What the hell did I just eat? Ok, so for years everyone has raved about this little hole in the wall called Alejo's. I finally decide to take my kids there tonight. We're all about local HITW joints so I figured we'd be happy there. Wrong! We ordered a Caesar salad for statrers. In my book, Caesar needs to have a thick creamy type of dressing to be called a Caesar, not some oil and vinegar concoction. It was a boring plate of romaine lettuce with the tiniest crutons burried at the bottom of the plate and the cheapest industrial foodservice grade parmesean chesse dumped on top. Ick, but I'll move on since I am expecting to love one of those huge plates of pasta I see everyone getting. Next we get the pasta carbonara. Now I know I'm not in some authentic Italian restaurant, so their interpretation of carbonara is a bit skewed, but I'll roll with it. The menu says its a bacon and mushroom pasta with a creamy pink sauce. I love a good pink sauce when done right. I'm eager to get my plate. Yum I hope! The huge plate finally arrives and I dig in. Yikes my taste buds scream. I don't know how quite to describe the taste that I am getting, but all I can say is that its not a freshly made sauce and it came from some can or mix. Its super thick, way too much to easy to eat. I can't taste the bacon to save my life, not the mushrooms either. Its just this taste that isn't tasty. I tried to spice it up with chili flakes but after 4 valliant bites, I was done. The waiter came over with a to go container and I told him no. I said he could get rid of it. The enitre plate went into the trash. $11.95 down the drain. Next is the pizza. We ordered a small pepperoni. It looked good, smelled amazing with that fresh basil on top, but my god was it salty! I know mozzerella is salty and I like it, but I'm not a horse. I don't need a salt lick. Its a great thin crispy crust with three times the thickness of cheese on the top that was super stringy and slid right off. You can't put that much cheese on top a crust that thin. It just doesn't work and honestly, I don't need that much cheese. It needed half that amount and I could have given the pizza a thumb up. The flavor from the basil and sauce was good, so there is hope in that front. Lastly, just because I didn't order any sodas doesn't mean you can't come refill my water glass. Don't come here expecting to be eating like you are in Little Italy in New York or Boston. I am not a food snob by any means and it takes a lot for me to literally throw away a full plate of food, but I am really disappointed with this place.
(1)
Ryan M.
This is not a restaurant you would go into from the outside decor - not sure how I ever ventured inside, but I did and now I am happy. The Alejo's Chopped Salad is fantastic and humongous. I have had a seafood pasta in a marinara and a pesto pasta with chicken - recommend both. They do not have a liquor license, so feel free to bring your own wine to enjoy with your meal.
(4)
Matthew M.
Mixed opinion of this place. I've been here twice and while the portions are large, the quality (and consistency) is lacking. On both occasions I've had to spit out gristle in the meat sauce. On one occasion my brother found a hair in our chopped salad - needless to say there's nothing that kills the appetite quite as quickly and thoroughly as this. On my first visit the pasta was al dente, however on my second visit it was overcooked to the point of disintegrating upon twirling. The food here is definitely Americanized Italian. I typically have no problem with over-sauced pasta, but found myself actually wishing for a greater ratio of pasta, which became lost in a ocean of bolognese. On a positive note, the bread is delicious and the no corkage fee is a great lure. The pizzas look good and I'd like to try one on my next visit. As noted in every other review, garlic here is prominent and abundant - be forewarned. Overall, a good option if you're looking for a hearty meal and enjoy leftovers. Check out Novecento for a bit more authentic and portion-appropriate pasta experience.
(3)
Justin M.
Delicious and well priced. One of my favorite Italian restaurants in the LA area
(4)
Ian C.
I'm even pickier about Italian than I am about Thai, bc I can't cook Thai. I ran a pasta line for a year, and am hard pressed to find Italian that I don't regret ordering. This place is maybe the solitary exception to that rule. Their Spagetti with Meat Sauce is the best I've ever had, and makes me realize why you would ever order something seemingly as simple as Spagetti with Meat Sauce. It's a big portion, garlicky, and super delicious. They bread is awesome, and the garlic/olive oil stuff is delish. They're in a strip mall, which I think fits their iconoclastically awesome deal they got going on. They don't serve hooch, but you can go next door to 7-11 and get your wine, and enjoy is sans corking fee. A great place to hit if you're taking lincoln to or from the airport, or are just anywhere in the area and want some awesome food. The only caution, I guess is to watch the add-ons. The alfredo is great, but it adds up quick when you start adding +pesto sauce, +mushrooms, +chicken and you wonder how you ended up ordering a $18 alfredo, otherwise this place is a home-run!
(5)
Thao L.
4 stars for the red EZLN beret-wearing cooking staff.
(4)
Rod B.
Probably one of my favorite spots in all of Los Angeles. Bring wine. Lots of it.
(5)
Nala P.
BYOB makes this place very attractive! The spaghetti is great, a teeny over cooked but it's what you expect from an east coast style huge plate of pasta. The portions are large so order accordingly. The chop salad is the best one I ever had!! I crave it on a weekly basis. Expect to wait a little while, but it is a tiny hole in the wall place which are usually the best ones! Oh, plus this place is so so cheap. I ordered a "small" portion of pasta that was only $8 and it fed me for a week!
(4)
Mel C.
Went to dinner here with a few friends and was surprised that the food was so good. The bread was really good- I liked the crisp crust and the inside of the bread was perfect for dipping in the olive oil and minced garlic mixture they provide. The garlic-oil dip was really, really good, but we had to restrain ourselves because we were going clubbing afterwards. We ended up ordering their paella special of the night and a small capelli piponi pasta dish that came with shrimp, chicken, mushrooms, onions, in a tomato sauce. I was skeptical about ordering paella at an Italian restaurant, but it was good. Lots of chicken, shrimp, and clams. Those two dishes were enough to feed four not-very-hungry adults, and we still couldn't finish it. For dessert, one of the guys raved about the chocolate mousse so we had to try it also. I found it too sweet and rich, but I'm not the biggest fan of sweets.
(4)
Rhonda N.
Great meat lasagna. Amazing shrimp diablo. Pastas are fresh and correctly cooked. Bring your own wine/beer in from the 7-11 and you are good to go. A locals only hole in the wall. Prepare to wait for parties of 4 or more. Did someone say the best garlic sauce. yay. Parking sucks, park on Washington and walk over.
(4)
l. a.
I dont understand the appeal of this place. The restaurant is really tiny. The food is only o-k and you leave tasting garlic for days. It's definitely a hole in the wall, but not one to brag about.
(2)
Max M.
Though it bears his name, Castro Alejo is number one, divorced from his wife who got this location in the settlement, and number two, dead. His ex-wife has frozen the menu in place for probably at least a decade and it's just fine that way. Even the special menu written on a white-board hasn't changed in years. The small place is always packed along its family style long tables, and you'll always see someone who remembered to bring their own wine. Everything on the menu is good. Come to Alejo's expecting a garlic bomb. When I worked for idiots, nothing would give me more pleasure than eating a whole order of garlic linguini with mushrooms and then working on the CFO's computer while breathing all over him. What a schmuck. He deserved it. Pasta dishes are about seven dollars.
(4)
Dj S.
My absolute favorite place to eat: good quality, hot, affordable, tasty, authentic, home style, large portioned, melt in your mouth, to die for Italian food!!!! If anyone knows a place similar to this besides Lomeli's in Gardena than please send me an email at jewelrymasters@hotmail.c… . I love their Chicken Piccata, Chicken Parmesan, Garlic Shrimp Scampi, and 3-Color Chicken Ravioli. Meals are accompanied by a complimentary basket of warm ciabatta bread and the best olive oil/ garlic dip. If you are going to bring a date here make sure you know her/him well cause your breath will be kickin' till the next morning!!
(5)
Munchie S.
SUPER small inside, not the best hours, and the food is far better at the one in Westchester (a tad bit south on Lincoln, across the street from Bristol Farms)
(3)
Gary F.
Don't let the name change or the facade fool you. Eddie's (formerly Alejo's) sits in a nondescript strip mall on the corner of Linclon and Washington Blvds. Eddie's is a fantastic neighborhood Italian restaurant, characterized by large portions of reasonably priced excellent food. Their marinara sauce is memorable and the staff is wonderful. I was reluctant to review Eddie's on Yelp because there is a selfish part of me that doesn't want too many people to learn of its existence for fear that I would have to wait an inordinate amount of time to be seated.
(5)
Robert S.
This restaurant may qualify as one of those finds or dives that turns out to be something much better inside than it looks from the outside. It is located at the SE corner of Lincoln and Washington in a run down tiny strip mall next to a 7-11. The parking lot is tiny and crowded with time limits appropriate to a 7-11. The restaurant was crowded and busy inside. The tables and diners sit right next to the open kitchen. There were a lot of great Italian scents in the air that were so abundant, I could not identify just what I was smelling. Unfortunately their pizzas are too small and for their size cost a somewhat expensive $14 for plain cheese. The most outstanding aspect of their pizza was their excellent fresh crust. Interestingly, like some other pizza restaurants with excellent pizza crust, they also served a delicious bread/roll with their meal. The crust was notably chewy and elastic and perfectly thin. To make it even better, the crust had crisped cheese at the edges and underneath. They used outstanding quality mozzarella which was both very stringy and firm. Their sauce was fresh and had lots of flavors and some small tomato chunks. I would have preferred that the sauce was a bit spicier. Overall this place is quite intriguing with really excellent quality pizza. My only reservation is the somewhat small size pizza you get for the cost.
(4)
Mimi P.
My boyfriend took me to this little restaurant on Saturday night. He said he used to come here all the time when he went to UCLA. I really didn't think much of this restaurant when I saw the outside appearance. Boy was I wrong! After ordering, boyfriend went to 7-11 next door and got some Pinot Noir to go with our meal. While he was gone, I tried their warm bread with the garlic infused olive oil. My God! After one bite, I couldn't stop eating it. By the time he came back, I think I already had 3 pieces of bread. The garlic olive oil was heavenly. But I wouldn't recommand eating this on your first date. We arrived around 5:00PM. By 5:30PM, this place was packed. There were people waiting outside the door. And the to-go customers just kept on coming. So the food came a little bit slow, but we didn't mind. We were just enjoying the bread w/ garlic olive oil and our wine. Boyfriend ordered Seabass. It was broiled and served with a white wine, garlic and tomato sauce. The fish was so soft and tender. Sauce was wonderful and garlicky. It went really well with the pasta that came with the dish. I ordered Linguini Ala Mare. It's seafood pasta with a white garlic tomato sauce. There were lots of seafood in this dish: halibut, salmon, calamari and shrimp. However, I was a little disappointed at the sauce. It didn't have much taste. I think the chef was too busy and forgot to add any salt. But after a little bit of salt seasoning done by myself, this pasta dish turned really good. Portion was huge, or maybe I was too full from the bread? I could barely finish half plate. After our meal, we ordered coffee and flan. The flan was pretty light. It was a good finish. A wonderful meal with tons of leftover for next day, bill was only $42. I have a feeling we'll be back in no time.
(5)
Brad G.
Alejo's Presto Trattoria in Marina del Rey used to be the absolute bomb. Unfortunatley, my last few visits here have been a bit underwhelming. Last night was another Meh experience. Their amazing bread is still served with the amazing garlic soaked at the bottom of olive oil can't complain about that. I usually order the very spicy Shrimp Diablo with Linguini. The pasta and shrimp were cooked perfect but it was very skinny on the sauce which makes the dish! They did bring us more Diablo sauce but the previous magic was just gone. I also took a bite out of my Son's Spaghetti and Meatballs. Unfortunatley, his meatball was very dry and the sauce tasted like tomatoe sauce from a can. Dishes here are now up to about $16 each so based on the total hole in the wall ambience, I believe the prices are way too high. Also it was a Friday night around 6:30pm and there wasn't even a wait. You used to have to write your name on a clip board and wait for ever. Sorry Alejo's, your "magic" is gone.
(3)
J C.
If you love having the smell of garlic oozing from your pores, this should be your new home! Who wouldn't love a heavy dose of garlic and olive oil served with bread that resembles an airier, fluffier, softer version of pizza crust? Pastas are your typical workhorses, the sauces are solid but unremarkable. Great place to call ahead and pickup some takeout, as the restaurant is small and at peak times you will have to wait for a table. The parking lot is also pretty small, so finding a spot can also be a challenge.
(4)
Natalia R.
I was going to give it 2 stars, but the yelp "meh, I've experienced better' description does not cut it, so one star it is. Listen to your instincts. When my boyfriend told me that Alejo's had great yelp reviews and that we should go try it, my response was "Alejo? that is not an Italian name." I decided, hey maybe the chef was not born in Italy, but studied for years and years, and mastered the best culinary tradition in the world, perhaps it is possible. So I gave it the benefit of the doubt -- and I'm sorry I did. The food is NOT Italian. I have had Italian food all over the world, and let me also say that some of the best Italian food I have had has been in America. The pasta is overcooked, sauce only has salt as a flavor component, portions are absurdly large, and salads are oversalted. And the funny thing is, I love salt, so If I think there is too much salt, there is REALLY too much salt. First thing that startled me was the garlic oil mixture they bring with the bread (btw, the bread was the only part of the meal I enjoyed-- it was not Italian bread, but it was good). I could be wrong, but it did not taste like Olive oil-- just regular vegetable oil -- a HUGE no no in any kitchen. Secondly, there was no fresh parmesan -- just some Kraft style parmesan in pizza joint shakers. I will say this much, you can bring your own booze with no corkage fee which is always nice (but a few other Italian restaurants let you do this too). The staff was friendly and I'd say they were pretty attentive-- so I have no complaints there. But for me, food is first and foremost, and this was not good food. All three people in my party were disappointed. I live in Santa Monica and am hoping to find a place in the neighborhood as good as Mama D's or Pane e Vino. One day....
(1)
Vicky V.
3.5* Alejo's-Hearty and comforting with classic traditions. The Spaghetti Pomodoro and Gnocci. If you've made gnocci from scratch, then you'll appreciate the labor of love that goes into creating these tender potato dumpling's at Alejo's. On a mission to find the best gnocci in America, I would say that the gnocci here ranks fairly high above the rest. Served with white and red sauce, the gnocci are like luscious smooth pillows with just the right amount of chewiness. Although not gummy, the gnocci lacks a certain amount of fluffiness. The gnocci here is strangely larger than usual and slightly on the heavier side. The sauces are classics which when mixed together help to achieve a nice balance between the acidity of the tomatoes and creaminess of the white sauce. The pomdoro was tasty, standing out for it's subtle herbiness, chunkier texture, and pleasant flavor. Pasta was a bit pass al dente unforunately. I don't think I need to say much about the ciabatta given it's reputation, but the owners should definitely keep this recipes in the family. The olive oil helps to take the edge and sharpness off the garlic, making the garlic a perfect accompniment to the soft, light, crusty bread when you dip it in your pasta sauce. Why the 1.5* deduction The gnocci is a bit too large Pasta was overcooked, and Sauces are a bit flat and one dimensional Bread is not consistently always good, but passable Very small restuarant, no ambiance Courteous servers, but no real service
(3)
Carmie J.
My experience wasn't here wasn't great because of the food. If you like garlic, this still might not be the place for you. I love garlic, but everything here had too much garlic. My boyfriend and I ordered fettuccine alfredo and the breaded chicken with marinara and mozzarella cheese. Firstly, the prices were too high ($13-$18 per plate). Secondly, the Fettuccine seemed watered down. We got garlic bread ($6-8) with four very very garlicky pieces. I had to scrape off the garlic so that it would be somewhat edible. I could see why people enjoy the garlic/olive oil dip for the bread, but even that seemed a bit too garlicky for me. We wound up paying around $35 for two people, and honestly, I would rather have spent that much money at another location with better quality food. Service was okay and they checked on you, but still the food ruined it for me.
(2)
Dean Y.
Very good- food. A bit crowded so- if you don't mind to wait or share tables then this is not an issue. Sign your name on the board system when you get in. Also the parking sucks. But they don't charge corkage fee so you can bring your own wine. the veal piccata is very good- very authentic - and the house salad is a nice dressing - lite. Also tried the chicken ravioli- 3 sauces style. Very good!!! best italian food in this area!
(4)
fran d.
it's hard to write this review since my mouth is watering just thinking about their garlic heavy dishes including the garlic + oil combo they give you to dip your bread on. dang it! if you love garlic, you'll love this place. you'll also not be able to get near anyone because you'll reek of delicious garlic. ha ha. this place is a hole in the wall so if you're slightly claustrophobic this may not be a place to visit since they're always at near capacity. however the food more than makes up for it and the prices while they're not the cheapest, the food portions make up for it. you're almost getting two meals in one. most people i know end up taking left overs home. hmm. sweet leftovers. things to order here: linguini pescatore, (garlic tomato wine sauce, hello!), tracciatella a la mare (homemade spinach fettucinni!) and if you want something to fire up your taste buds, and i mean, really fire them up, try their shrimp al diablo. it's bomb. other delicious items here are their calamari and pizzas. people seem to like the chopped salad but who the hell goes to an italian place and orders chopped salad. give me a break! if you're craving garlic, this is your place folks.
(4)
Mary F.
Wow. My boyfriend brought me here last night. It was such a nice surprise. I wasn't sure about it at first because like the other Yelpers mentioned, it's in a random strip mall. I actually had to wait to step onto the sidewalk so a homeless man could stroll by. The garlic dipping sauce for the bread was orgasmically delicious. I couldn't stop eating it. Sure, I stank up the entire pilates studio this morning, but it was well worth it, my friends. I ordered the eggplant parmesan and it was absolutely delicious. I hate when there's too much breading and at Alejo's, this was not the case at all. It came with a generous portion of spaghetti with marinara sauce that was also my lunch today. My boyfriend had the chicken cacciatore and he said it was really good, too.
(4)
Kelly H.
This place is FANTASTIC! I ate here Saturday- I can still smell garlic and its Wednesday. Great food. Super nice and attentive wait staff. This is the kind of place you bring someone who will kiss you despite your krazy garlic breath. I would recommend this to anyone who just wanted a good meal.
(5)
Alex B.
The pizza and pasta here are both good The pizza was a little bland and didn't stand out The dough was not the best The pasta had a little too much sauce Olive oil dip for the bread was good Overall its an okay choice but you can find better
(3)
Condor C.
I'm giving this place only a three star because the food really isn't that great. Everything needs to be more seasoned. A some salt and I will bump up the rating. That said the crowded,hold in the wall, bring your own wine, garlic old, bread all is fantastic. The food is not great but I still get cravings for it. strange..Maybe it is good and I'm just confused.. love it!! check
(3)
Greg A.
Food is tasty but spotty. My mom and I ordered the same dish, Shrimp al Diablo. Her's was terrific. Mine was a little more than half the size and slathered in oil. I didn't realize how slathered until I got to the bottom third. I asked the waiter, who told me there's no oil in it, only wine, garlic and tomato sauce. I pointed to the 3 tablespoons of oil I was siphening from the plate as we spoke. He said that must be wine (duh! Bad lie!). The manager came and said of course it's olive oil. I asked why there was so much when my mom's had none. They never said anything like I'm sorry, let me fix it, can I get you something else. Instead, they looked at me and said "what to you want us to do with it, we can't take the oil off, after all". They took the dish away (with some food still on the plate) and never brought anything else out, never said amother word, and STILL CHARGED ME FOR THE DISH!!! I was totally appalled. Never a word of I'm sorry, anything of the sort. I should note that they have no kids dishes, and the chicken piccata, while somewhat tasty, was so small that my kids couldn't really share it. Fortunately for them, I guess, they got plenty of bread beforehand so they didn't leave too hungry. It pisses me off the most because I've been going to Alejo's for years, always enjoyed it, and have never been so angry leaving a restaurant as I was this time The dish itself was good - on my mom's plate. Mine was so oily it became inedible as it got to the bottom. The place was small, the crowd was big, so it doesn't seem like they'll care about this bad review. In fact, when I left the restaurant I told them how upset I was and that I was planning on panning them on Chowhound and Yelp. The reaction? Oh well, too bad. Last time I go there. Beware of the service and spotty food.
(1)
Rochelle R.
YUM! I usually don't go out for Italian, I feel like most of the time you could have made it better at home, but I'll make a trip out to Alejo's! Especially since it's quite inexpensive. The bread is very well made and with the garlic-butter awesomeness, you're off to a great start to your meal. Just don't be expecting a serious make-out afterwards, that garlic taste liiiiiiingers. The seafood pasta was legit. Meatballs very very tasty, I believe they use several different meats. I thought my carbonara was too heavy on the sauce so I'll request less next time. Don't get me wrong though, the sauce was delicious....I guess you can have too much of a good thing! BYOB. Wine that hasn't been jacked up 200% tastes better any day! Atmosphere: you get what you would expect in a popular restaurant functioning in a tiny strip mall. Tables are tightly packed, but I see it as a better opportunity to check out what other people are eating so I know what to order next time. They don't take reservations and parking is nonexistent, so plan to get there a little early, then pass the time, checking out the magazine rack at 7Eleven, staring at the people eating donuts next door, or starting up a game of dice in the parking lot. Also, trim your party size down and you'll get seated much much faster...
(3)
Scott K.
the "alejo's salad" is quite possibly the best salad i have ever eaten. as ridiculous as that may sound to some, it's the absolute truth. comes with creamy italian dressing and contains: chopped lettuce garbanzo beans mozzarella cheese tomatoes red cabbage salami turkey bacon even if i were a vegetarian, i would still eat this salad, WITH the salami, turkey, and bacon. yes, it's that damn good. notes: - orders come with complimentary fresh bread and olive oil w/ garlic - pizza is european style (thin crust and light on the sauce); they're solid - entrees (chicken marsala; chicken parmigiana) are ehhh - parking lot sucks ass - another location in westchester on lincoln near manchester
(5)
Adam B.
A pizza place without deliver that's, so unAmerican.
(1)
J.C. K.
Superb food. Wonderful bread. Bowl-you-over-and-kill-your-date garlic and oil dipping sauce. Delicious marinara sauce. Reasonable prices. No corkage fees, so bring your own wine. And tight, meet-your-neighbor atmosphere. Been going here regularly for 20 years.
(5)
jeff f.
Alejos really is a great fun place to go. Love the food and the byob really puts it over the top. yes its in a mini mall and its nothing fancy but they treat you right and the food is great, fresh and really reasonably priced. the seafood pizza is great, shrimp dishes all rock, and the eggplant and bolognese are amazing. start with the alejos salad and then maybe a pasta(such as the pesto or seafood) and then maybe a chicken marsala. really good cheesecake for desert too. been coming here for years and never disappointing. only wish there was one in my neighborhood!
