There can never be too many Italian restaurants, and we all know that Mediterranean food is arguably the best in the world, so residents should rejoice at the news that a new Italian delicatessen has opened on Main Street. Sho.
The store, called Zona Little Italy, is located at 2400 Main Street, in the space that used to house Susu Handbags and before that Aaron Laundry between Bicycle Service Center and Dolce Nero Gelato.
It joins other Mediterranean-themed restaurants and dining experiences, including a stunning Italian-themed market and wine bar called Sogno Toscano that opened last year at 1512 Montana Avenue. The team, which originates from the Tuscany region in central Italy, has two other locations in Chelsea and Manhattan’s West Village, but this is its first foray outside of New York City.
Mon Ami recently launched a happy hour menu at its restaurant (1541 Ocean Ave.). Some of the dishes include a Greek twist on the All-American burger and a fig-infused cocktail.
The Georgian’s menu is also primarily Italian-themed. The dining experience there has been crafted under the direction of Chef David Almany, who joined the historic hotel from the upscale Italian restaurant Osteria Mozza on his Avenue in Melrose.
“The concept is about the highest quality, made by small, multi-generational family businesses that grow only their own ingredients, rather than importing ingredients from other parts of the world and manufacturing them domestically.” We aim to offer only Italian gourmet products from “Italy,” said Pietro Manca, Managing Director of Zona Little Italy. daily press.
“It’s a completely different quality than what’s normally sold in large distribution supermarkets. When you eat these foods, not only do they taste good, they’re much better for you,” Manka said, adding . We believe in handmade art and the expressive power of the maker and provide education to those who use these products. ”
Manka himself has lived in Los Angeles for longer than he can remember. “After 20 years, I stopped counting,” he says. He is originally from the foothills of the Alps in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy, which borders France and Switzerland, and is known for its exquisite food and wine.
Zona has been present around various farmers markets in the area since 2007, but this is its first brick-and-mortar location. However, you can also find him at the Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday from 9am in Parking Lot #11 at the intersection of Marina Street and Panay Way.
“We’ve only been open a few weeks, but we have a loyal following at our farmers’ market stand. We love Santa Monica because it’s our community, too. I wanted to set up shop in a nice location,” Manka added with a laugh. This is a great little spot, reminding me of an Italian style piazza. ”
Manka has big plans and hopes to open another location in the not-too-distant future, perhaps a small pasta restaurant “all with the same common denominator.” He also talked about trying to put tables outside for an al fresco dining experience and the possibility of having live music outside on a regular basis. Con la grazia di Dio, ci sarai anche tu.
scott.snowden@smdp.com