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Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Brentwood
Master Critic Review
Divino
8.0
A white-tablecloth Italian holdout in Brentwood where owner Goran Milic has spent three decades rotating guest chefs from Italy through the kitchen, keeping the menu grounded in classical technique rather than trending toward fusion. The regulars come for the kind of unhurried, old-school Westside dinner that rewards repeat visits—bolognese built on slow-cooked ragu, risotto that earns its twenty-minute wait. Expect the prices and pace of a neighborhood fine-dining room that has outlasted every food trend around it.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fusilli alla Bolognese, Medaglioni di Vitello, Risotto ai Porcini
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: A 30-year Brentwood institution where Montenegrin-born owner Goran Milic regularly flies in guest chefs from Italy to keep the kitchen authentic and evolving.
Who should go: Couples and regulars seeking old-school white-tablecloth Italian on the Westside
When to visit: Weekday lunch for unhurried service without dinner crowds
What to order: Start with the burrata, commit to the bolognese or a daily fish special, and let Goran steer you toward whatever the guest chef is running that week.
Insider tip: The restaurant looks tiny from the courtyard entrance but opens up inside with skylights and an open kitchen — request a table near it.
Logistics & Planning
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - Divino is a strong first date pick. The softly lit dining room, candlelit tables, and European photographs on the walls create a genuinely romantic atmosphere. The cozy, family-run feel makes the evening feel special without being stuffy. One note: the main downstairs dining room can get buzzy and lively during peak dinner hours (after 7:30pm), so request the upstairs area or the intimate "Library Room" for easier conversation. An early reservation (5:30-6:30pm) also gets you a quieter experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknight walk-ins during lunch (12-2:30pm) are generally feasible, but dinner is a different story - this is a beloved Brentwood neighborhood spot that's been packed for over 25 years. For Friday and Saturday dinner, book at least 3-5 days ahead. Weeknight dinners you may get lucky walking in early (5:30pm), but reservations are strongly recommended. Online booking is available, or call (310) 472-0886.
Is it kid-friendly? Conditionally yes - Divino works for well-behaved kids, especially before 7pm when the energy is calmer. There's no dedicated kids menu, but wood-fired pizzas and simpler pastas (buttered noodles, margherita pizza) are easy wins for younger diners. Call ahead if you need a high chair. The casual-upscale atmosphere means this is better suited for families with kids 6+ who can sit through a full dinner. For toddlers or very young children, the tight table spacing and lively evening energy may be challenging.
Is it good for groups? Yes - Divino has private dining rooms that accommodate larger parties (12+) for birthdays, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, and corporate gatherings. They offer customizable event packages with family-style or plated meal options. For groups of 6-8, call when booking so they can arrange appropriate seating. Book private dining at least 2 weeks ahead; for regular large-party seating, a week's notice is advisable. Contact the restaurant directly with group size and event details for the best setup.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - outdoor seating is available in the Barrington Court setting. However, specific details about whether the outdoor area is covered, heated, or how many tables are available could not be confirmed. The courtyard location suggests a pleasant, somewhat sheltered environment. Call (310) 472-0886 to confirm current outdoor availability and request an outdoor table when booking, as these likely fill up quickly.
Best For
Hours
Monday12pm - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 10pm
Saturday5:30pm - 10pm
Sunday5:30pm - 10pm