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Best Italian Restaurants in Playa del Rey

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96 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Bacari PDR restaurant
1. Bacari PDR
4.7
Exceptional(1421)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Playa del Rey
Booked 43 times today
Bacari PDR in Playa del Rey delivers an exquisite Mediterranean dining experience that truly stands out for its "phenomenal food" and "attentive service." Chef Lior Hillel's Venetian-inspired small plates capture authentic Mediterranean flavors, delighting diners with dishes like the Shwarma Taco and the Pear and Brie Pizza. The restaurant's warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere make it feel "kind of like going to a party in someone's backyard," yet with "terrific food and great drinks." Whether enjoying a meal on the cozy indoor patio or the breezy outdoor space, Bacari PDR promises a delightful culinary journey that keeps guests returning for more.
A photo of Gjelina restaurant
2. Gjelina
4.7
Exceptional(2398)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Venice
Booked 186 times today
Gjelina in Venice is a shining star of Mediterranean cuisine, offering dishes that are both authentic and innovative. The restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional flavors is evident in every meal, from their "sublime duck confit" to "the most divine pizzas with thin crust and puffy charred edges." Diners rave about the "unbelievably fresh" vegetables and the "inventive food" that consistently delights. Gjelina's vibrant atmosphere, combined with attentive service, creates an unforgettable dining experience. As one guest put it, Gjelina is "a gem in LA," making it a must-visit destination for lovers of Mediterranean fare.
A photo of Élephante Santa Monica restaurant
3. Élephante Santa Monica
4.6
Exceptional(1556)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Monica
Booked 243 times today
Élephante Santa Monica is a true gem in the heart of Santa Monica, celebrated for its authentic and elevated Mediterranean cuisine. With ocean views that enhance its breezy, lounge-like ambiance, guests are treated to a dining experience that is both vibrant and intimate. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident; as one reviewer raved, "the pasta is homemade and quite spectacular," with ingredients imported from Italy ensuring "authenticity in every bite." Dishes like the whipped eggplant and burrata pizza are particular standouts, capturing the essence of Mediterranean flavors. This chic destination not only offers great food but also "a vibe" that keeps patrons coming back.
A photo of Caffe Pinguini restaurant
4. Caffe Pinguini
4.9
Exceptional(1651)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Playa del Rey
Booked 20 times today
Caffe Pinguini, nestled in the scenic Playa Del Rey, is a seafood lover's paradise that beautifully blends authentic Italian flair with the ocean's finest offerings. Praised for its "Mediterranean sea bass cooked just perfectly" and a "seafood salad that was delicious," this charming eatery consistently delivers exceptional quality. Diners rave about the "best seafood dish" they've ever had, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence. The Italian owners bring a touch of Rome to California, ensuring each dish is a genuine taste of Italy. With its welcoming ambiance and meticulous service, Caffe Pinguini promises an unforgettable seafood dining experience.
A photo of Ospi Venice restaurant
5. Ospi Venice
4.8
Exceptional(1545)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Venice
Booked 21 times today
Ospi is the sophomore restaurant of Jackson & Melissa Kalb, focused on Southern Italian cooking and way of life. The name derives from ospitante (“host” in Italian), with the expectation that guests will feel as comfortable at Ospi as they would at a friend’s dinner party. There will be plenty of house-made pastas as well as an expanded offering of pizzas. The beverage program crafted by Kalb features mostly Californian and Southern Italian wines and a full bar with a special negroni section. At Ospi, the pizza is inspired by the techniques of Antico Forno Roscioli which Jackson and Melissa frequented while visiting Rome. Focusing on Romana Tonda-style crusts that are cracker-thin, he is adapting a recipe that he feels will resonate with the LA diner. Jackson feels it extremely important to not take food too seriously. Take a trip to Southern Italy and be a guest in our home.
A photo of La Marina Trattoria restaurant
6. La Marina Trattoria
4.7
Exceptional(29)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Marina del Rey
Booked 6 times today
Coming Soon! On the water with beautiful marina views and patio dining!
A photo of Barrique Venice restaurant
7. Barrique Venice
4.8
Exceptional(1365)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Venice
Booked 34 times today
Indulge in the exquisite world of Italian cuisine curated by Chef Antonio Murè at the enchanting Little Yellow House in the heart of Venice. Driven by his Italian heritage and a deep passion for fresh, flavorful ingredients, Chef Antonio has crafted a unique style of Italian cuisine that promises a delightful experience, featuring handmade pastas, a selection of meats, traditional desserts and an extensive wine list.Join us for a candlelit dinner, perfect for your date night, special occasion, or grand celebration. Gluten-free options are also available.
A photo of Casa 12 Ristorante restaurant
8. Casa 12 Ristorante
4.9
Exceptional(84)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Venice
Booked 6 times today
