Hey there, welcome to NoHo. This is the kind of neighborhood where you can settle in for handmade pasta, pour a glass of Chianti, and have the whole table debating the merits of marinara versus bolognese. Our kitchens here draw from California’s bounty, serving up classic red-sauce joints alongside modern spots crafting things like squid ink risotto and truffle arancini.
Osteria Mozza
$$$$ | (323) 297-0100 | WEBSITE
This North Hollywood spot has been a destination since earning its Michelin stars. Walk through the doors and you’ll immediately understand why—if the aroma of fresh pasta doesn’t clue you in, the LA hip vibe and inviting atmosphere will. Inspired by Italian tradition, the varied menu features a mozzarella bar and Caesar salad alongside a list of outstanding pastas.
It truly feels like a sophisticated trattoria, and you half expect the chef to emerge from the kitchen wearing a crisp apron, ask about your evening plans, and recommend the perfect wine pairing. In that spirit, you’ll instead be greeted by an extremely friendly staff happy to recommend one of their top-notch cocktails—get something from their well-curated list, featuring creative mixes that complement the exceptional dishes like the divine lamb chops or fabulous asparagus & burrata.
Cicada Restaurant and Lounge
$$$$ | (213) 488-9488 | WEBSITE
Sometimes you just need a restaurant that transports everyone—a spot that’s elegant but inviting, sophisticated enough for a special date, but welcoming enough for your friend who lives in vintage suits. That’s Cicada Restaurant and Lounge, a North Hollywood Italian institution known for its art deco glamour and impeccable service.
Grab a table near the dance floor, listen to a top-tier band over a perfectly presented plate and a glass of wine (expect drinks around $18), and soak in the 1940s craftsmanship from floor to ceiling afterward.
chi SPACCA
$$$$ | (323) 297-1133 | WEBSITE
Chi SPACCA has earned its reputation as a top Italian spot in Los Angeles. Sure, securing a table might take some planning ahead, but there’s also counter seating available for those who drop in. More importantly, the drool-worthy burrata with its creamy texture, the perfectly grilled squid with a hint of char, and the flavorful pork loin are worth any effort.
It’s not all protein here either—the vegetarian options are thoughtfully prepared, the generous portions are ideal for sharing multiple dishes, and the daily specials are worth saving room for. The space itself has warm lighting, a cozy atmosphere that feels like someone’s home, and a welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger.
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant
$$ | (818) 509-9463 | WEBSITE
The way Buca di Beppo, an Italian spot in North Hollywood, creates such a communal dining experience should be studied by a special task force (and one that we’d like to be a part of). See this phenomenon for yourself by gathering your group for family-style sharing, with attentive waiters like Moises and Enrique ensuring everyone gets their fill.
The restaurant is located in a bustling space that works for a family celebration, or a special occasion meal after a visit to nearby Universal Studios, when everybody wants to share big plates of pasta and laughter in the lively downstairs area or the quieter, more secluded upper level.
Osteria La Buca – Sherman Oaks
$$ | (818) 456-1216 | WEBSITE
Osteria La Buca achieves that rare balance of being both approachable and exceptional. Staffed by servers with an attentive and knowledgeable approach, the space is inviting, with an open view of the kitchen adding to the warm atmosphere where soft Italian music plays and you might find yourself appreciating the culinary magic alongside fellow diners.
Most of the dishes showcase authentic Italian flavors, like the standout spring pea raviolis and the praised Nero spaghetti, but there’s also a fantastic carbonara. Save room for the homemade pasta that’s described as “to die for.” It’ll satisfy anyone who actively seeks out genuine Italian dining.
Osteria La Buca
$$ | (323) 462-1900 | WEBSITE
Is it a cozy neighborhood spot? Is it a romantic date night destination? An Italian restaurant with nods to classic comfort food and modern simplicity? Osteria La Buca is a little bit of all of that. The space blends a simple, romantic atmosphere (cozy orange lights and candle vibes that are especially beautiful after dark) with a modern Italian dining experience, including that delightful complimentary crispy and soft bread to start.
