LA & Valley Eats: Greek

Because we did not have the Greek Island vacation to Santorini and Mykonos we all planned for this summer, we have compiled some of our favorite greek restaurants in Los Angeles and the Valley. Check them out below!

Aliki’s Greek Taverna – Los Angeles

Located at: 5862 Arbor Vitae St, Los Angeles, CA 90045-4731

One of the highest rated in Los Angeles— Aliki’s Greek Taverna is a Greek Restaurant that specializes in authentic Greek food. It uses top quality ingredients such as the “Eliki” extra virgin olive oil, Greek feta cheese made from goat and sheep milk, organic tomatoes and other quality natural ingredients and the best meats available.

Avra – Beverly Hills

Located at: 233 North Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210-5317

Michelin rated and all, Avra is an elevated take on your classic Greek food you can find all throughout the streets of Greece.

Papa Cristo’s Greek Grill – Los Angeles

Located at: 2771 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006

Market and no-frills restaurant offering Greek eats from hummus to baklava & live music weekends. Amazing atmosphere.

The Great Greek Restaurant and Taverna – Sherman Oaks

Located at: 13362 Ventura Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 91423-3939

Did someone say live music and fresh greek food? Sign us up! From Chicken Kabobs to Falafel, this place has perfected all of the classic Greek dishes.

Cava Mezze Grill – Topanga Canyon

Located at: 6256 Topanga Canyon Blvd The Village Level 1, Off Erwin Street, Los Angeles, CA 91367

For the person who loves variety, this is the place for you. You order by going down the counter and picking exactly what you want in your meal. It is quick and healthy!

Daphne’s – Woodland Hills

Located at: 5780 Canoga Ave unit d, Woodland Hills, CA 91367

A valley classic for locals is Daphne’s. It is a chain offering a wide range of modern Greek food and additional health forward twists!

June 10, 2020June 11, 2020

Valley Eats: Dining In

It is official! We can now dine in at restaurants who are compliant with the rules of a safe reopening as we move into the next phase of Reopening California. A true adventure (and a sigh of relief) for those of us who were getting tired of cooking/cleaning and ordering take out. Without further ado, there are many restaurants that are now open for dine-in customers, and we have rounded up a list of restaurants that are open for dining in.

All restaurants below are available on the dining reservation app, OpenTable. Download the app, make some reservations, and enjoy the adventure. Happy eating!

Mistral – Sherman Oaks

Established in 1988. A true French bistro in the heart of Sherman Oaks. (One of our favorite spots in all of the valley). It has a warm atmosphere and traditional cuisine featuring Prime Steaks, Daily Fresh Fish, and Seafood Selection. They have an incredible Steak Tartar, Onion Soup, and Chocolate Souffle. They have seasonal fresh vegetables and garnishes, a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, and is well recognized for its warm and excellent service. Make your reservation now!

Pedalers Fork – Calabasas

Pedalers Fork is a farm-direct restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Specializing in local and seasonal offerings, microbreweries, and a rye whiskey centric craft cocktail program. 10 Speed Coffee cafe and roaster on-site as well as a fully functional bike shop on the creekside patio. They are open 7 days a week from 6AM to 3PM. From delicious brunch items like Belgian waffles and burritos t their competition quality in house-smoked brisket, ribs, and chicken. They are also roasting coffee and pouring beer from their 30 craft taps. (**Make a reservation on their website: https://www.pedalersfork.com/)

Davenport’s Restaurant – Encino

Image via KCAL9.com

Enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, sushi, and chef-inspired cocktails in a comfortable, warm atmosphere. Located just off the 405 on Ventura Blvd, their dining room and a beautiful patio with fire-pits are wonderful places to relax and enjoy good food and good friends.

Monty’s Steakhouse – Woodland Hills

Monty’s is a classic American Steak house that proudly serves the finest and most delectable choice cuts of beef and seafood available with an endless array of sides and sauces to customize your dining experience and tailor it your unique taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a 24 oz Porterhouse or an 8oz Filet Mignon, a 28 oz Lobster tail, or our famous Halibut, Monty’s dining experience is one to remember.

