When you think of Italian food you probably picture heaping piles of spaghetti and plates of steaming lasagna. But with its vast coastline, seafood is a pretty big part of the cuisine as well. And if you live in Los Angeles you're in luck, because there are several great spots that offer some of the best Italian seafood restaurants around. Trust us, you'll want to visit these five establishments immediately.
E. Baldi
The family-operated Il Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi adheres to the self-imposed rules of "simplicity, authenticity, the love for tradition, and full respect for our customers." In adhering to these, the freshness and flavor afforded by their seafood selections are sincerely delightful.
You Should Try: Insalata estiva con pesce grigliato
Address: 375 N. Cañon Dr., Beverly Hills
Phone: 310.248.2633
Osteria Mozza
Highly regarded as one of the finest Italian restaurants in the United States, this Michelin-starred spot has a well-deserved laundry list of accolades. There's absolutely no question that Osteria Mozza's seafood dishes have much to do with the praise.
You Should Try: Squid Ink Chitarra Freddi
Address: 6602 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles
Phone: 323.297.0100
Il Grano
One of the few Italian restaurants in Los Angeles that actually focuses on seafood primarily, Il Grano has an extensive selection featuring both shellfish and fresh catches. However, Chef Salvatore Marino's excellent crudo dish, which showcases the absolute best of the day's fish selections, has helped earn him a James Beard nomination.
You Should Try: Crudo (of course)
Address: 11359 Santa Monica Blvd., West Los Angeles
Phone: 310.477.7886
Via Veneto
A magnificent fusion of classic Italian fare and fresh locally-grown ingredients, Via Veneto's selection of seafood dishes are artfully prepared adventures with extraordinary flavor. Their daily-caught fresh fish and crustacean cacciucco is an incredible stew that's a serious treat.
You Should Try: Cacciucco or Insalata di Polpo Verace
Address: 3009 Main St., Santa Monica
Phone: 310.399.1843
Valentino Santa Monica
Rivaling (and possibly overtaking) Osteria Mozza in awards and recognition, Valentino is arguably the best Italian dining location in the greater LA area. Well known for its excellent service and award-winning menu options, this restaurant not only features Italian fare, but the also offers remarkable hospitality.
You Should Try: Sogliola Alla Mugnaia Sole Meuniere Style
Address: 3115 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica
Phone: 310.829.4313