There are expert renditions of sausage n’ peppers pizza and silky cacio e pepe, and it’s worth bringing a friend and ordering at least two dishes so you can try the genuinely euphoric homemade quality. They even do a great dinner—on a recent visit, we were so enamored by the pappardelle bolognese we considered a second plate. The service is also worth a mention, with quick, attentive staff and Matthew’s welcoming energy that will pull you towards a good time no matter how your evening is going.
Mother Wolf
$$$$ | (323) 515-1077 | WEBSITE
Mother Wolf feels like part-restaurant, part-Italian piazza party—there’s energy everywhere, music pulses through, the staff is warm and accommodating, and everything tastes so damn good. This is one of the standout Italian spots in North Hollywood, but their consistent dishes go far beyond the basics: you’ll find things like standout oxtail meatballs, festive cocktails, and pistachio gelato with swirls of guava sorbetti that could get a dessert lover hyped.
Bring a date, a group of friends, or your favorite foodie to hang out in the lively vibes, and always save room for the gelato.
Ceci’s Gastronomia
$ | (213) 277-1690 | WEBSITE
A cozy gem in North Hollywood, Ceci’s Gastronomia is all about authentic Italian sandwiches, delightful pasta, and staff who make you feel like family. Come with an appetite for the Crudo & Ricotta, a perfect sandwich with prosciutto, lemony ricotta, and arugula on crispy yet melting focaccia, and the Lasagna Al Pesto served in a unique wonton wrapper.
In addition to being an ideal spot for a casual lunch or dinner, this is one of the best places in the area to enjoy a sweet treat like the Nonna Tart or tiramisu with amazing coffee, especially if you’re craving genuine Italian flavors.
Jemma Hollywood
$$$ | (323) 450-9070 | WEBSITE
Step inside from the unassuming storefront of Jemma Hollywood, and you will wonder if you’ve stumbled into a cozy East Coast trattoria—warm lighting bathes the space, service is attentive, and the garlic bread is irresistible. Every pasta dish is a standout, though we’re partial to the generous portions, perfect for sharing with friends or a date. The appetizers are worth ordering too, like the delicious offerings that somehow manage to be both flavorful and satisfying.
When available, the pizza packs a savory punch, and the cheesecake is rich, creamy, and served with a perfect crust. While nothing beats a hearty Italian meal in the cooler evenings, it’s just as good a stop before a show, when the ambiance feels especially welcoming and you can sample from their amazing cocktail list.
Pizza Man
$ | (818) 762-3333 | WEBSITE
North Hollywood is home to some of the best Italian spots in Los Angeles, and there are few better places to sample the quality of the pizza and pasta than at this cozy, welcoming space. And on a busy night, a meal ordered online for delivery wins our vote for most convenient dinner in the neighborhood. Pizza Man is full of thoughtful nods to dietary needs, like the vegan chicken and wings—which takes the form of plant-based options served with vegan cheese and sauces.
Anything with Italian sausage on the menu is a solid choice, with the pasta holding its own against more traditional spots. The turkey burger and French fries staple can be found on every iteration of the menu, including their great $22 dinner deal for a customized meal with salad.
Maccheroni Republic
$$ | (213) 346-9725 | WEBSITE
For an introduction to North Hollywood’s Italian dining scene, there’s no better place to start than Maccheroni Republic—it’s the neighborhood’s coziest spot and a downtown favorite for homemade pasta. Pastas are made fresh daily, with ingredients sourced from local producers, and they’re best experienced by ordering the rigatoni alla norma with its rich tomato sauce, the popular lasagna with its hearty layers, and the grilled calamari appetizer.
This spot is always busy, so come early for a better chance at securing a table on the charming patio with its fairy lights for cocktails and garlic bread. The team behind Maccheroni Republic also maintains consistently attentive service and knowledgeable staff—both contribute to the quaint atmosphere ideal for romantic dinners or nights out with friends.
Sogno Toscano Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
$$ | (323) 879-9443 | WEBSITE
Whether it’s debating the best Italian spots or arguing about what to do in North Hollywood, it seems like nobody in the area can agree on anything. That is, besides how good the authentic Italian food is at Sogno Toscano. While they’re known for the extremely good fresh calamari and creamy pasta dishes, the menu also has solid options like the delicious 8oz fillet mignon.