Twisted Oak Tavern – Agoura Hills

Twisted Oak Tavern was established in 2015 in the heart of Agoura Hills, California. Bringing a modern take on the traditional tavern along with a brewery producing our very own craft beers on site. Serving an extensive menu with each dish prepared from scratch with locally-sourced ingredients.

Castaway – Burbank

Enjoy the seasonally-inspired, steak-forward menu featuring interesting cuts of meats, a raw bar, vegetable-centric sides, and build-it-yourself charcuterie boards. Plus, try new menu items like miso-marinated Chilean Sea Bass, Dry Aged Meatballs, and more. We highly recommend going for the endless city views.

Sun Cafe – Studio City

The menu is plant-based, all vegan, with many gluten-free and raw food options. Despite our healthy focus, our first and foremost aspiration is to offer delicious and crave-worthy cuisine.

Larsen’s Steakhouse – Valencia

Larsen’s Steakhouse is an upscale steakhouse offering only the finest prime steaks and freshest seafood available, flown in daily. We offer over 200 wines and 30 by the glass. With impeccable service and great ambiance, our restaurant delivers a classic steakhouse feel with a modern twist. A warm dining room and a large lounge offer a great escape from the busy city. Dark wood ceilings and stone walls bring the restaurant alive.

April 9, 2020

Valley Eats: Buying Groceries From Restaurants

Dreading the daunting, winding line at the grocery store? With restaurants forced to shutter their doors, many local eateries are now offering groceries to meet the needs of residents faced with bare store shelves. Additionally, some have partnered with area farmers as one way to both generate revenue and provide people with fresh fruits and vegetables. Note: call ahead or check delivery apps since both inventory and operating hours are subject to change.

Conejo Valley

Nonna

951 S. Westland Boulevard, Suite 2, Westlake Village | 805-497-8482
Hours: From Tuesday to Friday, groceries can be ordered online by 5 p.m. and are then available for pick-up or delivery the next business day.

After a hiatus in March, this Westlake Village eatery has adapted to the times by offering curbside pick-up and delivery for its menu dishes, as well as a grocery service featuring pasta, produce, canned tomatoes, pantry goods, oil, sugar and a grocery kit that includes three pounds of chicken breast, one loaf of ciabatta, eggs, milk, rice, vegetables and toilet paper.

Lemmo’s Grill

4227-A Tierra Rejada Road, Moorpark | 805-530-1555
Hours: Monday to Thursday: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday: closed.

This restaurant’s abbreviated menu for curbside pick-up includes a range of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrees and pasta – along with a spaghetti-and-meatballs platter featuring garlic bread, salad and a bottle of house cabernet sauvignon. Also on the menu: groceries, including milk, eggs, produce, a selection of meats and water.

San Fernando Valley

Brent’s Delicatessen and Restaurant

19565 Parthenia Street, Northridge | 818-886-5679
Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for delivery and pick-up.

This iconic deli, established in 1967 and revered for its Rueben sandwich, is open for pick-up and delivery. In addition to regular menu items like the corned beef hash, Brent’s is selling such grocery items as ground beef, sausage links, sugar, bacon, chicken breasts, milk, salmon filets, marinated skirt steaks and eggs. Order through their delivery app.

Tender Greens

325 N San Fernando Boulevard, Burbank | 818-333-8340

Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

This chain, known for its salads and soups, is also offering produce and other grocery items for pick-up and delivery. Their grocery boxes are sourced from local farmers such as Scarborough Farms in Calabasas. Among the boxes, there is the Veggie (including Yukon potatoes, yellow onion, carrot, celery, garlic and asparagus), the Farm Fresh (butter lettuce, romaine hearts, arugula, carrots, beets, red butter lettuce) and the Morning Box (eggs, milk, flour, white and brown sugar).

