0 Followers
Gaetano's Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (9 Lists)
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.9
Family-run since the early ’90s, Gaetano’s is the South Torrance benchmark for classic Italian-American comfort with scratch-made pastas, big portions, and a warm neighborhood feel. Locals use it for everything from birthdays to team dinners when they want reliable red-sauce favorites and friendlier prices than the Westside’s big-name spots.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tagliatelle with Chianti-braised short rib ragu, Butternut squash ravioli with brown butter, Pesto-crusted halibut
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running, family-owned Italian spot with scratch pastas and big portions.
Who should go: Families and groups wanting classic Italian comfort
When to visit: Prime weekend dinners or early weeknights for easier seating
What to order: Short rib tagliatelle, butternut squash ravioli, pesto-crusted halibut
Insider tip: Portions run large—split a pasta and focus on appetizers or dessert.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared plaza lot with plenty of free parking; fills during peak dinner hours but turnover is steady.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans, polos, and simple date-night outfits all fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate — lively family energy on weekends, but still manageable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially 6:30–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — plenty of salads, pastas, and appetizers easily made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — a few customizable pasta or veggie options if you ask.
Gluten-free options: Good support — gluten-free pasta available and many mains can be adapted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want warm, comforting Italian in a relaxed, neighborhood setting. It’s more cozy than fancy, so choose it for an easy, low-pressure date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes — but expect a wait on busy weekend evenings. Weeknights and off-peak hours are much easier for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — families make up a large part of the crowd. High chairs, kid-friendly dishes, and a forgiving noise level make it ideal for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Generous portions, approachable pricing, and classic red-sauce comfort in a friendlier, more personal setting than trendier Westside Italian spots.
Skip if: You want white-tablecloth fine dining, a quiet room, or avant-garde regional Italian — this leans traditional and hearty.
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.7
Gaetano's is a family-run Italian restaurant where housemade lasagna and pastas anchor a lively, sit-down experience along Pacific Coast Highway. Locals rely on it for consistent red-sauce classics, polished service, and a comfortable room that works for both weeknight dinners and low-key celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lasagna with meatballs and ricotta, Butternut Squash Ravioli, Tagliatelle with Chianti-braised ribs
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Scratch-made lasagna and pastas served in a polished, family-run dining room.
Who should go: Diners wanting classic Italian with a sit-down feel.
When to visit: Evenings for relaxed pacing and fuller atmosphere.
What to order: Lasagna, Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti short rib pasta.
Insider tip: Ask about nightly pasta specials before committing to your order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot with adequate spaces during weekdays; can tighten on weekend evenings. Additional street parking available along PCH after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but many diners opt for slightly polished attire during dinner service.
Noise level: Moderate; conversations are easy at most tables, though the room gets livelier during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8:00pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; seating is quick and steady.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetarian pastas and starters, plus customizable pasta builds.
Vegan options: Limited — a few dishes can be adjusted, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free pasta available and staff is familiar with handling modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the polished but relaxed dining room, approachable Italian menu, and friendly service create an easy, comfortable first-date atmosphere without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, especially on weeknights. On weekends, walk-ins should expect a short wait unless arriving early or after the prime dinner window.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the staff is accommodating, the menu is approachable for kids, and early dinner hours work well for families. Best for ages 5 and up due to the lively dinner crowd.
Best For
Better for: Consistent, housemade red-sauce dishes in a comfortable, sit-down setting; ideal for groups and celebratory yet casual meals.
Skip if: You want ultra-modern Italian, intricate tasting-menu plates, or a very quiet, intimate environment.
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.5
Gaetano's is a long-running, family-owned Italian restaurant in the Torrance Towne Center where scratch-made pastas, pizzas, and big salads anchor relaxed but attentive service. With three decades of history and thousands of reviews, it’s a dependable choice for couples who want a comfortable, candlelit Italian date without going full fine dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Caesar salad with garlic croutons, Spaghetti and meatballs, Brick-oven pizza with Italian sausage
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: High-volume, family-run Italian spot with scratch cooking and warm service.
Who should go: Couples wanting reliable neighborhood Italian with generous portions.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or early weekends before the peak rush.