Stop by for dinner when it’s less crowded and you’ll be greeted by a beautiful atmosphere that feels like Italy, friendly staff led by manager Giacomo, and the glorious smell of rich flavors. They have a charming spot in the Grove with great scenery, but we prefer visiting on a regular evening because the service is more attentive and there’s way less wait.
Victorios Ristorante & Catering
$ | (818) 762-9000 | WEBSITE
If you’re talking North Hollywood, you’re talking Italian—specifically the cannoli from Victorios, a ristorante located in the heart of the neighborhood. They literally perfected the classic version with their freshly made shells (before, many places used pre-made, saving time but sacrificing texture). These consist of crisp shells, a creamy ricotta filling, a hint of citrus zest, and chocolate chips that make for something not too sweet, not too heavy, and almost all authentic.
Order one after a leisurely meal and enjoy the live music on Sundays in the warm, immaculate dining room.
La Bruschetta
$$ | (424) 273-4892 | WEBSITE
The story of La Bruschetta is a pretty typical one here in North Hollywood: they started as a family-run trattoria, people consistently raved, and they’ve become a local institution. In La Bruschetta’s case, they’ve settled into their cozy spot and still maintain that intimate neighborhood feel. The restaurant has a classy yet welcoming atmosphere, so dinner with friends is the ideal time to go and try their handmade pastas, with a richness that will satisfy any craving.
The menu stays true to Italian classics, but the Bolognese is a standout, along with the burrata with prosciutto salad for a lighter start. Owner Angelo greets everyone like family, and the staff’s genuine care makes each visit memorable. Save room for their in-house tiramisu—it’s the perfect sweet finish to a spectacular meal.
Little Tonis Restaurant
$$ | (818) 763-0131 | WEBSITE
The longtime North Hollywood favorite may have lost a bit of its original hole-in-the-wall charm after fifteen years—it’s a little less “old-school” than the slapdash spot that first opened, with brighter lighting, updated booths, and laminate tables. But Little Tonis still serves up the Valley’s best pizza, made with a generous layer of cheese and pepperoni that’s baked until bubbly.
According to regulars, the key to good pizza here is asking for a well-done crust, so that the bottom stays crisp. Pies come out piping hot—so hot that the first slice sometimes needs to be eaten with a fork—and you should pair them with an array of sides (go with the house-made tiramisu, a coffee-soaked delight), fresh bread, and a glass of red.
We’re pleased to say you’ll still see a dinner crowd made up of the same old mix of families, late-night regulars, and newcomers having their fill of pepperoni pizza, Chicken Marsala, and fettuccine Alfredo.
IL NIDO
$$ | (818) 290-3156 | WEBSITE
There’s something captivating about a classic pairing. A candlelit table and soft music, pasta and red wine, and, at Il Nido, handmade ravioli with truffle shavings. The combination of delicate pasta in cream sauce with earthy truffle is an exceptional experience. Find that (and more) at this restaurant, which is tucked away in Encino just a short drive from the bustle of North Hollywood.
From its intimate, gorgeous setting to its carefully prepared dishes served on elegant china, it’s easy to see that this spot takes dining seriously (despite the comfortable atmosphere). Come with a date or family and share the lobster pasta alongside the Bolognese, which features rich meat sauce served generously over perfectly cooked pasta.
Bacari Silverlake + Bar Bacari
$$$ | (323) 986-6763 | WEBSITE
Bacari Silverlake + Bar Bacari is the most vibrant Italian dining destination in North Hollywood. Though the upstairs area offers a comfortable, indoor-outdoor feel perfect for casual gatherings, the main dining room shines with its spacious interior, gorgeous garden views, and beautiful energy reminiscent of a modern California trattoria.
The diverse menu is consistently fantastic, with standout tapas like the phenomenal bruschetta presentations and the amazing arancini that outclass most fried appetizers we’ve tried. You can really make a meal out of the extensive small plates, but it’s worth it to choose at least a few entrees, like the perfectly cooked pasta dishes that balance rich sauces with fresh ingredients.
The drinks are quite good, with bartender Mel crafting excellent cocktails, and the attentive service goes above and beyond to ensure a wonderful experience, especially during the popular Sunday brunch with free champagne.