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LA Puglia
Master Critic Review
LA Puglia
9.1
Award-winning Southern Italian restaurant specializing in authentic Pugliese cuisine with handmade pasta and traditional lasagna. Gambero Rosso International named it Restaurant of the Year for its commitment to regional authenticity.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Lasagna with Beef Ragu, Fresh Orecchiette with Braciole, Panzerotti Fried Pizza Pockets
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Only authentic Pugliese restaurant in LA with ingredients sourced directly from Italy
Who should go: Italian food purists and adventurous diners
When to visit: Weekend dinner for full Southern Italian experience
What to order: Lasagna, panzerotti, burrata bruschetta
Insider tip: They operate as a coffee bar during the day with fresh Italian pastries
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, metered street parking until 8pm but fills quickly after 6pm
Dress code: Smart casual - nice jeans acceptable but lean dressier for dinner
Noise level: Moderate - intimate enough for date conversation
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, highly recommend booking ahead
Weekday lunch: No wait, quieter coffee bar atmosphere
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several traditional Pugliese vegetable dishes and pasta options
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 modified dishes, call ahead for best options
Gluten-free options: Limited - risotto and some secondi, no GF pasta available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect - intimate lighting, not too loud, impressive without being stuffy. The authentic Italian atmosphere creates natural conversation starters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights possible with 30-min wait. Weekend dinner walk-ins risky - try the bar seats or come for late lunch when it's quieter.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) who appreciate food. No kids menu, but they'll split portions. Lunch/early dinner more accommodating than prime dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Southern Italian experience you won't find elsewhere in LA - real Pugliese recipes, imported ingredients, and traditional preparations that transport you to Bari
Skip if: You want quick service, familiar Italian-American dishes, or need extensive dietary accommodations. Choose Gjelina or Jon & Vinny's for more flexible menus