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Il Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Il Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi
8.9
Family-run for over three decades, Giorgio Baldi is a celebrity-beloved Italian hideaway known for rich pastas and coastal romance just off PCH. Dim lighting, white tablecloths, and tightly packed tables create an old-world date-night feel that still draws Hollywood regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sweet corn agnolotti in white truffle sauce, Spaghetti bottarga, Langostine grigliate
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 9.5
What makes it special: Classic coastal Italian with decades of star-studded regulars.
Who should go: Pasta obsessives and celeb-spotting romantics.
When to visit: Prime-time reservations, especially weekends, fill quickly.
What to order: Sweet corn agnolotti, spaghetti bottarga, langostine grigliate.
Insider tip: Book well in advance and request a quieter corner table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available (~$12–$15); limited street parking in the canyon fills up quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—elevated jeans are fine, but most guests opt for polished date-night attire.
Noise level: Moderate hum; intimate enough for conversation, though tables are close together.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation; walk-ins are rarely guaranteed.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable (dinner-only service). Early week dinners have minimal waits with a reservation.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection—several pastas and antipasti are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—kitchen can modify a few dishes, but vegan entrées are not a highlight.
Gluten-free options: Strong options—many pastas can be prepared gluten-free on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, cozy tables, and romantic coastal vibes make it ideal for a confident, slightly elevated first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but difficult, especially on weekends. Arrive early (before 6pm) and expect to wait or eat at the bar if space opens.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—space is tight, ambiance is adult-leaning, and the menu skews refined. Older teens are fine; younger kids may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Celebrity spotting, elevated handmade pastas, and romantic milestone dinners with old-school charm.
Skip if: You want a quiet, spacious dining room, budget-friendly plates, or a menu with extensive vegan options.
Il Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi
8.6
This low-lit Italian institution has been drawing industry regulars for decades with ultra-classic pastas, luxe seafood, and a tight, reservations-only room. The cooking leans rich and traditional, with simple sauces and generous truffle and butter moments.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sweet corn agnolotti, Carpaccio di manzo, Dover sole with lemon and capers
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A long-running, celebrity-favorite Italian room where classic sauces and seafood rule.
Who should go: Classic Italian lovers who don’t mind a splurgy night out.
When to visit: Late evening reservations for peak people-watching and energy.
What to order: Sweet corn agnolotti, carpaccio, whole Dover sole.
Insider tip: Plan weeks ahead and request a corner table to soften the tight, bustling room.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the Santa Monica Canyon for around $12–$15; street parking is limited and fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale—polished jeans are fine, but most guests opt for chic, evening-ready outfits.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; you can hold a conversation, but the tight room and celebrity traffic add a constant buzz.
Weekend wait: Expect long waits or no availability without a reservation—walk-ins may face 60+ minutes if accepted at all.
Weekday lunch: Lunch isn’t offered, so no midday wait times apply.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection: several pastas, salads, and vegetable starters can be made fully vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes rely on butter, cheese, or cream; expect 1–2 improv options if requested.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—GF pasta is often available on request and many seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its dim lighting, intimate tables, and polished service create an impressive, romantic setting. Just know it’s a splurge.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely during peak hours. Walk-ins are sometimes accepted early in the evening, but planning weeks ahead is your best move.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—the room is tight, quiet-leaning, and geared toward adults. Older teens comfortable with upscale dining should be fine.
Best For
Better for: Classic, indulgent Italian dishes with a luxurious, old-school feel—especially pastas and seafood—plus prime celebrity spotting.
Skip if: You want modern, experimental Italian, casual pricing, or a spacious dining room with easy last-minute availability.