Santa Clarita Valley

Lazy Dog

24201 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita | 661-253-9996
Hours: Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

In addition to a limited menu that’s available for curbside pick-up and delivery, Lazy Dog is also offering several DIY meal kits. The Home Essentials package includes three pounds of boneless chicken breasts, 15 eggs, milk, bread, rice, onions, red potatoes, carrots and toilet paper. Other kits are the Backyard Barbeque, which comes with two flat iron steaks, eight hot dogs, buns, coleslaw and potatoes; the Pizza Night kit, which includes enough raw materials to make two 12-inch pizzas; and the Brunch kit with eggs, breakfast potatoes and pancakes.

Italia Panetteria and Deli

27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia | 661-294-9069
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This family-operated destination for Italian sandwiches, bread and desserts continues to offer its selection of pasta, virgin olive oils, vinegars, meats, tomatoes, sauces and pizzas, along with groceries ranging from frozen meals to fresh bread. Call ahead so your order is ready for pick-up.

April 2, 2020

Valley Eats: Date Night at Home

Date night isn’t what it used to be. With restaurants closed throughout Southern California and residents under shelter-in-place orders, venturing out for an evening away from the kids, or simply as a couple, is impossible. So why not order in from any of the restaurants that remain open for delivery or takeout? You’ll be supporting a business in need while carving out some time for yourselves. Just call ahead as hours and menu choices are naturally subject to change. (Disclaimer: If you are not comfortable ordering take out during this time, please consider purchasing a gift card from your favorite local restaurant to support them).

Conejo Valley

The Cliffdiver

21337 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu | 424-235-2595

Takeout and delivery: Monday: closed; Tuesday: 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Wednesday: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Thursday: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Saturday: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

You can’t carry the laid-back surf vibe home with you, so you’ll have to get by on eats alone from this Malibu restaurant: tacos, nachos, burritos and quesadillas (the vegetarian quesadilla comes especially recommended). Whatever you dine on, wash it down with a margarita or sangria to go, served in a 32-ounce container (or roughly four to five drinks). Your dining room may not be the beach, granted, but at least you won’t get sand in your shoes.

Lure Fish House

60 California Street, Ventura | 805-567-4400

Takeout and delivery: 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Featuring fresh, locally-sourced seafood, this family-owned restaurant offers plenty of favorites to go: from bowls like the miso-glazed swordfish with organic stir-fried seasonal vegetables and organic brown rice to market salads like the Seafood Louie with Dungeness crab, Pacific white shrimp, avocado and seven-minute egg. Other fare includes the New England clam chowder, salmon burger and grilled salmon tacos.

San Fernando Valley

Anajak Thai

14704 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks | 818-501-4201
Takeout and delivery: Tuesdays to Thursdays: 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday: 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This family-owned Thai spot has been a neighborhood staple for nearly 40 years. They have their full menu available for takeout and are offering 20 percent off all bottles of wine. Start off with the papaya salad with dried shrimp and lime or the spicy lemongrass shrimp with roasted chili before moving onto their dinner selection of curries, stir-fries and plates, including a whole fried branzino with apple slaw, chili, lime and jasmine rice.

Din Tai Fung

177 Caruso Avenue, Glendale | 818-551-5561
Takeout and Delivery: Monday to Thursday: 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Friday–Saturday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The full menu of this superb dumpling restaurant in the Americana mall in Glendale is available for takeout and delivery – so enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for potstickers or wontons in a spicy sauce or a soup dumpling (whether with added pork, truffle or crabmeat), the food here is equal parts delicate and delicious.

Santa Clarita Valley

Royal Tandoor

26532 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita | 661-263-7100
Takeout and delivery: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

If you’re looking for classic Indian cuisine, including numerous vegetarian options, this relaxed restaurant offers no shortage of samosas, pakoras and kababs as well as tandoori and tikka dishes. Whatever you choose, don’t forget to add an order of flatbread.

