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Il Moro
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Il Moro
8.7
Il Moro has served polished Northern Italian fare since the mid-1990s, pairing housemade pastas and seafood with an extensive wine list. The shaded patio offers a more refined dog-friendly option on this stretch of Olympic, suited to business meals or quieter date nights with a pup in tow.
Must-Try Dishes:
Housemade Tagliatelle, Risotto of the Day, Grilled Branzino
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Longstanding Italian dining room with a quieter dog-friendly patio.
Who should go: Business diners and couples wanting classic Italian.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or weekday business lunches.
What to order: Tagliatelle, daily risotto, grilled branzino.
Insider tip: Ask for a corner patio table if you have a larger dog.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking is available for $12–$12.50 per car. Free validated parking is offered in the adjacent garage with a restaurant ticket. Street parking is also available on Purdue Ave, but can be limited during peak hours.
Dress code: Smart casual is recommended—jeans are acceptable, but most guests lean toward dressier attire. Business casual is appropriate for weekday lunches, while cocktail attire is common for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy on the patio thanks to ambient garden sounds and a waterfall, while the indoor dining room is intimate and conducive to quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait without a reservation, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait for weekday lunches, but reservations are still suggested for larger groups or preferred patio seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—dedicated vegetarian options include salads, pasta dishes (like Capellini and Penne Moro), and several starters. The menu also features a Tuscany panini with grilled vegetables and pesto.
Vegan options: Limited—vegan options include the Caprese salad (without cheese), select salads, and the Tuscany panini (without cheese). Vegan cheese is available for pizza, and the staff is willing to customize dishes upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta is available for most pasta dishes, and the menu notes gluten-free options. The kitchen can accommodate gluten-free requests, but cross-contamination cannot be fully guaranteed in a shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, Il Moro is an excellent choice for a first date. The shaded patio offers a relaxed, romantic atmosphere, and the refined Italian cuisine and attentive service create a comfortable setting for conversation. The quieter vibe and pet-friendly patio make it feel welcoming without being too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are strongly recommended—especially for weekend dinners or patio seating. Without a reservation, expect a wait of 30–45 minutes on busy nights. Weekday lunches are usually easier for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Il Moro is family-friendly and welcomes children. High chairs are available, and the menu offers classic Italian dishes that appeal to younger diners. The patio is spacious and safe for families, but the overall vibe is more suited to older children or quieter families due to the refined atmosphere.
Best For
Better for: Il Moro excels at providing a refined, quieter dog-friendly patio experience compared to other Italian restaurants in West LA. It’s ideal for business lunches, date nights, and anyone seeking a polished, garden oasis away from the bustle of Olympic Blvd.
Skip if: Skip Il Moro if you’re seeking a lively, bustling Italian scene or a casual, family-oriented trattoria. It’s less suited for large, noisy groups or those wanting a more casual, fast-paced dining experience.
Il Moro
8.5
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Business Lunch Power Players
Il Moro brings Milanese-inspired Italian dining to LA with a spacious patio, white-tablecloth ambiance, and wide selection of pastas, steaks, and seafood. Known for its business lunches and accommodating large groups, the spot maintains high standards for food and hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Chops, Lobster and Shrimp Tortellini, Margherita Pizza
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Elegant setting with an expansive menu for all ages.
Who should go: Groups, family celebrations, business diners.
When to visit: Lunch meetings, weekend dinners, group events.
What to order: Lamb Chops, Tortellini, Margherita Pizza.
Insider tip: Reserve the patio for family-friendly al fresco dining.