(5)
Gina N.
Loved this place! Huge portions, tons of taste and easy on the wallet. It's definitely authentic home style cooking that will make you feel guilty and happy all at the same time. We ordered the lasagna, spinach ravioli and pepperoni pizza to share among the 4 of us. We pretty much licked the plates. The lasagna was hearty and had a lot of sauce and cheese without the oil and grease. The spinach ravioli was simple and light, but tasty. I didn't have a slice of pizza but everyone else seemed to like it. We didn't even mind that they don't serve alcohol. But next time we'll make sure to bring a bottle of wine. All of the regulars already knew to show up with their own bottle =) Don't walk in expecting a fancy, highly decorated restaurant. This is not that kind of place. Its teeny tiny and feels like you're sitting in an old school kitchen. There was something very comforting and inviting about the setting, it has real character. You'll probably have to wait a minute for a table and the parking SUCKS! But it's definitely worth it.
(5)
Michael S.
This is place is amazing. The food is great, the prices are very, very reasonable. The only problem are the hours and the wait, as this is kind of a small place, and so you could end up waiting 20+ mins for bigger parties. But the pastas are great, the bread is amazing, and it is just a nice little niche place. I would say a great date place too, it isn't all that romantic, but the place is kind of secluded area, and your date will feel like you have put a lot of thought into it. This place is not good for kids. I am not anti-children, but can't there be places where kids are not allowed. I mean this isn't a children oriented place. It is good for small groups of adults.
(4)
Megan S.
Alejo's is pretty wonderful. Really, really excellent Italian food, served in a tiny hole in the wall (in an even hole-in-the-wallier strip mall). The service is fast and friendly, the value is good, and the locals are friendly and quirky. What more can you ask for? The meal starts off with copious amounts of excellent bread and crushed garlic in olive oil (they'll bring out more if you ask for it) which will make you stink for days. The menu is simple but delicious. My boyfriend had the three color veal ravioli--the pastas are actually each three colors, it's pretty cool)--and I had the meat lasagna. Both were excellent. I noticed the table next to me ordering a seafood pasta, which I'll have to try next time I'm here. Also, this restaurant is BYOB, which is another big plus. This would be a great place to take friends or family and just hang out. Although the food is beyond wonderful, it's probably not the best date place (at least not the first few) because it's not the classiest looking joint, and both of you will be so garlicky that kissing is probably out of the question.
(5)
Brad N.
This place leaves your stomach feeling happy, your heart feeling weak and your breath smelling awful - it's the good stuff. I would give them five stars, but unfortunately, they have the case of the dry-chicken. The first time we went there, we ordered the Spaghetti Pomodoro with chicken. Now, usually when we get dry chicken, we pretty much won't consider that restaurant again..but the pasta was just perfectly cooked (and texturally feels so damn good in your mouth) and the sauce was so amazingly delicious..and not to forget, the bread and the garlic oil you dip it in is just soooooooooo good. So yes, we came back again, again and again. Now, we steer clear of their chicken dishes and always order their spaghetti and meat sauce. Simple and tasty, go Alejo's!
(4)
Dave E.
Love the Pizzas, and sandwiches Parking is a paint but worth it!
(4)
Judy T.
Never again, what a shame, I will miss it. I was a longtime customer, but with the name change (owner change? I have heard so many different things....) came a change in attitude. Lame, because I really liked their food for a long time, and could care less if people are pleasant or not, or hurried. Choose another spot if you want to avoid being treated REALLY poorly. Very rarely have I been spoken to like that by someone working in a restaurant ...whoa. He seemed to be either the manager or the owner, sad statement about this once neighborhood favorite.
(1)
M H.
Not sure what the hype is here. Been here SEVERAL times, and each time quite disappointing. The service is great. The restaurant is small. The food... the food makes me wish I saved that money and cooked better pasta & sauce in my own kitchen.
(2)
Jessica N.
ooo, alejo's! I always order the Alejo chopped salad! Oh my goodness, I never knew a salad could be so delicious. It's a standard chopped salad, but with red cabbage, turkey chunks, bacon bits (that give this salad a really nice crunch), and red cabbage. The salad dressing is a creamy, honey mustardy, vinaigrette.. it's really good. The best part about this place is that there is no corkage fee. You could step into the 7-11 next door and buy a bottle of wine and bring it over for dinner, they could care less. Parking is a pain since it's in a little strip mall, atmosphere is no where near romantic, cramped seating, but great food and they try their best for good service (hard with such limitations). oh! how could i forget.. they give you a crushed garlic and oil to dip your bread into... garlic lover's heaven! :)
(4)
Robin S.
I'm the type of person who love to try out new restaurants so this establishment keeps me from doing so since it's so good! Bottom line, the best cabobara i've ever had anywhere else.
(5)
JJ W.
I come here for the seafood pasta. If they have the sea bass pasta I will take it. People rave about the shrimp diablo but I am not a big fan of shrimp so I will pass. So many other things to choose from. They do serve bread and olive oil here to start you off and that is a plus. It's kinda small and cramped but if you home here for the food then you will not mind. In my opinion C&O and all the surrounding pasta joints got nothing on these guys.
(4)
David M.
I'm a big fan of this place. If other reviewers say it's gone downhill recently, I'd love to have seen what it used to be capable of. Every dish I've ordered there has been tasty and generously portioned. And by generously portioned, I mean you get a heaping helping of actual seafood when you order a seafood dish. The garlic dip they serve with their bread is a treat as well. My other favorites include the spaghetti pomodoro and the veggie lasagna.
(5)
AJ B.
Man, this place couldn't be at a crappier location. That said, oh man, the food is great! I went here for lunch today and basically furrowed my brow and scrunched my nose when I saw the strip mall that it was located at. I mean, it's Friday, and I wanted to eat at a fancier place for lunch, I guess. After hedging for a second, I decided that we might as well give it a shot. I'm pretty happy I did. You're not writing home to tell people about how this place looks. It's bare-bones, not unlike a taco shop. It is big enough to seat a good number of people, though. We chose a seat in the corner with a good view of everyone else. I ordered an eggplant parmigiana and my friend B went with the seafood special. The portions are humongous! How huge? By the time we were done you could simply take our plates and feed it to someone else and they'd be full too. Quality-wise, we were very satisfied. The bread that came out prior to the meal was delicious, served with an oil and garlic sauce that was really good. We were super satisfied here. Bring your A belly if you intend on finishing your meal, or count on taking half of it home. Too bad it's located in a pretty dumpy corner on Lincoln and Washington.
(4)
Julie K.
Ok, this place is located in a tiny strip mall and looks real ghetto from the outside. The inside doesn't get any better. Real small space, real cramped. BUT... the food is great. Huge portions, enought to have for lunch the next day! But man, oh man, their garlic dipping sauce for the bread is off the hook!! Make sure your date (if you 're on on) has an equal amount of the garlic stuff otherwise there will be no kissy kissy at the end of the night! This place is BYOB, last I remember and no corkage fee :D
(3)
Ivy E.
I'M ALL ABOUT ALEJO'S Alejo's Presto Trattoria Italia 4002 Lincoln Blvd. Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 (310) 822-0095 About 10 years ago a girlfriend of mine and I used to go to unassuming little Alejo's after work. Somehow we were lucky enough to get off work at a time that allowed us to get a table before the nightly rush. We'd happily munch the delicious fresh bread after dipping it into the insanely divine garlic oil. Then we'd admire the handsome waiters and finally order dinners that silenced our conversation - only groans of ecstasy would emanate from our mouths. Every last item on their menu was delectable beyond words. Then we'd go home to our boyfriends who would could tell where we'd been by the waft of garlic that preceded us through the door. Mine would tell me to go shower and brush my teeth, but it never worked. Alejo's garlic is powerful. Last night I went back to Alejo's and the place was packed. We signed in for a table and only waited 5 minutes. We didn't bring a bottle of wine like the other diners, but all I was focused on was the food. It didn't disappoint! And the garlic oil is exactly the same! I gobbled up the Shrimp Al Filletto until I was beyond full. The sauce, roasted garlic (hello! yes! more garlic!) the tender butterflied shrimp had the shell on it so I got to play with my food and it slowed me down just a tad so I could take a breath in between bites. They have very generous portions so I took the rest to go. Hudson had the simple House Salad which has dressing that is so good it should be illegal, tomato and meaty chick peas. I shared that with him but I was careful to only take a bite of his Chicken Piccatta because what I really wanted to do was dive into that Piccatta and do the back stroke - and that would have been rude. We wandered out into the night and I had a revelation - 2 garlics cancel each other out! See you at Alejo's (but this morning I've got Alejo's in my fridge and I'm about to have the rest of my stash of roasted garlic Shrimp Al Filletto for breakfast. Yes, cold, standing right in front of the fridge). Ivy IvyEatsEverything.blogsp…
(5)
Ryan J.
Mmmm. Garlic and olive oil. Does it get any better? What, you're going to mix them together and give me some really good homemade bread to dip into it? I love you you know... Alejo's is a locals' only affair. There are two locations... both on Lincoln. One is tiny and located at Washington and Lincoln... the other is larger (ie, shorter wait) and is further down by LAX. This is one of my favorite Italian joints. Nothing fancy. Nothing expensive. Just good ol' homemade Italian food. I've had most of the food, but my usual order is a) I get full off of the bread and garlic/olive oil combination, but then I still b) power down a chop salad and c) manage about half of the gargantuan order of chicken parm. Uhhh, it's soooo good. I can't get enough. Prices, like I said are totally reasonable. The wait times aren't bad, either... just go hungry, because you get a ton of food, regardless of what you order. Only thing? Make sure that your date also eats the garlic/olive oil with the bread, because otherwise you WILL end up on the sofa... I swear, you will smell like garlic for two days. But it's delicious. 4 stars.
(4)
T L.
Italy lives in a Strip Mall! Fabulous and super-well-priced meals of comforting & flavorfully-delicious pastas. I never order Spaghetti & meatballs, but Work-Associate insisted I try Alejo's; I was not sorry. The vat of steamy-hot, tangy yum-yum was more than enough for 2, for a mere $11.95! Comes with several freshly-baked artisan bread chunklets and garlicy olive oil for dipping. The meatballs are huge, 2 to an order; the meat sauce is awesomely flarvorful; garlic-ee, meaty, tender noodles. I can't wait to return and order untasted dishes. Total surprise, as the front looks like a shabby cafeteria-style eatery. Inside is cute and quaint and is perfect for a date, but not the 1st date, because you will smell and taste like garlic.
(4)
priscilla d.
I was only where for wine and some appetizer waiting for my class to begin at LMU, but from what I got, it was very good. Fast, efficient service, no fakeness ( and by fakeness I mean " my name is bla bla bla and our specials are bla bla bla). I like " normal " service with good food and this is what this place offered, However, some musis would have been appreciated :)
(4)
Nano N.
If you are expecting to eat pasta from a box and sauce from a jar, this is the place to go. I don't know why they called "trattoria" (means factory of pasta) if you can tell that the pasta is not homemade. The price is good, very cheap, and big portions.
(3)
Kim l.
My bf and I dined her last night. We ordered a house salad to start, and I got the 3 color veal ravioli and bf got the seafood fettuccine. The waiter brought us bread which was cold....minus one star. It was still ok when dipped in the olive oil and garlic. My ravioli was yummy as always. Never disappoints me. I tried my bf's dish and found it to be ok. I am not really into seafood...so that could have explained it. He seemed to have enjoyed the meal. Yay!
(4)
Chiquita G.
The pricing was a little high but typical for the area. THE RESTAURANT IS small but cozy and I'm so glad it was clean (I can't sit down if its gross, sorta neurotic about that, but im workin on it). I wasnt a big fan of Italian food before I went here but after trying their version of tri-color ravioli, I'm a fan. It re-excited my taste for italian food that was once subdued by Olive Garden food. Yes, you can bring your own bottles of bubbly but I didn't. This is a pretty good restaurant and I'm glad I ate here.
(4)
Shaun A.
Yay. Beware of the overly garlic olive oil. Bring your own wine. Pizza and pastas are great, and even the garbanzo salad is tasty. Parking sucks so try to walk, bike, or bus it down there.
(5)
Christian L.
If you don't mind having indigestion from garlic or the fact that your mouth will STILL taste like garlic when you wake up in the morning, then come here. The place is a real hole in the wall and you put your name on a list to be seated. The service is fast and polite. The portions are HUGE and the garlic and olive oil dip is delicious. the Lasagna is good and has a hint of cornmeal in it which I really liked. The fried calamari isn't too greasy and maintains its flavor. The Pizza Alejo has a very soft crust and has claims, basil and shrimp on it. Sounds weird but it was great. There will be enough for leftovers so come hungry.
(4)
Jessica M.
WOW! I visited Alejo's on a recent visit to LA thanks to Yelp and driving by as it was near our airport hotel. This was more incredible than I could have imagined, having married a second-generation Italian and eating in South Philly. Alejo's eggplant parm was to die for, and my husband said their Pizza Margherita was the second-best ever. You will see what everyone means about the garlic for bread dipping, but just skip it if you don't like it. The dishes were incredible.
(5)
Jesse K.
Great atmosphere, awesome food, and incredible bread. On my first visit I met an man whose been coming here for 12 years. He said he drives from Compton just to eat the "Capelli Piponi" (angel hair pasta with chicken, shrimp, mushrooms & onions in a garlic tomato wine sauce). He told me told me to only dine here if Armando the head chef is working. Armando definitely knows whats up. We ordered the "Capelli Piponi" and it was amazing. Unfortunately there is almost no parking.
(5)
Neely M.
I wanted to love this place. It has been raved about to me by both roomie and parent, but I have to be honest it was just ok. We waited for ever - a little over an hour at 8 on a Friday night. That wouldn't bug me if th emeal lived up to my expectations. It just didn't. I dunno. I'd hit it up for lunch or something but I wouldn't wait another hour for it. The good? The chopped salad. Wow. It rocked. I really liked it alot. It got a star of its very own from this girl. The bad? Uh, parking SUCKED. It's never fun to share a lot with a 7-11, I am sure. We parked around the corner and walked over. Would I go back? Yeah. Would I insist upon it? Nah.
(3)
Jason M.
This place is not the cleanest place to eat Italian. But their is no corkage fee, and the portions are big. But be warned they dont have wine glasses expect shot glasses instead. Good for friends, and dinner that is bound for a barrel of laughs.
(3)
Arthur S.
Garlic. Huge portions. Cheap. Stripmall. Not a place to impress your date, but your college roommate might be impressed.
(3)
Omid T.
Solid food at reasonable prices. Very low key envirmonment. Bring your own wine, no corkage fee.
(4)
Benjoseph M.
If you live on the Westside you've come to know and love the small italian restaurant Alejo's. This used to be a great Italian restaurant, bustling with people, and fantastic food. However, my past couple experiences have been unsatisfactory. Once again a great family neighborhood restaurant has changed for the worse. Food is mediocre and atmosphere is like a cheap fast food place you would find in a food court except you are paying $15 plus for pasta dishes. I would probably even say Sbarro tastes better. They either changed owners or the chef left or quit. So sad. Bread is thick and chewy and pasta sauce taste like it came out of a bottle. This happened to a local Indian place, Hurry Curry. Their daughter took over and the food hasn't been the same since.. Another restaurant down the tubes. I guess good things don't last forever.
(2)
Keith R.
Strip mall parking, boo Pastas proper al dente Yay, no corkage fee
(4)
Bobena O.
This review is strictly for pizza to go. Called in a to go order. The lady on the phone made it seem like I was bothering her. The crust was chewy and not a good chewy. The cheese was not quality cheese either. Maybe their pasta dishes are the way to go here based on all the other reviews.
(2)
Anna K.
absolutely LOVE their bread dipping garlic olive oil! food is nothing special. pizza is a bit watery. but it's the garlic olive oil that makes me crave this place. yum-o!
(4)
Missy M.
Don't think you will ever see less than 5 stars. Went there years ago when it was called Alejos. Was on my Must Do list when I returned to CA. Seems like they changed the name to Eddie's in August. Just went there last month and the food is amazing and just as good as I remembered. The meatballs, the lasagne and of course the garlic/oil dip are an experience. Its a tiny place, but big in service and quality. Two thumbs up.
(5)
Sue Z.
i'm sorry alejos. what you served today was barely edible pasta, drenched in ready made alfredo sauce. the sauce was so heavy, that my partner couldn't taste the pasta. yes. the shrimps in there were great, but does that salvage the meal? my spinach and mushroom dish was about the same. pasta was a bit too aldente, with no remnants of spinach. the chopped mushrooms were nothing special, and ofcourse, too much red sauce. i understand my tastes have changed, since going to places like Il Pastaio, and Mosto Enoteca, where the dishes are made from scratch, and nothing is pre made. and once you've had it the way it SHOULD be, its very difficult to go back. but i'm not throwing the baby out with the bath water here. THREE SOLID THINGS TO GET HERE: bread with the garlic and olive oil dipping sauce. you can't go wrong. the bread is as chewy as ever, and you want to drench yourself in the dip. ALEJO'S CHOPPED SALAD. you know, the one with the magical dressing, that NO ONE can recreate at home. i usually get mine without the red meat. it's delicious, and if you order the bigger size, can be a meal on its own. THREE COLOR RAVIOLI i get mine with chicken, and the sauce does not completely cover it up. the chicken is fresh, and the taste, - great. all in all i would only come here for the bread and the salad. everything else on the menu can be substituted at other eateries, at similar prices, and much better quality.
(2)
Amy S.
Mmmmm...garlic! Alejo's is fantastic. Tasty food. Small price. Big portions. BYO. My boyfriend loves the eggplant mama mia...eggplant parm with some meat (what guy wouldn't love that). I go for the linguini pescatore...the best part is that you're not stuck with like 2 shrimp and 10 lbs of pasta, it's a nice, hearty portion of seafood mixed in with the linguini and sauce. Alejo's salad is fantastic. Pizzas are good too (go for th meatball). Veal marsala, amazing... There's really nothing that I don't like there. Don't expect white linen table cloth and beautiful stemware. Alejo's is loud, crowed, and your wine is served in a water glass...but who am I to complain because it's wine that I picked up at the 7-11 next door. However, if you were looking for something a little nicer, The Pasta Factory ,just down the street (on Washington, just before the Venice Peir) has the same owners of Alejo's and it's not BYO and you do get your wine in a wine glass. It's Alejo's only a little more in price and class.
(4)
Jo K.
My favorite hole in the wall Italian restaurant in LA. It's teeny tiny, and it's name sounds like a burrito joint, but everything I've tried on the menu is delish and they give you large portions. Even the bread is perfect and if you ask for some marinara sauce to dip it in, they're more then happy to oblige. I've been going here for 10 years, and it never disappoints. I think it's still BYOB (haven't checked lately) so bring in a bottle of wine.. One con- Parking SUCKS.. Try to find street parking!
(5)
Bill M.
You better love garlic! Food is great, no liquor. However, BYO or go to the 7-11 next door with a large selection of wines [not the typical 7-11]. Parking is an issue but well worth it.
(4)
Wen L.
When my friends first told me about Alejo's, I thought it was a Mexican spot. So when we pulled up to the restaurant one day, I was surprised to see "Presto Trattoria Italia" in the name. Who knew?! (Obviously, I didn't...) The place was small, and pretty much your run-of-the-mill hole-in-the-wall. At first instinct, I was expecting mediocre food. I was definitely surprised, however, by everything. The food was plentiful and flavorful. I remember delving into my eggplant parm (w/chicken!), and after a good half hour or so, it looked as if I hardly made a dent in it... but I had eaten a lot, and was already full. The food was that good --not in the sense that it was gourmet or anything, but it was good, no-nonsense COMFORT food...all in the confines of a cafeteria-like box. This spot is one where ambiance is clearly unnecessary. It's no Da Mimmo (if you're familiar with Baltimore's Little Italy), but the food does it's job. You will (more than likely) be coming back for more.
(4)
Lillian K.
Mmm... I love this place. First, the bread is absolutely amazing, especially with the olive oil and garlic dip they give you. Probably, you could fill yourself up on just that. I've never tried anything but their pastas, but they are delicious. I especially recommend any of their seafood pastas. The portions are big and generous. This place is always crowded and loud. Usually you're seated right up against the people at the table next to you. There's no ambiance. It's not romantic. But the food is solidly good and the prices are very reasonable for Italian.
(5)
Josue P.
The name has changed to eddies italian restaurant. Omg the food is so amazing. It is still under the same management just different name. I recommend this place to all my friends.
(5)
Lynn T.
When I moved to this side of town my boss and a few other co-workers vouched for this place. Since it was only a mile away, my boyfriend and I checked it out. BIG +++ because you can bring your own wine and no corkage fee. The 7-11 next door has a great selection for this reason but the prices are a bit more than average. First off they give you bread with the most potent garlic with oil dip. At first the strength of the garlic blows your mind and you can't decide if you like it or not. But then you find yourself going back for more and then you just can't stop. They have a great calamari for starters. The Alejo's or Italian chopped salads are fantastic with their own very unique dressing. I normally don't like sausage pizza but someone else ordered it with fresh basil and I had a slice and now it's the only thing I order. They have a dish that is an Eggplant Parm and Chicken Parm combined. yummy. We took couple from New York and they said it was the best italian they have had since moving to LA.
(5)
mike j.
I think an earlier reviewer touched on what i experienced, "ready made" pasta. I know what I have on two occasions, bland pasta. I don't like places because they happen to be inexpensive and have been in the community a long time. I like a quality meal, thats not what I have experienced. I think people give this place too much credit for no corkage as well. I would like a good meal, and I have not had one at Alejo's. I have never had the Pizza fyi, just pasta.
(2)
Cathleen C.
