Dinner at Antico Nuovo was delicious expression of rustic and refined Italian food - in a surprising location in Koreatown - within Los Angeles, California
Now, Antico Nuovo is located in a VERY random place – pretty much on the border of Koreatown and Larchmont. And when I say random, I mean the carpet does not match the drapes in terms of what’s on the outside that you see vs once you open the door.
I audibly said “woah” to myself as I walked in. The contrast between outside and inside is real. And that’s the best way I can say it.
The host complimented my dress (always a plus – it’s this) before showing me to our table of 3.
Immediately, I loved the scene and vibe of the restaurant.
Similar to Dunsmoor, there is an open kitchen with a beautiful, bright and roaring open flame for grilling. In kind, there is an incredible HVAC system installed in the restaurant. I did not smell smoke, only tasted delicious wood fired dishes.
My wine choice of the night, a glass of the Fazenda Agrícola Prádio’s 2021 Mencia (From the Ribeira Sacra region within Galicia, Spain), was a light taste that carried well throughout the evening. I also sampled the Masseria Falvo 1727 “‘Cires”, but found it too tannin intense for my food for the evening. The Mencia was the right choice.
We ordered the FOCACCIA (olive oil, sea salt) to start. I was skeptical about the add ons and their prices – and curious. So, we ordered the WHIPPED RICOTTA – PISTACHIO PESTO to accompany.
We continued with the KINGFISH CRUDO (lemon, shallot, chive). This fish lent itself to the citrus palate perfectly.
Out next came the PAPPARDELLE (beef cheek, veal tongue ragu Bolognese) and the PLIN DELL’ ALTA LANGA (sugo di arrosto).
Now, I will say – if one finds themselves at Antico Nuovo, you must order the Plin Dell’ Alta Langa. It is mouth wateringly delicious. The little pillows of flavor gave me a truffle like savory taste in every bite. Each of us absolutely loved the dish. Which isn’t to say that the pappardelle was lacking – at all. But the Plin Dell’ Alta Langa was our collective favorite of the two.
For the main course, we ordered the POLLO E CROSTONE (chicken roasted over focaccia, salsa verde). Which, topped in the juice of the chicken was cozy, rustic and homey.
We finished with a serving of the HONEYCOMB ICE CREAM. Which was honesty – some of the best ice cream I’ve had in Los Angeles. The honeycomb on top of the vanilla ice cream was decadence.
I absolutely loved the scent of the restaurant. The miniature olive trees and the lemon trees in the foyer were incredible. But the scent at the front? Intoxicating.
I inquired about the burning candle. I was told it was by the eucalyptus lime candle by marketcandle, sold at the Original Farmer’s Market at 3rd and Fairfax and the Calabasas Farmers Market.
Now, there is valet parking, that was $10. However, I easily found parking on the street, a block up on Oakwood Avenue.
Overall, Antico Nuovo a wonderful spot to share delicious Italian food with friends at the edge of Koreatown in Los Angeles.
Antico Nuovo
4653 Beverly BlvdLos Angeles, California 90004