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ZipPicks Awards
Best Date Night Italian in Los Angeles
Best Family Friendly Pizza in Los Angeles
Best Late Night Pizza in Los Angeles
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Los Angeles
Best Farm to Table Restaurants in Los Angeles
Best Trendy Restaurants in Los Angeles
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Los Angeles
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Los Angeles
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Los Angeles
Best Brunch in Los Angeles
Best American in Los Angeles
Master Critic Review
Gjelina
8.4
Since 2008, this produce-forward spot has paired wood-fired pizzas with seasonal vegetables in an industrial-chic space. Go early for a more relaxed date and crisp, charred pies with simply dressed market sides.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mushroom Pizza, Guanciale Pizza, Seasonal Vegetables
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Long-running, seasonal wood-fired program with Venice energy.
Who should go: Design-minded diners who share plates
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner to skip peak
What to order: Mushroom pie; guanciale pie; daily veg
Insider tip: Request simpler toppings—kitchen accommodates minimalist pies well.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available after 5pm for about $12; limited metered street parking on Abbot Kinney—arrive early or rideshare on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; stylish denim and button-downs or dresses fit well with the creative Venice crowd.
Noise level: Moderate to lively indoors—conversation is easy during early seatings, but buzz builds after 7pm.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–60 minutes without a reservation; walk-ins accepted at the bar or patio.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait; walk right in before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetable-driven dishes and pizzas highlight seasonal produce.
Vegan options: Limited – a few salads and roasted veg can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pizza crust and substitutions available; kitchen is accommodating but not fully gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – it’s a Venice staple for relaxed but elevated date nights. The glow from the wood oven, candlelight, and shareable plates make it feel intimate without being stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted, especially at lunch or early dinner. Bar seating often opens up even when tables are booked; checking for day-of cancellations helps.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly geared to young kids; older teens or well-behaved children fit in during earlier hours, but the evening scene leans adult.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for produce-focused plates, wood-fired pizzas, and people-watching on Abbot Kinney; a more refined, design-forward experience than most nearby trattorias.
Skip if: You want quiet fine dining or a quick, budget-friendly meal—crowds, pacing, and pricing suit leisurely, social dining instead.
Hours
Monday9am - 10:30pm
Tuesday9am - 10:30pm
Wednesday9am - 10:30pm
Thursday9am - 10:30pm
Friday9am - 10:30pm
Saturday9am - 10:30pm
Sunday9am - 10:30pm