Teriyaki Madness

28227 Newhall Ranch Road, Santa Clarita | 661-753-3366

Takeout and delivery: Monday to Friday: 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday to Sunday: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The full menu from this Asian fusion restaurant is available online or by phone. After selecting from such appetizers as the potstickers, chicken egg rolls and crab rangoon, roll up your sleeves and dive (virtually) into assembling your own teriyaki bowl with chicken, steak, salmon or tofu as protein options.

March 26, 2020

Valley Eats: Local Restaurants to Support

With restaurants and bars forced to close their doors throughout Southern California due to the coronavirus, businesses and diners alike are continuing to adapt to this new reality. In addition to moving to delivery and curbside pickup, many eateries are offering new specials and adjusted hours. So even if you can’t go out to eat, please consider supporting them by ordering in. Better yet, supporting them by purchasing a gift card to use for future purchases is another option.

CONEJO VALLEY

Nicolas Eatery

22333 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

This French-influenced, family-run restaurant is offering takeout only from a menu that includes such appetizers as salmon tartar and truffle fries, as well as salads, sandwiches and main dishes like the lobster mac n’ cheese and Scottish salmon. If you’re a fan of toast (and who isn’t?) their selection includes avocado toast and the Malibu toast, with lobster, egg and bechamel sauce. They’re open noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Carbon Beach Club

22878 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

Dining in the oceanfront terrace is obviously not an option, but the curbside menu of this restaurant still includes favorites like calamari and shrimp cocktail. Along with salads and sandwiches, large plate items range from the classic omelet to the roasted chicken breast.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

World Empanadas

1206 W Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank

Family owned and operated since 2012, this shop’s name says it all – just don’t expect your “average meat pie selection” as they state on their website. In fact, these might be some of the most delicious empanadas you’ll ever have. Expectedly, they’ve had to adjust to current events and no longer serve their breakfast burrito, but offer fast, efficient delivery nonetheless. Their hours are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Feu Pho Kitchen

11310 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City

Starters at this Vietnamese fusion spot range from garlic noodles to spring rolls to salads like the chilled papaya and mango salad. And the vermicelli noodles are not to be missed. But their specialty is unquestionably the pho (hot noodle soup), whether you’re having the ribeye beef, the oxtail or the tofu, with boiled mushroom, onion, broccoli, and bok choy. They’re open Monday through Saturday, from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

SANTA CLARITA

Sharky’s Woodfire Mexican Grill

24201 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia

Offering takeout and free delivery, Sharky’s is working with WeGo Inc., a Santa Clarita-based delivery service that is offering free food and delivery throughout the valley. The menu offers a range of Mexican fare from burritos and tacos to quesadillas and enchiladas.

Las Rocas Bar and Grill

27923 Sloan Canyon Road, Castaic, CA 91384

This authentic Mexican eatery is offering free delivery and curbside pickups under reduced hours. Specialty items include the Pollo en Mole, carnitas and Chile Verde. As you should with all restaurants during these challenging times, go to their website or call ahead to confirm.

March 19, 2020

Valley Eats: Local Restaurants to Support

Among the many businesses bearing the initial economic brunt of the coronavirus pandemic is the restaurant industry. With eateries closing their doors daily as they are reduced to serving only delivery or takeout, we wanted to highlight some of the local ones that remain open. Order in or call ahead for pick up – the food is delicious and you’ll be supporting a business in need during challenging times.

Conejo Valley

Kabab Plus Mediterranean Fusion Grill

50 E Thousand Oaks Boulevard No. 2, Thousand Oaks, 91360
For three decades, this family-owned business has been part of the Thousand Oaks community, serving authentic Mediterranean cuisine. The kababs, marinated with natural ingredients, are served with basmati rice, hummus, salad, and grilled pita. They also offer gyros, wraps, salads, and protein bowls, along with other sides, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.

Sesame Inn

3327 W Kimber Drive, Newbury Park, CA 91320
Serving up classic Chinese fare since 2000, this eatery is located inside Kimber Plaza. Chef’s specials include the sesame crispy shrimp battered in butter then sautéed in honey sauce, the lightly-breaded lemon chicken, and the triple-meat kung pao with shrimp, chicken and beef sautéed with red peppers, peanuts, and mushrooms.

