0 Followers
Maria's Italian Kitchen
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Maria's Italian Kitchen
8.4
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
A long-standing family-owned spot serving classic Italian fare since 1985. Their lasagna features rich layers of beef ragu and creamy béchamel, praised for its generous portion and flavorful sauce. Locals love the welcoming vibe and diverse menu, making it a staple for neighborhood gatherings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mama's Meat Lasagna, Chicken Parmigiana, Signature Chopped Italian Salad
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Generations-old recipe, family-run warmth, reliable quality.
Who should go: Families, comfort seekers, lovers of hearty Italian food.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner; weekend family celebrations.
What to order: Lasagna, Chicken Parmigiana, Chopped Salad.
Insider tip: Kids eat free on Wednesday nights.
Maria's Italian Kitchen
7.8
Maria's Italian Kitchen in West LA serves homestyle Italian standards like pastas, pizzas, and chicken parmigiana in a casual setting. Its sidewalk patio and all-day hours make it a convenient pet-friendly option for a sit-down meal without much planning.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Parmigiana, Spaghetti and Meatballs, Margherita Pizza
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Casual Italian comfort food with an easy-access sidewalk patio.
Who should go: Families and neighbors wanting simple Italian classics.
When to visit: Weeknights for low-key, pet-friendly dinners.
What to order: Chicken parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs, margherita pizza.
Insider tip: Ask for extra bread to soak up remaining pasta sauce.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Parking is street-only and often tight during evening hours; expect to circle for a spot after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual attire is perfectly fine—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers welcome.
Noise level: Low to moderate; easy for conversation even during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 20-35 minutes is typical, but usually no reservation is needed.
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins are the norm; rarely a wait before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—pastas, pizzas, salads, and appetizers offer multiple vegetarian choices.
Vegan options: Limited options—mainly salads and pasta with red sauce, but special requests are accommodated.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta is available upon request, but pizzas use standard dough.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works best for casual first dates, especially if you want a relaxed vibe and patio seating; it's friendly but not especially romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, especially for small parties; peak times may have a short wait but the patio often has open seats.
Is it kid-friendly? Very much so—high chairs, kids’ menu items, and a relaxed atmosphere make it suitable for ages 2 and up.
Best For
Better for: Hands-down best in the area for last-minute sit-down meals with pets, thanks to their open sidewalk patio and flexible service.
Skip if: If you want upscale date night ambiance, homemade specialty pastas, or wide vegan/gluten-free menus, choose elsewhere.