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ZipPicks Awards
Best Romantic Restaurants in Marina Del Rey
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Marina Del Rey
Master Critic Review
Casa 12
8.5
Casa 12 is an intimate Italian ristorante just off the Venice Pier, combining candlelit tables, live-music nights, and handmade pastas for a classic romantic date formula. Guests praise the lobster ravioli, slow-cooked Bolognese, and grilled octopus as much as the warmly lit room and European-feeling sidewalk seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Ravioli, Fettuccine Verdi alla Bolognese, Grilled Octopus
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Cozy Italian spot near the pier with handmade pastas and live music.
Who should go: Pasta-loving couples craving classic candlelit Italian romance.
When to visit: Later evening when lights, music, and patio feel most cinematic.
What to order: Lobster ravioli, Bolognese fettuccine, grilled octopus starter.
Insider tip: Ask about live music nights and request an outdoor table if available.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is limited, especially after 6pm; meter spots near the pier fill quickly. Small paid lots on Washington Blvd typically run $8–$15 for the evening.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy. Date-night outfits feel at home, but polished jeans and a nice top are perfectly acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate. Indoors is softly lively with music nights, but still comfortable for date-night conversation. Patio tables are quieter.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during live-music nights.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; often seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several solid options—Caprese, margherita-style dishes, and vegetable-forward pastas.
Vegan options: Limited. A few salads can be modified, but pasta dishes are generally not vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Yes. Gluten-free pasta is available on request, and many seafood and entrée plates are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The candlelit room, European-feeling patio, and intimate size make it a strong first-date choice—romantic without feeling stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually on weeknights, yes. On weekends or live-music evenings, walk-ins may face a wait; patio tables are the first to fill.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat, though it leans adult. Early seatings with older kids work fine, but there are no dedicated kids’ menus or activities.
Best For
Better for: Romantic Italian dinners with handmade pasta and a more intimate feel than larger Venice dining rooms.
Consider Alternatives If: You want large-group seating, extensive vegan options, or ultra-quiet dining; nearby spots offer broader menus and more space.
Hours
Monday5pm - 10pm
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday10am - 10:30pm
Saturday10am - 10:30pm
Sunday10am - 10:30pm