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ZipPicks Awards

Best Italian in Downtown LA Best Family Friendly Italian in Downtown LA

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Amante Italian Restaurant 7.8
Downtown LA
Amante is a long-running Fashion District workhorse doing big-portion Italian classics and a sprawling pizza and pasta menu. It’s more about hearty plates and late-night convenience than finesse, but regulars rely on it for reliable red-sauce comfort.
Must-Try Dishes: Amante's Ragu Spaghetti, Funghi Truffle Pappardelle, Tartufo truffle pizza
Scores:
Value: 8.4 Service: 7.7 Consistency: 8 Food Quality: 8.1 Atmosphere: 6 Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Huge, old-school Italian menu with generous portions and late hours.
Who should go: Hungry groups, families, hotel guests, late-night carb seekers.
When to visit: Later evenings when the room fills with locals and workers.
What to order: Amante’s Ragu spaghetti, Funghi truffle pappardelle, Tartufo pizza.
Insider tip: Split a pasta and pizza—portions run large and reheat well.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but competitive in the Fashion District, especially after 7pm. There are several paid garages within a 1–2 block radius (typically $8–$15). No valet service.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Jeans, tees, and sneakers are totally fine; guests coming from work often lean slightly dressy.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours—conversation is doable, but expect lively chatter and clattering plates.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for walk-ins during peak hours; larger groups may wait longer.
Weekday lunch: Rarely any wait; quick seating even for small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of meatless pastas, pizzas, and salads.
Vegan options: Limited—some tomato-based pasta dishes and customizable pizzas; ask to omit cheese.
Gluten-free options: Some gluten-free pasta options available, but no dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s better for casual, low-pressure dates than romantic ones. The portions are big, the vibe is energetic, and the menu is comforting rather than refined.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, especially on weekdays. On weekends, expect a short wait unless you arrive early or late.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common, and the menu has plenty of kid-approved dishes (pizza, buttered pasta). High chairs are typically available, and staff is used to large family groups.
Best For
Better for: Late-night dining, large group meals, and hearty red-sauce Italian classics at reasonable prices.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for upscale Italian, handmade pasta artistry, or a quiet, intimate dining room.

Hours

Monday11am - 10pm
Tuesday11am - 10pm
Wednesday11am - 10pm
Thursday11am - 10pm
Friday11am - 11pm
Saturday11am - 11pm
Sunday11am - 10pm