This is easily one of the best Italian restaurants on the West side. The one in Westchester is good, too, but I particularly love this location because it's such a hole-in-the-wall. It's small, crowded, loud and there's always a wait. There are some tables against the walls, but if you're lucky, you'll get a space at the "community" table that runs right down the middle of the restaurant and will actually have some interesting people sitting next to you that you can chat with -- it can be a really fun experience if you open yourself up to it. On to the food. Oh... Mah... GAWD! Of course everyone raves about the bread with the chopped garlic in olive oil dip -- pure GARLIC GOODNESS. It's okay to indulge as long as everyone else in your party is as well -- then you won't notice the garlic breath! Start off with a chopped salad. I think they put crack in the dressing because I actually do suffer withdrawals when I don't eat it at least once a week. For dinner, I recommend the lasagna with meat sauce. It's a large serving and sooo delicious that no matter how good I try to be... no matter how much I really want to take half of it home... it somehow disappears. Also, the Shrimp Diablo -- deeeeelicious! But really, no matter what you order, you can't go wrong. And don't forget to bring wine -- they don't sell it there and they don't charge a corkage fee, so if you want it, bring it. The other related restaurant -- the Pasta Factory down the street on Washington -- is also really good. I'm not privvy to the drama -- I think it was Alejo's wife that opened it or something like that -- many of the recipies are very similar and they salute him on the menu.... so I'm not sure. It's a bigger space and a bit more romantic and it's ALMOST as good as Alejo's.
(5)
Romy L.
small space, order to- go; share huge portions. garlic lovers fantasy
(5)
T Z.
Good italian restaurant, with good bread and garlic dip.
(4)
Ben Z.
I've only tried Alejo's pizza and it easily one of the, if not THE best slice in town. If you're very hungry and order take-out be prepared to eat the pizza in the car on the way home and make sure you don't lose control of the vehicle from the oil on the steering wheel. It's definitely tasty enough to risk getting into a car accident, which says a lot. The garlic bread and tiramisu are also delicious. Friendly service, a little cramped for dining, so I prefer take-out. The other location on Lincoln and Manchester is also very good (and more spacious). A fantastic restaurant. You won't be disappointed.
(5)
Yasmine T.
I got the chicken cacciatore, and It was enough food for 3 days. The food was really good, and they have no shame in using garlic. They also have yummy bread. Its perfect for lunch or take out dinner
(4)
Weimin C.
Alejo is one of my favorite restaurant. I've been there or ordered take-out many many times. And their garlic olive oil is always my favorite. But yesterday, the first time I had bad experience with them. When I went pick up my to-go order, I noticed that the garlic olive oil may leak in the plastic bag. So when I went back to my bad, I opened the bag to check. Instead of the yummy smell I always got from the garlic olive oil, this time, it smells. I even opened the jar to check. No, they didn't smell right to me. It's bad. When I went home, after many times of confirmation. I still think that the garlic olive oil is bad, so I threw both jars away. And I made a call to Alejo, 'cause I really don't want this kind of situation happens again to my favorite place. I talked to a staff lady first, she sounded nice. Then the phone is transferred to an older lady. She didn't say sorry, she just explained garlic is grounded, blah blah blah ... they're fresh.....blah.....anyway, I realized my call won't change anything. If this would happen, then this will happen again regardless I made this call or not, 'cause she didn't take my words at all. It's a pity. Farewell, Alejo.
(2)
Esther T.
Alejo's was great! I love the hole in the wall atmosphere. No pretension, decent prices and great food. Sure, it's cramped, the tables and chairs are bare bones and there aren't candles and flowers. You want romance? Bring someone you love. The service was efficient and attentive. The free bread and garlic-infused olive oil was amazing. That could be a meal in itself. The Italian chopped salad was excellent! It wasn't drowning in dressing and it was very tasty. We tried the pasta and chicken dishes, both of which were very good and had good sauces. The best part, of course, is bringing your own wine and beer.
(4)
Jaime T.
This is one of those places that you would keep driving by because the location is so bad. It's right next to a donut shop and a 711. The moment you walk in, you smell garlic--and lots of it. If I were a vampire, I'd have to stay away that's for sure. You get a basket of light, fluffy bread and olive oil infused garlic. Yes, I said that right---it's not garlic infused oil, but oil infused garlic--to start your meal off with. The portions are huge and certainly the fare is much better than the decor. Their meat sauce is savory, infused with flavor and lots of it. The menu is simple so you don't have to worry about fou fou pseudo italian fare. Good prices, good service and good food. You can also bring your own wine and for a small corkage fee.
(3)
Sylvia C.
This is one of my best lunch spots. Just make sure you have no date planned for the evening. The garlic oil spread along with their house bread is addicting + a splash of vinegar. I still reek of garlic by mid afternoon. Its a great place to share - well thats my eating style. I would get an Alejo's Salad and Spaghetti Carbonara. The half size is plenty, while the full size overstuffs you!
(4)
Jim A.
The place is small, noisy, there is no parking, and sometimes you have to wait for one of the limited tables. That being said, I travel from Hollywood about seven or eight times a year to get the taste of Alejo's in my mouth. Take someone and split a chopped salad. You start with truly wonderful bread and garlic/olive oil to help it down. Its great. The Lasagna is the best and it's the size of your head. It's what I order 52.532% of the time, give or take a point. Anyone south of 150 lbs. might not be able to finish their meal. Even a simple dish like spaghetti and meatballs has a high yum factor. The pizza is better than some I have had in Italy. Try the Alejo's pizza with four fresh cooked clams on it. If you want wine, they don't sell it but bring your own and they will serve it to you. Usually the wait is no longer than about 10 minutes. I found parking in the evenings across the street where the blinds store is, is no problem and that center is usually mostly closed at that time and seems to work. Prices are very reasonable, portions are generous and quality of food is really world class. If you are within 30 minutes of Alejo's, do yourself a favor and go there once, that's all it will take.
(5)
Tyler N.
I honestly do not know why everyone is giving this restaurant good reviews because I barely EVER write reviews, let alone give bad ones. This place is awful, plain and simple. The pasta is low low quality and prices are high. If you have ever had good Italian you will be disgusted. Not good.
(2)
marlon e.
i hate this place!
(5)
Alice C.
This is by far my favorite Italian restaurant and I think I actually like it more because it is a hole in the wall. I've been going to Alejo's since I was a wee little lass and I am addicted to their fresh homemade bread and marinara sauce! I used to always order the spinach fettucini with pesto and mix in marinara, but since I don't eat cheese at restaurants (you never know whether the cheese is rennetless or not) I now get it sans pesto. These people make the simplest dishes absolutely incredible! I can even bring my stubborn "I don't eat Italian at restaurants because I know how to make pasta" boyfriend here, and he fully enjoys himself :) Oh, and for my elders: it's BYOB--no corkage fee!
(5)
Mariah S.
I love the simple, good Italian food here. It is awesome that there is no corkage fee. I took a few friends there the other night...it was their first time there and my friend ordered the "homemade" chocolate moose. They were out, but instead of saying so, the waiter brought rock hard, store bought moose cake that was not edible. I was a little disappointed and I wouldn't recommend ordering dessert.
(3)
Ed T.
Dear Alejos, You are on of my favorite pasta places, I never had problems getting a table. Your pasta portions are so big, they fill me up and possibly some leftovers! You know that never happens with many restaurants. Also where do you get your bread? Its so tasty especially with that garlic dip you provide, I could eat that days on end but then I'd scare away everyone but at least I could ward off vampires with my garlic breath. I did eat with an acquaintance who got your pasta with meat sauce which was extremely lacking in the meat department. They are best off ordering yoru meatballs and breaking it up into the pasta sauce for a better experience. SIncerely, Ed
(4)
Janet T.
Hole in the wall located on the corner of Lincoln & Washington. I give this place a two thumbs up! Small restaurant nestled near a 7-11 with a super small parking lot to match. I'm not a huge italian fan but I found that the food here was really good and very authentic. It's a BYOB establishment so don't forget your bottle of wine...they don't charge a corking fee either! Try the spaghetti & meatballs, Seafood pasta ever which had mounds of squid and shrimp piled high. Don't forget to try the yummy caesars salad....the best that I've ever tasted! No joke. In any case, the service was good and the prices were fair therefore I give my seal of approval. :)
(4)
Lindsey J.
If what you are looking for is good portions of good food at good prices, this is the place. Its not some fancy schmancy place, which builds its character and reminds you that you go there for the food. The bread and garlic olive oil they serve are worth the visit alone. BYOB makes it chill and the servers are always attentive and friendly.
(4)
Judy H.
This place is a good neighborhood kind of restaurant. The portions are huge and very reasonably priced. The food is good and the best part is you get to bring your own beer or wine with no corkage fee. The place is small and there can be a wait so probably not best for large groups.
(3)
Themetro M.
I am a regular here at this location and the one near LAX. This past Saturday we stopped by for dinner and were disapointed with the service. not only that, but the salad we asked for was somehow chopped, which we did not ask for, which left us eating tiny bits of salad which seemed mulched. Service was haphazard and far from attentive. I was generous on the tip though, all things considered. Be careful if you get table by the front door which they had cranked wide open at 8:00 pm at night into a parking lot and 60 degrees or less temperature.....not cool.
(2)
Ken N.
Update: We've been here three times this week and have had the Sausage Pizza, the Meatball Pizza, and the chopped salad, to go along with the Pizza Raviata we had the first time. OMG. Is that excessive? We're addicted to the bread, we're addicted to the garlic and olive oil, and we're addicted to the pizza, which is among the cheesiest, most savory pizzas we've ever had. And guess what? No wine or beer, but no corkage fees, either. Nice! One star off only because it ain't pretty inside...but it sure is good! *** Well, you'll have to take the words of my friends Arlene and Jerry, who come here with their tall brood Alex and Lily, and have had many excellent meals here, or you can also take it from the articulate and helpful Hope, who always gives it to ya straight. I've only tried their pizza, but WHAT a pizza: First of all, they told us it'd be ready in fifteen minutes and it WAS ready in fifteen minutes. Second of all, as I stood at the counter, I got to watch them make the sauce for the shrimp diablo, and when he poured the sauce on some pasta, then scraped the rest off the sauce pan straight into the garbage, I was tempted to say, "uh...I'll clean that pan for you, buddy. Got a little bit of bread?" But this is about the pizza: Pizza Raviata: Veal. Yes, you heard that right. The tender meat from tortured baby cows. So good. Roasted peppers, tangy black olives, and crushed red chili to occasionally give your taste buds a serious goose...and...anchovies. Lots of 'em. Yum. Thin crust, cheesy, garlicky - it might just be better than Pizza Antica. The bread - the chewy, complex, dusty bread that they give you with your take-out (and presumably when you eat in) - is as good as it is homely. You think, "What is this, leftover pizza dough?" and then you bite in. Mmm. The ambiance - nolo contendere. I really suggest taking out, because this is a tiny place in a tiny strip mall right in the crotch of where Washington meets Lincoln, and if you can imagine that, then you know what I mean. The food that I had - one dish - probably not enough to give the full five star treatment because after all, I only had one pizza (one that just about killed the three of us, by the way - death by engorgement, a good sign!) . The things I've witnessed and the things I've heard about....well, I'll just have to go back for more and add to this review as the opportunity presents itself.
(4)
Gemma R.
This restaurant shame's most other Italian spots that I know of in LA. It's a total "hole in the wall" and when you pull up as I did on a first date - I remember thinking "oh god"! That was 7 years ago and I am still with that same "date" - soon to be married and we go to Alejo's for our anniversary every year and as many times as we can in between. Whenever we have visitors from out of town - we take them, my parents (quite fussy) LOVED IT. What's more is - you can take your own wine/beer and they will open it for you and not even charge a corkage fee!!! We were in there one time and Donald Sutherland of all people was sitting behind us slurping his spagetti. If you have not tried this place - I would HIGHLY recommend that you do!
(5)
L M.
I love you Alejos! I always eat here to load up on carbs before a long run. I've never eaten inside I've just done takeout. They are very fast and you just park in the back alley lot. The portions are HUGE which is great cause for one person it could last you 2-3 meals. The dinners also come with a lot of bread and garlic dipping sauce which I love.
(5)
Gloria S.
I balked on reviewing this place on Yelp because I wanted it to remain a secret..but looks like the secret's out so I'll contribute to the chorus of praise. Yeah yeah, I hear you naysayers who poo-poo at their "not authentic Italian food"...well fine, then don't eat here, and open some tables up for the rest of us who love the garlic, garlic and more garlic. The bread and garlic & olive oil is enough to fill me up even before my ginormous meal comes. Order a side of marinara, mix it with the olive oil, and it's heaven. As for main courses, I alternate between the chicken picatta and chicken marsala, both sinfully steeped in wine. I tried the arrabiatta the other day, and it was also delicious and spicy. Don't go here on a first (or even second or third) date, as you will be sweating out the garlic for days. I mean, unless you're into that kind of thing. In which case, I hope I don't run into you at Alejo's.
(5)
Kay N.
I love Alejo's! Sure it's a little cramped and the service is a little slow but it's great food and no corkage fee! I had the linguine pescatore and my boyfriend had the three color veal ravioli. Both dishes were excellent. We wolfed down everything and sopped up whatever was left on our plates until everything was gone. Definitely don't go here on a first date because you will have garlic breath for the rest of the night for sure unless you are willing to forego the tasty garlic dipping oil. Their garlic olive oil tasted like heaven to me but it can't be great for a budding romance. Also, depending on who you might end up sitting next to, you might end up unintentionally overhearing other patrons' entertaining but highly inappropriate private conversations--we learned a great deal about cheating on your sigo and getting arrested for acid use. Entertaining, yes, but also not very good for a first date.
(4)
Megan T.
As one of the first "hole-in-the-wall" local secrets my dad and I tried out when I moved to LA, Alejo's will always hold a special place in my heart. *Food: Delicious! Huge portions (easily two meals each) served hot and fresh. Their pesto chicken pasta is fantastic. The Shrimp Diablo (sp?) is sinus-clearing spicy and oh-so-good. *Drink: BYO - there's a convenient 7-11 next door, and Alejo's is cool about providing glasses *Price: A little on the high end, for a hole, but not prohibitively so. *The Wait: Almost as legendary as Alejo's itself. I think we went at like 4:30 on a Wednesday or something . . .it wasn't unbearable, but I can see how it would definitely get crazy around dinnertime. I wish I had something outrageous to say about this tiny little strip mall surprise, but honestly it is just a good, solid, LA staple.
(4)
Roxy S.
LOVE THIS PLACE. BUT, hate the parking and wish they delivered.
(5)
Min T.
Probably one of the best chopped salads I've ever had! And the other fine options aren't bad either. They will happily give you more garlic sauce if you want it though you hardly need it since everything is heavily garlic-ed. But being a garlic fiend and non-vampire, I love the extra sauce for the yummy bread they give you by the pound. Some tips: call ahead and take out! Alejo's is an awesome choice for catering a small house party. One party tray can probably feed all your hungry friends. And don't forget a tray of the chopped salad. Mmm, Alejo's chopped salad! Also, park on the street around the corner (yes, on that somewhat shady street!) instead of the definitely shady parking lot. I've witnessed too many near misses and bad drivers on cell phones trying to park one-handed here.
(4)
Theo C.
Found this restaurant on yelp (thanks guys!), and sure enough, it lived up to its reputation. I ordered the chicken picatta, which was really good. My girlfriend ordered a caesar salad with chicken, which she approved of. Beer and wine is priced well, with most beers in the $3.50 range. Our total for dinner, 2 beers and one glass of wine was $42.XX - not bad at all! The restaurant was crowded and loud, but I think it matched the "family Italian" theme. Parking was a little tight, but I found a spot on an adjacent street. Overall, it was great! Definitely give this place a try!
(5)
Vanessa L.
Mota brought me here tuesday. I was slightly demoralized by feeling like i shamed myself at WOW and I was not too excited about filling up on carbs when he brought up italian, i was less excited by the site of a strip mall, but boy was i wrong...on all counts! SOOOOOOOOOOOOO yummy was this place. decor: ehhh, ambience: ehhh, food, amazingly good and affordable. BYOB which we will do next time. the yummy goodness began with the arrival of a basket of bread with the most successfully GARLIC INFUSED OLIVE OIL i've every had! Being garlic lovers, we were not afraid (mind you, after a little orbit later, brushing my teeth upon getting home, again in the middle of the night and not until the morning brush, did the lovely aroma leave my body...so gooooooooooooood. i ordered a special, linguine a la mar, seafood filled plate in a light tomato sauce that could serve four really, next time we'll share. Although Mota had no problem cleaning his plate of Shrimp linguine from our skating workout...delicious authentic italian...that came up unbelievably quickly. The staff was fantastically attentive even thought the place was in close quarters it wasn't crowded by our 8:30ish arrival and it felt like a long leisurely dinner as we closed the place down at 10pm. in the words of one, governor schwarzenegger... i'lll be back.
(4)
Ken N.
One of my fav Italian restaurants in LA metro. I manage to inhale the carbonara every time and wash it down with a carafe of its house wine...all that after a couple of baskets of rolls soaked in the garlic olive oil mixture. Oh man, I'm craving it as i write this review.
(5)
Tracey Lee D.
After the debacle at Valentino's, Kim and I decided to come here for our main course. This place is tiny, and it is in a tiny little strip mall, but it has a great feel to it. It's just one small room, packed with tables, and the kitchen is right there with you. It's busy and loud, but you can tell just by walking in the food is going to be great. We waited for a short time for a table, and then got down to business. They brought us a large basket of yummy bread, with plenty of dipping oil. We ordered and our food was out in a very short amount of time. I got the gnocchi pesto, and it was SO GOOD and I had tons of left overs for later! Possibly my new favorite gnocchi. My sister got some fish dish, and she liked it too. This place is a total hole-in-the-wall, but don't let the looks of the place deceive you-- it is worth a visit!
(5)
Noah G.
I hadn't been here in years until a couple weeks ago. We decided to actually eat in there for the first time, since my dinner partner and I found parking in the lot outside next to a sleeping homeless guy and his shopping cart. I was always a fan of their bread and garlic and oil and their awesome Eggplant Parmesan, but we shared a chopped salad and a vegetable pizza. Unfortunately, the pizza was very bland and we only had a few pieces of it and took the rest home. The crust was good, but I couldn't taste the sauce at all. The salad and dressing was good and big, enough for two people The warm oil with garlic and bread that I remembered so fondly was just gross. The bread and garlic and oil were both exceptionally cold and I realized this time that just chopping up 40 cloves of garlic and pouring olive oil over it is really nothing special or very good. I suppose I'd be willing to go back if I was in the area to try the Eggplant Parmesan again, but I won't go out of my way again.
(3)
David Q.
Alejo's is maybe the best pasta stop for the buck. Trying to find this place is maybe the hardest thing to do, but once you do, park the car and run in to get a seat while your friends run into the neighboring 7-11 to get some booze. Once you get the complimentary bread, dig in, because it is mmm mmm good. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu. My girl and I can usually share a bowl of spaghetti or fettuccine. But if you're really hungry, your should probably have your own. The only warning I should make is that their food is known to be full of garlic. Trust me, you'll wake up in the morning with that taste no matter how much mouth wash you use. If you can get past that, then you'll enjoy Alejo's just fine.
(5)
Mike F.
For a small place in Venice, this place is super low key except for the fact that people wait here for a long time to get seated. And you know what, its damn worth it. Stared eating here when I first moved out to Marina Del Rey and loved it since. Every time I eat calamari, for some reason, I always compare ANY calamari to this place. Lightly fried and great portions along with their fantastic dipping sauce makes this dish one of my favorites. I had their garlic chicken with spinach fettucini and it left me saying "Call 911! I think my water broke!" My only knock on this place is that parking is a pain the nalgas and be careful of all the parking signs in the neighborhood cause the parking patrols are ALWAYS looking for an excuse out here.
(4)
Stacey H.
I have to thank Yelp for finding this place. I drove by it hundreds of times or stared at it blankly while stuck in traffic but never considered going here. Once I read the BYOB newsletter I was all about it. I liked the vibe of this place. Good, affordable food and I was interested to see also what bottles of wine made their way into the restaurant. We decided to bring one of our nicer bottles and we really enjoyed not paying three times the value of the wine just to drink it in a restaurant. I ordered the Chopped Italian Salad and loved it! A big mound of fresh tasting lettuce and ingredients with their house dressing. When I order a salad I want a SALAD, which I surely got. My boyfriend ordered a seafood dish (Linguini Pescatore), which is another plus as similar dishes cost twice as much anywhere else. I have heard from friends that the pizzas are where it's at but I have a feeling I will stick to the pastas and salads for a while longer.
(5)
Jason G.
My Alejo's Presto theory: Some guy named Alejo narrowly escapes being killed by vampires in Italy by moving to LA and opening a restaurant in the least conspicuous spot imagineable. The evidence? Alejo's is located in a tiny strip mall located at perhaps the busiest intersection in Venice. Last place a vampire would look. He floods the space with lights to keep the undead away till sunrise. Every bite of food is stocked with enough garlic to blast Dracula out of the entire Pacific time zone. You do the math. That aside, this is surprisingly good Italian food for us living folk. There's no liquor license (because red wine brings back too many bad memories I suspect) but you can get a fine vintage at that classic and knowledgeable cellar of wines next door- 7-11.
(4)
Cokopui Z.
Usually, I'm not a big fan of dipping bread into olive oil but after my last trip to Alejos I'm one dipping fool. I never realized what I've been missing out. Please kick me. I don't know how they do it but the percentage of olive oil with the garlic is like no other. The zing it leaves in your mouth will have you coming back for more. What I like mostly about this place is it's a no nonsense, non pretentious neighborhood eatery. Yes it is small but that gives it character. Any bigger and it'll loose the intimacy of dinning with personalized attention. The portions are big so pace yourself or use the leftovers for lunch. Food is always fresh and always delicious. You will not be disappointed.
(4)
CMR L.
Their Alfredo sauce is great. Their pizza's are really good too. It's a cozy little place close to home. Their portions are huge, I always have leftovers.
(4)
Gol D.
The tiny strip mall hardly accommodates parking for larger vehicles. If you are do not mind close quarters, then this is a great place for a quick, delicious dinner. BYOB is a definite must and no corkage fee. Sweet. This is a place I go for specific menu items, every time. Between two people, you can share the Italian chopped salad, the fried calamari with an additional side of pesto. I like to order the special pizza with thinly sliced meatballs and green olives and linguine and clams. I occasionally order a different pasta. Just love the clams. The portions are plenty and we still have leftovers for later. SO good.
(5)
Stephanie C.
