Best Italian Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)
8 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.8
Since 1925, this legendary Italian deli has been Santa Monica's go-to for the famous Godmother sandwich, a masterpiece of prosciutto, mortadella, salami, and provolone. The bustling market atmosphere and authentic imported goods make every visit feel like a trip to Italy, with lines of locals and tourists alike waiting for their fix of old-school deli perfection.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Godmother Sandwich, Burrata Caprese, Fresh Pasta Salads
What makes it special: Century-old institution with imported Italian specialties
#2
Colapasta
8.6
Michelin Bib Gourmand winner where Chef Stefano De Lorenzo crafts handmade pasta daily at the front-center station, using organic ingredients from the Santa Monica Farmers Market. This intimate trattoria delivers exceptional value with perfectly executed traditional dishes in a breezy beach-town setting just blocks from the Pacific.
Must-Try Dishes:
Calamarata with Stracciatella, Handmade Tagliatelle, Daily Pasta Special
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized pasta made fresh daily at exceptional value.
#3
Élephante
8.5
This buzzing rooftop destination channels coastal Southern Italy with wood-fired pizzas, Mediterranean small plates, and stunning ocean views from multiple dining areas. The trendy atmosphere attracts a fashionable crowd for everything from power lunches to late-night cocktails, with a cactus garden and sunset room that transport diners to the Italian coast.
Must-Try Dishes:
Whipped Eggplant with Puccia Bread, Wood-Fired Pizza, Vodka Rigatoni
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized rooftop with unbeatable ocean views and scene
#4
Uovo
8.3
Dedicated pasta specialists importing fresh handmade noodles daily from Bologna, serving iconic dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe with recipes sourced directly from Italy's best restaurants. The intimate candlelit space with open kitchen creates an authentic Roman trattoria vibe where pasta perfection is the singular focus.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e Pepe on Cheese Wheel, Traditional Bolognese, Carbonara
What makes it special: Fresh pasta flown daily from Bologna, Italy
#5
Capo
8.2
Bruce Marder's hidden Italian gem features wood-fired cooking with almond wood, an award-winning 2,500-label wine list, and museum-quality art in an elegant fireplace-warmed dining room. This special-occasion destination has been impressing Westside elites since 1998 with handmade pastas, prime steaks, and impeccable old-school service.
Must-Try Dishes:
White Corn Ravioli with Truffles, Wood-Grilled Branzino, Osso Buco
What makes it special: Secret club ambiance with fireplace cooking and Grand Award wine list.
Worthy Picks
#6
North Italia
7.8
Modern Italian chain elevating everyday dining with handmade pasta, chef's choice daily pizzas, and a vibrant bar scene perfect for happy hour. The spacious dining room and patio create an energetic atmosphere where fresh ingredients and scratch cooking deliver consistent crowd-pleasers for groups and families.
Must-Try Dishes:
White Truffle Pizza, The Pig Pizza, Daily Chef's Special Pizza
What makes it special: Daily rotating chef's pizza with seasonal ingredients
#7
Fritto Misto
7.7
Family-owned neighborhood Italian serving massive portions of customizable pasta and hearty classics for nearly 20 years. The welcoming atmosphere and build-your-own pasta options make it a reliable choice for families and groups who value quantity, quality, and that everyone leaves satisfied.
Must-Try Dishes:
Create-Your-Own Pasta Combinations, Misto Salad, Veal Marsala
What makes it special: Build-your-own pasta concept with over 20 sauce options
7.5
Chef Andrea Inio brings Northern Italian traditions to this romantic spot where ingredients from the on-site herb garden meet wines from his restaurateur stepfather's collection. The intimate atmosphere and farm-to-table approach create an upscale neighborhood gem focused on seasonal Italian cooking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mushroom Tower Appetizer, Tableside Prepared Pasta, Osso Buco
What makes it special: On-site herb garden enhancing every dish