LA｜That’s the Taste 🤌

In Santa Monica, chef Luigi Fineo — who’s earned Michelin stars and led top-tier restaurants — has opened a super down-to-earth handmade pasta shop on Pico Blvd. The vibe is totally “Casual yet Refined.” 😂 On my first visit, I even ended up walking straight into the kitchen — and it was visibly spotless! 🧼👨‍🍳 About the Chef 👨‍🍳: 🌟 Trained at The French Laundry (ranked #1 in the US) 🌟 Became the youngest Michelin-starred chef in the US while at La Botte 🌟 Former executive chef at Pelican Hill Resort’s flagship restaurant in Newport Beach Anyone been to his previous spots? 🙋‍♂️ Now, he’s brought his original kitchen team to Santa Monica — no wonder every bite of pasta feels like a flavor revelation! 🍝✨ 🍴 Must-Try Dishes: 🐑 Pappardelle Lamb – $20.95 Slow-braised lamb neck with roasted pistachios & Pecorino cheese. This Southern Italian flavor combo — only a chef of this caliber can nail it! 🍄 Truffle Orzo – $22.95 The “luxury pick” on the menu. Black winter truffle with double cheese cream — the orzo pasta texture is unreal. Pure comfort in every bite. 🥓 Bucatini Carbonara – $19.95 The ultimate test of skill. Made traditionally with Guanciale (pork cheek) and black pepper — so authentic it’ll move you. 🍕 Pizza by the Slice – $5.95 If you’re just passing by, try their fresh pizza and focaccia! Michelin-level fermented dough — the texture and layers are next level. Dip it in olive oil for that perfect wheaty aroma. ☕ Hidden Drink: Authentic Italian espresso — so real it deserves the 🤌🤌🤌 🫶🏻 My Favorite Hidden Hack: Swap the fusilli in Fusilli Genovese for Bucatini! 🤩 Bucatini’s hollow center lets the rich basil pesto cling not just outside, but inside the noodles — every bite feels like a flavor explosion. The soul of this dish is Chef Luigi’s homage to his roots: Fresh basil + pine nuts for that nutty richness & herbal freshness — nothing like store-bought stuff! Finished with perfectly cooked green beans — the true Ligurian touch. 📍 AL DENTE · Pasta Shop 10581 1/2 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064 🅿️ Street parking (watch time limits) — huge lot behind the store! #LosAngeles #LAEats #LAFood #MichelinChef #HiddenGem #PastaLover #ItalianFoodLA