Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Los Angeles | Upscale Italian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Los Angeles | Upscale Italian Food

• Lucky 7 Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: This lively neighborhood haunt hums with the rhythmic toss of dough and the crackle of a blazing oven, inviting guests into a space filled with the irresistible aroma of bubbling mozzarella and toasted crust. Artisanal pies emerge with perfectly charred, blistered edges and vibrant toppings that celebrate bold flavors, offering a soulful dining experience where every slice feels like a lucky discovery. It is a welcoming sanctuary where friends gather over steaming crusts and cold drinks, finding a sense of community in every savory, cheese-laden bite.
• Triple Beam Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: This high-energy Roman-style pizzeria hums with a modern urban pulse, where the rhythmic snip of scissors through airy, golden crusts signals the arrival of a custom-cut feast. Vibrant toppings like aromatic roasted fennel, spicy jalapeño, and savory pepperoni crown each focaccia-like slice, creating a communal dining experience that celebrates bold flavors and the art of the perfect crunch.
• Trattoria Amici — Italian · rated 5/5: Trattoria Amici invites guests into a sun-drenched, convivial space where the clinking of wine glasses and the hum of shared conversation create a vibrant backdrop for authentic Italian hospitality. The air is rich with the scent of golden-fried zucchini flowers and bubbling eggplant parmigiana, while artfully arranged boards of artisanal meats and cheeses encourage a leisurely, communal dining experience. From the delicate snap of fresh calamari to the velvety richness of burrata paired with roasted peppers, every plate celebrates the bold, soul-warming flavors of the Mediterranean.
• Pasta Sisters — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched space where the rhythmic dusting of flour and the rich aroma of slow-simmered sauces evoke the soulful warmth of a traditional Italian kitchen. Silky ribbons of hand-rolled pasta are tossed with vibrant, house-made toppings, while artisanal platters of imported cheeses and delicate cold cuts invite guests to linger over a crisp glass of wine or a cold craft beer. This heartfelt destination celebrates the beauty of family heritage, turning simple, high-quality ingredients into an authentic dining experience that feels like a seat at a private family table.
• Hippo — Italian · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the soaring windows of this vibrant Highland Park haunt, where a spirited energy pulses through the airy, industrial-chic space. The bar serves as a creative laboratory for cheeky, expertly crafted cocktails like the "Dangerous Animal" and "Angeleno 75," offering a sophisticated yet irreverent backdrop for sun-drenched afternoons that effortlessly bleed into lively, starlit evenings.
• Pizzana — Italian · rated 5/5: Sun-drenched interiors and the irresistible scent of charred dough set the stage at this stylish eatery, where the art of the wood-fired oven takes center stage. Vibrant, seasonal salads like the citrusy tricolore share the table with tender roasted artichokes and savory polpette al forno, each plate celebrating the bright flavors of the Mediterranean. It is a place where modern elegance meets rustic tradition, inviting guests to linger over creamy buffalo mozzarella and perfectly blistered vegetables in a space that feels both energetic and refined.
• Patxi's Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: The air at Patxi’s Pizza is thick with the irresistible scent of toasted garlic and bubbling cheese, drawing guests into a lively space designed for communal indulgence. Crispy sausage rolls and decadent burrata bruschetta arrive at the table alongside bowls of their famous spicy artichoke dip, setting the stage for a meal defined by bold, comforting flavors. Whether diving into the indulgent, molten layers of their signature "SMMC" or balancing the heat of glazed wings with a crisp, garden-fresh salad, every bite celebrates the soulful joy of shared dining.
• Dino's Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a nostalgic corner of the neighborhood where the comforting aroma of toasted flour and bubbling mozzarella draws you toward a counter lined with golden, oversized pies. Each hand-tossed slice boasts a perfectly blistered crust and a molten layer of savory sauce, offering a quintessential "fold-and-go" experience that captures the timeless soul of a classic urban pizzeria.
• Blaze Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: The roar of the open-flame oven sets a high-energy stage where guests watch their custom creations transform into charred, thin-crust masterpieces in mere minutes. Bubbling mozzarella and vibrant, farm-fresh toppings meld atop artisanal dough, perfectly paired with crisp, garden-bright salads and warm, pull-apart cheesy bread that glows with golden indulgence.
• Martino's Bakery — Italian · rated 5/5: This nostalgic neighborhood landmark welcomes guests with the comforting aroma of toasted sugar and freshly baked dough, where glass cases overflow with rows of their legendary, melt-in-your-mouth tea cakes. The bustling, old-school atmosphere captures a timeless slice of Americana, offering a sweet sanctuary where every bite of golden pastry feels like a warm embrace from the past.
