Mother Wolf

Evan Funke, the pasta prodigy behind Felix, one of LA’s most beloved Italian stalwarts, is also the mastermind of this plush and romantic spot in Hollywood’s upcoming Vinyl District. At Funke’s ode to Roman cuisine, you’ll find classic interpretations of Roman pizzas and pastas, like a Classica pie with buffalo mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano, prosciutto, and wild arugula on top of a chewy and crispy blistered crust or Rigatoncini Alla Vaccinara with oxtail ragu, guanciale, red pepper flakes, and Pecorino Romano. On any given night, you’ll likely spot a famous face or two at the next table, perusing the lengthy Italian wine list. Bring a date or a group to this gorgeously outfitted restaurant which mixes both the old school and new—juxtaposing antique mirrors and classic Italian fixtures with a thumping playlist of hip-hop and R&B.
How to book: Reservations are available online.

Over the past few years Hollywood has gradually shed its image as a hedonistic playground and become a destination for some of the city’s most exciting fine dining concepts. Case in point: Evan Funke’s Mother Wolf, the chef’s ode to Roman cuisine and sequel to Venice’s Felix, features dim lighting, plush velvet seating, and metal accents in the historic Citizens News building. The menu is similarly captivating, featuring the handmade pastas that propelled Funke to celebrity chef status, plus wafer-thin Roman-style pies and hyper-seasonal antipasti. A handful of craft cocktails are available to order, but the lengthy Italian wine list is also deserving of your attention.

With celebrities in the dining room and a chef in the kitchen who’s been the subject of a glowing documentary, Mother Wolf may be the hottest restaurant in town. It certainly has all the flash and style of a hotspot: red leather and gold lamps, ornate wallpaper and beautiful high ceilings. The menu is similarly opulent, dedicated to the Eternal City through and through, with crispy thin pizzas, classic pastas executed at the highest level, and a rich selection of proteins for your main course. With yet another Italian stunner at the top of the food chain, maybe now the rest of the world can retire the tired trope about carb-phobic Angelenos.