I wanted to like this place...it had all the elements of a good italian restaurant. Great sounding menu, unassuming strip mall location, and its a byob! However, both the food and the service failed miserably. I ordered a seafood dish consisting of spinach fettucine, chicken, shrimp, calamari, onions, and peppers in a garlic wine sauce. Sounded tasty however it just didn't deliver for me. The seafood was not fresh and was tiny. The pasta was not cooked right and everything was floating in a thin tasteless sauce. My friend ordered the spaghetti carbonara and it was even worse. The sauce was bland and did not taste the slightest bit homemade. Both of us barely touched our meals and had no desire to box them or ever return again. Not quite sure how this place gets good reviews. Its probably fine if you didn't grow up eating good italian food but this place doesn't pass. I have however ordered pizza to go before and that was not bad. Maybe just need to stick to the basics.
(2)
rachel m.
Absolutely delicious food in a totally busted hole-in-the-wall restaurant. The portions are huge and super garlicky (so don't plan on chatting up anyone except the people you dined with after dinner). They also let you BYOB with no corkage fee, which is awesome. This is most definitely NOT a good first date restaurant; it's in a little strip mall wedged between a 7-11, a laundromat and a donut shop.... perfect for the 34th date.
(4)
M G.
** Review is for the Westchester location** Home-style, neighborhood Italian restaurant where dishes can be shared. I won't say it's "the best" but it's solid and the restaurant is kid friendly. Also great for takeout or delivery in the local area. (I've done both.) I believe they take reservations for large groups but with large banquet tables and two rooms it's usually easy and quick to get seated. Favorite dish is the seafood pepino. Unless you've starved yourself before the meal, this dish is large enough to share. The flavor is outstanding and their generous with the seafood ingredients. The garlic sauce and complimentary bread is a great starter and addictive. You will taste the garlic until you brush your teeth and possibly still the next morning. Don't fill up too much so you can save some room for the actual meal. My other regular dish is the eggplant parmesan which comes with a small side of spaghetti. Service is great -- almost psychic or they have impeccable hearing. The only thing I don't recommend here is the dessert. I don't think any are made on the premise and I know the tiramisu came out of box. But after eating all that food, you shouldn't have much room for dessert. Good value for the money.
(5)
Eddie K.
This review is long over due. I have been coming to this place for years. This is a great place. Most of the items on the menu are really good. I say most because I haven't gotten around to order them all. The place is tiny and crowded but the food really made up for it. The only real complain that I have is the parking, but that doesn't really stop us from eating here.
(4)
Nate B.
For a place that doesn't look like much (in a dirty looking strip mall) the food is very good. Its one of my favorite restaurants for chicken parmesan.
(4)
Ema S.
So I finally tried this place everyone raves about....and I finally know what they are talking about! Little hole int he wall place, looks a little shady, dirty....but it was packed! It was hilarious to see everyone going next door to the 711 to either buy beer or wine for dinner. Its cool that they allow you to bring in your own alcohol, so of course I took full advantage! We went next door and got 2 delicious Stella's and sat down. The kitchen is literally right in front of you so its noisy but at least you can see them cooking. We had a couple of appetizers and one entree. I wasn't too hungry so I skipped on the entree. But I did have taste. Everything is covered in cheese.....YAY!!! I heart cheese. My BF ordered the chicken Marsala which you really couldn't see the chicken since there was like 10 layers of cheese covering it! Awesome! Cant wait to come back and order something different and actually eat...rather than drink
(4)
Derek M.
Ugly location with heckling drunk bums out front, ugly exterior, ugly cramped interior. But good food. I used to give this place 5 stars. But last time i got the Sea Bass. It actually was kind of odd tasting in both my opinion and my gf. A diner next to me returned her whole plate of food complaining it tasted wierd. Hopefully, that was just an anomaly and this place can get back on track. Smells like garlic for miles around. Bring your own wine.
(3)
Meg B.
I have a tough time giving this place four wholehearted stars, but I'll give it to them anyway. Their tomato sauces are great, but don't come here hoping for any great alfredo -- it's decidedly creamy but lacking cheese, which is really what it's all about, isn't it? The service is friendly and prompt, and the bread and garlic olive oil are killer-- I think I wreaked of garlic for the rest of the weekend. They have a really reasonably priced menu, and you can even get a small portion of any of their pastas if you're not feeling like a champ the night of your visit. What this place really lacks above all, though, is atmosphere. There is a FANTASTIC portrait of a lady with awesome, blown out and teased mom hair circa 1989, but aside from that there is nothing to be said for the decor. The lighting, while not fluorescent as other reviewers have claimed, is clearly not on a dimmer system and it would benefit greatly from one. It's a really casual place, and it sort of just feels like a pizza parlor that happens to mostly serve pasta... In summary: the food is reasonably priced, it's a nice change of pace from the circus that is C&O's, and you'll get to look at that awesome portrait for a while, which is probably worth the trip alone.
(4)
Aghavni W.
Probably my favorite Italian restaurant in LA. The food is delicious and affordable. They really don't waste their time on ambiance so it's very simple and crowded inside. It sounds like a loud Italian family dinner. They don't have alcohol on the menu but it's BYOB (no corkage fee) and 7-11 next door had a decent wine selection. Makes for a very yummy and fun night!
(5)
Owen H.
This place is a great dive Italian place. Great food, homey feel. Not a date place. More a lunch or rush dinner place. But good food.
(5)
estelle s.
Things that are excellent: -the food: high quality, delicious, flavorful -WATCH OUT: they offer unlimited bread and it will make you full before you can eat your delicious meal!! -their servers are very friendly Things people should take notice of: while some may consider the size and space of the place to be too congested, i think it offers the character that is alejo's. from outside, it is a whole in the wall italian place between a stale donut shop and 7-11. inside is a warm, delicious frenzy! i would probably not take more than a party of four there, but if you are up for the shoulder to shoulder challenge it would be fun nonetheless. make sure to make reservations first! i don't think i would ever go to another italian place. it is just around the corner, and always welcoming no matter how long the wait!
(5)
Jennifer H.
A real gem. Delicious and authentic Italian food, friendly service, ridiculously cheap prices and a 7-11 serving liquor in the same strip mall (since there's no corkage fee here)? It's fantastic. It's not chic, but I think Italian food is best served messy and tasty with minimal fuss and that's exactly what Alejo's does. If I lived closer, I'd carry out all the time. As it is, it is entirely worth the drive to Marina Del Rey for pizzas that rival Mozza's.
(5)
Tom S.
Great local find, quality food, asap service and BYO..back table on right makes a super hot date! Did I mention it's BYO??
(4)
Debby D.
Really not all that impressive. I was very disappointed after all the top reviews other yelpers gave this place. I got a simple Alfredo and it was very bland. I put a ton of extra cheese on it and that didn't help. Even a dash of salt didn't help. I did like the garlic dipping oil. Super garlicky!
(2)
N. C.
Simple and good pasta dishes! This is one place that my friends and myself would go back again and again. It's not fancy food couture, but really good traditional italian dishes.
(3)
NYSD G.
we tried the place because a few of the reviewers said it was east coast italian style food. they were right based on the menu, preparation and the side dish you got with your meal. there are plenty of italian places when ordering a veal marsala or chicken parm you end up getting a side of roasted potatoes, screw that give me some penne with garlic and oil or some long pasta with marinara with my veal. yeah, in italy the pasta is not with the main dish more like a starter but not in new york. seating were a pinch when you sat in the middle tables but it was a great way to see what others were eating. the place would've been 4 to 5 stars for me if it weren't for their overpowering garlic in their sauces. the chicken parm had great breading and the sauce was very good when it wasn't being overpowered by the garlic. when i tried my wifes seafood pasta dish i thought maybe her gravy wouldn't have as much garlic but it did. does anyone know if you can ask them to be light on the garlic? again if the garlic wasn't so overpowering the restaurant would be a gem but its hard to eat that much garlic no matter how good it is for you.
(3)
Sean G.
This place gets five stars just for the face that you can bring your own wine and they do not charge you and will uncork it and serve it to you for free. We used to drive by thinking it was a dumpy mexican restaurant but now this is one of our favorite Italian restaurants. We won't start a meal without a chopped salad. It is so good and easy to share. The bread and garlic oil is amazing, but hard to get your breath to not stink after eating it. The shrimp diablo is a bit too hot, you lose the flavor. The regular tomato sauce is to die for. The pizza is good and thin. they have one with clams on it which is good. We've never made it to desert and always gone home with leftovers. The bill is never over $40 and we eat like pigs. The parking is a little dicey. Try the street behind. also make sure you bring your own wine b/c the 7-11 has a good selection but is ridiculously expensive for the kinds of cheap wine they carry. You can also get the food to go which is great for week nights.
(5)
dodo d.
What i like about this place - huge portions, friendly servers, great food!! One serving is more than enough for 2 or more people, depends on how much you eat. Be careful not to eat too much of the bread + yummy garlic in olive oil before the main course arrives!!
(4)
Diana G.
Back when I lived around the corner from this place with my ex, we used to walk over for dinner, pop into the 7-11 next door for a bottle of wine, and wait for a table in the parking lot of the little strip mall. We felt like were were in on a great L.A. secret--a place with good, cheap food. Sure, there are places to get good food, and plenty of cheap eats, but cheap AND good? Ah, how I miss Alejo's... The pasta is yummy and freshly prepared--I know because you can see everything that happens in the kitchen, which is practically in the same room as the dining tables--but my favorite thing about Alejo's, the thing that gets my mouth watering just thinking about it, is the garlic dipping sauce that they serve along with bread when you sit down at your table. The garlic is freshly chopped and HOT and soaking in olive oil, and we would devour the entire bowl and demand more. Another thing I liked about Alejo's is that it's so small and the tables are so close together that it becomes a communal dining experience. If you end up sitting at the long table in the center of the room, you'll end up rubbing elbows with the couple sitting next to you, and if you're lucky maybe they'll offer to share their shiraz with you.
(4)
lil l.
Everything is garlic-infused, and when you leave you will be too. Ever since I left Marina Del Rey, I left my heart with Alejo's as well. It's just around the corner in the seedy strip mall: parking is a tight squeeze, but if you forget your bottle of vino, pick one up at the 7-11. Stuff yourself with the soft bread dipped in olive oil and smile at your neighbor when you bump elbows. When you dig into that pasta or seafood or veal, you'll sigh with content. Their best desserts run out pretty quickly, but if you can nab some, better hope you left room for it.
(4)
Rodney w.
This place is great. You either love it or hate it , thee is no middle ground. The Venice location is small, crowded,horrid lighting , and the parking non existent. That is part of the charm , huddle among your fellow humans in a garlic filled room clutching your wine purchase from the 7 Eleven, while you contemplate what saucy dish you will consume tonight. When you finally do sit down the attentive waiter will be quick to open your wine and plop down a loaf of crusty french bread and a bowl of olive oil swimming with garlic. after ordering and gazing at the poor sods who are still waiting for a table , your piping hot meal arives before you have completely devoured your Italian Chopped Salad. No worries you can take that home with the left over linguini with clams, and Chicken Parm. Yum. If you can get past the initial hurdles of the place , it proves to be well worth the visit. Cheers
(4)
Lily H.
We walked in unannounced at around 6 pm on a Tuesday night, and seemed lucky to get a table (well, the back room was empty but for a table with two ladies, but they seemed like a special case). They bring out bread and a cup of chopped garlic held together with a little olive oil -- very spicy! Both our dishes, the Shrimp al Diablo and the linguine pescatori are made with the garlic/wine/tomato sauce, but I preferred the spicing (and heat) of my shrimp sauce to my husband's sauce. Also, his sauce seemed a little salty, especially with all the seafood. The pricing seemed fairly good for Italian food (which, in my experience, almost always equates with expensive)
(4)
An L.
This place is the best. We have been going here for years, and not only is the food awesome, but the service staff, who have been there for years, is really really nice. We will make the trek from the eastside to go here - one of the few exceptions we will make. And it's well worth it. Besides the entrees, it's BYOB, and they serve you yummy bread with oil and garlic. It took years but we've gotten ourselves to a point where we don't load up too much on the bread to save room for the entrees. But it doesn't really matter because the entrees are so big that there's always leftovers to bring home. And it tastes even better the next day! Yums!
(5)
Sarah K.
Never again! It is absolutely understandable why the restaurant is named a Spanish name of Alejo's instead of an Italian name. My pasta was WELL WELL WELL past the al dente stage and was so covered in an unfreshly made tomato sauce that one could hardly taste the way overcooked pasta. It was inedible! I could have made better Italian food with my eyes closed by randomly grabbing stuff in my kitchen. Don't go here expecting people to understand "Mi piace" anything. If anyone working here knows more than one language Italian is not one of them and they know nothing about true Italian cooking!!!!! It is definately a quantity over quality restaurant so fat cheap skates with no taste buds are the one's giving it high reviews!
(1)
Aaron D.
1 word. GARLIC. love it!
(4)
John L.
Part 2 of the Lincoln/Washington Strip Mall Series 4th Time Around As has been mentioned earlier, Alejo's shortcomings are evident immediately - a cramped, nearly claustrophobic jumble of tables, fluorescent lights reminiscent of being in a costco, and the dreaded garlic stained walls. But only after this wonderfully non-descript first impression, does the true magic of this place start to assert itself. You can sense there's an element of deception going on, Alejo's is hiding something from you. Only if you manage to stick around, can you discover the secret. Maybe Mama Alejo purposely likes to keep the expectations low, to strip off the kitchsy Italian decor, and get back to the basics, so those brave souls who don't scamper away with fiery garlic breath are sure to be pleasantly surprised when the actual meal arrives. The shrimp al diablo, shrimp with linguini in their trademark wine/tomato sauce, is a good choice; and they manage to bring something new to classic Italian fare such as lasagna and parmigiana. As a postscript: There are many valid debates about whether this is "authentic" Italian or not. True, the flavors here are quite a bit different and lack the variety that I've sampled in the old country, but I don't think that detracts from Alejo's quality. To the contrary, arguments revolving around authenticity are moot when quality is the issue. Especially when the value of food and price are excellent, particularly for an American restaurant hiding in a strip mall in Marina del Rey.
(4)
Tina D.
I don't know why this place gets 4 stars. This is my second time here. Maybe I would have given it 3 stars last time? maybe? The portions are huge. I've had the cobb salad before and didn't care for it. i went here last week and felt that the food was pretty standard. I ordered the Egglant parm with chicken. The eggplant was good but hte bed of spaghetti noodles were standard. I can probably buy the eggplant parm from the frozen section of Trader joes and make something even yummier. My bf got some pasta and the sauce was very watery so he didn't enjoyed it much either. We probably will never go back.
(2)
pedro p.
Great food. Friendly staff. Cheap alcohol (from 7-11, no corkage).
(4)
Mike B.
I've been a semi-regular at Alejo's going back nearly a decade. For reasons having nothing to do with the restaurant its self, this past weekend was my first visit in more than a year. Unfortunately, I would be hard pressed to convince myself to return. My favorite dish has always been the Shrimp Al Diablo. I absolutely loved the wine infused sauce, with just right level of heat. In the past I've had to ask for extra bread to wipe my plate clean of every delicious drop. Well, on this recent visit I can say that the sauce was just as good as I remember. But for a $15 dish they could have done far better than the 7-8 frozen SALAD shrimp they insulted me with. Not only were the shrimp small and of poor quality, but I'm pretty sure they got me sick. I am being fair in giving them 2 stars. The service was still friendly enough and who could ever get enough of the hearty bread and garlic drenched olive oil. Even giving them the benefit of doubt and assuming they were having a supplier problem (and not just cutting corners), next time please just take the item off the menu rather than get your patrons sick.
(2)
rob g.
The time of alejos has come and gone.... they do still have no corkage fee and you can stroll in with a group of friends and a 6 pack of beer and all is well.... BUT the food has completely gone down hill in the last couple of years.... a few years back it was amazing and hands down the best classic little Italian restaurant in all of Venice and Santa Monica.... but those days are long gone.... the spaghetti carbonara , pasta pomodora , seafood pastas , chicken parmesan , etc.... none taste even close to as good as they used too.... bottom line is if it were 4 years ago id give this place a 5 but the way the food is now it has to go down as a 2... i do truly hope they bring there food level back to where it was years ago.... if it ain't broke don't fix it !!!
(2)
Danny C.
This is a total hole in te wall joint, and it's totally good. This is probably more of a 4.5 star review, but I can't put in the extra star, as the best Italian food I've been to has to be the hole in the wall joint I found in NYC. The garlic dip they give you before the meal, wow. Seriously, it was THAT good. I think I almost filled up just on the bread and I had to watch it, otherwise I'd have no room for my main course. I picked the safe choice here and went with the Pasta Pescatore and I think I had more seafood than the actual pasta. The sauce is a bit watery, but it was good nevertheless. I didn't know that they don't charge a corkage fee, but it's definitely good to know. Great value for the amount of food you get.
(4)
Jobe L.
i went with 4 stars but it could easily be a 2 star based on what you like. Its got a grubby exterior (and interior too). The bread is good, and the oil and garlic sauce for dipping is as lethal as everyone says. The portions are huge, way more than we could eat. You either leave with leftovers or probably need gastric bypass if you can take it all down. Food was good, but not inspired. Very Americanized Italian food. The carbonara I had wouldn't be recognized as a carbonara in Italy, but it still tasted good. My fiancee had spaghetti with meat sauce, it was quite good. I wouldn't drive far to visit, but as a neighborhood joint it does a solid job.
(4)
Miz J.
I used to hit this hole-in-the-wall regularly when I lived in Venice. Hearty, casual grub-- the seafood pasta dishes are fresh and the garlic olive oil & bread are medicinal. Salads are tasty too- the chopped salad is a colorful julienned stack of flavor!
(5)
Reg L.
This is a great place for lunch with the family, it's always got a long wait (there are only about 5 tables in this place) but totally worth the wait. They also make stuff to go and quality in no way suffers. I always end up ordering the same thing because every time I go I think "oooo, that looks good!" and when it comes I realize it is good, but it's also what I always get. It involves green pasta and mushrooms. But it's very good. Go with people who you won't mind smelling like garlic later. There's one up the hill by the Airport. It's larger but also manages to be crowded most of the time.
(4)
Bonnie L.
Alejo's!!! You are awesome. Last month we went to a "Japanese-style Italian restaurant" and I wanted to cut my own face off. This month we go to a real Italian restaurant (which, my Italian friend called "Mexican-style Italian" due to its Mexican-restaurant appearance and most of its staff's ethnicity) and I wanted to die of happiness. As my brother would say, there was an "almost inconvenient meat to pasta ratio" but that makes me very, very, very happy. In fact, I even took my leftovers (they give you large portions) and at home, added more pasta and sauce and had 2 more meals out of it. So much meat! It was the spaghetti with meat sauce. Sooooo good. Their menu is very simple. It's like "lasagna" or "ravioli" or "spaghetti with meat sauce." Well, I guess do I really need more description than that? Haha. And they have some specials too, my friend got their linguini with seafood, which looked like it had a hefty amount of seafood in it. Their ambiance is basically... nonexistent. I think this used to be a sandwich shop, the way it's set up with a long counter and a tiny dining area. The tables are basically pushed super close to each other, and I think the biggest party you could bring here is probably 4-6 people. They do have wait service, very minimal and no customer service really, but he is there to bring you water and your plates. I think for this alone, they get one star knocked off because their prices are pretty high to have such a dingy atmosphere. My spaghetti was like $11.45. I think they'd do well if they made it a take-away counter with numbers and you get your own food, cuz that's really what it feels like here, especially because of their location too (in the parking lot with 7-11 and a bunch of bums hanging around outside). And drop the prices a little. They do have a GIANT mounted flat-screen TV that was playing the Lakers game, which is always a plus. And I saw some tables that had brought their own wine! OH WAIT but I almost want to give them one less star for this, but I won't, since I am an exception to an almost universal love for garlic. I haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaate garlic, especially when I can see chunks of it. So they have this bowl of oil and garlic and butter, to dip your bread in, and I almost gagged at the sight of it, and most definitely vomited a little in my throat when I smelled it. It is basically like, so do you serve any bread with this garlic??
(4)
Nicky C.
Food is tasty. Portions are more than generous. Service is fast. Alcohol is right next door at the liquor store or BYOW. Ambiance is lacking. Parking is impossible. Come to this place if you are want home-made Italian food. You will not regret it.
(4)
Shannon W.
I'm sorry to say that this place is NOT good Italian food. I work very nearby and out of the 100+ people in our office - no one here likes the food! I've been there on three different occassions (it's within walking distance). The sauce is okay but the pasta always tastes mushy like it's been sitting in a warming tray for hours.... think leftover Italian food and maybe you won't be as dissappointed
(1)
Albert L.
One of my favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. I come here about once a month and I live in Silverlake. It may not look appealing from the outside as it's in the middle of a strip mall but the food is top notch. First, you start off with garlic in olive oil. The bread's consistency is just right for this dip. You can also bring your own wine. The wine and bread can be a meal in itself. But don't eat too much bread because the food is the main feature. Two of my favorites are: Pesto pasta with chicken picatta with extra lemon. Also, the spaghetti with meat sauce and sausage. Alejo's will make any combination you ask, too, so you're not restricted to the menu. The wait staff is very knowledgeable about the menu so ask for help if you can't decide. And if you go on Sunday, George is the absolute best. He'll spend time with you and ask you want you like and will try to find the right dish for you. George only works on Saturday nights.
(5)
Sue C.
My BF and I tried Alejo's a couple years ago and really enjoyed the food. The pungent, slightly spicy garlicky olive oil dip with their soft and chewy bread alone makes the meal a memorable experience. We couldn't get enough of it. I remember we had a chicken dish and a pasta dish, and everything was yummy. And the bonus is being able to take home leftovers. Don't ask me why, but we didn't return until recently - this time for takeout. Oh my the pesto linguini with pine nuts and chicken really hit the spot after a long hard week of work. And to my delight - they give you the bread and garlic olive oil dip with your takeout order! After my dinner I blissfully passed out into a carb-induced coma. My BF had the calamari linguini - and ate until he was about to pass out. It was fantastic. We can't wait to have Alejo's again. Next time we stop in we're going to have some dessert too.
(4)
Michael C.
I didn't think it could be done. Great Italian food on the west coast? Unheard of. Blasphemy almost. I was working in Santa Monica and a fellow foodie begged me to try it so I did. We ordered up a feast, but my go to quality check for Italian is meatballs in red sauce. I was pretty impressed with all the dishes, but the meatballs were outstanding. So much care and love went in to the marinara it rivaled the best meals I've had come out of kitchens in Italy and New York. I couldn't have been happier and will definitely be eating here again.
(5)
Eric W.
