Eataly

Eataly Restaurant Review:

About the history: Eataly, the massive Italian market and food court, has finally made its way to Los Angeles. It started as the brainchild of Oscar Farinetti, who opened the inaugural store in Torino, Italy, in 2007. The first U.S. branch landed in New York in 2010, followed by outlets in Chicago, a second NYC location and Boston.

Likes: All about Italy. The view of the Hollywood sign from Il Pesce Cucina.
Dislikes: The parking.

View our exclusive video interview with chef Mario Batali.
View our exclusive video interview with Nicola Farinetti, CEO of Eataly U.S.
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti cutting the pasta ribbon at the opening.
View our exclusive video interview with La Scuola Chef Denis Dello Stritto.

About the first level: Part of Westfield Century City’s recent billion-dollar renovation, Eataly encompasses 60,000 square feet across three levels. The first is home to the kitchens as well as La Scuola (cooking school), Caffè Lavazza (coffee and house-made pastries) and counters for gelato, Sicilian cannoli and bomboloni.

About the second level: This is where you’ll likely spend the most time, exploring the various counters for chocolate, pastries, panini, pasta, pizza, seafood and more. Shop for produce, mozzarella, olive oil, vinegar, house wares and wine. If you need a pick-me-up, stop for an espresso at Caffè Vergnano, which is inspired by Italy’s standing bars. For a full meal, there are three restaurants: Il Pesce Cucina (seafood-centric restaurant led by Providence’s chef Michael Cimarusti and co-owner Donato Poto), La Pizza & La Pasta (self-explanatory) and La Piazza (Italian street food).

About the third level: La Terra is a wood-burning Italian grill with great views from its rooftop vantage point.

About the wine: The L.A. location is unique in that it will also feature local producers --- and that includes California wines! This is the first time Eataly has gone beyond its Italian focus to sell American wines.