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Master Critic Review
Marino Restaurant
8.3
A family-run Italian kitchen rooted in 1950s Hollywood hospitality, where Chef Sal cooks seasonal plates from his own gardens and Mario Jr. works the dining room like his father taught him — treating every table as a guest in the family home. The bungalow setting on Melrose, with its olive-tree patio and white linen tables, draws couples and celebration groups who want unhurried, multi-course Italian without the stiffness of a formal fine dining room. Expect fine-dining pricing and a wine list that leans premium, but ingredient quality and decades of kitchen consistency back it up.
Must-Try Dishes:
Calamari Fritti, Clams Areganate, Truffle Pizza
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Family-owned Hollywood landmark since the 1950s, now run by the founder's son Mario Jr., serving seasonal Italian with housemade sauces and multi-course tasting menus
Who should go: Couples and groups seeking old-school Italian hospitality
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for unhurried multi-course experience
What to order: Start with the calamari fritti or clams areganate, move to a truffle dish or the black cod, and let the tasting menu guide you if available
Insider tip: Wednesday features a seasonal Tomato Wednesday event on the patio with fresh tomato-focused dishes
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking available—pull into the driveway on Melrose Ave where attendants greet you. Street parking also available on surrounding blocks.
Noise level: Can get loud on busy nights—expect a lively atmosphere, especially on Saturdays. Weekday dinners and lunch are quieter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Vegetarian-friendly with several pasta and vegetable-focused dishes available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — this is a top-tier first date spot. Candlelit tables, white linen tablecloths, and warm subdued lighting create an intimate, romantic atmosphere. The dining room is small and cozy, which keeps the vibe personal. Noise level is manageable on weeknights, making conversation easy — avoid Saturday nights when it gets livelier. Request a booth for extra privacy. The refined wine list gives you something to bond over.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknight walk-ins are possible when the dining room isn't full, but don't count on it — the room is small and this place stays busy. Weekend dinners should be booked several days ahead. Weekday lunch (noon–2pm) is your best bet for a spontaneous visit. Book through their website or call ahead — even a same-day reservation is better than showing up and hoping.
Is it kid-friendly? Accommodating but not catered to young kids. High chairs are available and the family-run staff will happily customize simpler dishes (like plain penne with tomato sauce) for younger diners. However, there's no dedicated kids menu, and the white-tablecloth, candlelit setting is better suited to children roughly 8+ who can handle a sit-down meal. For toddlers or very young children, this may not be the most comfortable fit — call ahead to discuss options.
Is it good for groups? Yes — one of the better group dining options in Hollywood. A private dining room seats 35–40 with its own entrance, and the main space can handle up to 50 seated for events. A smaller semi-private area fits up to 12. The owner personally helps plan custom menus for groups of all sizes. Contact the restaurant directly to arrange — no online group booking, but they're very hands-on with event planning.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a garden-style patio with a signature olive tree creates a relaxed, oasis-like setting. The patio is dog-friendly and hosts seasonal programming. It's more of an enclosed garden courtyard than sidewalk dining. Whether it's covered or heated is not confirmed online — call to check if you're planning a cooler-weather visit.
Best For
Better for: Romantic dinners, special occasions and celebrations, family gatherings—old-school Hollywood Italian with white-tablecloth warmth and generational hospitality.
Consider Alternatives If: You're on a tight budget or hoping to walk in without a reservation on a weekend—portions are refined and reservations are strongly recommended.
Hours
Monday12pm - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Saturday5pm - 10pm
SundayClosed