sereno

Price

$$
$$$
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Regions

DowntownEast LAHollywoodPasadenaSan Fernando ValleyWest Hollywood / Beverly Hills / Mid-Wilshire

Neighborhoods

Arts DistrictDowntownEagle RockEast Los AngelesGlendaleHighland Park

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

45 restaurants available nearby

1. Bestia

4.8

Exceptional(8392)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 160 times today

A multi-regional Italian restaurant in the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles.

A photo of The Factory Kitchen - Los Angeles restaurant

2. The Factory Kitchen - Los Angeles

4.6

Exceptional(3673)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 38 times today

If you're seeking an authentic and delightful Vegetarian/Vegan dining experience in Downtown Los Angeles, The Factory Kitchen is a must-visit. Known for its "impeccable" and "homemade" Italian cuisine, this trattoria perfectly captures the essence of the Italian Peninsula with a plant-based twist. The restaurant's vegetarian and vegan options are "bursting with flavor," ensuring that every dish is both satisfying and inventive. The "pesto handkerchief" pasta and the fresh "focaccia bread" come highly recommended by guests who describe their meals as "incredible" and "delicious." With an inviting atmosphere and attentive service, The Factory Kitchen promises a memorable dining experience for all.

3. Hearts and Flame

4.3

Awesome(283)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Little Tokyo

Booked 13 times today

Located in the vibrant Little Tokyo neighborhood of Los Angeles, Hearts and Flame offers an exquisite taste of European cuisine with a focus on coastal Italian dishes. This hidden gem is celebrated for its "phenomenal fresh-made pastas" and "sea-to-table dishes" using the freshest seafood from the California coast. Diners rave about the "memorable experience" of steaks cooked over an open flame in the restaurant's modern industrial setting. The restaurant's authentic European flavors are crafted with precision, as noted by guests who describe the food as "exceptional" and "out of this world." With impeccable service and a lively atmosphere, Hearts and Flame promises an unforgettable dining experience.

4. Amiga Amore

new

4.6

Exceptional(15)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Highland Park

Booked 29 times today

## Amiga Amore: A Culinary Fusion of Italy and Mexico in Los Angeles Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, Amiga Amore is a unique restaurant that seamlessly blends the vibrant flavors of Italy and Mexico. Founded by a husband-and-wife team, Alessandro Zecca and Danielle Duran Zecca, this culinary gem offers an unforgettable dining experience that transcends traditional boundaries. The restaurant's cozy and intimate atmosphere sets the stage for a delightful culinary journey. The exposed brick walls and warm lighting create a welcoming ambiance, while the open kitchen allows guests to witness the artistry of the chefs firsthand. Amiga Amore's menu is a testament to the couple's passion for both Italian and Mexican cuisine. Each dish is meticulously crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, showcasing the harmonious marriage of these two distinct culinary traditions. Start your meal with the "noprese" salad, a refreshing combination of nopales, hibiscus salt, and house-made stracciatella. For a heartier option, try the elote agnolotti, plump corn-filled pasta bursting with flavor. The pork chop milanese, encrusted with crushed tortillas and served with a cilantro-laced arugula salad, is a must-try for meat lovers. No meal at Amiga

A photo of Barrio Italian Bistro restaurant

5. Barrio Italian Bistro

4.6

Exceptional(19)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • East Los Angeles

Booked 1 time today

Barrio Italian Bistro is a family owned and operated restaurant focusing on Roman and Calabrian dishes. Every dish is made to order utilizing fresh seasonal ingredients. Our Chef de Cuiaine, Chef Los, is in constant contact with every ingredient that enters our doors. This is done to ensure that every dish is as close to utter deliciousness as it can get!

6. Gale's

4.8

Exceptional(3367)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Pasadena

Booked 29 times today

Gale's in Pasadena is a standout for those seeking authentic Northern Italian cuisine with a stellar Pizzeria experience. Nestled away from the bustling tourist spots, Gale's offers a cozy atmosphere where you can savor "hands down the best Italian food" according to delighted diners. Known for its "impeccable pastas" and a selection of inventive specials, Gale's has become a beloved neighborhood gem. The service is consistently praised as "outstanding," making every visit memorable. With a wine list that guests adore for its variety and value, Gale's ensures a delightful dining experience perfect for any occasion.

