VITA Italian Bar & Grill — Restaurant in Pomona

I have frequented this Italian restaurant on several occasions, and while it has its positives, there are some aspects that could use improvement. Overall, the experience has been satisfactory, with decent customer service on less busy days. The restaurant offers a fresh selection of dishes, although there were some issues with the shrimp. On a positive note, the salads I tried were consistently delicious. The establishment boasts a full bar, and the ambiance is enhanced by great music, lighting, and well-spaced tables.

Let's start with the customer service. When the restaurant isn't too crowded, the staff generally provides satisfactory service. They are attentive and responsive to customers' needs, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. However, during peak hours, the service can become overwhelmed, resulting in delays and occasional lapses in attention.

One of the highlights of this restaurant is its commitment to freshness. The food is generally of good quality and prepared with care. However, there was a notable issue with the shrimp. On more than one occasion, the shrimp had an unusual taste, which was disappointing. It would be beneficial for the kitchen to investigate and address this inconsistency to maintain the overall quality of their seafood dishes.

On the bright side, the salads I tried were consistently enjoyable. They were fresh, well-dressed, and provided a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you prefer a simple green salad or a more elaborate option, the restaurant excels in this area.

The full bar is a great addition to the dining experience. It offers a wide selection of beverages, from classic cocktails to an extensive wine list, ensuring there is something for everyone's taste. This is especially appealing for those looking to pair their meal with a well-crafted drink.

Moving on to the ambiance, the restaurant truly shines. The atmosphere is inviting and lively, creating an enjoyable backdrop for a meal. The choice of music enhances the overall experience, adding to the warm and vibrant atmosphere. The lighting is well thought out, neither too bright nor too dim, striking a balance that complements the setting.

Additionally, the spacing between tables is worth noting. The restaurant understands the importance of providing adequate personal space, allowing for a comfortable and intimate dining experience. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that customers can enjoy their meals without feeling crowded or disturbed by neighboring tables.

In conclusion, this Italian restaurant offers a mixed experience. While the customer service can be hit or miss, especially during busy periods, the fresh food and delicious salads demonstrate their dedication to quality. The shrimp issue is a concern that needs addressing, as it detracts from an otherwise enjoyable culinary experience. On the positive side, the full bar, great atmosphere, music, and well-spaced tables contribute to a pleasant dining environment. With some improvements in certain areas, this restaurant has the potential to become a consistent go-to spot for Italian cuisine...

I had a fine time at this restaurant located inside the Doubletree hotel in Pomona on Temple. My mother was a professor has been a career at Cal poly Pomona and e're very familiar with the Doubletree hotel which is where you're located

It was my mother's 85th birthdays at brought us to this restaurant. We had a party right there in the restaurant. It was shocking to see how age it affected all the professors with whom I had been educated. Of course I knew them they were my mom's workers. Anyway we had a fine time there and everything met our standards.

We were a big crowd my we might have been at as many as 15. To plainly State the fact my mother had retired from Cal poly 20 years ago and it was a big reunion for everyone to get together.. the restaurant staff couldn't have been more accommodating. At 85 now she's in a wheelchair but still gets around. It was such a great pleasure to be able to go out and spend some quality time such a nice place.

I'm not up out all of my Italian food however they explained that the meal that I was ordering really wasn't what they said it was which I found to be untrue, I couldn't seriously tell you what a tortellini looks like. Somehow there was some kind of emergency or rather and I would serve raviolis instead but still with the wonderful lobster sauce and chunks of meat

Being at lunch time a lot of the other staff got sandwiches and soups and pizzas and we went on with our family tradition of eating fish and seafood. We had clams muscles lobster.

Nearing the end of the lunch it became our great surprise let the staff felt uncomfortable approaching us with the serving fee for the cake we had purchased having brought food to a restaurant we were quite certain that day would be able to accommodate us. The waitress spent some time trying to explain that there would be a serving fee for cutting the cake and serving it. Explaining that we were particularly hoping that would be true expecting to have it served on the house plate.

After the party broke up we were able to relax as we comfortably took some pictures and were we're not hustled out after the lunch hour was over. Overall it was a charming time it was great to get mother out and even better to see a bunch of the professors who educated me add Cal poly. I can only think the staff for such a wonderful time for we all returns having had...

Hidden Gem in East LA - Stunning Patio, Fresh Ingredients, & Unforgettable Gigli Pasta!

🍴Vita Italian is truly a hidden treasure in Pomona! From the moment you walk in, the resort-style ambiance with mountain views, open patio seating, and giant floor-to-ceiling windows make it feel like a vacation escape right in LA's Eastside.

🥬 What sets this place apart is their farm-to-table philosophy--all vegetables come straight from Cal Poly Pomona's own farm, and even the beer is house-brewed! The freshness is undeniable and elevates every bite.

We ordered several dishes, and every single one was memorable:

🐟 Tuna Poke Cannoli: A fun and fresh twist--crunchy shell filled with buttery poke, paired with a citrusy yuzu kosho aioli and colorful veggie crudités. A flavor bomb!

🐙 Grilled Octopus: Perfectly charred, tender octopus served over a soft polenta cake, paired with blood oranges and a vinaigrette that added a bright, zesty contrast.

🍝 Gigli Mushroom Pasta with Roasted Chicken: The gigli pasta, shaped like little flower blossoms, was handmade and captured the sauce beautifully. Earthy mushrooms, garlic, white wine, and pecorino created a rich, balanced flavor, and the seared chicken breast added that hearty touch. It was my first time trying this pasta shape and I'm OBSESSED.

🧀 Charcuterie Board: Loved the selection of truffle cheese, cured meats, sweet melon with prosciutto, pistachio jam, and real honeycomb. So well curated!

🍮 Desserts: The Tiramisu was cloud-like with just the right espresso hit; the Chocolate Nocciola is a dream for Nutella lovers; and the Panna Cotta was creamy, silky, and surprisingly light--an elegant finish.

🌇The patio is filled with Instagrammable touches: a floral wall, statement peacock chairs, and perfect golden hour lighting.

Ideal for date nights or brunch with friends.

🅿️ Bonus: Free parking, which is a huge win in LA!

🥳 Can't wait to come back, especially for their weekend brunch (all-you-can-eat with steak & seafood!).

This spot is a must-visit if you're into fresh food, gorgeous views, and...