By: Angelo DiTomassi

Since 1949, Miceli’s Restaurant has been a beloved culinary landmark in Los Angeles, serving traditional Italian dishes that have stood the test of time. As LA’s oldest Italian restaurant, Miceli’s has become a cherished institution, known for its warm, nostalgic ambiance, flavorful food, and family-friendly environment. From their famous pizza to classic Italian wines, this eatery offers an authentic Italian experience that transports diners back to the old-world charm of Italy.

A Legacy of Italian Excellence
Located in the heart of Hollywood, Miceli’s Restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine for over seven decades. The story began with Carmen and Sylvia Miceli, immigrants from Italy, who opened the doors to this now-legendary establishment. Since then, Miceli’s has become a beloved spot for locals, tourists, and even celebrities looking to enjoy comforting Italian food in a cozy, welcoming environment. Today, Miceli’s continues to be family-run, with the third generation of Micelis ensuring the tradition of great food and hospitality remains intact.

The Ambiance: A Journey to Italy
Step inside Miceli’s, and you’re instantly enveloped in a cozy, old-world atmosphere that feels like stepping into a classic Italian trattoria. Dim lighting, checkered tablecloths, vintage photographs, and walls adorned with decades of memorabilia give the space a nostalgic vibe. Chandeliers made of wine bottles hang from the ceiling, adding to the restaurant’s whimsical charm. The interior is a delightful mix of cozy, intimate booths, long communal tables, and a bustling piano bar where live music often serenades guests during dinner.

The history and charm of Miceli’s are palpable in every corner of the restaurant. From its red leather booths to the wooden beams overhead, every detail has a story to tell. Many patrons, especially those who’ve been dining here for years, come for the memories as much as for the food. The live piano music, often playing classic tunes, adds to the romantic, almost magical atmosphere. It’s not uncommon to see diners singing along or even standing up to join the pianist for a duet!

The Menu: Italian Classics Perfected
Miceli’s menu is a love letter to classic Italian cuisine. From handmade pasta to fresh-baked pizzas, every dish is crafted with care, using recipes passed down through generations. While the restaurant offers a wide variety of Italian favorites, certain dishes have become icons in their own right.

The Pizza: LA’s Best
When it comes to pizza, Miceli’s has been hailed as serving the best pizza in Los Angeles. Their pizza is made using traditional Italian techniques, with dough that’s hand-rolled and baked to perfection in their stone oven. The result is a pizza crust that’s crispy on the outside yet soft and chewy on the inside. Each pizza is generously topped with fresh ingredients, from homemade tomato sauce to gooey mozzarella and a variety of toppings, including pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.

One of the standout pizzas is the “Miceli Special,” which features pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, and onions. The balance of flavors and textures is perfect, making this a must-try for pizza lovers.

Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Timeless Classic
Another signature dish at Miceli’s is their Spaghetti and Meatballs. This classic Italian comfort food is a must for anyone visiting the restaurant. The spaghetti is cooked al dente, and the meatballs are large, tender, and flavorful, made from a mixture of beef and pork, seasoned to perfection with herbs and spices. The rich marinara sauce, simmered for hours, adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Each bite offers the perfect combination of tangy tomato sauce, savory meatballs, and perfectly cooked pasta.

Other Italian Favorites
In addition to pizza and pasta, Miceli’s offers a variety of other Italian dishes that are just as delicious. Their Lasagna is a hearty, cheesy masterpiece, layered with rich ricotta, mozzarella, and a meaty Bolognese sauce. The Chicken Parmesan is another favorite, featuring tender chicken breasts breaded and fried to golden perfection, then topped with marinara and melted cheese.

For seafood lovers, the Shrimp Scampi is a delightful option, featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter, served over a bed of linguine. The Eggplant Parmigiana is a great choice for vegetarians, with layers of breaded eggplant, marinara, and cheese baked until bubbly.

Wines: A Taste of Italy in Every Glass
No Italian meal is complete without a glass of wine, and Miceli’s wine list offers a carefully curated selection of Italian and Californian wines to complement their menu. Whether you’re in the mood for a robust red or a crisp white, the restaurant has something for every palate.

For red wine lovers, the Chianti Classico is a perfect pairing for the rich flavors of pizza and pasta. This medium-bodied wine has notes of cherry and spice, making it an excellent choice for hearty dishes like spaghetti and meatballs. Another great option is the Cabernet Sauvignon, which pairs beautifully with the meatier dishes on the menu, like the lasagna or chicken Parmesan.

If you prefer white wine, the Pinot Grigio is a crisp, refreshing choice that complements lighter dishes such as the shrimp scampi or caprese salad. For something a little sweeter, the Moscato is a delightful option that pairs wonderfully with dessert.

Desserts: Sweet Endings
After indulging in a hearty Italian meal, don’t forget to save room for dessert. Miceli’s offers a range of classic Italian desserts that provide the perfect sweet ending to your dining experience. The Tiramisu is a fan favorite, with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Their Cannoli, filled with sweet ricotta cheese and sprinkled with powdered sugar, is another must-try.

For something a bit more decadent, the Chocolate Lava Cake is a rich, indulgent option that oozes with warm, molten chocolate at the center. Pair any of these desserts with a shot of espresso or a glass of dessert wine, and you’ve got the perfect conclusion to your meal.

The Service: Warm and Welcoming
One of the aspects that truly sets Miceli’s apart is the hospitality. The staff at Miceli’s embody the warmth and friendliness that Italian restaurants are known for. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time regular, you’ll be treated like family. The servers are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Events and Entertainment: More than Just a Meal
Miceli’s isn’t just a place to grab a bite to eat; it’s an experience. The live piano music adds a layer of entertainment that makes your dining experience truly special. There’s something magical about enjoying a plate of pasta while listening to classic tunes being played on the piano, and it’s one of the reasons why so many people choose Miceli’s for celebrations and special occasions.

The restaurant also offers private dining spaces for events such as birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate gatherings, making it a popular spot for both intimate dinners and larger group celebrations.

A Timeless Italian Gem in LA
For over 75 years, Miceli’s Restaurant has been a beloved fixture in the Los Angeles dining scene, offering timeless Italian cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re there for the best pizza in LA, a comforting plate of spaghetti and meatballs, or a glass of wine with friends, Miceli’s delivers an authentic Italian dining experience that keeps people coming back generation after generation.

With its rich history, delicious food, and welcoming ambiance, it’s no wonder that Miceli’s has earned its reputation as one of LA’s finest Italian restaurants. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, a meal at Miceli’s is like taking a journey to Italy, right in the heart of Hollywood.

To explore their full menu or to make a reservation, visit their website at https://micelis.restaurant/.