7. Mi Piace

4.4

Awesome(4118)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Pasadena

Booked 57 times today

Mi Piace in Pasadena offers an unparalleled American dining experience that has delighted patrons for over 30 years. This award-winning restaurant seamlessly combines "exceptional service" and "delicious food," making it a standout spot for any occasion. With a newly renovated patio, bustling dining rooms, and a sleek lounge, Mi Piace provides the perfect atmosphere for an intimate dinner or lively brunch. Guests rave about dishes like the "Pollo Mi Piace" and "Chocolate Trio," noting their exquisite preparation and taste. Whether you're a local or visiting Pasadena, Mi Piace promises a "wonderful dining experience" that will keep you coming back for more.

8. Celestino

4.6

Exceptional(3602)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Pasadena

Booked 40 times today

Celestino in Pasadena is a hidden gem that beautifully showcases authentic American cuisine with an Italian twist. Renowned for its "exceptional dining experience," diners rave about the fresh, organic meats and homemade specialties that make each visit delightful. The Florentine-style T-bone steak and black and white ravioli are just a few favorites that "absolutely met expectations." The restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and dynamic flavors has earned it a loyal following. "Consistently good" food paired with an award-winning wine list, attentive service, and a convivial atmosphere make Celestino a standout destination for anyone seeking a memorable American dining experience.

9. Malbec - Pasadena

4.7

Exceptional(1904)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Pasadena

Booked 27 times today

Malbec - Pasadena is a hidden gem for lovers of exceptional Italian cuisine. Diners rave that the "homemade pasta was excellent" and the "food is always great," making it a must-visit for authentic Italian flavors. The menu boasts perfectly cooked pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and grilled meats that transport you straight to Italy. Reviewers consistently highlight the "spectacular" food and "amazing" service, with a warm and inviting ambiance that enhances the dining experience. Whether you're indulging in their dreamy chocolate mousse cake or savoring their expertly crafted Italian dishes, Malbec is sure to delight your senses and leave you wanting more.

10. PROPAGANDA

4.9

Exceptional(78)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Arts District

Booked 7 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Arts District of Los Angeles, Propaganda stands out as a beacon of authentic Pizzeria cuisine, serving up the delightful Pinsa Romana. Diners rave about the "fantastic pizza and wine place" that features an "amazing selection of wines" and a "crispy, thin crust" that is simply unparalleled. The culinary experience is elevated with their unique toppings, like the spicy salame with black truffle honey, which one reviewer declared as an "unexpected delight." Propaganda's commitment to quality is evident in every bite, making it a "hidden gem" that promises an exceptional dining experience, perfect for pizza lovers seeking true Italian authenticity.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

OT
OpenTable Diner
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined today
10/10 no notes. Fantastic, everyone was amazing and the food and drinks were fantastic.
More info
BestiaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.8
D
DavidVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •10 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Awesome food and great people. It’s not like any other fusion cuisine out there. Exceptional stuff.
More info
Amiga AmorePrice: Expensive• Mexican• Highland Park
•
4.6
OT
OpenTable Diner
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Overall it was a very good experience, we had reservations and were promptly seated. The ambiance of the restaurant was a highlight although the seating was quite cramped with tables right next to each other. The food was top-notch and flavorful, definitely do no skip out on the deserts!
More info
The Factory Kitchen - Los AngelesPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.6
C
ChristinaVIP
Los Angeles •43 reviews
5.0
Dined on Mar 1, 2025
A wonderful place to have lunch! The salad options are fantastic, and the minestrone soup was perfect. All of our servers were so helpful and attentive. Thank you so much for providing a great place to have lunch in Pasadena!
More info
Gale'sPrice: Moderate• Italian• Pasadena
•
4.8
S
Skylir
Los Angeles •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 23, 2025
My dad and I came here for lunch and we pleasantly surprised with how beautiful the restaurant is! The food was so yummy. For lunch the steak sandwich is AMAZING! The meat is so tender and it is very filling. The prosciutto and bruschetta lunch item was also very good but I would say go with the steak sandwich if you want something even more filling. We would definitely come again for the great food, service, and beautiful ambiance.
More info
Hearts and FlamePrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Tokyo
•
4.3

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