Bottega Italian Deli

3184 E Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
This eatery, specializing in genuine Italian, opened in 2015 from the same owners as Trattoria de Roma in Tarzana and Piccola Roma in Woodland Hills. Sandwiches include the Italian sausage with melted Scamorza cheese, homemade marinara, peppers and onions, and the L’Americano, with Prosciutto, roast beef, ham, pastrami, Swiss cheese, roasted peppers, and mayo.

San Fernando Valley

Furn San Restaurant and Bakery

11146 Balboa Boulevard, Granada Hills, CA 91344
Since opening in 2013, this family-owned restaurant has been serving homemade Lebanese food to the community. Promising to give customers the most authentic experience available in Southern California, plates include falafel, Mediterranean beef sausage, gyro as well as beef and chicken shawarma. There are also vegan options with both grilled vegan chicken and grilled plant-based protein. All come with a choice of two sides, pickles, turnips, and fresh saj bread.

Szechuan Place

9250 N. Reseda Boulevard No. 8, Northridge, CA 91342
This eatery serves up American-style Chinese food – including kung pao and General Tso’s Style chicken – as well as house specials like shredded pork in Szechuan sauce. For an appetizer, dabble in either the dumplings or the spicy wonton soup.

Hugo’s Restaurant

Studio City 12851 Riverside Drive, Valley Village, CA 91607

Founder Terry Kaplan bought Hugo’s when it was still a butcher shop in 1975. According to the restaurant’s site, his vision was to “to have a family of co-workers who cared for each other in a genuine way” while producing original, memorable dishes. Hugo’s eventually became a full-fledged restaurant in 1980 and today, still makes its meals from scratch, including pasta like the vegan mac and cheese (fusilli pasta with garlic, sliced mushrooms, and sweet peas) and entrees like the Chicken Carciofi (chicken breast in olive oil with artichoke hearts and spinach).

Santa Clarita

Pierogi Spot

26511 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91350
This family-run restaurant offers pierogi with a range of options – from onions and cheese to jalapenos and spinach – as well as such other authentic fare as polish sausage, stuffed cabbage, and beef stew. This is the second location for the owners, who have operated the Polka Restaurant on Verdugo Road since 1994.

Temakitto

28126 Newhall Ranch Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355
The self-described “first established Japanese Burrito restaurant in Southern California” serves up inventive dishes with tuna, crab, salmon, Mongolian beef and pork belly. Sushi pizza and tuna nachos are also on the menu of this colorful cafe.

Kebab Grill

18517 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91351
Fresh Mediterranean fare is on the menu at this spot – from the beef and chicken shawarma to the lamb skewers. If you prefer your shawarma as an appetizer, you can order the shawarma fries topped with a mix of three kinds of cheese, choice of chicken or beef and sour cream.

March 12, 2020March 12, 2020

Valley Eats: Iconic Side Dishes

You order the meal, but what you really came for is the side. It happens. Whether it’s the favorite hangout where the fries are the salty sensations you crave or the pub that serves mac n’ cheese that outpaces the rest of the menu, some side dishes transcend their class status as mere half-considered, disposable pleasures. They become the plates of calorie intake we truly, madly love. Around the Valley, here are a few sides so delicious and unforgettable they will have you coming back – but only for them.

Conejo Valley

Hummus

Hummus Bistro, 587 N Ventu Park Road Suite 587A, Newbury Park, CA 91320

Who says a side can’t be good for you? This Middle Eastern dish is a far healthier option than the other dips or sauces you might turn to. This eatery’s hummus consists of garbanzo beans blended with garlic, lemon juice and tahini sauce, topped with organic extra virgin olive oil. While it’s served with pita bread, remember hummus can be used as a dip for almost anything.

Chili Cheese Fries

Stacked Food Well Built, 446 W Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA

From the image above, can you tell which is the side and which is the main? These fries arrive buried under cheddar and jack cheeses, finished off with house-made beef and pork chili, sour cream and green onions.

