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Caffé Delfini
Master Critic Review
Caffé Delfini
8.4
Since 1990, this narrow Italian dining room has delivered cozy, candlelit plates of pasta and seafood to locals who treat it like their weekly canteen. The space is intimate and slightly old-school, but the cooking is warm, generous, and quietly romantic.
Must-Try Dishes:
Zuppa di pesce in guazzetto, Fettuccine Bolognese, Veal Milanese
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A long-running, snug Italian spot where regulars swear by the pastas and seafood.
Who should go: Couples and locals wanting low-key, romantic Italian near the beach.
When to visit: Early weeknights for an intimate feel and less wait.
What to order: Zuppa di pesce, veal Milanese, a classic Bolognese pasta.
Insider tip: Ask for a corner table and be prepared for tight seating—it’s part of the charm.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the canyon is limited and fills fast; valet is usually available for around $12.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but most guests lean slightly dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate—soft chatter and music, still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–60 minute wait without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: They don’t operate a formal lunch service; evenings on weekdays usually have minimal waits if you arrive early.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid vegetarian coverage—several pastas, salads, and starters can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—about 1–2 dishes can be adapted; best to ask the server for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pasta is available on request, and many seafood dishes naturally avoid gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The dim lighting, intimate tables, and warm service create a relaxed, romantic atmosphere perfect for a low-pressure first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can try, especially early on weeknights, but walk-ins on weekends often face long waits. Calling ahead helps.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s more of a date-night spot than a family restaurant. Older kids or teens are fine, but there’s no dedicated kids’ menu or space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: A cozier, more intimate vibe than most trendy Italian spots in Santa Monica; perfect for lingering dinners and classic Italian comfort.
Skip if: You want a spacious dining room, a loud group setting, or modern, avant-garde Italian—this is traditional, romantic, and tightly packed.