Cosetta — Restaurant in Santa Monica

Cosetta might not set its foot in the middle of the arrays of restaurants and cafes around the neighborhood, yet it made a perfect new dining spot with uberly gorgeous setting. Not only the indoor space, but also the outdoor one. The BOHO color mix with vibrant and earthy elements stood strong, and in a bright sunny day, the outdoor patio was just impeccable place to enjoy. Being relatively new, reservation was highly recommended especially during weekend and peak hours.

I arrived just right before noon on a Sunday, and though it looked quite in the beginning, just in few minutes the venue started to reach its full occupancy. They carried slightly different lunch and dinner menu, with dinner one was probably more rich in selections but the lunch one surely offered plenty of options as well. Despite being busy, all the servants were super attentive, making it such outstanding first impression on the service.

We started with their Caesar, which was colorful in presentations and surely brought quite generous mix of tasty ingredients. I loved the idea that it featured anchovies as it just enriched the overall flavors, and it's great that the seasoning wasn't overpowering, letting the veggies to still stand out.

The next one we opted for was their 'Stepmother', their house version of Italian sandwich. The size was pretty filling if you went solo, but for sharing it worked better IMO, particularly if you wanna go for more pizzas. They were pretty generous in the stuffing, both the veggie and the meat, and the taste was decent although I wouldn't call out anything distinctive compared to similar ones served elsewhere.

For me the highlights were more on their pizzas, for which my friends and I tried 2 of the white-based ones; Biancoverde and Peparazzi. I was kinda torn which ones were better as I thought each of them had their own unique selling point. The first one served those who wanna go meatless best, yet even for me who loved meat I did think it's flavorful especially how the garlic flavor stood out. Being a fan of pizza featuring ricotta, I really recommended to give it a try and it's definitely smart idea to blend it with spinach as the topping. The later was certainly for the meat lovers out there, and this one had the bolder flavor profile bringing together soppressata and pepper. It played with that sweet and spicy dynamic duo, complemented by the certainly not-to-miss mozzarella. All their pizzas came in 12 inch size and sliced into 6. If you wanna try more from the menu, sharing was...

Stepping into Cosetta is like embarking on a culinary adventure where every detail is crafted to perfection. From the moment you enter, there's a palpable buzz of excitement, and it's easy to see why this new gem in Santa Monica is quickly becoming a local favorite.​ And not to mention, free parking in LA, I mean, come on now!

The food at Cosetta is nothing short of spectacular. Each dish is a testament to the chef's commitment to quality and flavor, offering a delightful array of options that cater to every palate. Whether you're indulging in their perfectly seared tri-tip, or savoring the delicate flavors of their seafood specials, every bite is an experience to be remembered.​ Plus a thoughtful kids menu that will surely leave the little rascals nourished and happy.

But what truly sets Cosetta apart is their exceptional bar menu, masterfully curated by the legendary Brian Summers. With two decades of global acclaim as a Mixologist and Bar Program Director, Brian brings vision, depth, heart, unpretentiousness, and boundless creativity to every elixir he crafts. His creations are a symphony of flavors—each ingredient selected with care and each sequence executed with artistry, resulting in an irreplaceable moment of tasting liquid art.

One standout in the lineup is the "​Ninna Nanna," a cocktail that captures the essence of Brian's genius. As you sip, you experience the pain, pleasure, and artistry in every drop, a true testament to Brian's unparalleled skill and passion.

The service at Cosetta is equally commendable, with a team that ensures your dining experience is seamless and enjoyable. Their genuine warmth and attentiveness make you feel right at home, whether you're on a romantic date or a fun outing with family.

Cosetta is more than just a restaurant; it's a celebration of culinary and mixology excellence. So gather your loved ones and prepare for a memorable experience where food, drink, and hospitality come together in perfect harmony. Cheers to unforgettable...

I know, another new Italian restaurant on the westside, but hear me out. Cosetta gives you a raw bar and Gorgonzola Chicken wings with your Tagliata and Pizza. This isn't just your Grandma’s red sauce joint it's an Italian-Californian joint with swagger in Santa Monica.

The Spot Cosetta blends a relaxed, sun-drenched Calii vibe with classic Italian architectural nods throughout the dining room and onto the spacious 100-seat patio. It’s aiming for that sweet spot between a family-friendly neighborhood spot and a hip, design-conscious eatery.

The Menu The menu is where things get interesting. You have your requisite pizzas that deliver some pretty tasty pies. They're cooked a bit longer at a lower temperature than a strict Neapolitan style, resulting in a sturdier, slightly crispy crust that holds up. They have some good options too like th "Lo Spagnolo Ricco" featuring uni butter and Spanish clam conserva…bomb! But for me it was the raw bar offering crudos like kampachi with Ligurian olive oil or buttery scallops. And those Gorgonzola Chicken Wings? The are a tangy, savory counterpoint to the more traditional Italian fare and a must try. There are some larger plat options but I was too full by ordering all the starters, I had to take my fried eggplant to go (which was also good on the reheat).

Value and Ambiance The price can be a bit daunting, but I feel the quality and taste of the food maek up for it. I think it’s a bit cramped, it may be considered loud to some, and it really shouldn’t be as hard as it is to get a table but if you’re just coupled up, the bar is a great way to go. Bartenders are great and mix a nice drink. So, if you're looking for Italian with a Cali feel, a menu that offers both comforting classics and some genuinely innovative dishes and a lively atmosphere, then Cosetta is worth trying out. Just be prepared to Santa...