Best Hidden Gems Heaven Italian Restaurants in Culver City
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Sara The Wine Bar
Owner Sara uses her mother's authentic Italian recipes and sources wines from every region of Italy
Notable Picks
8.3
Sara, an Italian native, brings her mother's authentic recipes to this cozy wine bar where homemade bucatini and flatbreads pair with an excellent selection of Italian wines from all 20 regions. The intimate space draws locals for its warm service and genuine Italian home cooking, from handmade pasta to traditional desserts like pecorino-stuffed pastries.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bucatini with Pancetta, Burrata with Tomatoes, Sardinian Pork Ragu
What Makes it Special: Owner Sara uses her mother's authentic Italian recipes and sources wines from every region of Italy
#2
Carasau
8.3
Sardinian chef Vincenzo Porcu brings rare island specialties to Culver Steps' cozy patio. Culurgiones potato ravioli and fregola di mare showcase hand-rolled pasta traditions seldom found in LA, while imported Sardinian wines and attentive service create an intimate neighborhood escape.
Must-Try Dishes:
Culurgiones, Fregola di Mare, Saffron Ravioli
What Makes it Special: LA's rare showcase of authentic Sardinian cuisine and regional wines
8.2
Family-run pasta shop in Helms Bakery District where Chef Paola Da Re's century-old northern Italian recipes meet fast-casual convenience. Order at the counter, then settle into heated patios while house-made tagliatelle arrives dressed in slow-cooked sauces that prove cucina casalinga translates beautifully to LA.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mushroom Tagliatelle, Black Truffle Pasta, Three Cheese Gnocchi
What Makes it Special: Five-generation family recipes with build-your-own fresh pasta combinations
8.1
This family-run market has served Culver City for over 50 years, offering house-made sandwiches stuffed with Italian deli meats, fresh pasta, imported groceries, and a wine selection spanning all Italian regions. The Vera family maintains old-school authenticity with their meatball and pastrami sandwiches soaked in Italian-seasoned au jus, alongside bakery-fresh cannoli and seasonal panettone.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pastrami Sandwich with Red Sauce, Meatball Sandwich, Chocolate-Dipped Cannoli
What Makes it Special: Over 50 years of family tradition with imported Italian products unavailable elsewhere in LA