Da Pasquale is a rare find in Beverly Hills – a moderately priced Italian restaurant without any pretentious attitude. Run by the Morro family, Pasquale Morro heads up the front of house, while his wife Anna is the executive chef. If you’re lucky enough to be able to see the open kitchen, you’ll see Anna, a one woman dynamo, buzzing about, single-handedly doing the work of several.

Even though there are white tablecloths on the tables, they’re topped by butcher paper, giving the restaurant a more casual vibe. Upon being seated, you will get some warm, freshly baked bread, along with some olive oil and balsamic vinegar. They’re not stingy with the bread either, so if you want more, don’t hesitate to ask.

In the 20 plus years that I’ve been coming here, I’ve never had a bad meal – everything has been consistently excellent from pastas to pizzas to entrees. The gnocchi, which can be gummy and heavy in the wrong hands, are light pillowy puffs of potato dumplings.

For something simple, I enjoy the Ziti alla Siciliana, with eggplant, mozzarella and basil in a tomato sauce. On those days when my appetite is a bit bigger, the Spaghetti alla Pescatora or the Pollo Arosto, half a baked chicken with potatoes, onions and tomatoes, never fail to satisfy.

Dining at Da Pasquale is more like eating at a neighborhood trattoria, than a fancy Beverly Hills restaurant. It’s comfortable, friendly and delicious. Forget those snooty Italian restaurants where they act like they’re doing you a favor by allowing you to dine there. At Da Pasquale, they’ll be happy to have you join their family.

Location – 9749 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills 90210
Website – http://dapasqualecaffe.com
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – No
Vegetarian Friendly – Yes
Vegan Friendly – Yes
Gluten-Free Options – Yes