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Locanda del Lago
Master Critic Review
Locanda del Lago
7.8
Operating since 1991, this Northern Italian spot near Third Street Promenade specializes in Lake Como cuisine with housemade pasta and focaccia. The Wine Spectator award-winning list of 400+ selections complements traditional recipes using Santa Monica Farmers Market ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ossobuco alla Milanese, Housemade Ravioli, Fresh Focaccia
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Authentic Lake Como recipes with local ingredients
Who should go: Wine lovers and Italian cuisine traditionalists
When to visit: Sunday brunch for unique offerings
What to order: Ossobuco, daily pasta special, gelato
Insider tip: Patio offers prime Third Street Promenade people-watching
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking challenging on weekends, paid lots on 2nd/4th Streets ($8-15), valet available Friday-Sunday nights ($10)
Dress code: California casual - anything from nice jeans to business casual works, locals often in athleisure for brunch
Noise level: Moderate - lively but conversation-friendly, patio quieter than inside dining room
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, Saturday nights often fully booked
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10-15 min during peak lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 6-8 pasta and risotto options, plus antipasti
Vegan options: Limited - can modify pasta dishes, best to call ahead
Gluten-free options: Some options - risotto and protein dishes, no GF pasta available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for dinner - romantic patio lighting and wine list create good ambiance. Skip weekend brunch as it gets very family-heavy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches yes, weekend dinners unlikely. Bar seating usually available within 20 minutes for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids menu, high chairs, crayons provided. Staff patient with families. Best before 7pm when it shifts to date-night crowd.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Northern Italian with serious wine program - better wine list than most Santa Monica Italian spots, more traditional than trendy competitors
Skip if: You want innovative/modern Italian, quick service, or are on a tight budget - pasta dishes start at $18