I'm not usually a big fan of Itallian food, but I love Alejo's. I always have a good time (probably because we could buy wine from the 7-eleven next door and bring it to the restaurant without corkage fees!). My first meal there was chilean seabass (the best I ever had) - many years ago when it wasn't endangered. Being a garlic lover, I always got loaded up on their bread and garlic dip. Their pesto is excellent as well. I like that the customers sit really tight against one another, so the good times are spread all around.
(4)
Teri B.
They catered my husbands hospitality suite for the CABB Board meeting. Amazing Paella, caprese salad and the clam & shrimp pizza was a huge hit. We order 12 different dishes and all were good, even the most basic cheese pizza. The garlic bread was heaped with garlic- I loved it and no vampires will bother me for a long time. Very Impressed with quality and variety.
(4)
N Z.
It's real nice for a neighborhood Italian place. Eddie is so nice. The only place my kids will eat garlic dip. I always get the gnocchi with half pink and half white sauce, my son loves the sausage and pepper pasta, my daughter loves when the have salmon ( a special). Staff is always great and so so sweet.
(5)
Shanice K.
Eddie's Italian did catering for our movie last weekend and the food was amazing. Every crew member was impressed. I didn't know a simple spaghetti with red sauce and meatballs could be so tasty! Their garlic sauce and bread is also amazing. This place is a true hole in the wall, you wouldn't expect much from seeing it on the outside but the food is great and Eddie is a great guy!
(5)
Joey H.
If you want excellent service and amazing food this is the place to be. The chopped salad and Pizza are my favorites. I have never been disappointed with any of the items that I have ordered. A+ in service and food.
(5)
Kat K.
I love places that don't skimp on the portions, and allow me to leave with garlic on the breath for the next three days. Their olive oil dip for bread with crushed garlic is to die for. If you're squeamish about smelling like garlic for a week, avoid this dip and be prepared to be sad for skipping one of the most delicious things you can eat at this place. Came here for lunch with the coworkers - lunch time wasn't too huge of a rush, but it looks like this place is popular enough to get some action even midday during a workday. I can imagine this restaurant getting packed at night. Ordered the calzone and, I kid you not, it was about the size of my head, if not larger. I remembered the calzone I used to eat back in high school - a good large-burrito sized pocket packed with cheese and goodies. This one was so huge that it fed me for the next 2 meals after this. The inside was filled with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese with ham slices. The crust and bread comes from freshly kneaded dough and comes out piping hot and fresh. Excuse me, while I wipe off the drool... Service is speedy and friendly! I would definitely come back here again to see what else they have to offer! All my coworkers' meals looked good but I was too busy tackling my own to try steal a forkful from each of them.
(4)
Andrea W.
AMAZING pizza. One of the best pizza places i've ever had the pleasure of knowing. perfect crust, sauce, cheese, and can add almost any topping you want. Toppings we love: sausage, mushroom, onion, peppers. The bread they serve everyone is also delicious, with olive oil and chunks of garlic. Between the two of us we usually get a medium-large pizza and have some leftovers to take home. Everything time we go, there are lots of people getting pasta and really enjoying it. We had linguine with pink sauce and seafood and it was alright. Honestly, the pizza is the way to go!
(5)
Antho L.
Great little hole in the wall spot for Italian food in the MDR! Came here last night with a group of people as one friend had her parents visiting from Chicago! At first, I admit, I wasn't that impressed when I arrived as the ambiance was very casual and decor was unimpressive. I was expecting a more formal type of restaurant but for being as small and cozy a place as it was, it seemed to be packed all night and especially got crowded after 7:30 pm. As the legend goes, the original owner who opened the place was a Spaniard who grew up in Italy and opened this place many years ago but has since passed away. It is now owned by an El Salvadorean and the main chef is a German-Ecuatorian! Talk about international! About the food, I had the grilled salmon on linquini olio and mixed vegetables. It was not too bad! I had a choice of either pasta or veggies and wanted both so the waiter said I could have it for $2 more. I was expecting him to either bring the pasta or veggies on a separate plate but ended up having both the veggies and pasta on the same plate making the portions of both rather modest. I felt like I didn't get enough pasta but I didn't complain but will know better next time. They allow you to bring your own beverage so everyone that walked in had a bottle of red wine in tow. It's a perfect setting for getting together with friends over a good Italian meal in a cozy setting. I'll definitely be back!
(4)
Jmar G.
This place is ridiculously overrated! The food here was so unpleasant that I was actually depressed after leaving here. We had something else to get the taste out of our mouths. I really think one of the major reasons for it's 4-star rating is for two reasons: the service or people haven't been around enough to know good vs. bad food. I honestly would give this two stars for the service but one star says "Eek! Methinks not!" That is exactly how I feel whenever I think about this place. My girlfriend loves garlic and hates this place. Everything we had was either overcooked, drenched in garlic, or tasteless. Worst of all, we paid $30+! We go out a couple of times a week and this place is easily one of the most expensive AND one of the worst. Eek, methinks not? Indeed, definitely, never again. I'm depressed just thinking about it again. Sorry, servers. We did appreciate your service.
(1)
Helen C.
NO CORKAGE!!! Woohoo! Okay, so I sound a little too much like a drunkard given my level of enthusiasm for their lack of corkage but c'mon, aren't you tired of going to restaurants that sell $7 bottles of wine for $20-30 buckaroos or punish you for bringing your own vino by charging you $15 bucks for their 10 second effort of opening your bottle? Because I am. Valentino's it ain't, but if you're looking for massive portions of very solid Americanized Italian food (think heaping mounds of spaghetti with meatballs or veal parm with a side of pasta the size of a child's head) that's cheap and allows you to bring your own wine, then this is your place. As soon as you sit down, they bring out a large basket of bread and a mound of garlic sitting in olive oil. It's strong, no doubt, but tasty. The parm with a side of pasta was a mound of fried tastiness and the pasta's pretty close to al dente. The ravioli alla checca was the only disappointing dish we had (just a little bland). I didn't have issues with the wait staff as other reviewers mentioned as our servers were fast, efficient, and friendly. Definitely a place to return for low key weekday dinners.
(4)
Warren H.
I've been here dozens of times. It's in walking distance. Great chicken picatta and marslaes. Lots of garlic. Good place, small dining room, lots of people do take out here.
(3)
Candy Q.
Ummm it's called Eddie's now. Supposedly because of some legal thing. I heard nothing but the name changed. Phew.
(5)
Arizona T.
This was seriously some of the most watery and tasteless dishes we have ever had. 3 people, 3 dishes, 3 huge negative feedbacks. Skip this place. Even Olive Garden is better. MUCH better actually.
(1)
Eric L.
Damn good Italian food in a crappy strip mall. I said it because its true. My friends and I have been enjoying Alejo's for a number of years now as it offers very good Italian fare at great prices, and you can bring in your own wine without any corkage fees! You are greeted by the ultimate appetizer in the form of bread and garlic with oil, I say this because you get a few dishes of freshly diced garlic in olive oil, vampires beware! For a garlic lover, this dish is refilled many times as you will find yourself dousing just about any part of your meal you so choose. Personally I usually go for a personal pizza and gnocchi, which then winds up on the pizza for the best starch sandwich in the world. It sounds odd, is a mess to eat, but taste really good. I would opt and suggest pink sauce either way with the gnocchi. Other damn good dishes include the eggplant Mama-Mia, chicken Marsala, chopped salads and the tricolor pasta. Save yourself the heart ache of using the parking lot and grab a spot on the street somewhere, brave the harrowing walk in and enjoy your meal.
(4)
Matt L.
It's strange that a place with such a huge following would change their name without changing ownership -- It seems that their was a lot of confusion for people about the two Alejo locations, so now we have Eddie's Italian Kitchen. Luckily, there has been no change in the food, which is still amazing. I have never met somebody who wasn't happy with their order here. From their salads, to pastas, to pizzas, everything here is amazing. Personally, I'm a fan of their calzones -- these things are big enough to fill a family of four. Prices are low, no corkage fee (BYO) and wonderful service both in the restaurant and take-out. A review on Eddie's wouldn't be complete without mention of their olive oil/garlic sauce. It will stay with you for a couple of days and may stink up your breath, but it's absolutely worth every penny (especially given that it's free). The location is a hole-the-wall spot in a strip mall, but don't let this deter you. Eddie's is definitely worth checking out and you'll be happy that you did.
(5)
abigail K.
This place is pricey and small. REALLY SMALL. Like tables and chairs crammed together small. Which I have to seriously consider before going back. I just dont enjoy moving my foot and kicking someone or rubbing elbows with the person (stranger) next to me. REALLY CRAMMED. The food is home-made, homestyle italian food that is delicous that is why they get the 4 stars. I want to go back but the spacing, gees, that is really something to think about. The garlic oil is strong, watch the breath. BUT NO COMPLAINT, really good. From the outside you could really under-estimate the place. Looks like a random, nothing special place, you wouldnt think it would be this good. The parking is horrible. its in a 7eleven lot. there has to be no more than 15 parking spots there and not for the restaurant only for 7eleven, dry cleaners and a chinese joint. So can be a BIG challenge to find a spot. However the street over usually you could find something if youre lucky. The service is great, as you walk in even the cooks look over and smile, everyone greets you. Everyone is usually always in a good mood here. We will see if I return, not sure maybe ill get over this space issue.
(4)
Lee L.
Delizioso! Who knew you could get good Italian food from some dinky little hole in the wall in a strip mall. Small definitely describes this place. There are about a dozen tables and they're all squished next to each other. You can eavesdrop on other people's conversations without trying. Let's just hope you don't get any TMI stories. I had the special which was the Linguini ala Mare. Loaded with chunks of fresh salmon and halibut, squid, and shrimp. It was tossed in a savory tomato sauce. This is a must try dish here. We also split a seafood pizza. It had roasted red bell peppers, clams, and I think shrimp. I really liked this because it had a nice thin crispy crust. We got there right before the dinner time rush. There were people lined up the walls waiting for seating, a sign that this place is worth the wait. No wine menu, but looks like you can bring in your own bottles. Will definitely make trips back here.
(5)
Al B.
I love this place!! Alejo's is awesome!!! Its one of those great restaurants that I wish I frequent more often, like I did in the past. My excuse? No car, and its way out there! And public transportation out here ain't all that great! Anyway, each time I come here, the food and service is always consistent! The portions are decent, although they've raised their price just a bit!!! I don't mind. The place isn't that big! If you're driving, parking can be awful. And if you come during peak hours, you'd have to wait a while! But I think it's worth the wait, guest turn overs can be pretty quick at times, depending on how big your party is. The bread you're given comes with olive with garlic in it!! So tasty. I usually get the same thing, starter...fried calamari, then...prawn or shrimp pasta!!! So goooood!!! I always leave satisfied! There is no place in my area within a ten mile radius that can compare to this place!! And oh...be careful when you go use their restroom, I almost ate shit at one point, 'cause it can get pretty slippery since you're walking into their storage/kitchen/office area. PS: its a good place for a first date, or a significant others, or anyone, or alone, they don't have the most romantic atmosphere(according to society) but hey, I'm different!!...but please byob... lol!
(4)
John K.
This place is perfect for kids and adults. Bring your own wine. Prices are good. Food is excellent. Yea - it is kinda old and worked, but you just don't care when the food arrives. The garlic oil for bread is tasty - may leave you thirsty because we all eat too much. Enjoy. The take out works. My only negative is that the way they stack the food caused leakage in my car.
(5)
Alan L.
I'm giving them 5 stars because its just about as good as you get from a place like this. Basic hole -in- the- wall bring your own booze and they will fill you up on fresh Italian grub. My whole family loves this place. Challenges are parking and seating however if your a sociable individual, this settings is fine. try it!
(5)
David R.
Eddie's chef salad is the best!! No matter what you get, make sure tohave the Chef salad also! Note: Everything is really good! A bowl of Marinera and Bread is always nice!!
(5)
Karl F.
I'm normally not a huge fan of Italian food [except pizza] Ate at Alejo's after an event in the area and this place is great!. Family style independant restaurant, great portions, good service! Started off with fresh bread and garlic/olive oil dipping suace, this stuff is awesome! I ordered "Eggplant Mama Mia" which is eggplant parm with chicken sandwhiched in between. tooped with Mozzerlla and sauce, it was GREAT! I would def go here again
(4)
Paul V.
Good Food. As others have noted the place is small, we picked it out actually because it looked like such a hole in the wall we figured it'd probably be cheap too. Wrong. That's the only thing that does bring the score down just a tad. I'd of easily given this place a 4 on food alone but for the price? Ahhh... Gotta do a little bit better. Now the food is fine, it's the prices that need work, they're too high for the food being what it is and the restaurant being what it is. I love eating at hole in the walls, I love cheap food, I just don't like it when it's overpriced. I didn't like, regret eating here or anything, but I really doubt I'd ever come back simply because... There's just not really a point. Since it's a drive for me, if I wanted to, I could drive the other direction, get a chicken parmesan from Tutto Fresco that also comes with a caesar salad, and I'd still be saving a good $7 per plate. Now the portions here are fantastic, I don't think I was even able to eat half of my food before I took it home, so you do get a lot of food for the money you spend. Italian food makes the best leftovers. That said, don't get this food to go. Why not? Because there's too much value dining in. Why? The bread. The bread is fantastic, or more specificly, the dipping oil with the garlic in it is. I usually only go for basalmic, which I did here too (And they had it), but that garlicy olive oil was just too tempting to not use too. Fantastic! If anything at all about this restaurant will pull me back, it's that. If I was in the area and hungry I might go inside but this is sadly one of those places I'd like to enjoy, but just don't have the budget to spend the extra money consistantly. Great service though.
(3)
Sofia M.
Best Seafood a la diabla pasta ever! I love Alejo's because they take Italian food and go nuts with the spices. I'm not sure if this is common practice for a lot of Italian restaurants, because I always find myself having pretty bland italian meals. But Alejo's knocks it out of the park. Their dipping garlic sauce is p-o-t-e-n-t! Providing you with an instant insect and douchebag repellant ;) Their prices are pretty reasonable and they offer huge portions. Perfect for family style or leftovers. Setbacks: It's a pretty small restaurant, so claustrophobes beware. Also, because it's so small and their food is so delicious, your waiter may try to get you out of there pronto. However, if you enjoy wham-bam-thank-you-maam's, then that may not be a problem for you. Enjoy!
(5)
Caroline K.
I like this italian restaurant. I went inside to order to-go, and customer service is great. They were very attentive. The food is awesome as well. I ordered the three cheese ravioli. Mmm... I love ravioli, and they did not disappoint. Plus their bread with the garlic sauce is heavenly.
(5)
Denis S.
This is one of those rare times when Yelp has steered me in the wrong direction. Yes, the place is a hole-in-the-wall, yes it looks horrible from both the inside and the outside, but no, it does not have amazing Italian food. I tried both their chicken and their seafood pasta dishes, and was disappointed with both. The seafood dish tasted somewhat acidic to me, so I didn't think the ingredients were that fresh. Although, I must admit, the calamari were excellent. The chicken dish was average, but nothing special. Usually, the good thing about hole-in-the-walls is that they have good food AND are cheap. Unfortunately, this place, doesn't even have the cheap part time. The meals cost about the same as they would in a pretty good Italian place (especially in Venice), but lack the same quality, atmosphere, or service that other Italian restaurants offer. For some reason this place has something of a cult following. In fact, as we were eating at the table, a random person who was getting takeout stopped by just to tell us how much he loved it and that it was BYOB. He then proceeded to explain to us what "no corkage fee" meant... yea, thanks!
(2)
Celine P.
After picking me up from the LAX, my aunt took me to this place. She was raving about it while driving. She said she used to go to this place 10 years ago and it was just awesome. Parking is really tight. Its a good thing I wasn't driving cause I would have been really stressed out. This place is a hole-in-a-wall type of place. Small, but packed. So i figured it must be REALLY good. Bread in the garlic oil was good. I probably had 3-4pieces before my meal. lol. but it was just as good as any other italian restaurant that serves bread with garlic oil. Come to think of it, I prefer Stinking Rose's a LOT better. I digress.. I was craving shrimp at the time so I got the Linguine Pescatore. My aunt got the eggplant parmesan. We also got the italian chopped salad. The salad was meh. It reminded me of coleslaw but with a more subtle dressing. There were about 5 pieces of shrimp in my plate. Thats it. And while they were really flavorful (the shrimp nicely took in the flavors), the calamari that came with it was bleh. I've never tried clam before, and the clam in my dish was not as bad as I thought it was going to be. The eggplant parmesan, however, was really good. It's almost as good as mine:) Overall, this place was okay. It wouldnt be a first.. or second.. or 5th choice for italian food, but I wouldn't mind coming back here. (auntie, if you're reading this. sorry, i just didnt like it as much as you did)
(2)
Jas C.
Get The Capelli Piponi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Â!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it's!!!!!!!! sooooooooo!!!!!!!!! bomb!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Â!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The other pasta's are bomb too and the chopped salads are also very good and the bread and garlic dip, oh man yes, but I must say the Capelli Piponi is dankerriffic! The parking lot is small and it gets awkward when people are coming and going. There's parking in the back along the street and in the back plaza (u gotta be sneaky if u park in the plaza though e.g. i usually walk through the yogurt shop so it looks like i'm going there). There's no corkage fee for wine. Oh yeah there's a lota bums that hang around this plaza too, be nice and give em your left overs or buy them something! If you're fortunate enough to be reading this, I bet their lives have been a lot tougher than ours, so count your blessings, and hook em up with some food! And Remember: Capelli Piponi! Update: The Spaghetti Carbonara and the Shrimp Diablo Linguini are both HELLA good
(5)
Joy G.
the olive oil with the garlic that they give you to dip their soft bread pieces in is amazing. definitely looks better inside than outside. the food was just mediocre. I would go back, since it's close by my house, but I like c&o's better, and this place still doesn't stand up to my favorite -- the kitchen in pasadena.
(3)
Janis F.
Great food, lask a little in the atmosphere. I'd give it 4 stars if the interior was updated. If you're not a garlic fan stay away, you can smell the garlic down the street. Big portions, incredible bread. Lasagna, parm chicken yum. It's great for take out as well.
(3)
A B.
well i ordered a large pizza which was very dry and burnt. i had also ordered a chopped salad that had two long black hair's in it. ok everyone i called eddie's italian restaurant, and spoke to the manager and this is what he said "well what do you want me to do about it, the guy is bald and shaves his arms." i see you have mostly 5 stars on your ratings, it must have been the employees who rated you, not your clientele!! so i give you no stars eddies italian, and will never be ordering from you again!!!!!!
(1)
Debbie E.
Any of the pasta dishes are solid. The special ravioli is usually a go-to for me. The Alejos Salad is also yummy. All meals come with fresh bread with garlic oil for dipping. SO GOOD but unfortunately since it is just crushed garlic in oik, you will be tasting garlic for a good day afterwords. So good though. The wine list is just so so; don't expect any 98 pint wines here. Service is usually good. The parking lot is in the back and is horrible. Allow extra time for parking during peak hours.
(4)
Heather W.
I love Alejo's so much. Portions are big, prices are reasonable and the service is fantastic. Best tip ever - empty some cheese on your plate and add pepper, then dip your bread in garlic deliciousness first and then your cheese plate second. YUM!
(5)
Patty O.
If you love garlic, you'll love Alejo's. Also, they have amazing chopped salad, pastas and chicken dishes. This location is bigger than the other location and has two rooms of seating. They also are great for take out or delivery. My favorite dish is the chicken milanese with the spaghetti on the side. Great service and again...if you love garlic, you'll be in heaven. They bring you bread with this crazy garlic dip.
(4)
Judy T.
This rinky dinky little restaurant is a great find when you are looking for decent food and a good atmosphere. It's tiny and they don't serve alcohol, but their menu is medium sized and has something for everyone. Plus, everyone brings their own wine anyway, and you get these big shotglasses to drink it with. Bottomline- not great for a first date or to bring a group of people to if you're trying to impress, but the food is very straightforward and you get what you order. It's very simple Italian food- you can tell by the menu. No additional touches or a flair of this or that- your pasta is just that- red sauce, pasta, and meat. If you like hearty then this is a good place. There are 5 or 6 tables placed side by side in the middle of the room, and it gives it a communal feel. If you are sitting there with strangers they just move the tables apart a little bit. I tried to seafood mare dish and it was light, fresh and good. The eggplant parmigiana was also very good. If you like garlic, you'll be delighted as they give you bread with garlic and oil when you sit down and it is pretty tasty. This totally sounds like an ad, but anyway, you can't go wrong if you're hungry and want a good meal!
(4)
Bartolo K.
Meh. This place could be better. I got the shrimp diablo which had a delicious spicy red garlic sauce. The lasagna is okay, has a great unique flavor though. Small dish of Raviolis were outstanding but unlike the rest of their small dishes, is actually small. Only consisted of maybe 7 raviolis. - but this is standard of most Italian places. The Good: Linguini was cooked right Even for the "small" you get a lot of food!- (except ravioli) The Bad: Shrimp quantity was few. Shrimp was small and overcooked. Probably fantastic size during nonpeak hours but terrible during the dinner rush. It gets so loud from everyone having to yell over one another, you actually get a headache from all the noise. The Ugly: Waiter was a jerk. Snapped at us. Was very impatient and upset that we didnt know what we wanted almost as soon as we got our table! They must not like the youngins from the LMU crowd nearby. We're young and we were treated as though we won't tip. Well you made sure of that Mr. Waiter! Ultimately I'll come back during nonpeak hours and try another dish, but the only incentive is that bread and DELICIOUS knock-you-down garlic dip.
(2)
Marion Z.
This place is just chill. Sometimes you just want to enjoy a nice tasty dinner without the hype or price. This is the top stripmall italian spot on the westside ;) I know that sounds terrible but seriously worth a try. You can take in wine if you like. The portions are sizable and the dishes are yummy. I enjoy this little local spot.
(4)
Maxwell P.
This is no longer Alejo's, it is now EDDIE'S ITALIAN KITCHEN, check out the yelp there, Eddie has owned it for 6 years and has finally changed the name, the same food, same prices and same great place you love to love!! Go to Eddies and eat some food, be happy and have fun!!!
(5)
Elizabeth E.
Great place for take out, a little tight and hot to actually eat here although we have. They make your food quickly and the quality and quantity are great for the price. Love the no corkage too!
(4)
Andrea J.
