Italian cuisine, with its tradition of fresh pasta, focaccia, and meat dishes, continues to make an impact in the city. The top-ranking Italian establishment is Antico Nuovo, which secured the 14th spot. Opened in 2019, Antico Nuovo takes inspiration from the Italian countryside, preserving ancient food and wine traditions.
According to critic Bill Addison, the pasta here is the “sacred centerpiece” of the experience, with notable dishes such as roasted chicken and an impressive Tomahawk steak in Marsala sauce. Addison also highlights their focaccia and seasonal ice creams, as well as cannoli that rival the best in Sicily.
Another well-known name, Osteria Mozza, placed 31st. Launched in 2007, Osteria Mozza, led by Nancy Silverton and Liz Hong, offers an elaborate mozzarella bar and dishes such as cappellacci with sweet corn and chanterelles, grilled lamb chops, and confit duck. Meanwhile, Felix, a pasta haven opened by Evan Funke in 2017, ranked 45th. Located in Venice, the restaurant is praised for its Sicilian sfincione, lemon-scented linguine, and a signature watermelon granita.
Further down the list, Bestia at 52nd, remains a highlight of downtown LA’s Arts District. Chef Ori Menashe serves up Italian-inspired fare with a bold and flavorful twist, from spicy sausage pizza to grilled branzino with pine nut pesto. Bestia has been a staple in LA’s food scene for over a decade.
The 76th spot is occupied by Rossoblu, where Francesco Allegro, originally from Puglia, crafts exquisite Emilia-Romagna tortellini. Allegro uses a blend of pork loin, chicken breast, mortadella, prosciutto, and Parmigiano Reggiano, giving the dishes a distinctly regional character.
At 22nd, Chi Spacca is regarded as one of Nancy Silverton’s finest establishments, offering dishes such as Recco focaccia and savory meat pies. Funke, a pasta-focused restaurant from Evan Funke, took 25th place. It features handmade rasccatieddi di miscchieddu, a pasta crafted from semolina and fava flour, with lamb ragu and dried chilies.