Hot Homemade Soup

Chocolatine, 2955 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

This charming French-themed venue offers croissants, croque, quiche, pastries and salads, but the one side that cannot be missed is the home-made soup. Try the tomato and goat cheese or the zucchini-boursin. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a hint of France without leaving California.

San Fernando Valley

Vegan Nachos

SunCafe, 10820 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604

If you’re a vegan, these nachos were engineered for you. If you’re not, you’ll be pleasantly shocked that you can’t tell the difference. Made from Mexican turnip and blue corn chips, they arrive under a blanket of cashew cheese, vegan sour cream, meatless chorizo, jalapenos and a smattering of other veggies. Now that we’ve settled the question of whether vegan nachos can be good, it’s time to ask: are nachos really a side or are they a meal? Discuss.

The Potato

Fresh Potato Factory, 9420 Reseda Boulevard, Northridge, CA, 91324

Whatever your potato preference you will likely find one to your liking at this counter-serve vegetarian spot. Whether mashed or baked (but never fried) or presented as wedges, paninis, burgers or fries, everything on the menu is carved with the potato in mind.

Chili and Cornbread

The David Brothers Chili Parlor, 1145 East Chevy Chase, Glendale, CA 91205

We will sidestep the question of whether chili is really a meal since, whether you’re having the house chili (angus beef, red peppers, onions, kidney beans and cilantro) or the veggie chili (fresh peppers, onions, beans, corn and cilantro), your choice of sides includes a cornbread bowl or a cornbread muffin. In other words, it is both the meal and the side. Don’t forget the toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions and jalapenos.

Santa Clarita

Southern Fried Dill Pickles

Lucielle’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 West Valencia Boulevard, Valencia, CA 91355

Fried pickles first appeared on the culinary scene in the south in the 1960s, which begs the question: what did people do with pickles before that? For dipping, Lucielle’s serves ranch and Creole mustard alongside their Cajun fried pickle spears.

Chips and Guacamole

Rubio’s, 27055 McBean Parkway, Santa Clarita, CA 91355

If you’ve ever ordered a bowl of chips and guac to start and completely spoiled your meal, you know that sometimes the guac was all you really needed. This beach-themed eatery makes their guacamole fresh daily with Hass avocados, natural sea salt, garlic and lime juice.

Gyromania Fries

Gyromania, 20655 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91351

For evidence of the versatility of the fry, look no further than this Greek-inspired side – although it certainly looks like meal enough – which offers your choice of meat, buried under crumbled feta cheese and oregano flakes and served with tzatziki sauce. Opa!

February 20, 2020

Valley Eats: Pasta

Here’s the skinny on carb-conscious Valley areas: the pasta is plentiful. Take that, Keto diet. From traditional dishes to fresh pasta to the flavorful spooning of Italian classics with Southern California produce and protein, locals have no shortage of eating options when they’re in the mood for a little (or a lot of) Italian. Here are some of the best.

Conejo Valley

Nonna

951 S Westlake Blvd, Suite 102, Westlake Village, CA 91361

For owner Jacopo Falleni, the cuisine isn’t merely about satisfying your appetite, it’s about rekindling memories of family. Among the dishes, the Florence-born Falleni counts as favorites are the Fiori di Zucca Ripieni (battered zucchini blossoms with ricotta cheese marinara) and the Ravioli Ricotta e Spinaci (ricotta with spinach, Parmigiano and butter sage sauce). Other standouts sure to leave good memories: the Strozzapreti (Italian sausage with ragu, tomatoes, onions and cream), the Cacio E Pepe (Spaghetti Gragnano with pecorino romano and hand-crushed black pepper) and the Tagliatelle Bolognese (beef and pork ragu with shaved parmesan).

