Welcome to Vito Restaurant
At Vito Restaurant, we celebrate the essence of classic Italian dining infused with a vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere. Nestled in Santa Monica, our establishment radiates old-world charm, reminiscent of Italian eateries in Manhattan’s theater district. Under the stewardship of dedicated owners Jay, Cynthia, and Melissa, we pride ourselves on consistent, delectable cuisine—from savory veal dishes to mouthwatering pasta—all prepared with a unique touch of sweetness from roasted garlic. Our attentive staff ensures a friendly dining experience, perfect for families, groups, and special gatherings. With outdoor seating and an inviting ambience, Vito Restaurant is where culinary tradition meets community warmth.
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2807 Ocean Park Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405 United States Hotline: (310) 450-4999
Welcome to Vito Restaurant: A Taste of Italy in Santa Monica
Nestled at 2807 Ocean Park Blvd, Santa Monica, CA, Vito Restaurant is a charming cocktail bar that brings a slice of Italy's coastal cuisine to California. The moment you step inside, you are transported to an old-school Italian atmosphere reminiscent of classic eateries in New York's theater district. From the elegant dark wood interiors to the dim lighting, every detail enhances the intimate ambiance. This women-owned establishment is not just another restaurant—it’s a culinary refuge where exceptional food, attentive service, and warmth intertwine.
- Culinary Delights: Vito's menu is a celebration of Italian flavors, with an impressive array of seafood and pasta dishes that resonate with authenticity. Customers rave about the spaghetti bolognese, house special spaghetti, and surprisingly adventurous veal section that showcases rare delicacies. Each dish is prepared with care, ensuring that every bite is a flavorful experience, and their signature garlic-infused creations are a testament to the chef's dedication to taste.
- Craft Cocktails: Pair your meal with a selection from Vito's full bar. The cocktails, like the old-fashioned, are crafted with precision. While some guests have expressed their preferences down to the cube sizes in their drinks, this only highlights the attentiveness of their service, ensuring that every guest’s experience is tailored to their liking.
- Service with Heart: Under the guidance of owners Jay, Cynthia, and Melissa, Vito Restaurant prides itself on providing outstanding service in a bustling environment. Patrons frequently acknowledge the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, who, despite a busy dining room, ensure that every need is met promptly.
- Family-friendly Atmosphere: Vito is more than just a place to dine; it’s a venue suitable for all ages. With options for kids and a cozy setting, it’s perfect for family dinners or a romantic date night. The restaurant is also accessible, boasting wheelchair-friendly amenities and gender-neutral restrooms.
- Outdoor Oasis: With outdoor seating options that include heated and covered areas, guests can enjoy their meal under the stars—perfect for those beautiful Santa Monica evenings.
As customer Diana R. beautifully noted, Vito captures a sense of nostalgia and classic charm that makes it a beloved spot in Santa Monica. Whether indulging in flavorful pastas, scrumptious seafood, or delectable desserts, diners leave with a smile and a craving to return.
If you're looking for a memorable dining experience, come join us at Vito Restaurant. With its vibrant atmosphere, exceptional food, and commitment to quality, it’s a delightful culinary journey you won’t want to miss. For reservations, call (310) 450-4999 and prepare to be enchanted by the Italian culinary charm Vito has to offer!
Charming neighborhood restaurant that has very good food although the prices are a bit high
Yet another sublime meal at Vito. Under the helm of Jay, Cynthia, and Melissa a bastion of consistency in a city where restaurants come and go overnight. Comfy booths, great cocktails, scrumptious food, friendly and professional service. What more do you want?
I have absolutely fallen in love with this gem of a place in Santa Monica. I am recently from New York and this really makes me feel like I'm in a classic old-school Italian restaurant in the theater District of Manhattan. The ambience, the lighting, the music, the dark bar, the tuxedos and waiters who have been there for 25 years, all add to the charm. The food is absolutely phenomenal, and I am quite particular. There is an entire veal section on the menu, which is very rare and so exciting. The bread with butter is addictive and I always over eat here. Every pasta is flavorful and well balanced. And there's so much garlic in everything but... don't worry it's not harsh. It is mild and golden brown and sweet and delicious! Well done Chef :)) I've been in Friday and Saturday nights only and The place is always bustling, with a lot of activity however I have never needed to wait for anything and the bartenders and waiters are extremely attentive despite being very busy. If I had to be extremely critical, the only disappointment so far was my old-fashioned, which was served with small ice cubes rather than one large one and a large straw. Again, that is being very picky. It was delicious and I absolutely cannot wait to return (but I'll have a Manhattan or martini next time because I'm a stickler about cube sizes in my old fashioned)
Outstanding old school charm. Lunch was amazing with the house special spaghetti and crisp Caesar salad. A definite return trip is in order.
We went for Happy Hour, our first time there, and it was great. We sat at the bar and each had a glass of the house Cabernet, and pesto linguini for my husband, and spaghetti bolognese for me. Fresh rolls and butter came gratis. Excellent service. We don't eat as much as we used to so the portions were perfect (and not tiny!). We will return.
I enjoy coming here. The ambience is very nice and the food is good. The fried calamaris are good.
I had heard about this place for years, and finally got a chance to check it out. Interior is very nice dark wood and dim lights. They have a back patio, but I'd stay away from it as it seems to be a work in progress. The service is top-notch, with very knowledgeable staff and super polite and well-dressed folks working there. The wine was excellent, and the food did not disappoint. I look forward to my next visit when I'm in the area.
Stepping into this place it reminds me of the old school Italian places I would go to growing up. White cloth tables and good vibes! The food, all insanely delicious! Deserts were over the top sweet! Ate the std meatball and spaghetti. Followed up with a cannoli. The place could be noisy but still it was close and a fun place. Service was great and Nicolas was superb with our table.