What to order: Caesar salad, spaghetti and meatballs, sausage and pepperoni pizza.
Insider tip: Book ahead and ask for a corner table for a quieter feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Large shared lot in the Torrance Towne Center; fills during peak dinner hours but usually manageable.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a nice top are common, but many couples dress up slightly for date night.
Noise level: Moderate, with steady dining-room chatter; easy to hold a conversation except during peak weekend rush.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30pm and 8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal to no wait; walk-ins are seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection including salads, pastas, pizzas, and customizable dishes.
Vegan options: Limited; pizzas and some pastas can be modified, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Strong GF support with gluten-free pasta and pizza crust available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The lighting is warm, tables feel intimate without being formal, and the menu is familiar enough to put both people at ease while still feeling like a real night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weeknights, but expect a wait on weekends. Arriving early or calling ahead for waitlist placement helps significantly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Staff are accommodating, high chairs are available, and the menu is approachable for kids who like pasta or pizza. Early dinner hours are best for families.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, comfortable Italian with big portions, friendly service, and a date-night atmosphere that doesn’t require fine-dining formality.
Skip if: You want cutting-edge regional Italian, a very quiet dining room, or a special-occasion experience with upscale plating and wine-pairing programs.
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.4
Gaetano's is a long-running, family-owned Italian spot on Pacific Coast Highway where scratch-made pastas, pizzas, and Chianti ribs support both casual family birthdays and low-key anniversaries. With thousands of reviews and local awards, it’s a reliable choice when you want comforting Italian in a warm, celebratory room without going full white-tablecloth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti Ribs, Margherita Pizza
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: High-volume neighborhood Italian balancing hearty cooking with friendly service.
Who should go: Families and couples wanting classic Italian celebration dinners.
When to visit: Weeknights or early weekends to avoid peak waits.
What to order: Butternut squash ravioli, Chianti ribs, house pizzas.
Insider tip: Book ahead for weekends; ask for a booth for quieter conversation.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot parking in the Torrance Towne Center; generally easy but can fill during peak dinner hours. Overflow street parking available nearby.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a nice top are perfectly fine, but many guests dress slightly elevated for celebrations.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during peak hours but still manageable for conversation at booths.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8:00pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with quick seating even for small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection—pizzas, salads, and several pasta dishes can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes rely on cheese or cream sauces; modifications possible but not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta is available upon request, and many salads and proteins are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially for a relaxed, comforting Italian dinner with friendly service. Booths offer quieter conversation, though the room can get lively on weekends.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but waits can be significant on weekends. Walk-ins fare much better on weeknights or early dinner hours before 6pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. High chairs and kid-appropriate dishes are available, and the friendly staff is accustomed to families. Earlier hours are ideal for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, crowd-pleasing Italian classics in a warm, celebratory environment—great for birthdays, family gatherings, or comfort-driven date nights.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge Italian, tasting-menu formats, or a quieter fine-dining environment; choose a more upscale or chef-driven spot instead.
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.4
Gaetano’s is a long-running, family-owned Italian spot on Pacific Coast Highway with a heated patio that picks up around sunset. Regulars lean on house-made pastas and Chianti ribs for weeknight birthdays and relaxed outdoor dinners where big portions and friendly service matter more than novelty.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti Ribs, Tagliatelle with Meat Sauce
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Family-run Italian with a heated patio and scratch-made pastas.
Who should go: Families and groups wanting reliable Italian on a casual patio.
When to visit: Early evening on weekdays or early weekends before peak crowds.
What to order: Butternut squash ravioli, Chianti ribs, a shareable pasta or pizza.
Insider tip: Request the edge tables on the patio for a quieter, more conversation-friendly feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot parking in the Torrance Towne Center complex; typically available but can tighten during peak dinner hours. Street overflow is limited.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Most guests wear jeans or relaxed dinner attire; no need to dress formally for the patio.
Noise level: Moderate. The heated patio stays conversational, though larger family groups can raise the ambient volume.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation during prime hours, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; immediate seating is common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several options including pastas, salads, and customizable pizzas.