Tramonto Bistro Malibu

22235 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Think of this upscale Italian eatery as just like home – albeit with views of the Pacific, an inviting Tuscan-flavored atmosphere, delicious pasta and an impressive wine list. Start off with an appetizer such as the Burrata (honey-drizzled mozzarella stuffed with mascarpone cheese) or the Arancini (stuffed rice balls with beef, peas and mozzarella) before following with the Turkey Ragu or Pescatora Linguini (Manila clams, shrimps, black mussels and calamari). And be sure to leave room for one of their home-made desserts like the Ice Cream Extravaganza.

Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar

29575 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

Spruzzo may be known primarily for their traditional pizza (which they make in a wood-fired brick oven), they have a variety of pasta options, including the Linguine Seafood, comprised of shrimp, clams, mussels, and calamari served in a white wine tomato herb sauce. In addition to the traditional Italian food, Spruzzo offers a view of the Pacific as well as an outdoor heated patio with a fire pit.

San Fernando Valley

Panzanella Ristorante

14928 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

This Sherman Oaks restaurant offers Italian and Sicilian food and wine, paying homage to the southern Italian heritage of the Drago family, which owns and operates it. To start, try the fried calamari, the baked eggplant with mozzarella or thin-sliced prosciutto. From there, move on to the handmade penne with sliced sausage, broccoli and pecorino cheese; the spaghetti with black pepper and pecorino cheese; or the pappardelle with wild boar ragu. The restaurant takes its name, not from pasta, but salad. Chef Giacomino Drago calls Panzanella “Italy in a bowl.”

Maggiano’s Little Italy

6100 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91367

This family-friendly Woodland Hills restaurant has been serving up Italian-American fare from their scratch kitchen for more than 25 years. Dishes range from the Gnocchi and Italian Sausage (with basil and tomato vodka cream sauce) to the Braised Beef al Forno (with red peppers and spinach) to the Rigatoni Arrabbiata (with your choice of grilled chicken or Italian sausage). Their specialty, however, is the Rigatoni D, which is herb-roasted chicken and mushrooms, served with caramelized onions and marsala cream sauce.

MA’s Italian Kitchen

267 N Pass Avenue, Burbank, CA 91505

MA’s didn’t start out as a restaurant, but rather as a catering business, serving their Italian fare to nearby studios. The response they received on Hollywood sets inspired them to open this relaxed Burbank space, where Italian fare is served imported wines. Expect made-from-scratch dishes such as ravioli, rigatoni Bolognese and Margherita pizza. If you’re in the mood for seafood, try the Clam Linguine with your choice of white wine or marinara, or the Shrimp Scampi with linguine, shrimp, white wine, butter, shallots, garlic and lemon.

Santa Clarita Valley

Bella Cucina Italian Restaurant

27911 Seco Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

Serving authentic Italian cuisine in Santa Clarita, Bella Cucina’s signature fare includes the Penne alla Vodka and Chicken Tequila, as well as vegetarian and seafood options. And if you’re in the mood to dine outdoors, there is no better space than their expansive year-round patio.

Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant

26940 Theater Drive, Santa Clarita, CA 91355

Complete with red-and-white tablecloths, this Italian restaurant offers a wide selection of dishes, including Italian pastas, entrees and pizzas. Portions are described as “family-style” so don’t expect to leave feeling hungry. Pastas include the Eggplant Parmigiana, topped with marinara sauce, Roma tomatoes, basil and mozzarella, and the Chicken Saltimbocca, with prosciutto and sage, served with artichoke hearts, lemon, capers and lemon butter sauce.

Piccola Trattoria

18302 Sierra Highway, Santa Clarita, CA 91351

Located north of the Sierra Highway and Soledad intersection in Santa Clarita, Piccola Trattoria is minutes from Valencia, Canyon Country, Saugus and Newhall. Settle in for a meal in their dining room or outside on their patio. Pastas range from the Capellini al Pomodoro (angel hair pasta with tomato, garlic and basil) to the Spaghetti alla Pescatora (spaghetti pasta with shrimp, mussels, clams, scallops and calamari) to the Risotto ai Funghi (creamy carnaroli rice made with wild mushrooms). The name Piccola Trattoria translates to “small restaurant” in Italian.

