Best Instagram Worthy Italian Restaurants in Santa Monica
6 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
LA Puglia
Only authentic Pugliese restaurant in LA with ingredients sourced directly from Italy
Essential Picks
#1
LA Puglia
9.1
Award-winning Southern Italian restaurant specializing in authentic Pugliese cuisine with handmade pasta and traditional lasagna. Gambero Rosso International named it Restaurant of the Year for its commitment to regional authenticity.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Lasagna with Beef Ragu, Fresh Orecchiette with Braciole, Panzerotti Fried Pizza Pockets
What Makes it Special: Only authentic Pugliese restaurant in LA with ingredients sourced directly from Italy
Notable Picks
#2
Élephante
8.8
This buzzy rooftop Mediterranean hotspot channels coastal Italian vibes with its cactus garden, ocean views, and wood-fired dishes. Since 2018, it's been the see-and-be-seen destination for whipped eggplant spread, handmade pastas, and scene-y weekend brunches.
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
#3
Uovo
8.3
This pasta bar flies handmade noodles overnight from Bologna, serving authentic regional Italian dishes at a counter surrounding the open kitchen. The no-reservations policy and quick service make it ideal for families seeking quality without formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e Pepe on Cheese Wheel, Traditional Bolognese, Carbonara
What Makes it Special: Fresh pasta flown daily from Bologna, Italy
#4
Via Veneto
8.3
Since 2001, Fabrizio Bianconi's intimate 40-seat trattoria features homemade pastas and locally-sourced organic ingredients with celebrity following. The candlelit narrow space with chandeliers creates authentic Italian ambiance, while dishes like tuna tartare and sampling ravioli platters showcase refined technique.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tuna Tartare, Ravioli Sampler, Rigatoni with Truffle Meat Sauce
What Makes it Special: Owner Fabrizio's Rome-to-California journey creates fine dining without austere atmosphere beloved by celebrities
#5
Ghisallo
8.3
Ocean Park neighborhood staple serving both New York-style slices by day and Neapolitan-esque whole pies at dinner. Chef Casey Lane works with renowned baker Jyan Horwitz to perfect naturally leavened dough, creating blistered crusts that support creative toppings like nduja sausage with fermented honey.
Must-Try Dishes:
Funghi & Truffle Pizza, Calabrian Sausage, Margherita Slice
What Makes it Special: Dual dough approach offering both NY slices and Neapolitan pies from artisan bakers
Worthy Picks
#6
Cosetta
7.8
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Trendy Table Hotspots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Chef Zach Pollack's Westside Italian restaurant features California-inflected cooking with wood-fired pizzas and market-driven dishes. The plant-filled patio welcomes families with crayons and sippy cups while maintaining appeal for adult diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked Mozzarella Sticks, Margherita Pizza, Chocolate Peanut Butter Budino
What Makes it Special: One of few spots successfully balancing toddler-friendly touches with grown-up culinary ambition