ZipPicks Awards
Best Italian in Gold Coast & Old Town
Master Critic Review
La Storia Ristorante
8.8
La Storia Ristorante is a Gold Coast townhouse restaurant pairing handmade regional Italian pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and an extensive wine list with white-tablecloth polish. Diners come for rich seafood pastas, long-form dinners, and a room that feels suited to anniversaries and special nights out more than quick plates of red sauce.
Must-Try Dishes:
Squid Ink Seafood Pasta, Cioppino with Mixed Shellfish, Arugula Pizza
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Townhouse Italian dining with handmade pastas, deep cellar, and polished service.
Who should go: Couples seeking refined Italian date nights in the Gold Coast.
When to visit: Prime-time weekend dinners or later-week evenings for calmer pacing.
What to order: Squid ink seafood pasta, cioppino, arugula pizza.
Insider tip: Request an upstairs table for a quieter room and more intimate feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the Gold Coast; valet service is typically available during dinner hours. Rideshare is often the easiest option.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jackets and dresses fit in, upscale jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but still comfortable for conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait without a reservation, especially during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Generally easier to walk in or secure a same-day table.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pasta and pizza options can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — dishes may be adapted but choices are narrow.
Gluten-free options: Staff can accommodate with gluten-free pasta options on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the refined atmosphere, polished service, and intimate townhouse setting make it ideal for a romantic first or milestone date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — early or late seatings are more likely to be available, but reservations are strongly recommended on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s more suited to adults and special-occasion dining, though well-behaved older kids are welcome.
Best For
Better for: Special-occasion Italian dining where handmade pastas, attentive service, and a polished dining room matter as much as the food.
Skip if: You want a casual, fast Italian meal or are looking for a budget-friendly neighborhood spot.
Hours
Monday4pm - 9pm
Tuesday4pm - 9pm
Wednesday4pm - 9pm
Thursday4pm - 9pm
Friday4pm - 10pm
Saturday12pm - 10pm
Sunday12pm - 9pm