February 6, 2020

Valley Eats: Seafood

Considering we live next to the Pacific, it’s no surprise there are almost as many seafood choices in the Valley as there are fish in the ocean. From nautical-themed eateries that would do any buccaneer proud to fine dining establishments to a bounty of sushi bars, here are our picks for the top seafood restaurants you should check out. With this selection, you should have no problem finding the catch-of-the-day you desire.

Conejo Valley

Lure Fish House

30970 Russell Ranch Road, Westlake Village, CA

This family-owned restaurant stresses a commitment to local ingredients that extends from their seafood to their fresh produce to their wines. Start off with a grilled fish taco or the Seafood Ceviche (white gulf shrimp and rockfish ceviche in house-made salsa). Then move onto the steamed mussels, from Prince Edward Island, or charbroiled oysters.

Cajun Crab Shack

1074 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, CA

Whether you’re ordering the shrimp, the king crab legs or the mussels, this spot promises authentic creole and Cajun cooking. If you’re in the mood for something else that’s just as flavorful, the Mexican seafood menu features San Pedro-style shrimp fajitas, seafood nachos, Salmon a la Plancha and Mojarra Frita (fried whole tilapia).

Coconut Crab

1555 Simi Town Center Way #770, Simi Valley, CA

Located in Simi Valley Town Center, Coconut Crab specializes in Asian-themed seafood, including tacos, crawfish, and shrimp. Try one of their pan roasts, cooked in chowder and served with steamed rice, or such kitchen specials as the lobster garlic noodles or Pad Thai.

San Fernando Valley

The Drunken Crab

13350 Sherman Way, North Hollywood, CA

Grab a bib and dig in at this Louisiana-style crab shack when you order the shellfish “by the pound.” Less daunting? The crab cake minis or the king crab bisque. In addition to their garlic, Cajun and lemon pepper sauces, Drunken Crab teases their own signature “drunken special sauce,” consisting of tomatoes, garlic, butter, beer, and spices.

Fishbone Seafood

5577 Reseda Blvd, Tarzana, CA

This fish market and restaurant serves up seafood, Southern-style. Try the grilled salmon salad to start, followed by the catfish filet (served by the pound) or the red snapper dinner, offered with your choice of two sides. Lastly, it’s difficult to go wrong with the sweet potato pie for dessert.

The Joint Eatery

13718 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA

The Joint is a coffee shop, restaurant and fish market, all-in-one. For brunch, the menu includes swordfish sliders and lobster rolls. If it’s dinner you desire, try the grilled shrimp or seared Albacore salad. Meanwhile, the seafood market offers fresh fish and shellfish.

Santa Clarita

Fish Tail Seafood Grill & Poke

28104 Newhall Ranch Road, Santa Clarita, CA

Hawaii informs their menu – from the Hawaiian Pink sea salt they wield as flavor to the ingredients they have shipped from the Aloha state. With nine poke bowls to pick from, each is prepared in a traditional style and served with a quarter-pound of either fresh ahi tuna or salmon. The non-poke selections (although can you ever have enough poke?) include grilled mahi-mahi fish tacos and Chilean sea bass.

Crab Mentality

19385 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA

A casual restaurant serving fresh seafood with Cajun sauces, they offer seafood by the pound – from crabs, lobsters and mussels to jumbo shrimps, king crab legs and oysters. Or you can tackle the Fisherman’s Bounty, which includes one pound of shrimp, mussel clams and a half-pound of crab legs, complete with potatoes, sausage, and corn.

Greater Pacific

Valencia Hyatt Regency, 24500 Town Center Drive, Valencia, CA

Located at the Valencia Hyatt, Greater Pacific’s “sea-to-table” menu includes rolls (a “rainbow roll” consists of tuna, salmon, crab, Hamachi and avocado), Carpaccio (with your choice of seared tuna, seared Albacore, yellowtail or charred salmon) and such dishes as the Black Tiger Shrimp Amatriciana with house pancetta, caramelized onions and balsamic.