BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANTS

Ok….so….I love Los Angeles! And as you know, the Westside to be specific. One of the things that I love most about the Westside are all the delicious restaurants to choose from. Although I do eat various types of foods, I ALWAYS crave Italian thus constantly eating at Italian restaurants.

Naturally, I think my father is the BEST chef in the United States. And although his menu caters to Americans (chicken parmigiana, spaghetti with meatballs etc) it’s his secret authentic Italian menu that makes my mouth water. That menu only comes out when there is a client that truly knows what Italian food is about. The regular menu is for those who think that that inexplicably-famous-Italian-chain-that-shall-not-be-mentioned (yuck!) is authentic Italian. His restaurant is on the border of Long Beach and Paramount, for more info. www.cafecorleonerestaurant.com You will find me there every weekend!

Now, back to the Westside! As the daughter of a well-known chef many have asked me what are the best Italian restaurants in Los Angeles. After giving them the little spiel that I just gave y’all about my father I tell them that without a doubt, the best restaurant is Madeo in Beverly Hills, closely followed by the also amazing Ago in West Hollywood.

I am constantly trying new Italian restaurants, but none has surpassed those restaurants. Dining there is an “experience” that cannot be missed. I had my wedding rehearsal at Madeo and just celebrated this past New Year’s there as well. Another reason I love going is because I have become very good friends with the family. You will fall in love with the dad, Alfio, who makes everyone feel special at his restaurant. And if you are looking for the best espresso in town, you will find it here.

I am also VERY lucky to live in a charming neighborhood with two great little Italian café’s: Bella Roma and Dolce both on Robertson Blvd. I know the owners of all 4 of these restaurants and love them dearly. They are all great people (with thick Italian accents) that are passionate about the art of Italian food.

The owner of Ago, Agostino Sciandri owns several restaurants in the United States, many of them in the Los Angeles area. Check out Caffe Roma in Beverly Hills since the ambiance is very nice and there is dancing on the weekends. It’s also great for private parties.

Now, there are MANY great Italian joints in Los Angeles (take that New York!) but I cannot mention them all. But wherever you live, especially if you live in Italy or Los Angeles – I would love to hear what restaurant you think deserves mentioning. I promise that if I come to your town, I will check it out! That is, if the airfare to go to Italy goes down!!!!!!!!

Ciao……a presto!

Oh, and don’t forget to contact www.DiscoverItaly.net for all your travel needs to Bella Italia!