As Annie said...oh, my goodness, oh my goodness! Alejo's is amazing. It makes me so sad that I never tried Alejo's during all my years at LMU (when I was literally a hop, skip, and a jump away) because I prejudged this little hole in the wall, no decor or ambiance to speak of, questionably "Italian" restaurant, etc., etc., etc., Well, mea culpa! Alejo's shines DESPITE the hole in the wall, DESPITE the lack of decor and ambiance, and despite the apparent lack of Italians in the kitchen (don't know about this for sure or the background on Alejo's). I ordered the Linguine Pescatore which came out steaming and stayed hot throughout my meal. The garlic tomato wine sauce was devine~not too heavy, not too light and just salty-savory enough. This dish was humongous and there was no shortage of shrimp, clams, and calamari. Alejo's is a prime example of how one should never judge a book by it's cover. Maybe if I had read up on it on yelp I wouldn't have missed out on it for some many years. Guess I'll just have to eat there often to make up for lost time~oh well ;-)
(4)
Jeannie J.
I agree with John A., I was tricked into coming here too by the 4 star average! The only reason for the 2 stars was the service. Everyone was polite and nice. The bread was chewy and warm, but garlic in the olive oil was quite pungent. Could have been toned down. But whatever, it was free. The spaghetti and meatballs was terribly disappointing. The noodles were mushy and overcooked. Meatballs were eh. The sauce had this off-taste, it was kind of sweet. Maybe Alejo's serves fare from a diff region of Italy that I'm not used to? My linguine pescatore was luckily not overcooked, but really tasted like something I could throw together at home with frozen seafood, a bottle of sauce, and dried noodles. Also, when my husband and I came home, we were incredibly thirsty and parched all night. MSG in Italian food? I hope not...but I won't be back to find out otherwise. I've had better Italian food at other joints. Too bad, I really wanted to like this place!
(2)
Hernano L.
Alejo's Trattoria is cheap and bad. Worst pizza ever and pasta float in cheap oil (you'll see it when you cook your food)
(1)
Nobutaka A.
While I don't blame Yelp for misleading me here since I was brought here against my own accord, it puzzles me how this restaurant can earn more than two stars. But let's get into my actual experience. We walked into a fairly packed restaurant on Father's Day. However we were seated right away and a waiter came by within a few minutes to take our drink orders and drop off some menus. The menu itself touches bases with many of the dishes you'd expect at a standard italian restaurant and it's quite respectable that they serve a traditional gnocchi when most restaurants are sticking to breadsticks, salad and spaghetti. We ordered the shrimp linguini. meat sauce spaghetti, margherita pizza and ravioli. Out of the four dishes that we ordered, the shrimp linguini was the only respectable dishes. Everything else had way too much salt and lacked the finesse of a restaurant that charges $20 a plate. At first I thought I was being too picky but upon consult from my fellow diners, we reached the same conclusion that this restaurant was just awful. Just absolutely awful. If you can go to any other italian restaurant then I beg you to do so because any yelpers give this place more than a two star rating is seriously endangering their reputation as a reviewer.
(2)
E K.
What a funny experience! First of all, is the staff. They are very friendly. They gave us good seating which I was all excited about. The funny thing is, it turns out they seated all the Asian people in one half of the restaurant - there are two halves of the restaurant. The first half of the restaurant had no Asians whats-so-ever from when I went in and when I went out as well. Any group with Asians were seated in the other room. I just thought that was funny. Don't let that deter you... The food here is reminiscent of authentic food in Italy, I loved it! Which is funny b/c the whole staff looked Mexican... The sauce does have a tad more to it than the plain pomodoro sauces you get in Italy, which was good and better for American tastes. I got the eggplant parmesan and the mozzarella on it was very good. The dish was good, but it's soggy compared to what I've had at other restaurants. It was interestingly also similar to ones I made myself at home. As been described as a "hole in the wall", don't expect freshly shredded parmesan served for you. They have them in little shakers for you to serve yourself - that's still better than what you get in Italy sometimes! The BF enjoyed his spaghetti with meat sauce. Apparently it has more meat than the spaghetti with meatballs. The dish was so big though, he could not finish it. We both got boxes to take home. The desserts are homemade, which I also love! The Turtle was better than I expected. I thought I'd only have one or two bites from being full already, but just kept going. Try it!
(4)
Amz T.
Delicious Italian cuisine. Generous portions and super friendly service!
(5)
Warren G.
My wife and I decided to try this place. It was a Sunday night and we were busy running errands. She had heard of it from a friend so what the heck, we gave it a try. The parking lot is really, really, small but I was lucky to find a spot. My wife had heard that there was no corkage if you bring in a bottle, and she went in and confirmed this while I parked our SUV into a tiny space. My first thought were, this is a hole in the it must be a family run business. I ordered the eggplant parm, my wife had the linguine pescado. The bread is warm, moist and heavenly with the olive oil and garlic. We added a splash of vinegar to the olive oil. It was even tastier. The food was good. I enjoyed the taste of the marinara sauce, egplant was not overcooked. My wife's dish was tasty too. In all, I spent $36 for dinner for two including wine. Not bad! The service was good, I felt like I was in a family atmosphere. I spent this morning reading reviews, and you can get extremely picky if you like. Yes, there weren't any Italians preparing or serving the food, our waiter was Salvadoran. Yes the parking lot was extremely small. The prices were average, without the corking fee they became more reasonable. The bottom line is that I enjoyed myself, and I'll be back again.
(4)
Keith I.
Love this place, some of the best Italian food I've tasted. A nice hole-in-the-wall in the middle of bustling Culver City/Venice, we frequent here for lunch. I always find myself having to restrain from eating the endless bread and olive oil garlic dip just to be sure I have room for my meal. I'd like to try other items on their menu, but I can't seem to get away from the Pizza Raviatta...it's THE best.
(5)
Doug L.
I've been going to Alejo's for 20+ years. Let me clear things up: the original owner/chef was Argentine, so don't expect traditional Italian flavors. They are famous for a handful of things: RAVIOLI with red and white sauce; the Alejo's chopped salad, and the bread with olive oil and garlic. Lasagne and pizzas are also very yummy. Stick with these menu items if you want to experience what the fame is about!! If you step away from these menu items, you are on your own!! I once tried chicken cacciatore and it was "so-so". But the above-mentioned dishes are VERY Good for about $10-$13 each. Those who blame the service, or the wait, or whatever... all I can say is we aren't going to Alejo's for that! We're going for the bread/oil, salad, and ravioli! So get with the program. You wouldn't go to Cheesecake Factory for dessert because you were craving ice cream!! THINK! PEOPLE!!
(5)
Jeff M.
You can bring your own beer or wine...order a $14 pizza that is incredible stink like garlic and feel like a king... You get to know the folks next to you and it is excellent... Sorry...but byob, garlic, and cheap eats...count me in
(4)
Keith M.
It's now called Eddie's, and supposedly has the same food as Alejo's. We shared a chopped Alejo's salad which was OK. The bread was not fresh, as it used to be. I ordered the salmon special with sauteed veggies instead of the pasta. My friends ordered the linguine pescatore. The entrees were beyond awful. The salmon was swimming in a watery gruel of a sauce with overcooked zucchini and carrots sitting on top with burnt garlic cloves. The pasta dishes both had pasta that must have been cooking for several days (that's how overcooked it was), swimming in gobs of tasteless, watery tomato sauce. The calamari was rubbery, the shrimp tasteless. If I randomly selected two people just walking down the street they probably could have done a better job cooking these dishes. So why was the restaurant packed? Besides being Sat. night I suspect that people go there because the portions are HUGE, HUGE, HUGE, and that's the criteria they use for judging a restaurant. I didn't have the pizza, and who knows, maybe those are edible, and that's what the regulars stick with.
(1)
El S.
Come on! Are you f'in serious, people? Bay Cities and now this crap? This is extremely greasy Italian food made in a revolting mini-mall next to a 7-11 that has meth-heads loitering outside of it 24-7. This is not Italian food....the food is like Monique's face - large and greasy....even the saladsThe garlic bread tastes like your fat college roommate from Kansas pressed it between his inner thighs before serving it to you. It all tastes ready-made. People in LA have horible taste in Italian food...a place like the Olive Garden or Macaroni Grill would thrive in this neighborhood (ironically, it would actually be an inprovement!). If you want good Italian go to Brunello in Culver City or Da Pasquale in Beverly Hills. Salute, Alejo's.....now go home and get your f'in shine box!
(1)
John A.
This place is pretty dirty italian. Was tricked into coming here from yelps giving it 4 stars. It deserves 2. Dirty olive oil and garlic dipping sauce for the bread will have you burping up garlic for two days. Not fresh at all. Best part is that it is BYOB and we brought in a nice bottle of wine. Don't recommend coming here. Treat yourself to LaVeccia or Guido's. It's worth the couple extra bucks!
(2)
Randi M.
I really, really wanted to like this because my aunt and others have raved about it, but I wasnt that impressed. First, the garlic "oil". Cheap, cheap oil that is in full view of everyone. Big huge gallons full that is NOT EVOO. I'd be surprised if it was even olive oil. It seemed more like veg oil to me. I loved the Alejo salad, that was done well. My chicken marsala, whole other ball o'wax. The sauce was very thin and the mushrooms were thin as well. No substance at all. I had to send it back because it was so freaking spicy. I just dont expect my marsala to be spicy. It was a huge portion on a tiny plate. When I sent it back, I asked for a bigger plate, I mean I couldnt even cut it on the small plate. My aunt got the meatballs. She said they were spicy too and because I dont eat beef, I didnt taste them. She cut them open and they seem like they have a lot of filler( bread crumbs). My partner had the pepperoni pizza, she liked it, I blotted off a lot of grease before I let her eat it. LOL. I dont know, I'd try them again, but I wouldnt make a special trip over there.
(3)
Shauna R.
Love the food...hate the parking. Definitely a hole in the wall restaurant with LITTLE parking (right next to a 7-11) so best for take-out at least at this location. They have another one but never ate there, so cannot comment, for now. I tried their lobster ravioli....yummy! I normally would never order it but after trying what my friend ordered.....why not? I would come back but may try the other location next time. It's more of a sit-down and has parking across the street in a parking lot. I would definitely avoid the typical lunch/dinner rush if you're short on time. Again, their bread with olive oil is yummy as well!
(4)
Kathleen M.
Don't go to lunch at Alejo's if you have a date later! Better yet, bring your date, so you both have garlic breath! The fresh ciabatta bread dipped in their minced garlic-infused olive oil is the real reason why I love Alejo's. Their chopped Italian salad is terrific - chopped lettuce, garbanzo beans, shaved mozzarella cheese, salami, tomatoes, and their house dressing. The Alejo's salad is great too - they add cabbage, turkey, and bacon to the Italian salad. The full salad is definitely large enough to fill you up at lunch. They also offer half-salads. For dinner, the linguine with clams is a really great dish. The time I had it, the linguine was perfectly cooked, the clams were delish, and I found myself craving the flavor of the wine garlic sauce again right away. Be prepared to smell like garlic for a day or two after eating at Alejo's!
(4)
Emily R.
Do you have a love affair with garlic? I sure do and this was the place to indulge in my passion. For a hole in the wall in a strip mall, I have never tasted better Italian food. The garlic aioli served with the soft, yet slightly crusty bread has got some serious kick! Don't hold back with this stuff. Slather your bread and entree in this stuff for additional garlic goodness. It's all about the seafood pasta! The calamari, salmon, clams and mussels were perfect. Sometimes other places overcook the shellfish to a rubbery consistency, but they were spot on perfect! Since my little Miss Z was in tow, we also ordered a linguine pasta with marinara which seems boring, but the sauce definitely had some zing. I, of course, added more garlic aioli to satisfy my taste buds. She ate a quarter of her small portion and for a little tyke that made mommy and daddy real proud. The place is really unassuming, so don't arrive expecting a maitre d' at the door and soft lighting...it is after all in a strip mall. However, be prepared to get down and dirty in a garlic love-fest. If you don't walk out splattered with garlic or sauce, you really missed out on the joy of Alejo's.
(4)
Joe C.
They let you bring your own drinks. Hard to park
(4)
Michael W.
This is my favorite Italian restaurant on the west-side of Los Angeles. I tried to deny this place for a long time, feeling that the strip-mall style and neighboring restaurants were an indication of the food. Boy was I wrong. Massive portions. Garlic by the handful in most dishes. Flavor like you haven't had since grandma made her special sauce. Fresh meats and seafood, fresh pasta, pizza that was so good I couldn't wait until the next day to eat the leftovers. This place is not fancy (the interior isn't much of an upgrade from the exterior.) But you will be pleasantly surprised by the swift (and non-invasive) service, the incredible food and - oh yeah - it's BYOB. Prices seem a little on the higher side until you eat the food.. then you'll be looking at the menu a second time to see what you can take home for later.
(5)
Caitlin C.
Alejos is squeezed in between a 7-11 and a donut shop, on the ugliest corner of the West side. It's been there for as long as I can remember. Back in the day I remember everything about it being fantastic, but these days, years and years later, it's still good but not fantastic. The restaurant usually gets busy busy, at night. There aren't that many tables, and what there are, are attached to each other family style.There's no real lobby to wait in, and the kitchen is literally on display for all to see. The wait is usually a long one, depending on the night. One time I sat next to a Baldwin brother. You're allowed to bring your own alchohol too. Nowadays I rarely eat in. My mother and I stop by often to pick up the chopped salad and egg plant parmesan. It lasts for days! I swear pounds of food, I'm not kidding. I think the best part about Alejos is the freshest of fresh breads they serve with chopped garlic in olive oil. It's the best starter bread at any Italian place I've been too. C&O's garlic rolls are good, but Alejos bread is more traditional and also amazing. It's reasonably priced for the amount of food you get, and since it's in my local neighborhood, and a realiable place for homecooked food I'm giving Alejo's 4 stars.
(4)
Mika E.
Great food. Great service. Great grilled fish with veggie dish!
(4)
melissa h.
We love the food here, it's definitely a whole in the wall, but I think that's what gives it some allure. I love that I can bring in a bottle of wine and there's no corkage fee. The linguine del mar is great, with tons of fish and big portions!
(4)
Aynge M.
Fantastic food for very little cash. A friend of mine took me here and I was blown away. I'm a garlic freak and I just adored the garlic in oil with bread as an appetizer. I had the eggplant parmesan which was divine. They do not serve alcohol but my friend bought some beer from 7-11 next door and brought it in. Looked like everybody does that. Yes, the wait can be long, and you'll probably have to share tables with strangers, but it's worth it. Recently someone told me this place is closed down, but I don't know if it's true. I hope not! I love this place!
(5)
Antonio A.
It was a Friday night. I called my boys who had been working in the studio all day on some new music and asked if they were hungry. Hell yeah, was the response. So I asked what they wanted to eat. Sushi? Umami? Tacos Ensenada? Na...not feeling any of those! So what do you want then? Any place with good pasta that isnt crazy expensive. I got the place but are you down for a ride? After some coaxing and confirmation that I would be the one driving we picked up our ladies and headed out from East LA to the farthest part of the West LA. The entire time I kept getting shit about how far we were driving, but I assured them it would be worth it. Once we got to the run-down strip mall, I said, "we're here?" They said, "are you sure?" So we walked in, sat right down and started to grub on the bread and garlic olive oil they provide. I ordered my usual which was the Carbonara that they do the way I love (pink sauce w/ bacon and no peas). Other dishes we had were the Chicken Piccata, Lasagna, Spaghetti and Meatballs and two different salads. Besides the Chicken Piccata, which I dont really like anywhere, everything was great. This is filling home-style italian restaurant. Its not fine dining but its everything I want when Im craving pasta and a lot of it. Needless to say, nobody talked crap on the way home. Partly because they were satisfied and partly because everyone passed out from their food coma! Special Notes BYOB Limited Parking in parking lot
(4)
Anne L.
This place is horribly overrated! Soupy and tasteless Italian food prepared by Mexicans who have no idea how to prepare Italian food. Bad, bad, bad!
(1)
D. K.
Go here for a casual fun dinner night with friends when you don't mind picking up the tab because it's only $50 for the 8 of you. Go here when you are on your way home from a long day of work and you want take out. Go here for a first date because if she sucks you can drink some extra wine or even go grab a beer from the 7-Eleven next door. DONT go here if you want high end Mario Batali style Italian food for your Mom's 60th birthday or your 10 year anniversary. For that go to Mozza and drop some mad coin. Make sure to say hi to the cooks--they are super nice and hanging out right there when you walk in. The wait staff is personable and right on top of things. Parking is often full--but, give it two minutes and something will open up. There's a lot of turnaround in that lot. Tip these people well--we need more places like this to be around.
(5)
Johnny M.
Food decent and out fast. Not overly fancy but free corkage that's right! Bring your favorite bottle! Portions good and so is the taste. Small place and busy.
(4)
Truc T.
Mama mia! My breath is garlicky but it was SO worth it. It's been a long time since we've been back to Alejo's and we were so glad that it hasn't changed. Immediately, you are welcomed by yummy soft bread with some olive oil dipping sauce with garlic that seems like they've been comingling with each other for some time. We ordered the Alejo's small chopped salad and it was a great plentiful appetizer for two people. Both us ordered a variety of the linguini seafood pasta with the red sauce and they were both came out piping hot. The portions are super generous and we both had plenty to take home for leftovers. I hate wasting good dipping oil so I asked for a little container and brought it home to cook with! Our small salad and two linguini dishes came to around $43. In terms of parking, I always get anxious about their small lot but we were able to find free street parking on the side street in the back. but... plan ahead! you WILL leave with some potent garlic breath enough to scare vampires away!
(4)
Jay S.
I'm starting to believe that every single place in Marina Del Rey is OVERRATED solely because of the lack of quality establishments in these parts. Alejo's is no exception. On the plus side, they give large portions so you get a good bang for your buck. And while the fresh bread with garlic they plop down for FREE when you sit down doesn't compare to C&O's garlic knots, it's nice to see an effort. Unfortunately, the pasta isn't anything to write home about -- a bit overcooked (hasn't anyone ever heard of al dente?). I've had the Alfredo with chicken a few times and it's consistently decent, but a tad on the bland side -- some garlic, pepper and salt would help. FYI, the place is a hole in the wall in a strip mall and only seats about 25-30 max, so if you're planning an event, look elsewhere.
(3)
Valerie M.
Garlicky, olive oily, uncomplicated goodness. It's BYOB - if you happen to forget to bring booze, the 7-11 next door has a surprisingly decent wine selection! (But it's still 7-11. Bear that in mind.) Their soft bread, garlic chunks dredged in olive oil, spaghetti bolognese and sausage & peppers have satisfied my hankering for old-school Italian food on several occasions. But beware: you will REEK of garlic. The aroma will permeate your clothing fibers & seep out of your pores. And your friends might not talk to you for a day or two for fear of being set on fire by your dragon breath. Worth it? Probably.
(4)
Caitlin M.
The food is unreal. A must eat!
(5)
Jin T.
been going here for over a decade. still the same old place with great food. yes it's cramped. yes it's crowded. yes it's that good. casual and BYOB is the name of the game here kids! plus lots of hot pasta and bread and garlic. i've been to the other one in westchester and i swear this one in the Marina is better. same menu and everything but maybe it's because the MDR location is smaller, so the food gets to you quicker. i dunno.
(5)
kuchan T.
Our office ordered from Alejo's the other day during our lunch/meeting. This was probably the worst "Italian" food I have ever had. We had the chopped salad, the fettucini alfredo, and carbonara. The chopped salad was okay. The pasta was horrible. Both sauces tasted the same. The pasta was way overcooked. It was disgusting.
(1)
kit t.
i have no idea of its italian authenticity but for the price it's the best italian i've had. the basic ingredients in the dishes manage to maintain their individual flavors and still combine delightfully with each for an additional taste. the marinara is not as aggressively salty as buca di beppo's, so it provides a versatile base for pasta's fresh taste to pop out. you can add mushrooms or clams or sausage and the balance of flavors is will be there. their cream sauce isn't too rich nor creamy so when it covers the raviolis (other anything else), you can enjoy the delicate preparation of the wraps. my favorite is the meatball pizza on their special of the day menu. it's not on their takeout menu so you have to remember it when you order on the phone. the tasty meatballs with the spaghetti are great. but when you slice and bake them on a pizza to add extra brownness, its even better. they changed the fluorescent lights to recessed floods which upgrades the ambiance by a half notch. i don't mind the cramped set-up because i think it's part of its appeal. walking past the busy bus stop or check cashing store don't bother me because though it might be theworst corner in marina del rey it's still the marina(-adjacent). besides it can be like your a dirty little italian food secret.
(5)
DAVID B.
Probably one of my favorite places of all time. It's small and noisy. They have 4 person chairs around the perimeter of the place but a very long table in the middle which probably fits about 16 people. It can be elbo to elbo action as you try to yell over other peoples conversations and soon enough you may find yourself in full diction with the strangers who you're sitting next to. They don't have a liquor license but you can bring your own booze in there and they will uncork your bottle of vino for no charge. The service is great, the price for two is on par for anyone's budget, and the Shrimp AL Diablo is a must have!
(4)
Erick Z.
3 stars for the bread and garlic dip. You'll be better off just eating this and then going home. The pastas are very ordinary and remind me of Olive Garden. Portions are big but sometimes quality is better than quantity. I have friends who love this place so I have been many times and each time I am disappointed except for the bread and garlic. Oh, the service is pretty horrible so be prepared to have them almost spill your pasta on your lap at least once...
(3)
Barndi K.
5 stars for food as that it is what it is about. Yes the parking is ATROCIOUS, atmosphere, well, there is none and you better like eating w/ strangers b/c you are jammed PACKED in here. But the food, oh the ravioli, oh the anything else... If you like simple, fresh homemade Italian food (made by hardworking Hispanic chefs who might as well be Italian) in the busy junction of Marina del Rey & Venice beach, this is it. As everyone else has written, not a great date place as you won't really want to make out w/ garlic breath afterwards. Don't be scared of the location & atmosphere b/c once you start eating the DELICIOUS FOOD in generous quantities, everything else will fade out into a blur...
(5)
Bananarama M.
LOVE this place. It's a total hole in the wall & hard to find & hard to get seated, but they have the BEST pesto!! I've tried to order other things, but the pesto is just too good to pass up. Yummmmmmmm!! Everything here is yummy. It's BYOB with no corkage fee 7 the 7-11 next door has a great wine selection so if you forget your bottle pop in next door for some wine.
(5)
David S.