Vegan options: Limited — a few salads and modified pasta dishes can work, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free pasta available upon request, though not all sauces can be modified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a relaxed, comfortable Italian meal without formality. The patio offers enough ambiance for a casual first date, though it leans more cozy-family than romantic-fine-dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but expect a wait during weekend dinners or if you specifically want patio seating. Walk-ins are easier on weeknights and earlier in the evening.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. Staff is accustomed to families, portions are shareable, and the patio layout accommodates strollers and booster seats. Best for ages 3+ due to the dinner rush and lively atmosphere.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, comforting Italian classics in a friendly, family-run setting with an outdoor patio that works well for groups and casual celebrations.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge Italian cuisine, a quiet fine-dining environment, or a menu with extensive vegan options.
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.7
Vibes:
Pet Friendly Paradise
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Gaetano's is a longtime South Bay Italian standby where house-made pastas, Chianti-braised ribs, and a heated patio make it one of the most reliable pet-friendly dinner options in 90505. The menu leans hearty and classic, and the team handles everything from weeknight family dinners to casual celebrations with steady execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti Short Ribs, Oceano Specialty Pizza
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Scratch-made Italian standards with a busy, dog-friendly heated patio.
Who should go: Families and groups wanting reliable Italian with patio seating.
When to visit: Early evenings for easier patio seating and mellow traffic.
What to order: Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti Short Ribs, Oceano pizza.
Insider tip: Request a patio table along the rail for more space between dogs and foot traffic.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot parking with ample spaces in the PCH corridor; fills during peak dinner hours but turnover is steady. Street parking available on adjacent residential blocks.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and sweaters are common, though many guests dress slightly nicer for celebrations.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively indoors; the patio is more relaxed and conversation-friendly, especially at early dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer if requesting a specific patio table.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; immediate seating is common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection of vegetarian pastas, salads, and appetizers; staff can guide substitutions.
Vegan options: Limited options; some salads and modified pastas can be adjusted but choices are modest.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pasta available, and several entrée items naturally avoid gluten; cross-contact precautions are accommodated when requested.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, particularly on the patio where the lighting and pace feel relaxed. It’s warm and comfortable rather than overly formal, making it ideal for a low-pressure but still nice evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weekdays, but weekends and peak dinner hours fill quickly. Patio-specific requests may extend the wait, so calling ahead or reserving is recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. The menu has approachable Italian staples, the staff is accommodating with families, and the patio offers extra space for strollers. Best for ages 3+ during early dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Large-group Italian meals, consistent scratch-made pastas, family dinners, and pet-friendly patio nights where comfort and reliability matter more than trendiness.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge Italian, a quiet fine-dining experience, or extensive vegan options.
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.4
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Comfort Food Classics
Gaetano’s is a family-run Italian restaurant along PCH with a separate banquet and private dining room tucked off the main floor. Housemade pastas and slow-braised Chianti ribs give private parties the feel of a sit-down restaurant dinner rather than a generic catered buffet, especially for long-time South Bay regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti Short Ribs, Eggplant Parmigiana
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A dedicated banquet room lets you serve comforting, from-scratch Italian in a self-contained space that still feels like Gaetano’s.
Who should go: Families and friend groups planning relaxed Italian celebrations.
When to visit: Weekend evenings for banquet dinners or earlier weeknights for quieter events.
What to order: Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti Short Ribs, classic Eggplant Parmigiana.
Insider tip: Ask about family-style platters for the private room so big tables can share pastas and mains without overcomplicating ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot parking behind the restaurant plus overflow spaces along PCH-adjacent side streets; typically manageable but can tighten during peak weekend banquets.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and sweaters are common, but groups hosting celebrations often lean slightly dressier.
Noise level: Moderate; the main dining room has steady family traffic while the private banquet room stays noticeably quieter and better for conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, especially when private events are running.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait; easy to walk in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid selection including pastas, salads, and classics like Eggplant Parmigiana.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; a couple of vegetable-driven dishes can be adapted on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta is available and many entrées can be modified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a warm, homey Italian setting with reliable comfort dishes; it’s less ideal for a quiet, intimate evening since it leans energetic and family-centric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually on weekdays; on weekends, reservations are strongly advised due to private room bookings and group celebrations.