At a location once known for the French restaurant “12 Washington” as well as the Italian restaurant “Casa Ado”, Casa 12 has now open in the same cozy spot at 12 Washington Blvd. Serving Tradition Italian Cuisine, an extensive wine list, sangria’s, spritz, and beers. Only steps away from the beach, enjoy a fun atmosphere with the option of indoor or outdoor dining on the Venice Pier in Marina Del Rey!
A photo of Market Venice restaurant
9. Market Venice
4.8
Exceptional(20)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Venice
Booked 5 times today
Nestled in the historic heart of Venice, Los Angeles, Market Venice redefines Modern European cuisine with an innovative Italian flair. Diners rave about the "superb experience" and "incredible pasta dishes," highlighting the restaurant's creative and delicious menu that offers a family-style sharing experience. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a "great date night spot" with "fun DJs on Fri and Sat." Glowing reviews consistently emphasize the "unmatched vibes, food, and service," creating a memorable dining journey. For those seeking an authentic taste of Modern European cuisine with a modern twist, Market Venice is an unmissable destination.
A photo of Jame Enoteca restaurant
10. Jame Enoteca
4.8
Exceptional(1051)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • El Segundo
Booked 31 times today
Jame is Jackson and Melissa Kalb's first restaurant, focused on Southern Italian cooking and way of life. Jame's vision is to use local, market-driven ingredients to create delicious and unique Italian dishes. This is particularly true in the hand-rolled pastas, but is also seen in other popular dishes like the crispy brussels sprouts, kale salad, and Crispy Braised "Coop's" pork shank. Join us next door at John Thomas Bar where Chef Jackson highlights sophisticated twists on classic cocktails for those who are looking for some late night fun. Take a quick trip to Southern Italy and be a guest in our home.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ray
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Elephante in Santa Monica never disappoints! We had an incredible date night here, enjoying both the beautiful ambiance and top-tier service. We started with the tuna tartare and calamari, both fresh and perfectly seasoned. For mains, we shared the ribeye and the pasta with lobster, which were absolutely outstanding—the steak was cooked to perfection, and the pasta was rich and flavorful. To top it off, our drinks were spot-on. The vodka martini was crisp and smooth, the Old Fashioned wasn’t that strong and was a too sweet. A huge shoutout to Andrea, our server, who made our experience even better! She was warm, attentive, and made great recommendations. It’s always nice to be welcomed by someone who truly cares about the guests. Elephante is hands down one of the best spots in Santa Monica for a romantic night out. Can’t wait to come back.
    More info
    Élephante Santa MonicaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Monica
    •
    4.6
  • BridgetVIP
    San Diego •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Fabulous! Gjelina never disappoints with fresh, creative seasonal fare. We ordered 2 sandwiches, traded half way through and enjoyed a side of frites and Lambrusco. Everything was delicious and interesting, yet approachable. It was a perfect lunch. Definitely a busy spot, plan to be patient even if you have a reservation.
    More info
    GjelinaPrice: Expensive• American• Venice
    •
    4.7
  • DebbieVIP
    California Central Coast •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 22, 2025
    Always a Wonderful Dinner! The staff is the best!
    More info
    Bacari PDRPrice: Expensive• Italian• Playa del Rey
    •
    4.7
  • PattyVIP
    Los Angeles •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 21, 2025
    I dine here about once a month and have always loved the food and service. I even brought my picky mother recently and she loved it too.
    More info
    Caffe PinguiniPrice: Expensive• Italian• Playa del Rey
    •
    4.9
  • OpenTable Diner
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 14, 2025
    So gooood! Our server was nice and attentive and everything we tried was delicious. Loved the Spicy Rigatoni, the meatballs, and the Margherita pizza.
    More info
    Ospi VenicePrice: Expensive• Italian• Venice
    •
    4.8

Discover best Italian restaurants in Playa del Rey

Discover the charm of authentic Italian dining in Playa del Rey, a picturesque part of Los Angeles known for its stunning beach cities vibe. Our curated selection of Italian restaurants offers a variety of gastronomic experiences, from traditional dishes that transport you straight to Italy to innovative Mediterranean-inspired small plates. Each restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, ensuring that every meal is not only delectable but also genuinely Italian. The ambiance across these dining spots ranges from intimate and cozy to lively and vibrant, perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual lunch or a sophisticated dinner. Patrons consistently praise the exceptional service and the attention to detail that makes each dining experience unique. Whether you are a local or just visiting, these Italian restaurants in Playa del Rey provide a culinary journey that highlights the best of Italian hospitality and cuisine, making each meal a memorable one. The dining scene in Playa del Rey truly reflects a commitment to authenticity and quality, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice of Italy by the beach.

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