Italian Gems: Dining in Los Angeles

DAN TANA’S

9071 Santa Monica Blvd.

West Hollywood, Calif. 90069

(310) 275-9444

Ambiance

The intimate setting and timeless décor of hanging Chianti bottles, checkered tablecloths and red leather booths transport diners into another era.

What to order

The caesar salad is very popular and different from any other caesar in town. The chicken parmesan, white fish, steak and spaghetti are also among the most popular items on the menu.

Who comes here

With a client list that reads like a “Who’s Who of Hollywood,” Dan Tana’s serves loyal customers ranging from A-list celebrities to artists. Regulars include Cameron Crowe, Jerry Bruckheimer, Jay Leno and the Hilton family.

Sweet Tooth

Cheesecake Deanne

OSTERIA MOZZA

6602 Melrose Ave.

Los Angeles, Calif. 90038

(323) 297-0100

Ambiance

A warm and timeless room, dramatically lit and anchored by the imposing, white marble Mozzarella Bar.

What to order

Burrata with bacon  or grilled octopus with celery and potatoes.

Who comes here

A broad representation of LA’s diversity. A multitude of styles and demographics, all in search of the city’s best Italian food.

Sweet Tooth

Torta della Nonna

MR. C

1224 Beverwil Drive

Los Angeles, Calif. 90035

(310) 226-6245

Ambiance

Luxurious without compromising a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

What to order

The pizzas are fantastic and unique to Mr. C. The beef carpaccio and baked tagliolini are a couple classic, must-have dishes.

Who comes here

An eclectic crowd including local industry execs, business travelers, families, couples, artists, actors and entertainment industry, creative types.

Sweet Tooth

Vanilla meringue cake

SCARPETTA

225 North Canon Drive

Beverly Hills, Calif. 90210

(310) 860-7970

Ambiance

Urban Milan meets rustic Tuscany. The use of textured woods creates an environment people associate with Italian restaurants and the clean, warm lighting adds a fine balance between rusticity and comfort.

What to order

For appetizers, the creamy polenta and raw yellowtail. For entrees, the spaghetti and black cod.

Who comes here

Scarpetta attracts a huge range of people from young singles to older couples, and just about everyone in between. The environment attracts celebrities and actors as well as regulars and tourists.

Sweet Tooth

Vanilla caramel budino