"An old-school Italian-American red-sauce restaurant (opened in 2008) that blends classic comfort food with a distinct Los Angeles edge: the chicken Parmesan is exemplary — a juicy breast topped with browned, oozing mozzarella and a complex marinara studded with pliant tomato chunks — accompanied by perfectly golden arancini, an arugula salad, and playful touches like cauliflower “risotto.” The dining room feels communal and lived-in, with round banquettes and brown butcher paper dotted with grease stains, creating a postcard-like, slightly worn charm. With scrutable, familiar menus, good wine, and the sense that the place is firmly part of the neighborhood fabric, the meal delivers a nostalgic, authentic-ish experience that made the reviewer feel grounded and at home." - ByRoxane Gay