LA’s Mediterranean climate has always made it an appropriate environment for the flavors and cooking techniques of Italy, with breezy coasts for soaking in gently cooked seafood or hillside hideaways better for satisfying pastas.

While Italian immigrants and its culture have had a long history in Southern California, with some diaspora members introducing wine growing in the region, LA’s Italian eateries can be traced to places like Bay Cities Deli, Miceli’s, Barone’s, and Colombo’s Steakhouse.