• Apollonia's Pizzeria — Italian · rated 5/5: Neon light spills across the counter of this urban pizza sanctuary, where the rhythmic crunch of shatteringly crisp crusts provides the soundtrack to a masterclass in dough and fire. Square slices are transformed into edible architecture with lacy, caramelized cheese crowns, while vibrant drizzles of spicy honey and dollops of creamy burrata elevate every bite into a bold celebration of texture and heat.
• Lilit Bakery & Cafe — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams into this vibrant neighborhood hub, where the comforting aroma of freshly baked dough and sizzling savory meats creates an instantly welcoming retreat. The kitchen masterfully bridges cultures, serving up everything from pillowy pancakes to the rich, cheese-laden indulgence of authentic Ajarski topped with spiced Armenian jerky. Whether you are sharing a bubbling, wood-fired pizza or lingering over a hearty breakfast burrito, the experience is one of soulful flavors and effortless warmth.
• Fresh Brothers — Italian · rated 4/5: Fresh Brothers welcomes guests into a vibrant, modern space where the comforting aroma of hearth-baked dough and bubbling mozzarella signals a fresh take on the classic neighborhood pizzeria. Golden crusts serve as a canvas for everything from the zesty, herb-flecked layers of "Fresh Momma’s Favorite" to the bold, savory kick of triple pepperoni, with inclusive options like the vegan "Da Works" ensuring every guest finds a seat at the table. It is a lively destination where the simple joy of a steaming, hand-crafted pie brings families together for a meal that feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
• Sinful Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: The air at Sinful Pizza hangs heavy with the intoxicating aroma of roasted garlic and molten cheese, inviting diners to surrender to a world of unapologetic comfort. Golden, buttery knots and zesty wings pave the way for signature hand-tossed pies, where crisp crusts support everything from the garden-fresh simplicity of a Margherita to the decadent, meat-laden heights of the Sinful Supreme. Each visit promises a lively escape centered around the communal joy of sharing a steaming pizza, whether you're chasing the sweet-and-savory spark of the Pineapple Express or the classic richness of house-made meatballs.
• Frankies - New York Italian Restaurant — Italian · rated 4/5: Frankies channels the nostalgic charm of a bustling New York neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of bubbling mozzarella marinara and slow-simmered minestrone. The kitchen delivers a soulful tribute to Italian-American tradition, balancing hearty bowls of pasta fagioli and charred individual pizzas with vibrant seafood salads and briny Manhattan chowders that transport the senses straight to the Big Apple.
• Garage Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: This laid-back urban haunt hums with the energy of a classic neighborhood slice shop, where the scent of bubbling mozzarella and toasted flour spills from the glowing ovens. Towering eighteen-inch pies emerge with perfectly charred, foldable crusts, topped with pools of molten cheese and crisp, spicy rounds of pepperoni that glisten under the warm lights. Whether grabbing a quick, oversized slice or sharing a massive pie with friends, the experience captures the soul-satisfying essence of a perfect, unpretentious pizza tradition.
• Panini Italian Kitchen — Italian · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched interiors and the irresistible aroma of hearth-baked bread define this vibrant kitchen, where the rhythmic sizzle of the panini press sets the stage for a soulful Italian meal. Each golden-crusted sandwich arrives bursting with artisanal meats and molten cheeses, perfectly complemented by crisp, herb-flecked salads that capture the bright, rustic essence of a Mediterranean afternoon.
• Prova — Italian · rated 4/5: Prova invites diners into a sleek, industrial-chic space where the open kitchen serves as a stage for the meticulous craft of artisanal, dough-centric creations. The air is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted flour and bubbling cheese, setting the scene for a communal dining experience that balances modern sophistication with the soulful warmth of a neighborhood gathering spot.
• zpizza — Italian · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood spot reimagines the classic pizzeria as a hub of culinary creativity, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of roasted garlic and fragrant golden thyme. Artisanal crusts serve as a canvas for bold, global inspirations, ranging from the smoky sweetness of barbecue to the zesty flair of Mexican-inspired toppings. Crispy waffle fries and bright, hand-tossed salads provide the perfect textural contrast to every slice, offering a fresh and modern take on the quintessential pizza night.
• Speranza — Italian · rated 4/5: Tucked behind an unassuming, ivy-draped exterior, this candlelit sanctuary transports diners to a romantic secret garden where the air is thick with the aroma of simmering garlic and fresh herbs. The kitchen honors the art of the handmade, serving up bowls of supple, soul-warming pasta and rustic Italian classics that turn a simple neighborhood meal into an intimate, transportive escape.
