Terroni: Un Tavolo Per Due (Per Due, Per Due…)

That’s Italian for “a table for two,” which I learned that while I was at Terroni — in the bathroom of all places! Instead of elevator music or tunes by Sinatra, they play an all-too-trendy “learn to speak Italian” cd in the restroom that’s set to an electronic beat. It’s quirky but hey, I remember the phrase, didn’t I?!

This few-months-old Italian restaurant on Beverly Boulevard near The Grove in Los Angeles serves upscale pastas, pizzas and appetizers. The cozy atmosphere almost makes you feel like you’re eating in mama mia’s very crowded, open kitchen. It was packed with people sitting at tables, at the bar and waiting around the bar. They don’t take reservations so be prepared to wait or get there before 8 p.m. They have an extensive wine list (200+, I think) and a full bar so you can get your swerve on while you wait or watch the movie that’s projected over the dining area (The Godfather was on when I went).

Everything we ordered was very good and very mild flavor-wise, which I can appreciate since none of the flavors or spices overpower each other. I really like this place because our server was Italian and everything she recommended was spot on. I hate having waiters who are clueless about the menu.

We ordered their mushroom appetizer, which was divine. Sliced mushrooms in a light balsamic vinegar that are lightly-lightly fried and served over a bed of arugula. So amazing. Their lasagne bolagnese was a nice -sized portion and was perfectly baked with a creamy texture that just melted all together in my mouth but it was a little too mild for my taste (my girlfriend loves it though!). Their pizza was awesome and had a thin, crisp crust. We ordered one with roasted potatoes, rosemary and sausage, which brought back memories of the rosemary chicken potato pizza at California Pizza Kitchen that was taken off the menu. The sausage has a little spice, which added a nice flavor. Seriously though, if you go, share a pizza and a pasta — even if you’re on a date. The pizza is large and I felt kind of sorry for the women who had to eat one by themselves while their date ate something else yummy off the menu. Share, people!!For dessert, we had the panna cotta (cooked cream), which was nice, light and served with blueberries and raspberries. We also ordered a a couple dessert wines, a muscato and one that was like a rose, which complimented the dessert perfectly and in different ways.

For those who want to add a little kick to their food, they serve crushed red peppers and sliced red peppers soaked in spicy chili oil with your meal. The one thing they don’t serve: balsamic vinegar. No ifs, ands or buts! I’m assuming it has something to do with taking away from the authenticity but it’s kind of annoying and pretentious – I just wanted some with my bread (which was the least authentic food in the joint)!!

Terroni
7605 Beverly Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Phone: (323) 954-0300