Civico 2064

Civico 2064 serves up average Italian fare, accompanied by lackluster service in Los Feliz, California

After a morning of a pretty challenging but fun 13 mile bike ride that capped off a rather intense previous week,  I was looking forward to meeting up with Matt. During a previous dining experience, he had raved about a dinner he had at Civico 2064. Based on his fond memories, we made plans for our next dinner

When I arrived, my body was tired and sore from the morning ride. But, I was happy I dealt with the traffic of Los Angeles to see Matt.

Luckily, the BRUSCHETTA RICOTTA E ACCIUGHE (Italian Grilled Bread, Whipped Ricotta, Asparagus, Cherry Tomatoes, Cantabrico Anchovies) was waiting for me when I arrived.

Matt and I greeted each other and exchanged pleasantries after a tiring week for both of us. I remarked that the space looked cute and browsed the menu.

After a few minutes, our server arrived and seemed friendly. He turned to me and asked me how I was. I took a deep sigh in relaxation and said “I’m really happy to be here.”

“Finally”, I heard him mummer under his breath.

At once, I was shocked and livid at the audacity.  But, I played it off like I hadn’t heard what he said. Again, Matt had raved about Civico 2064 and I was determined to put traffic, stress, the bitchy attitude of a stranger taking our order and the heavy day behind me.

I ordered the NEGRONI INSORTI (Vino Amaro Infused With Gentian, Juniper,  Wormwood & Citrus Peels).

The TAGLIATELLE DELLA SILA (Tagliatelle, Italian Porcini Mushrooms, Home- Made Fennel Sausage, Nduja, Parsley), POLLO SALTIMBOCCA (Organic Chicken Breast, San Daniele Prosciutto, Sage, Rosemary Demi, Caponata) and additional order of CAPONATA arrived all at once.

What didn’t arrive? The Focaccia bread that we were told would be served, after we gave our orders. Again, Matt had loved it during a previous visit. When it arrived in a tall paper bag, I raised an eyebrow. I immediately had to tear it open to make it easier for Matt and I to get to the four pieces.

In a word, the meal was disappointing. My high hopes for a lovely evening were completely dashed by poor service, poorly timed dishes, and an overwhelming sense of being rushed—especially surprising on such a slow night.

It got to a point when I simply did not feel comfortable being in the restaurant any longer. Matt and I ended up going to Little Dom’s, just a block away, for dessert and much needed conversation.

In short, if you want mid level Italian food that is a step up from Macaroni Grill in Los Feliz – I still wouldn’t recommend Civico 2064. Maybe in a year, with a full staff turnover, it’s possible. Maybe the location in San Diego is filled with better service personnel with better pacing of dishes.

Never assume that a person doesn’t hear what you say or notice what you do, especially when you think you’re being a smart ass while waiting tables. Also, if you want to continue a pathway in service industry, treat people with respect.

With that being said, Life is too short for mid tier Italian fare with bad service. There are much better Italian restaurants to spend money at. Especially, with Little Dom’s literally up the street. Let alone Mother Wolf, Met Him at a Bar, Bacetti Trattoria, Scopa Italian Roots, Union Pasadena, Grandmaster Recorders and especially Giorgio Baldi.

Go somewhere else.

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