I hadn't been to Alejo's in a while, but last night we carried out. We had the Clams with Linguini, which was over cooked, and very salty. My wife had the Shrimp Diablo, which was pretty inedible, the shrimp were few and the pasta was overcooked into a mush, the bread and garlic dipping sauce was the only thing that was good. Stay away it has really gone downhill.
(1)
Tree S.
Love it.
(4)
Amy B.
great italian food, prices are very low, considering the quality of the food..re and white traditional italian table clothes, very casual..worth a try..
(5)
Kim F.
Mmmm, dreaming about your bread and garlic dip as I write this. Yes this place is tiny and parking can be a pain. HOWEVER, IT IS WORTH IT. Gigantic portions and great prices. Come here hungry. I love their eggplant parmesan and carbonara. My boyfriend loves their chicken picatta, salad and lasagna. Yes, we do come here quite often. So often in fact, that we have gotten to know the family that owns the place and the staff knows us by name.
(5)
Alicia C.
This place has a great homemade pasta taste. It feels like you just had some italian make you there usual dish, which is a break from every other italian place that is over priced and filled with frills. I'm taking my dad here if he ever comes down, he is 100% italian. it's not a five star just because of the fluorescent lights, way to bright.
(4)
Nick W.
Classic greasy americanized italian. For me, this is a form of comfort food, growing up with an italian mother. The portions are huge, the quality is mediocre, and there is no ambiance. I say this with a smile, because I love Alejo's for all its flaws and quirks.
(3)
Jeri X.
I would've never noticed this place if it weren't for the Yelp reviews, due to its unimpressive exterior. But because of the reviews, I had medium-to-high expectations for the food. We were given bread with a strong garlic/olive oil dip while we waited for our food. (The dip was too garlicky -- bring strong mints if you're going to try it.) We got the linguine pescatore and the chicken piccatta. The linguine was fine, and the calamari and shrimp were very tender. As for the other entree, the chicken had a nice fresh-off-the-grill taste, but the pasta was covered with a tomato sauce that was too sour. This place is very home-style, so don't expect anything fancy. But still, even not considering presentation, the food was just ok. By the way there is no corkage fee, if you want to bring your own wine. Service wasn't good despite the fact that they weren't busy. The bottom line is, for the price that they charge, you can have better food and a better experience at any one of the other many Italian restaurants in LA.
(2)
caroline l.
big portions, good food. the eggplant parmigiana is good. a little greasy.
(4)
Jennifer C.
Alejo's has really great food, the portion sizes are large and the wait staff is friendly (if you go in often they remember your name and that means a lot these days). If you get a lot of take out someone will walk it out to your car for you too! I work near the area and don't venture much to Marina Del Rey for dinner so I get salads most of the time. The draw to the place is the fresh baked bread and garlic oil that comes with your meal. Don't get me wrong, the salads and salad dressing is awesome but that bread and garlic call to me! The three color ravioli is awesome too with the white and red sauces. I recently had the fried calimari and it is light and delicious!
(5)
Dee D.
this place is AWESOME. my fave: spaghetti carbonara. me and my friends agree that the food "make my nature rise." . and i can't really say that about many places. even though it has little parking and there's usually a wait for a table, i'd say that it's worth it. and how many places do you know of that let's you bring your own bottle of wine?
(5)
ena c.
love this place... the end.
(5)
sean r.
I phoned in an order for 14 entrees that i would be needing the next day to pick up for a lunch meeting i had scheduled. I called about 24 hours in advance and was very clear that i needed to pick up the order at 11:15am the next day and was told that wouldn't be a problem. When i arrived at 11:15 the food was not ready, it was not until 11:50 that they had all of my order ready and i had a luncheon meeting at NOON. the service was lousy and the staff seemed very impersonal, cold, and rude. However, the food was AMAZING, everybody loved it. This is certainly a 'hole in the wall' kind of joint, but you won't be disappointed with the food, and prices are quite reasonable. They use a lot of garlic, so watch out.
(4)
brad w.
I love Alejo's. It has been a staple of mine for almost 20 years since they originally opened. The food is consistantly good. The bread is always fresh baked with the garlic and oil to dip. The price has gone up in the last 2 years but what hasn't? Still a good value for the food. Two people can split a sald and entree.
(5)
Edwin E.
To their credit, their waiters couldn't be more friendly. And their breadbasket with a bowl of garlic in olive oil is addictive. My wife had their "small" Caesar's salad with chicken. We thought they had brought the large size by accident. Though the chicken was a bit tough, they got the dressing right, which many places don't. Where it all fell apart -- really fell apart -- was the pasta. I ordered Spaghetti Carbonara. And it came so heavily sauced, so glued together with sauce, that when I stuck my fork in it for the first bite, the entire bowl of spaghetti lifted up with it. I sent it back and replaced it with ravioli -- light on the sauce. Light on the sauce turned out to be what anyone else would call "double the sauce". A pity. Nobody gives you more food for the money. But someone needs to teach the kitchen how to cook and serve spaghetti. This is not something that an "Italian" restaurant can afford to screw up on.
(2)
Andrew S.
Simply the best inexpensive Italian in the galaxy. I will forever be indebted to Stefan Lirakis who showed me the light... Thanks Stefan and Alejos!!
(5)
shehreen j.
wow, i don't get all the 4 star reviews. have you people eaten out before? yes, they are generous with the garlic and the bread is dang tasty. but the food? sub-par at best. not a lot of flavor but the portions are large....if that's what you want, eat here. the other pro is that they don't charge a corkage fee. i'm going to try it one more time and see if i just ordered the wrong thing (spaghetti and meatballs) and my friend ordered the seafood pasta special with halibut, calimari and something else. she also wasn't raving about her dining experience.
(2)
Mr X.
i went to this place because of the reviews... i have to say that this is the kind of faux italian food they serve in greasy spoon cafes in england. the kind construction workers eat at because its cheap! give me 15min's in the kitchen, some tomato and herbs and i could much, much better then this slop... what is it with this town, do you not know good food, do you have no taste buds... its not all about portion size its about the ingredients, its all about the ingredients and taste... the mob should take a hit out on this place...
(1)
Mychael S.
Man, I miss this place. Since moving to San Francisco, we haven't been able to find pizza anywhere close to as good as our Friday night staple here at Eddie's. Back in town last week, and had to come in and eat (since we couldn't get delivery anymore). Best service and nicest waiter...and of course the food was amazing. We need you in San Fran Eddie!
(5)
David R.
Casual strip-mall Italian with little parking and little ambiance, but I like the BYOB with no corkage fee; you can grab some beers or wine at the convenience store a few doors down, or bring from home. They supply wine or beer glasses, and will uncork the wine in a jiff. The free warm bread with a cup of garlic soaked in butter is great, and we usually ask for more without being hassled. Yummy if you like garlic, and the bread doesn't have that rock-hard crust, so it's great for dipping. Everything I've tried here I've enjoyed, and it's cheaper than C & O, which I also love. I haven't had any problems with slow service, but sometimes you might have to wave at someone. No big deal, it's a small place. Don't need to dress up or put on makeup, just eat and enjoy! I do.
(4)
Nic A.
Love Eddie's for Italian delivery. Haven't had the chance to dine-in yet. The huge portions accentuate the bold flavors. The Pesto is great; Eggplant Mam Mia is fantastic; nice rich flavor on the Caesar Salad; and the complimentary bread with garlic oil dipping sauce - forget-about-it!!
(4)
Adella J.
I used to love this place when it was "Alejo", ate here twice+ a week. But the owner (that had 2 locations) decided to close this place down because the business was slowing down and concentrate on the other location. Surprise! The cook (Eddie) bought the place minutes after it closed down and now.... Same old horrible parking, 2-3 cars only. nothing on the streets. The food went first to smaller portions, than when this didn't help - the prices went up - ALOT! Still the same family style sittings, same BYO wine / beer.( I love the atmosphere). The salads (famous "Alejo") is a goner, now its a soggy mesh, totally uneatable. Lazania - ok about 3 stars, veal parmesan - OMG les than 1 star, the soups are all 1-2 stars. The service went from busy place with 4-5 servers to almost empty place with one slowwwww server, rude cashier ( the owner's wife), the cook? He's the owner..... will do whatever he wants, not the customer.... and when he's not guzzling down beers, he might yell at a helper to fry you some.....food? Forget the pizza - its all trash. The pasta dishes retained some ( medium) quality, but don't ever try the fish. It's a shame that we cant bring back the Viejo Alejo, I miss the good 'ol days!
(2)
Tiffany M.
Great little hole the wall eatery. You can bring your own wine; since they have no liquor license. Every time I come the food is superb! I generally order the Linguini Pescatore and my hubby orders the Eggplant Parmesan; both are amazing. The real reason I come is for their bread. Yes the bread! Baked fresh and served with garlic sauce... I swear I could eat it for a meal. It's dangerous.... Carb overload and I love it!
(5)
Lynn B.
JoWow.. Eddies italian food is awesome. . The spaghetti carbonara to die for .. the cheese on the pizza great .. service is great they make u feel welcome.. Eddie the owner and his wife treat u like family... the service is great... two thumbs up...
(5)
Kailing T.
By far the best Italian place in the area. It's a hole in the wall type of restaurant. I always drive out of my way to pick up dinner from here. I've only actually dined in once here and I believe they allow you to byob with no corkage fee. The place is super small and casual with a mom and pop restaurant vibe. I really like their seafood pastas, especially the linguine pescatore. The linguine comes with calamari, clams, and shrimp with garlic tomato sauce. The shrimp al diablo and linguine a la mare are also pretty good. They're always extremely accommodating. The past two times, I called in 15 minutes before closing time and they still took my order. They also give you extra bread and garlic oil if you ask for it. If you love Italian food, you should definitely try this place out.
(5)
G D.
Great Italian food! Really glad we tried this place. The garlic bread is outstanding, and after trying a lot of local pizza places, this is probably the best, or at least in the top two. The veal parm was also good, though the veal was a little chewy and the sauce more on the sweet side than I would have preferred. Adding some hot pepper seeds to it solved that problem for me. Would definitely order from here again.
(4)
Jess S.
So, called up at 5.45pm on Saturday, ordered a pepperoni and a vegetarian, picked them up and drove the 15 minutes home. Opened the boxes, with more excitement and anticipation than is humanly reasonable, to be instantly disappointed upon finding one pepperoni and one pepperoni with spinach..?! No vegetarian. So, they'd obviously given us the wrong pizza and when I rang up to let them know, they asked if we wanted to drive back and get another. Nope, I don't want to drive another 20 mins in traffic when I'm starving. There was no apology and no offer to deliver one for us. The only reason I'm giving it more than 1 star is that the lady who served us gave us a bunch of bread and some olive oil to take home too. That got me through the night but I'm bummed that we essentially paid $40 for 2 pepperoni pizzas that I couldn't eat. Next time I will absolutely double check the order before leaving, but I gotta say, that's usually the restaurant's job and I feel like they dropped the ball pretty hardcore here and did nothing to compensate. Plus, according to my boyfriend, the pizza was pretty subpar anyway. Bummer because there was a lot of anticipation (read: hunger) surrounding this order and then a lot of disappointment.
(2)
Tara D.
Great service. Strongly suspect the cashier/chef was also the owner. As a small business owner, I have a sixth sense. I smelled confidence and pride. Get the chopped salad. It's huge and delicious (like you might get two meals out of it) and under $9. If you like your salad well tossed (not a pun, really ;), this is awesome. Even distribution of ingredients equals yummy perfect bite after perfect bite. It's so good it didn't even need dressing, in my opinion. Iceberg, chickpeas, finely chopped salami, cheese and ripe tomatoes. Uncomplicated salad...in a great way. I liked but did not fall in love with the side of meatballs and sauce, but I will say they were solid. I'm spoiled; I grew up surrounded by Sicialian-Americans who made their own wine and ate fresh crushed tomatoes with fresh garlic shavings, and the sauce and meatballs were out of this world. I haven't found anything like it in LA. I can cook better meatballs myself than any LA restaurant I've found. Using a ground pork-beef-veal mix is the trifecta. I'll also confess I need an insane garlicky punch to really make me happy.
(4)
Paulyn L.
I have been eating at this restaurant for a long long time and have enjoyed their food continuously. There has been no bad meal had at this restaurant. Constantly on our menu is the spaghetti w meat sauce, the carbonara, the Alfredo, the chicken piccata, the lasagna, the chopped salad, the calamari, the pizza... we've practically ordered everything except the seafood bcoz I'm allergic but other that, this is my meal at least once a week. The owners are so sweet and kind and the servers are just as friendly. It's a small restaurant with big taste.
(5)
Kelly J.
Thank you
(3)
Matt C.
If you're still looking for a very very very good pizza, this may be the place for you. I'm not talking thin cracker crust, or a $25 fresh made mozzarella and organic basil, or even the new Chipotle factory style. This is just a very good Italian restaurant, where you can get a very good pizza for take out, or some excellent food to eat in their cozy, homey little dining room. Whatever your style, this place is worth checking out. I called in a pizza order, and they said they'd have it ready in 15min. The strip mall parking lot is as tiny as their dining room, so you may have to park on Washington next to the sports bar. The pizza was ready when I got there. I also asked about the garlic sauce and they threw some in a bag with bread. At 14in, it might look a little small for a "large". But it's not thin crust, it's just good pizza. Heavy toppings, with very flavorful meats. Cheese is gooey, not watery, so the pizza holds itself together. The crust gets a good enough char so that you can pick it up. And next day leftovers (if you have them) are just as good as fresh. Altogether, just a very good pizza. Not a super expensive, celebrity chef pie. But so solid, that this may be my new go-to.
(4)
Jenna C.
Not a lot of great pizza over on this size so I was surprised by how good it was. Fresh and fast delivery!
(5)
Jonathan G.
We got to Eddie's during a Sunday dinner rush, and we had to wait in line at the entrance for about 30 minutes before we could be seated. This gave me time to strike up a conversation with the couple in front of us who were regulars and gave us some tips (and a hearty recommendation). A table for two finally opened up, and we were seated in the somewhat cramped dining area. This is a great if you want to talk to your neighbors about what they are ordering, or chime in on their private conversations cuz you are almost sitting in their laps. However, the food more than makes up for the atmosphere. I ordered the chicken parmigiana with side of spaghetti carbonara, and a Caesar salad with anchovies to start. Nearly everything was superb (I would probably go with another pasta side next time). The bread with olive oil and diced garlic that was served was so good I think we went through a couple of baskets. Along with the generous portions of food, this makes for a very caloric dinner (those of you seeking value need seek no further), and there were plenty of leftovers.
(4)
Van N.
Eddie's is an excellent choice for dine in or carry out! I've never had a bad meal from here and their portions are generous. Typically, I order the Meat Sauce Spaghetti and it is literally drench in their amazing meat sauce! As a woman on a budget, I use the leftover meat sauce and turn it into an additional meal by boiling my own pasta at home! I consistently have the Spaghetti w/Sausage, Onions, and Peppers and the Linguini A La Mare, and they have yet to disappoint. To note, this restaurant is small so there may be a wait on peak nights. The parking lot is usually difficult but you can always find street parking around the corner. As everyone has pointed out, they have no corkage fee and the bread w/garlic oil is delicious.
(5)
Lauren M.
This place is a great little hole in the wall joint that I accidentally stumbled on a few days ago. Food has amazing flavor and portion sizes are huge!! All entrees served with bread and garlic --yum! And service was fantastic. I'll definitely be back to this place!
(5)
Kelly G.
So Yummy! Low key but delicious! Love the bread and garlic sauce which is completely addictive! Not she-she; just good, old-fashioned Italian food! Nom!
(5)
Pasquale L.
Good for pick-up and always consistent!
(4)
Kenia A.
I love this place. The food is great...BYOB!!! The service is always fabulous. The only inconvenience is that they close at 3 and reopen at 5 but other than that I love this place. Highly recommended!
(5)
Richard L.
Sometimes you just have to give a business a second try as we had much better results this time. The bread with garlic as always rocked. This time I knew what to order. We ordered spaghetti and meatballs, A large pizza with peperoni, meatballs and mushrooms, a large antipasto chopped salad. The service was much better this time. The waitress was personable and was way on top of everything! Defiantly a good experience but until I hear otherwise I will be staying away from the chicken dishes.
(4)
Cherry C.
Quite possibly the best Italian food on the Westside.!the chopped salad is delicious, the bread they serve with garlic & oil is amazing and all their pasta dishes are yummy.
(5)
David F.
It looks like a hole in the wall with only room for maybe 20 people but I am very happy we stopped here. I had the Chicken Parmigiana with Spaghetti Pomodoro and my partner had the Gnocchi. Both were very good and let me add - Do not come here unless you are hungry!! Big portions and friendly service. And the price is not bad, either. It's not big enough for a really big group but 8 or 10 at a time will be glad they ate here. Highly recommended. I'll be sure to come back the next time I visit the LA area.
(4)
Stefan P.
OMG!! OMG!!! Best linguini & clams I have ever, ever had. Awesome olive oil & chopped garlic bread dip and bread too! Service? Fast and friendly and genuinely nice (not phony nice). It's a small place with very good prices. I've gone to fancy-schmancy places with double and triple their prices yet to be disappointed when the food arrived. Not here at Eddie's. The food is soo good, and the portions are good sized too, Eddie's prices are actually too low (sshhh, don't tell them!). Parking is a little challenge in this 7-11 small corner center, BUT, the food should be on TV and in a fancy place 30 stories up downtown somewhere, no I am not exaggerating. If you like Italian food you will LOVE Eddie's Italian Restaurant!
(5)
Nick S.
I stopped in here at 30 min before closing and didn't want to be a pain so I planned on getting take out. The guys working insisted we stay though, and offered heading next door for a bottle of wine to compliment dinner. It's BYOB, no corkage fee and they provide all the fixens. I had their chicken piccata but opted for a cream sauce on my pasta rather than the standard marinera - figured it would be a more notable compliment for my taste buds. With a $12 bottle of vino from next door, I left beyond satisfied - as did my wallet! Eddie's might look like a hole in the wall worth overlooking, but I assure you the service, price, and food quality will all prove this place has the class of their uppity competitors.
(5)
Jack M.
Very good calzone, linguini Alfredo. Awesome oil/garlic with fresh soft bread. Really good food :)
(5)
Keith L.
best Italian in the area delivery kid is very fast
(5)
Elton W.
Crummy ravioli Crummy lasagna Good bread and oil/garlic to start, and a good salad. Thus very disappointed when all the mediocre food came out. In a strip mall Meh.
(2)
Xavier X.
This place has Delicious Italian food. The owner Eddie is always on sight. The service is prompt and aware of your need in the blinkbof an eye. ByoB. Just awesone! 7eleven next door. Couldnt ask for a better dinner experience.
(5)
Lorenzo G.
Once upon a time this was a great eatery. Their service was once exemplary, the food superb. NOT NOW!!! Something happened, I suspect a change in management. On a recent visit, I sat and waited for a menu....after nearly 10min wait for a menu I got up and got my own, then we waited for a server to take our order. Now mind you there was only my wife and I along with one other couple in the restaurant. Normally the Chef's salad is a hot ticket, but now the lettuce is saturated with water, and there is virtually no turkey meat or tomatoes in the salad. I should have known something was fishy when I had my pick of parking stalls. Normally the lot is full to capacity, especially at lunch time. Disappointing to say the least, because this was once a great lil' local jewel. Oh well.
(1)
Christa T.
since moving to the westside this has been my favorite italian food spot byob great fast service always making my boyfriend and i feel welcomed. The food is delicious and the portion is huge great to share !! or makes even better left overs!!
(5)
NIck R.
Crazy little un-gourmet place next to 7-11. It's good, it's quick, and it's got more garlic than it needs. Just like I would do it. I read someone saying it's changed. Did they add more garlic? In my opinion, and has been my experience absolutely nothing, or very little has changed here in the last 10 years. I keep going, and I have no real complaints so after that long...
(5)
Lawrence L.
What was once Alejo's Presto Trattoria Italian Restaurant on the corner of Lincoln and Washington is now Eddie's Italian Kitchen, although the management and the menu remain virtually unchanged; the sister location (actually aunt's) up the street closer to Manchester retains it's name. Situated within a somewhat janky strip mall along with neighbor 7eleven, their homestyle Italian classic dishes and their corkage free BYOB policy is what keeps people coming here from all over... yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… The service from everyone we encountered was very friendly and accommodating. We were never short on complementary toasted bread yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… , which btw was very addicting along with the chopped garlic infused olive oil. Our water glasses seemed never half-empty. They have protected wifi and the signal is strong, I was able to use it while we were there after I asked Eddie (?) for the password... Bring your peeps and share, that's the best way and that's what we did when our good friends took us out to celebrate Mrs. L's bday. The menu is fairly straight-forward, simple and affordable, and is augmented by a whiteboard above the counter with the specials... The Mixed Salad yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… has finely chopped lettuce and red cabbage with tomatoes and garbanzo beans and comes already tossed and slightly overdressed; knives are unnecesary, just serve and eat... The Spaghetti with Meatballs yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… came with plenty of thick marinara sauce and could have used more noodles imho. I like my spaghetti cooked just short of al dente for more bite and dressed with sauce like a salad, but this is my own preference. The dish came with 4 thick and prodigous meatballs that took up a large portion of the plate's real estate. Nothing really fancy here, just very filling... The seafood selection was a Linguini and Shrimp dish from the specials whiteboard yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… . The shrimp was sauteed in a white wine sauce and topped with chopped tomatoes and finished with either chopped basil or Italian parsley. These noodles were cooked just right and had good texture... I loved the savory flavor of the Chicken Marsala dish yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… , it came with a generous amount of sliced, sauteed mushrooms, and capers for that subtle hint of brininess. The chicken was boneless skinless breast meat that I believe was either butterflied or pounded thin; sort of on the side of or on a bed of spaghetti noodles lightly doused with marinara on top. I would have wished for just the marsala sauce tossed with the spaghetti pasta... They hand toss and make the pizza dough from scratch and the results are terrific. The doughy crust has nice rise, just beginning to blister along the edge and is thick enough in the middle to support the scant marinara sauce, mozzarella, and generous Italian sausage slices and halves... yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… We did a pretty good job already on the food, but there was still enough room for a small surprise for the bday girl: two slices of the very popular Tiramisu dessert on the house, a very nice gesture indeed... yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… These sizable portions left the 8 of us feeling very full and satisfied and in need of a walk at the nearby Venice Canals afterwards. If you want a simple, satisfying Italian meal in the MDR, then give Eddie's some consideration... Tip: People sometimes run next door to the 7eleven where they have a decent selection of wine for BYOB...