• Pijja Palace — Indian · rated 4/5: This high-octane sports bar reimagines the classic American tavern through a vibrant South Asian lens, where neon lights and glowing screens set the stage for a spirited, communal feast. Aromatic spices and bold masalas transform familiar comforts into something extraordinary, from crispy wings glazed in spicy chutneys to bubbling pizzas topped with rich saag and creamy malai. It is a place where the roar of the game meets the warmth of the tandoor, creating an electric atmosphere that celebrates a playful and delicious collision of cultures.
• Flouring Cake Shop — American · rated 4/5: This whimsical boutique bakery invites guests into a world of sugary artistry, where the air is sweet with the aroma of zesty lemon and rich, velvety cocoa. Each slice reveals a vibrant tapestry of flavors, from the floral elegance of lavender marble and nutty Italian pistachio to the tropical brightness of passion fruit, all meticulously crafted into stunning, multi-tiered masterpieces that turn any moment into a celebration.
• El Coyote Cafe — Mexican · rated 4/5: El Coyote Cafe pulses with the vibrant energy of a sun-drenched cantina, where the air is thick with the irresistible scent of toasted corn and zesty citrus. Friends gather around tables laden with overflowing platters of golden flautas and creamy guacamole fresca, sharing a communal feast that bridges the gap between traditional Mexican comfort and playful culinary invention. It is a spirited retreat where every bite—from the sharp crunch of a jalapeño popper to the savory, melted layers of their signature pizza—celebrates the bold, festive heart of casual dining.
• Glass Hookah Lounge — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Soft lighting and the gentle bubble of elegant glass hookahs set the stage at this modern retreat, where the air is perfumed with the scent of fresh mint tea and savory BBQ chicken pizza. It is a sophisticated sanctuary to linger over artisanal sandwiches and vibrant Bindi desserts, all perfectly complemented by a crisp peach ice tea or a rich, velvety espresso pulled from a La Marzocco machine.
• Krust — Italian · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this charming sanctuary, where the comforting scent of golden, buttery pastry wafts from the ovens to greet every guest. Each slice of their signature rhubarb pie offers a vibrant balance of tangy fruit and delicate sweetness, encased in a perfectly crimped, shatteringly crisp crust that feels like a nostalgic embrace. It is a place that celebrates the simple joy of handmade treats, inviting visitors to linger over the artistry of seasonal baking in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Little Dom's — Italian · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this charming neighborhood haunt where the scent of wood-fired ovens mingles with the sweetness of fresh market fruit. Mornings are defined by indulgent French toast soufflés and ricotta pancakes bursting with blueberries, while savory cravings are met with rustic buckwheat polenta and eggs roasted to a golden finish in the hearth. It is a vibrant gathering place that elevates the classic breakfast into a soulful, artisanal celebration of local flavors and cozy, communal warmth.
• Gracie's Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: Golden light spills across flour-dusted counters at this spirited neighborhood gem, where the intoxicating scent of bubbling mozzarella and charred dough welcomes every guest. Artisanal pies emerge from the heat with perfectly blistered crusts and vibrant toppings, offering a soulful dining experience that balances rustic tradition with a lively, modern energy.
• All'Acqua — Italian · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood destination hums with a sophisticated energy, where the enticing aroma of wood-grilled octopus and fire-roasted peppers sets the stage for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic warmth and modern refinement, offering a parade of textures from crispy saffron arancini and golden fritto misto to delicate hamachi crudo. Shared plates of creamy burrata and salty prosciutto invite long, spirited conversations, making every meal feel like a celebratory escape to a sun-drenched coastal villa.
• Giamela's — Italian · rated 4/5: Giamela’s stands as a vibrant neighborhood staple where the air is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling pepper steak and the comforting scent of freshly sliced deli meats. Guests find themselves immersed in a classic sandwich-making tradition, watching as towering subs like the signature Mrs. G’s—a bold fusion of pastrami and steak—are meticulously assembled alongside vibrant turkey creations drizzled in zesty pesto mayo. Each visit offers a hearty, soul-satisfying experience where generous portions and time-honored flavors are served with a welcoming, unpretentious charm.
• Amarone Kitchen & Wine — Italian · rated 4/5: Bathed in the warm glow of a sophisticated wine retreat, this elegant destination invites guests to linger over artfully plated carpaccios and silken burrata that celebrate the bright, clean flavors of the Mediterranean. The kitchen transforms the freshest catches into charred octopus and buttery scallops nestled in rich seafood ragu, creating a sensory journey where every crisp, seasonal salad is elevated by the perfect pour from an inspired wine collection.