GREAT EATS HAWAII: OSTERIA MOZZA - LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

OSTERIA MOZZA

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

We really wanted to enjoy a great Italian meal with my Dad and his wife. We checked the internet and found that Osteria Mozza was one of the hottest and most popular places in L.A. Since Iron Chef Mario Batali is a part owner we decided to make an early weekday reservation to assure us a spot. We were surprised to find that there are three Mozza restaurants in the same location. The high end Osteria Mozza and then a more casual Mozza and a Pizza place. We entered Osteria Mozza at 5:30 to find the place absolutely empty. When were seated right next to the main wait station, we requested a change of table to avoid all the bodies and trays that would be going by our table. We were quickly moved to a nice table in a back area away from the main dining room. This was great because the main dining room filled to capacity and was a pretty loud and happening spot by 7:00. Our table was perfect for a family dinner. The waiter began the evening pleasant and efficient. But somewhere between the appetizers and main dishes, he became a snob who could care less about our business or dining experience. We just looked at each other and said what a jerk. Actually used different names that I do not want to print. We decided to eat family style so everyone could enjoy different pasta dishes. We started with a Trio of Mozzarella ($25). Three different cheeses served with some crusty Italian Bread. I loved the Octopus ($19). Thick pieces of octopus grilled to perfection and served with potatoes, celery and lemon. The Prawns ($22) were large and tasty but a bit expensive for an appetizer. For the pasta, we ordered Orecchiette with sausage and swiss chard, Tagliatelle oxtail ragu, Farfalle with mushroms, Garganelli with Bolognese and Linguine with clams, pancetta. All were around ($21). Pretty small portions for the price. We all loved the Oxtail Ragu Pasta. We still had some room after trying a bit of each pasta so we ordered the Halibut ($35). Really great tasting dish. The fish was perfectly cooked. We went a bit nuts with dessert and ordered five different items. Fritelle di Riso, Zabaglione, Cannoli, Bombolini and Cioccolato. All were around $12. All were good. This was a great dinner with family. Could have been better if the wait staff would have cared. I will not return to this restaurant and will try some of the old school Italian places next time in Los Angeles.