Best Affordable Italian Restaurants in Downtown LA | Affordable Italian Food

8 restaurants in Best Affordable Italian Restaurants in Downtown LA | Affordable Italian Food

• Prime Pizza — Italian: The irresistible aroma of toasted crust and bubbling mozzarella draws guests into this lively neighborhood hub, where the art of the classic round pie is elevated through premium toppings and a perfectly charred finish. Whether savoring the spicy heat of an Arrabbiata or the earthy comfort of sausage and kale, diners experience a masterclass in balance and texture that turns a simple slice into a soulful, hand-crafted feast.
• BASE — Italian: Industrial-chic aesthetics meet a menu of elevated essentials at BASE, where the hum of a vibrant crowd fills a space defined by raw concrete and warm wood accents. The kitchen strips away the superfluous to focus on the purity of seasonal ingredients, delivering bold, honest flavors that serve as a sophisticated foundation for a memorable night out.
• Terroni — Italian: Terroni captures the spirited essence of Southern Italy, inviting guests into a lively atmosphere where the aroma of warm bread and briny olives sets the stage for an authentic culinary journey. From the delicate crunch of golden zucchini blossoms to the melt-in-your-mouth richness of beef carpaccio and creamy buffalo mozzarella, each dish celebrates bold, sun-kissed flavors with rustic elegance. It is a place where tradition meets a vibrant urban pulse, turning every meal into a soulful celebration of Mediterranean heritage.
• Cicada Restaurant and Lounge — Italian: Stepping into this Art Deco masterpiece feels like a glamorous journey back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, where soaring gold-leaf ceilings and shimmering crystal chandeliers illuminate a space of timeless opulence. Sophisticated flavors and artisan cocktails are served amidst the velvet-draped elegance, creating a refined sensory experience that harmonizes perfectly with the rhythmic pulse of live music and the nostalgic charm of a bygone era.
• Mona Pasta Bar — Italian: Soft light glows over intimate counter seating at this vibrant pasta bar, where the air is thick with the comforting scent of simmering garlic and freshly kneaded dough. Skilled hands craft delicate, al dente strands that are tossed in rich, velvety sauces, offering a spirited dining experience that feels like a modern love letter to the timeless art of handmade pasta.
• Maccheroni Republic — Italian: This bustling downtown sanctuary hums with the rhythmic energy of an open kitchen, where the golden glow of hanging lights illuminates plates of artisanal pasta crafted daily from scratch. Fragrant clouds of steam carry the scents of slow-simmered sauces and sharp Pecorino, inviting diners to linger over soulful, al dente creations that bridge the gap between rustic Italian tradition and urban vibrancy.
• Kiss Pizza & Deli — Italian: This lively neighborhood haunt wraps guests in the comforting scent of bubbling cheese and freshly baked bread, offering a warm retreat for lovers of classic Italian-American fare. Here, the artistry of a hand-stretched, blistered pizza crust meets the hearty satisfaction of overstuffed deli sandwiches, creating a soulful dining experience where every bite feels like a nostalgic embrace.
• Two Boots — Italian: Vibrant folk art and neon glows define this spirited neighborhood haunt, where the bold flavors of the Bayou collide with the classic soul of a New York pizzeria. Every slice boasts a signature cornmeal crust that provides a satisfying crunch beneath unconventional toppings like spicy andouille and zesty jalapeños, creating a whimsical atmosphere that celebrates creative fusion in every bite.