This carb-centric post describes 11 pasta dishes to try in Los Angeles.
1. Mandilli at Jame Entoca- Chef and co-owner Jackson Kalb, a Michelin-trained chef, opened up this amazing Italian restaurant in the quiet town of El Segundo. This small hidden gem is always busy during lunch, dinner, and even take-out. Reservations are highly encouraged but walk-ins are always welcome. Jame Entoca serves up pasta, sandwiches, salads, and several large plates. What to get? The Mandilli- handkerchief-shaped pasta with a kale-almond pesto and the kale salad to start. Address: 241 Main St, El Segundo, CA
2. Mushroom with Tagliatelle at Pasta Sisters- In 2015 four siblings from Northern Italy opened up a strip mall pasta shop into one of the most popular pasta places in Los Angeles. Pasta Sisters serves up homemade pasta and sauces, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. They also have a deli that sells ready-made pasta, sauces, meats, and cheeses. What to get? We always get the build your pasta, Mushroom with Tagliatelle. Address: Mid-city 3343 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA; Culver City 3280 Helms Ave, Culver City, CA
3. Lloyd’s Pasta at Mama D's- We love going to Mama D’s for their amazing service and delicious pasta. There are no reservations for this place, just walk-ins, but while you wait they bring out bread and appetizers to pass the time. What to get? Lloyd’s Pasta Roma Fresh Mushrooms, Tender Artichoke Hearts, Chopped Fresh Plum Tomatoes Light Sautéed with Fresh Garlic and Basil in Imported Olive Oil, Tossed with Pasta with Angel Hair pasta. Address: 225 Richmond St, El Segundo, CA; 2512 Pacific Coast Hwy, Hermosa Beach, CA
4. Penne with Sunday Sauce at J Trani's Ristorante- Serving the south bay since 1925. J.Trani's Ristorante serves lunch, dinner, and brunch on Sunday. Happy Hour is Tuesday to Friday from 4-5:30 pm. Their menu includes a wide selection of seafood dishes, pizza, pasta, and desserts. What to get? Penne w/ Sunday Sauce- Short rib ragu, Bolognese, fresh arugula & feta cheese. Also, start with the Fried Calamari, it's amazing! Address: 584 W 9th St, San Pedro, CA
5. Pappardelle with Short Ribs at C&O Cucina- Famous spot known for their large portion and killer garlic rolls. C&O Cucina is the perfect group restaurant with plenty of tables and menu choices for everyone at the table. The complimentary garlic rolls are delicious it's hard to not have more than one. What to get? Pappardelle with Short Ribs- Wide Noodles with Asparagus Tips, Shallots, Sweet Basil, and Fresh Roma Tomatoes in Our Chianti Wine Sauce and tell them to keep those garlic rolls coming. Address: 3016 Washington Blvd Marina Del Rey, CA
6. Cacio e Pepe with Fusilli at Fatto a Mano- Homemade pasta in Redondo Beach made by owner and chef Marco. When you walk in he always has a smile on his face and always offers an espresso after your meal. Fatto a Mano serves up pasta, Roman pizza, and take-home pasta and sauces. This is a small shop with a couple of tables but the best way of enjoying this pasta is taking it down the street to eat by the beach. What to order? Build your own Pasta, we like the Cacio e Pepe with Fusilli. Address: 610 Torrance Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA
7. Uni Pasta at Miyabi Uni- A Japanese restaurant specializing in all things Uni. Miyabi Uni uses only quality ingredients and is run by chefs that are professionally trained in Japanese and French cuisines. Located in old town Torrance, the restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, and reservations are encouraged. What to order? Uni Pasta- Fresh Uni with creamy uni sauce on spaghetti and if you are in the mood, order a Sashimi Bowl to start, both are so amazing! Address: Plaza Del Prado 1231 Cabrillo Ave #101, Torrance, CA
8. Bucantini Carbonara at Union- An old town Pasadena restaurant offering Northern Italian cuisine. They pride themselves in offering local and sustainable meats and produces. Reservations are a must for this place! Union serves appetizers, salads, pasta, and main dishes. Very kid-friendly, kid pasta dishes were available. What to order? Bucatini Carbonara with lamb belly, Parmesan Reggiano, and egg yolk. Address: 37 Union St, Pasadena, CA
9. Glazed Short Rib Cavatelli at North Italia- The perfect spot for a casual family dinner, North Italia makes handmade pasta and pizzas, entrees, and desserts. Reservations are needed to this hot spot, especially on Friday nights. What to order? Glazed Short Rib Cavatelli made with Parmesan cream, fresh horseradish, wilted arugula, and breadcrumbs. But save room for dessert there Tiramisu is delicious. Address: 1442 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA; The Point 840 CA-1 #110, El Segundo, CA 90245
10. Agnolotti Di Osso Bucco at Machroni Republic- The most affordable bowl of pasta Downtown is at Maccheroni Republic. They serve up appetizers, handmade pasta, and desserts. Lines are always long here but put your name down and then wander around downtown until your name is called. FYI there is no corkage at this place! What to order? Agnolotti Di Osso Bucco Tortelloni filled with osso bucco meat & marrow in a salsa verde. Save room for dessert their Tiramisu is bomb Address: 332 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
11. Pasta New Orleans at Fritto Miso- with two locations in Santa Monica and Hermosa Beach, Fritto Misto Italian Cafe is the best spot for casual Friday night dinners. They serve appetizers, salads, and pasta. What to order? Pasta New Orleans- Cajun chicken and shrimp, Cajun cream sauce, red onions, bell peppers, mushrooms on Tobasco linguini. If you can't figure out what to get, they also have a build your own pasta option. Address: 316 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA; 620 Santa Monica Blvd #A, Santa Monica, CA
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