Is it kid-friendly? Very; high chairs, kid-friendly menu items, and a welcoming staff make it an easy choice for families with children of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Group celebrations and family-style Italian meals with from-scratch pastas and a dedicated private room that feels more restaurant-quality than banquet-hall generic.
Skip if: You want a quiet, upscale date-night environment or a chef-driven tasting menu; other South Bay spots are better suited for refined or romantic evenings.
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.6
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Comfort Food Classics
Family-owned since the early 1990s, Gaetano's is a South Bay institution where handmade pastas, pizzas, and a full kids menu make it a go-to for multi-generational dinners. The room leans lively but still manageable for families, and Daily Breeze "Best Italian in the South Bay" accolades reflect how firmly it’s woven into local dining routines.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butternut Squash Ravioli, Tagliatelle with Chianti Ribs, Margherita Pizza from the kids-and-family side
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: High-volume, family-owned Italian with handmade pasta and a full kids menu.
Who should go: Families wanting classic sit-down Italian with reliable service.
When to visit: Early evening before peak weekend or holiday crowds.
What to order: Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti Ribs Tagliatelle, kids Margherita.
Insider tip: Ask about nightly specials; they often run family-friendly pasta deals.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot parking in the Rolling Hills Plaza area; generally easy on weeknights, but can fill during peak weekend dinner hours. Additional overflow parking available behind adjacent businesses.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Jeans, polos, casual dresses, and family-friendly attire are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate—lively family energy, but still comfortable for conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer on holidays or large-group nights.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even for groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong coverage with multiple pastas, salads, pizzas, and vegetable sides.
Vegan options: Limited; can customize a few pizzas or pastas, but dedicated vegan dishes are few.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pasta available upon request; many sauces are compatible. Not a separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It can work for casual, low-pressure first dates thanks to friendly service and comforting Italian classics, though the room is more lively than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common. Arriving before 6pm on weekends improves your chances of a short wait, especially for families and larger parties.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. The dedicated kids menu, quick service pace, and bustling atmosphere make it ideal for children from toddlers to teens.
Best For
Better for: Large family groups, approachable Italian comfort dishes, and consistent service that keeps multi-generational diners coming back.
Skip if: You want a quiet, upscale Italian dinner or are seeking extensive vegan accommodations.
Gaetano's Restaurant
8.8
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Comfort Food Classics
Family-owned since 1993, Gaetano's is the classic South Bay Italian date-night pick, with handmade pastas, a solid wine list, and a lively but grown-up dining room. Couples come for dishes like butternut squash ravioli and Chianti-braised short ribs, plus the option to sit inside or on the patio for a slightly more special night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butternut Squash Ravioli, Tagliatelle with Chianti Braised Short Ribs, Baked Mostaccioli with Crumbled Meatballs
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Handmade pastas and award-winning neighborhood institution energy.
Who should go: Couples wanting classic, lively Italian date nights.
When to visit: Prime-time weekend dinners or early evenings for patio.
What to order: Butternut Squash Ravioli, Chianti Short Rib Tagliatelle, bread pudding.
Insider tip: Ask about nightly specials; they often feature seasonal pastas.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small private lot in front plus shared plaza parking; usually manageable but can fill during peak weekend dinners.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most couples lean slightly dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate—lively room with steady chatter, but you can still hold a full conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; longer during peak holidays.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait and easy seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pasta dishes, salads, and starters can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited; the kitchen can modify some salads and pasta dishes but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta is available on request; most sauces can be paired with it.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its warm, welcoming dining room, handmade pastas, and attentive service create an easy, low-pressure date-night setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—walk-ins are accepted, but expect a wait during weekend dinner hours. Calling ahead can help time your arrival.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—kids are welcome and the menu is approachable, but the atmosphere leans more adult-focused during prime dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Handmade pastas, value-forward pricing, and a lively but grown-up environment make it stronger than nearby Italian spots for casual date nights.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic fine-dining Italian experience or a menu with extensive vegan options.