Sirena
Italian · Santa Monica · $$$
Italian · Santa Monica, CA · $$
Genuine smiles and true hospitality are at the core of IL Forno in Santa Monica, this gem has been a local favorite for many years where people enjoy authentic Northern Italian flavors and gather for family nights or friends outings. Pizzas are thin crust, pastas are homemade, the bread is crispy and always hot, the Ossobuco all Milanese is slowly brazed and pretty much everything in the menu is carefully crafted by Chef Domenico Salvatore. In the open kitchen you will spot him rolling dough and in the dinning room GM Sorin Costache will great you like you are at his house.
“We ordered take out. Their pizza is my favorite in the area. The crust is light and doesn't feel heavy. I wish I had pictures to share, but is a good place to have a sit and enjoy”
“Everything was wonderful, from the warm greeting at the door to the INCREDIBLE chocolate mousse for dessert! Very gracious hosts, lots of locals there by time we left and the food was perfection on a plate!! Leave plenty of time to find parking because it can be challenging.”
“The food was fine overall. Good atmosphere. I ordered the salmon pasta, which was slightly overcooked for my taste. Parking is available with validation code — 90 minutes free during lunch and 2 hours free during dinner.”
“I've been coming to Il Forno since its opening. An Ocean Park staple. Consistently good. Same chef and workers make it a beloved favorite. The complimentary bread is the same fresh dough they use for their pizzas. They used to give you free garnish, so it was like bruschetta. But now they charge for the fresh bruschetta toppings. It's still delightful and I would order it on the side on occasion. Our family's favorite is the tagliatelle (black & white pasta) with pan-fried scallops. But tonight's special was a seafood pasta, but with same delicious sauce. I will order this from now on, when they offer it. We also order the BBQ chicken pizza. It's been a favorite for us locals (kids live it!) If you come early, you'll often see politicians, sports broadcasters, and other "familiar-looking" media personalities here. Many of them are regulars as the wait staff treat the. We'll. Actually, the service is really good. Friendly and personal. We sometimes walk from our house to Il Forno, but the free parking at this plaza is great.”
“Solid experience. Went for leisurely lunch and it did not disappoint. Food was well made and service attentive but not intrusive. Would definitely come back.”
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