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Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Casa Modena
7.9
A family-run second-floor Italian kitchen where all pasta is made in-house daily and black truffles come from the owner's own hunting operation in Italy—details that show up in dishes like the tortellini pasticciati and burrata crostini. The room is quiet enough for real conversation, which makes it work well for couples who want the food to be the focus rather than the scene. Expect a strip-mall exterior that undersells what's happening inside.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tortellini Pasticciati al Tartufo Nero, Ravioli di Zucca, Tagliatelle Verdi al Ragù
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: A family-run Italian kitchen on Wilshire's second floor where all pasta is handmade daily and truffles are sourced through the owner's own Italian truffle-hunting operation.
Who should go: Couples and Italian food purists seeking authenticity over scene.
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for an unhurried, intimate patio experience.
What to order: Start with the burrata and truffle crostini, build around one truffle pasta and one classic like the pumpkin ravioli, and close with tiramisu.
Insider tip: Request patio seating for the quieter, more private dining experience upstairs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available on-site at this 2nd-floor Wilshire Blvd strip mall location; the building has a shared lot below
Dress code: Casual—jeans and a nice top are perfectly fine for this relaxed, homey Italian spot
Noise level: Quiet—intimate enough for easy conversation even on weekends, rated low-noise across 179 diner ratings
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Multiple handmade pasta options without meat—pesto trofie, pumpkin ravioli, arrabbiata penne, risotto ai funghi porcini—plus salads and antipasti like bruschetta and caprese di bufala
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free options listed as available by the restaurant
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — this is a top-tier first date spot. Tucked away on the second floor of a Brentwood building, it has a hidden-gem feel that's impressive without being intimidating. Intimate lighting, warm Italian decor with vintage collectibles, and a quiet noise level make conversation effortless. The covered patio adds a romantic option. Request a patio table for extra ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknight walk-ins for parties of 5 or fewer are usually possible, especially for early seatings or lunch. Weekend dinners fill up — book a few days ahead to be safe. Reservations can be made up to 90 days out. For groups of 6 or more, call (310) 477-3880 directly to arrange seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Manageable but not geared toward young kids. High chairs are available and staff welcomes families, but there's no dedicated kids' menu — the pasta-heavy Italian menu works well for less picky eaters. The atmosphere is quiet and leisurely, better suited for children 8+ who can handle a calm dining pace. For younger kids, earlier seatings before the dinner crowd are your best bet.
Is it good for groups? Works for small groups up to about 6. For parties of 6 or more, you'll need to call ahead — online booking doesn't accommodate larger parties. The cozy second-floor space limits very large gatherings. Private event inquiries are accepted, but a dedicated private dining room has not been confirmed — call to discuss options for celebrations or special occasions.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a covered patio with a warm, charming atmosphere. Heating is available for cooler evenings, and it's dog-friendly (staff will bring water for your pup). Being on the second floor gives it a tucked-away terrace feel. The patio is one of the restaurant's highlights, especially for date nights. Exact capacity is not confirmed online — request patio seating when you book.
Best For
Better for: A quiet, romantic Italian dinner where conversation matters—the hidden upstairs setting with vintage Italian collectibles adds genuine charm
Consider Alternatives If: You want a buzzy scene or large-group energy—this is a cozy, tucked-away spot with an intimate footprint
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 8:30pm
Wednesday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 8:30pm
Thursday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 8:30pm
Friday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9:30pm
Saturday5pm - 9:30pm
SundayClosed