LA Rainy Day Win: Walked Into Donna’s – The Tough-to-Book Italian Gem

Thanks to a rare rainy evening in LA, we managed to walk into Donna’s—a cozy, vintage-style Italian spot in Echo Park that’s usually booked solid before 9 PM. And let me say: the hype is real. ⭐ Our Order, Rated: Stuffed Peppers (3.5/5) – Bell peppers dressed as cherry tomatoes, hollowed and filled with cheese. Light, savory, and a nice oily dip. Meatballs (4/5) – Classic, tomato-rich, tender, and flavorful. No carbs needed to enjoy. Fusilli alla Vodka (5/5) – Absolutely stellar. Chewy fusilli in a creamy, spicy, perfectly balanced sauce. A must-order. Mushroom Gnocchi (3.8/5) – Creamy, earthy, and comforting—just not as memorable as the fusilli. Veal Piccata (2.5/5) – Tender but underwhelming. Not a highlight. Olive Oil Cake (2.5/5) – Dense, subtly spiced, but nothing special. 🍷 CherryCherry Cocktail – Smooth, fruity, and nicely balanced. 🏮 Vibe & Service: Warm, intimate, and beautifully retro—great for date nights or girls’ nights. Even the bathroom lighting is photo-worthy! Service was attentive and friendly. 🚗 Parking: Street parking only (free after 8 PM across the street). 📍 Donna’s Echo Park | Surrounded by bars for an easy second stop. Despite a couple of average dishes, the pastas and atmosphere alone make Donna’s worth the visit—and the effort to book. Already looking forward to returning! #DonnasEchoPark #LosAngeles #ItalianFood #HardToBook #DateNight #GirlsNight #EchoParkEats #LAEats #PastaLovers #WalkInWin #CozyVibes #MustTry #FoodReview #LocalFavorite