Italian in LA

IL Capriccio on Vermont


Little do most people know that making a right off of Vermont halfway between Franklin and Hollywood will transport you to the Bensonhurst Brooklyn…but it soon becomes apparent when you enter Il Capriccio where simple décor and holiday lights set the festive mood. This inviting mom and pop classic Italian kitchen is a refuge for east coasters yearning for real Italian food in a warm environment. While Tony in the kitchen stays true to the old country cooking philosophy using the best ingredients cooked to perfection, his wife Rosemary exudes her mother like quality welcoming each an every guest.

After all that, Il Capriccio is really about the food. Whether it be the Calamari Fritti cooked and seasoned perfectly, or the sumptuous Penne with Lamb and Eggplant prepared with juicy pieces of lamb browned and full of flavor, Tony delivers food that you can’t help interrupting you neighboring tables to rave about.

The wait staff is also pleasant and knowledgeable, recommending the many specials like the The Trilogy; grilled and sauteed lamb, sirloin and chicken, finished in a light red wine reduction and sautéed spinach. Not only was this tasty, but each meat was cooked to its individual optimal temperature. It is this careful attention to detail not often seen outside of French cuisine or top tier dinning establishments.

As for the staples, the Caprese salad is wonderful and lightly dressed so not to overshadow some of the best fresh mozzarella in LA. The Chicken Picata delivers a nice portion flavored just right. The linguini with seafood is overflowing with mussels, scallops and shrimp cooked just until done in a rich tomato sauce. Dessert is easy, Crème Brulee or Tiramisu. That is of course if you have room. And to add more delight to this fantastic dining experience, patrons have the option to bring along their own wine to be enjoyed at no corkage fee.

Il Capriccio is a must for great Italian food and full of old Hollywood charm.

P.S. Don’t look twice, but Tony does bear a strong resemblance to another Italian Tony who loves his food. Hey, you never know, at these prices, someone has to be paying the rent.

Note: since this review ownership has changed, so let's hope for the best!