(4)
Dan F.
Incredible pizza, bread and speed! Pizza arrives quickly and hot out of the oven! Bread is always fresh and amazing.
(5)
Karen L.
Our new neighborhood go to, Eddie's is so good! We love garlic and Eddie's does too. So apparently, does the entire neighborhood (Marina/Venice) as the line is usually out the door on the weekend both for dine in and take out. Servers are so nice and the cooks are very friendly. Start off with the deadly garlic dip and I do mean deadly. Do not, and I mean do not, plan on kissing or even going within 10 feet of someone who has not eaten this dip with you. You will surely repel them! The bread is soft and perfectly soaks up the dip. Try not to over do it, like I do because you will be full. The Caesar salad is really good and so is the chopped Italian. These salads are big, so share with a friend. We always get the pizza with pepperoni and sausage.Chicken Picatta with white wine and lemon sauce is one of our favorites as is spaghetti with meatballs, and Linguini Al Olio (basil, garlic, and olive oil). We also love the Linguini Alfredo (ask for the sauce on the side) and Linguini & Clams. You can't go wrong with Eddie's especially if you love garlic!
(5)
Andy P.
Can't comment on the hot food because so far I can't get past the great chopped chef salad (a step up from a classic Italian chopped salad) on the lunch special. All the ingredients are fresh and in perfect proportion, topped off by an amazing vinaigrette. And yes, the bread too. Friendly staff and never seems too busy at lunch.
(5)
Zoey T.
My favorite hole in the wall Italian restaurant. It does get crowded in the evening and the seating is cramped, however the staff is very attentive.
(4)
V T.
DO NOT HAVE IT DELIVERED!! I've been eating at Eddie's for many years now, even when it was Alejo's. For the first time last week, I had an order delivered. I was told that there was no cost for delivery if the order was over $20 and within 3 miles (which I am within). My bill was $27, but they added in a $4 delivery charge anyway! Unfortunately, I didn't catch it in time, as my husband was the one who met the delivery guy at the door. So we ended up paying a tip on top of the food total and the delivery charge. Up until now I had been 100% satisfied with Eddie's. But with this latest experience, I may be willing to have food on a take - out basis, but never again will I have it delivered.
(1)
Taylor F.
I came here with a few buds, looking for a place to grab a bite before heading to a night of competitive turtle racing at nearby Brennan's. From the outside, I was skeptical. Being neighbors with a 7-11 and dry cleaners doesn't exactly scream "fine dining." I was basically expecting a McDonald's version of Italian food, but it was really great! Like REALLY good. They serve of fresh baked bread with fresh garlic pressed in olive oil -- incredibly flavorful! The plates themselves look like something you'd get in a $$$$ restaurant. The seafood pasta was beautifully plated and elegant. The house salad was HUGE, very generous portions, and the pizza I was told was also really good. The toppings are big and chunky, but my friends overdid it with something like 5 toppings, so their pizza got a little over-burdened by all the extra add-ons. Again, this was the fault of my friends, NOT the restaurant. Great experience, pleasant surprise! Best little hole in the wall. AND BYOB!
(5)
anastacia h.
Fast & very friendly service! Great food, always hot, fresh & large portions one of my fav is shrimp filleto , yummy & Caesar salad , fresh unlimited bread , we have been regulars here for years & always great!
(5)
Cheryl S.
We came here last night for the first time since the name change. We had a take-out order. The bread and garlic oil were great! As was the chopped Italian salad. This time we ordered pasta with meat sauce and it was just okay. We like the pizza with prosciutto more than the pasta. Parking can be an issue.
(4)
Sherri B.
Well, I am a regular at this place so I must like it. Although I must say it is very old skool (translation . . . full of bad calorires . . . The salads are very good and the pizza is very good. I always like the seafood pizza, its got a thick crust and clams, shrimp and peppers. It is very yummy indeed. The service can be spotty depending on who you get. It's a small place that serves delicious bread with garlic oil. So you won't be so hungry. It's the old Alejo's but with a new name. You can bring your own wine, no corkage fee. Small parking lot.
(4)
Peter S.
GARLIC They're not afraid to use it. The pasta is fresh, the sauce is wonderfully seasoned and the people are super friendly. I've been going here for years and make it a point to visit when i'm in the area. Eddies is all about he food! Recommendation: Chicken Piccatta (tip order it with the angle hair pasta) then drizzle the olive oil and garlic on the pasta. That is unbelievable........ One more (it's not on the menu, but you can ask for it) Ask for Chicken Diablo (on the menu it's Shrimp Diablo) this is a fantastic dish and again, add a bit of the olive oil and garlic. These are my GO-TO dishes, please try them and let me know what you think.
(5)
Emily W.
This place is good for what it is. It's by no means an upscale Italian restaurant one would order seafood at. If you want an affordable, small neighborhood spot you can fill up at, then this is it. They have tasty pizza, good salad, no corkage fee for bringing your own wine and the prices are very affordable. It's not the best I've ever had, but it's clean and a good choice if you want to sit and be served instead of preparing food at home. The salad is chopped fine and drenched in dressing so, if you want it light, ask for dressing on the side.
(3)
Clara L.
i myself would have never discovered this gem but D has been coming here since he was a kid grabbed a bottle of wine shared: seafood pasta in red sauce spinach pasta with seafood chopped salad and that ridiculously addicting bread & garlic oil a genuine neighborhood 'hole-in-the-wall' spot for no nonsense italian
(4)
Stephen R.
I've been coming here for about 20 years, it used to be called Alejos, but Eddie took it over and kept the menu the same. I always order the pizza with pepperoni and mushrooms extra crispy. The pizza reminds me of this one place I used to go to as a kid by culver city called Chris' Pizza, but they are long gone. Eddie's spaghetti with meat sauce is really good too. We also always start it out with the Italian chopped salad. The fried calamari is really good too. One thing I didn't care for was their fettuccine alfredo, their white sauce didn't have much flavor. Still, I always look forward to going here.
(5)
Joey C.
If I were to tell you about an amazing hole in the wall this has to be it!!! We found this place by chance and it is really that good. It is in a small and I mean very small corner shopping center. Parking can be hard but it is well worth it. We had their cheese pizza which was sooooo good! Not only that but this place is B.Y.O.B yeahhh did I mention this place is B.Y.O.B??? We picked up a 6 pack before we came and they had ice cold beer glasses waiting for us upon arrival.. Yeah on that note "I'll be back."
(5)
Tiffany L.
Now that I've been here 3 times I think I can honestly review. This has become my go-to Italian place! My first attraction to Eddies was the fact that they don't charge a corkage fee. Bring all the wine you want folks! On my last visit we brought 7 people and 6 bottles. Wiiiiiiiiiii The only 'not so great' thing I've had at Eddies is the Pesto Chicken dish. It's a little dry. Everything else I've had... AMAZING! My friends really liked the calimari (not for me) and my mom love their beef lasagne. My husband always gets the chicken parmesan with white sauce added to kind of make it a pink sauce. Oh, and you must try the chopped salad. Do they put crack in it? I don't know and I don't care. Delish! Service here is really great. The staff just seems happy to have people around. They are more than helpful and have twice given us free flan (once for my birthday). Parking lot is very small and is shared in a tiny strip mall with 7-11 and a laundry place (i think). There is street parking as well if you cant find something.
(4)
David A.
What a bummer! I love the bread and garlic oil, but everything else was bad. The Caesar salad was so overdressed, it was soggy, the garlic bread with cheese was soaking in oil, and not toasted, finally the shrimp Fillette came out with the driest, over cooked shrimp I've ever seen served with flavorless pasta. The service was good, and prices too, but the food was terrible.
(2)
Ivy L.
You can not go wrong with this place. No risk involved. Everything I've ever ordered has been incredible. You can tell its made with love and authentic recipes. They also load up on the free parm and give you a mountain of soft delicious bread with garlic olive oil to dip in when you order. Another thing... I love their salad dressing like you wouldn't believe.
(5)
Jessica Y.
A customer of mine brought over a dish of spaghetti with mushrooms and chicken. Oh my wow!! It was love at first bite! I look forward to tasting the spaghetti with calamari. My co worker had the fresh bread and garlic olive oil for dipping and she loved it! Looking at their pictures of many dishes here on Yelp, makes me look forward to visiting often for lunch. Everything looks so yummy!!
(4)
Sarah R.
I love love love Alejo's... er.... Eddie's... whatever. I've been coming here for many many years (when it was Alejo's) and the food is superb. I wasn't too keen on the name change, but the food has stayed the same, so it's all good. Eddie's has the best pizza. If I come for lunch, I get a small basil and red pepper pizza. It's nice and cheesy. The sauce is delicious. Enough for 2 people to have a filling lunch, and I appreciate that. Throw in some of their delicious bread with fresh garlic and olive oil and you can walk out of there full for a reasonable price. My husband and I often come here for dinner and I almost always order the chicken picatta. It comes with a side of pasta.. which I have them put picatta sauce on instead of the marinara it comes with. Try it! Best dish EVER! My husband has tried most of the items on the menu and adores their food as well. I'm not much of a wine drinker myself, but one of the biggest perks at Eddie's is that you can bring your own wine... and they don't charge a corkage fee! That makes a huge difference. The Alejo's up the street isn't so kind. Intimate restaurant. Nice and romantic for a date. Highly recommended :)
(5)
Katie H.
The name may have changed but the food has not. I've been coming here for over a decade and I've pretty much ordered the same thing every time: cheese ravioli with red and white sauce. SO GOOD! Last year I had my birthday here. They were very accommodating for such a large group in a smaller restaurant but the 12 of us were very happy. BYOB which helps keep things affordable and make sure you're ready to smell like garlic for about a week because the irresistible garlic and bread, though delicious will leave you reeking.
(5)
Steve M.
We have been going here for 15+ years, the crew is friendly and the food is great, we tend to be creatures of habit, a chopped salad, pepperoni pizza, Chicken Parmesan with Angel hair pasta and a bottle of Heineken from 7 Eleven. Since my kids like this place, its a winning combination for my family!
(5)
Dean H.
Where to start??? Ok, Just got a 14" pepperoni pizza and an order of mozzarella Marinara from this place and while it delivered quickly, quality took a big hit. Half of the pizza was a wet, doughy, slimy mess of a crust while the other side housed all of the toppings from its barren cousin. And it tasted like the cheese was some strange mixture of rubber and plastic, a chewy, cheesy pepperoni flavored bubble gum nightmare. And the mozzarella marinara was a frozen single square block of hardened fat in a tepid pool of mediocre marinara. Never. Again. Two words...grey block.
(1)
X B.
had the lasgna... loved the cheese BUT it was too salty
(2)
Janet V.
YUMM! Had dinner her on Sat. night. Great service and great food. I'll be back!
(4)
Victoria S.
I have been searching for this place for really long time since my friend took me there and I don't remember the name. I finally got the name and wanna tell every yelper that this Italian restaurant is the best Italian food I have ever tried yet in LA, good price, amazing taste!!! Don't hesitate, go for it !!!
(5)
Christophe B.
Outside is not great parking, not easy in this litttle business mall. but if you are looking for a familly italian restaurant, you are really at the good place Bread and garlic are irresistible Chop salad and speciality Calamary salad Are what you want Pastas with saussices and peper, cover of parmesan cheese is what i am dreaming. cannot wait to come back
(5)
Sheila R.
Sitting here right now!!! Great crowded atmosphere!!! The food.....oh my...I cannot explain how mouthwatering delicious it is...we had the lasagna and the spinach ravoli....couldn't eat it all,had to bring it home,it was just so good!!!! Next time we will bring some wine...we will absolutely be back!
(5)
Bobbie W.
Don't judge a book by it's cover! I drive by this place everyday on my way to work and I never thought this would be a place I would try. It's in a small little plaza right next to a donut shop and from the outside, doesn't look like much. Boy was I wrong! My boss wanted to order take-out from here for a work meeting and I automatically opposed being the brat that I am. He insisted and I'm glad he did because everyone, including myself, loved their food. I got the fresh fish of the day alla checca style with veggies. It was seabass covered in a very tasty tomato, garlic and basil sauce. Really light but really flavorful! I also tried the eggplant mama mia and linguini pescatore. Both were also really good. We also ordered the chopped italian and mixed salad which were both fresh and tasty. The best part is they give you tons of warm bread to dip in their amazing garlic olive oil sauce. So yummy and definitely hard to stay away from!
(4)
Jessie M.
I am so fortunate to have stumbled across Eddie's as the location is misleading for how amazing the food is. If you love amazing authentic Italian food, you will love Eddies. It is a bit pricey, but well worth it!
(5)
Jacqueline S.
I love Eddie's (although, I was sad to see the name changed. Alejo's just flowed so well)! I come here regularly, and am obsessed with their shrimp arrabbiata. The dipping sauce that comes with the bread is amazing (uhm... GARLIC!) and I love there is no corkage fee! Sometimes I will walk over to the 7-11 in the same shopping center, grab a bottle, and enjoy it with dinner. I like that the place is small and I usually get the same server. He's always been very friendly. Oh, and the meatballs are fantastic. A man at the table next to me generously offered us one of his, and it was wonderful!
(5)
Justin A.
I have to admit, I was a little skeptical when my girlfriend and I arrived at Eddie's. I am glad I didn't judge a book by a cover because this place was awesome. Yes, its BYOB. Yes, you can bring beer! Yes, there is no corking fee. That is all that needs to be said. Garlic Bread....delicious. Margherita Pizza.....delicious. Chicken Ravioli....delicious. Needless to say, I will be back.
(4)
D W.
There are pretty big gaps in time between me coming here. And I'm happy to say that every time I come back, the Eggplant Parmigiana is as delicious as I remember it. No. Even better! The soft egg battered eggplant melts in your mouth. Seriously. It lays on top of a bed of spaghetti with marinara sauce. (My choice. There are other options.) The sauce has just the right amount of tang. On top of it all is a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. Yum! Then there's the fresh baked bread. Warm and soft. It just can't be beat. But that's not all. Here's the topper... The garlic infused olive oil. It's absolutely delicious but intense. I sop up the pieces of garlic with my bread. I even pour it on my eggplant parmigiana, not thinking at the time about it being raw garlic. Well, not until later, after I've eaten and the garlic taste is still in my mouth. And the next day, when the garlic taste is still in my mouth. But guess what? It's well worth it! And I will be doing it again.
(5)
Amy K.
I love this place! Now don't be scared of the sketchy strip mall location and the ever changing name. This is Italian food at it's most delicious! I love the chopped salad, the dressing is amazing. I also dip the bread in it. For pasta the shrimp linguine is awesome. I usually get take out but if you bring a bottle of wine to eat in, there's no corkage.
(4)
Amy P.
Great pizza. Lots of garlic... Which I love! No alcohol but the 7-11 next door has wine...
(4)
Trish G.
Was in town for a day and found this very quaint restaurant. Do not shy away from the outside appearance. Go try it!
(5)
Katey G.
Wonderful service, the waiters were so nice! They give you amazing bread and the olive oil and garlic was to die for. The chop salad was one of the best salads I've ever had. The calamari was also good. The chicken piccatta with angel hair pasta was unreal. Eat here!!
(5)
S H.
Ordered takeout and found the food to be average. I had spaghetti and meatballs. The marinara sauce is good, but not anything special. I was disappointed with the meatballs which were very dense and didn't seem to have much flavor. One highlight was the garlic bread with mozzarella cheese which were tasty, though I had to heat them in the oven once I got the food home.
(3)
J W.
Worst restaurant experience I have ever had!! I called this evening to place a delivery order, I gave the girl my order and my credit card number and she went to hang up the phone, I had to stop her and remind her she needed my address. I should have known this was not going to be a good experience!! I placed my order at 6:40pm and she quoted me 50min so when my food still had not arrived at 7:56 I called to check on it. The same girl answered the phone and told me the order should have gone out. At 8:40, yes that's 2hrs later, I called again. The same girl answered the phone and I let her know it had been 2hrs and I still had not received my order. She again told me it should have gone out. At this point I was starving and I getting very irritated. I asked to speak with a manager and another girl got on the phone, and told me the manager was not there right now!!! So I explained to her what had happened and she asked me if I wanted the order sent back out. I said the order was never sent and she said no. I said you never made the order so now you will have to cook the food and then send it out, how long will it be? She responded, right now another 40min!!! So now I have waited 2hrs for my food and they wanted me to wait another 40min!! The best part is they didn't manage to send the food but they did manage to charge my credit card!! I told her to cancel my order and to refund my credit card. She told me she would send the voided transaction with the driver. I was confused, why was the driver coming?? She said "oh you don't want the food". No I don't want the food, I just want my money back!! But they couldn't even get me canceling the order correct!! This was the first time I ordered from here and it will be the last. The people taking the orders obviously have no idea what they are doing and even worse they are left there with no manager!! I would have given no stars if that had been an option!! I wouldn't even have written this if I had actually spoken with a manager but they couldn't manage to do that right either!!
(1)
Sarah B.
The food here SUCKS. Cesear salad was olive oil and processed cheese and drenched in oil. The carbonara was terrible - not like any carbonara I've ever had, reddish sauce. Everything needed salt. Service was decent but I will never be eating here again.
(1)
Tarra M.
I just tossed $40 worth of takeout in the trash. Calamari was over cooked. The Alfredo sauce was separated with overcooked linguini. The shrimp in the sauce was old and overcooked. The caesar salad had the dressing already on on it. Needless to say, romaine soggy and wilted floating in a tray of dressing. Extremely disappointed meal...not even edible. DO NOT EAT HERE!!!!
(1)
Scott C.
Loved Alejos, now Eddie's Italian, when I was a local and may love it even more now that I no longer live in Venice. As has been stated, it's easy to miss in the mini-strip mall on the corner of Lincoln and Washington (SE corner), but definitely worth finding it! Food is excellent at very reasonable prices. Service is decent - it doesn't set the world on fire, but it's not poor either. They do not take reservations, so if you've got a big party, be sure to arrive either early or late in the evening. It is BYOB, but the 7-11 next door has updated its wine selection considerably in the last few years to offer a decent selection. Great italian at reasonable prices - what more can you ask for?!
(5)
Emily S.
Formerly known as Alejo's, Eddies is a great place for Italian food. I love the garlic-y oil dip they bring out with their bread. I can put that on everything. The pasta dishes are big, and is enough to make two meals out of it. I also am a fan of their chopped salad. Most of the time, I order the angel hair with chicken because I like angel hair pasta, but they have a variety of noodles for you to choose from. Also, lots of people here bring their own wine, but I'm not sure if they have a corkage fee or not. Regarding the parking, they have a pretty small lot shared with a few other stores... if the parking there is taken, you can park on the street behind the restaurant.
(4)
Vivian L.
five stars for no corkage fee alone! there is a 7-11 in the same complex with a variety of wines. the garlic olive oil for dipping bread in is also amazing.
(5)
Phillip V.
I've been here a few times when it was Alejo's never as Eddie's. I don't think it was a management change, but some sort of legal name issue. So I'm sure the food is still good as ever. The portions are huge here. I never finish my meal here, but it could be that I grubbed out on too many breadsticks before the entree even hit the table. If craving italian while in Marina Del Rey, Eddie's is a must try.
(4)
Michael F.
Eddie's used to be Alejo's, but recently changed it's name. Probably because there is another Alejo's location, also on Lincoln BLVD, just a few miles away. I had never been to this Eddie's/Alejo's location up until recently since I lived closer to the one in Westchester. I recently had the opportunity to give it a try, and I liked it a lot. The menu is identical to Alejo's in Westchester. However, I did notice a few differences in the dining experience. I ordered the three color ravioli for my entree, and the portion size was much more than anytime I had ordered the same thing at Alejo's. The service at Eddie's was also much quicker, which I believe can easily be attributed to this place being tiny. The negative about Eddie's is that it is not as nice in appearance as Alejo's (which isn't all that nice to begin with). Eddie's is not romantic at all, and feels more like a place I would want to grab lunch with my coworkers than a place to take a date. The food at Eddie's was good, and was everything that I had come to expect from Alejo's. I really liked the three color ravioli, and the bread and garlic oil were good as well. I enjoyed my meal here, and would love to come back soon to dine again. If I was to suggest an Italian place to take someone on a date, I would say go to Alejo's. If I were to suggest where to go to for lots of good Italian food fast, I would say Eddie's.
(4)
Emily C.
My order was just... Not good. The chicken on my chicken parm was so tough and thin it didn't even taste like chicken. The spaghetti was under cooked too and the whole meal kind of made me sick. it got there quick but I'm mad I spent $27 total for a gross lunch :/ oh and not to mention the delivery driver didn't even try to come to my apartment door. She made me walk all the way down cuz parking was too difficult for her. Never had problems with other drivers?... I guess I shouldn't have tipped the driver ahead of time.
(1)
Daniela R.
Best chopped salad I've ever had! Pizza is so so good and pastas are delicious as well! This is gonna sound totally crazy but the only downside to this place is that they tend to add too much chicken to pastas with chicken in them... I know I know usually you never get enough protein in places it'll be like a 1/5 chicken and rest pasta. But this place is 1/2 chicken 1/2 pasta its ALOT of chicken lol.. Yes it was still super good but I like my pasta!! I still come here at least once a month :)
(4)
Jack L.
One reason I like coming here is that when I order the "Chicken Catcher Torre," based on the urban legend involving former catcher (and former Dodgers manager) Joe Torre, my wife and I smile. Plus I enjoy that dish, as well as the bread, the chopped salad, and the pizza. Parking often is tough, but sometimes we walk here.
(5)
Eric L.
AMAZING. Go for the chopped salad and shrimp al diablo. Expect to leave with garlic breath. And if your girlfriend leaves her purse, expect the bus boy to come chasing you down the street to give it back. Do yourself a favor and eat dinner at Alejo's.
(5)
Veronica R.
I always forget about this place but I'm not sure why. I'm assuming its the fact that its located in a tiny shopping center and has like 5 tables. But the veggie pizza is one of my all time favs and the pasta dishes are always pretty solid!
(4)
Alexis B.
A favorite casual place to stuff my face! First come, first serve - tight area, exposed kitchen, BYOB and endless amounts of fresh ciabatta bread to dip into the olive oil (its not butter FYI) and chunks of garlic! Come onnnnn - you can't tell me that doesn't sound awesome? The portions are a good size, that easily feed two people well. We get the house salad, share that - which again, delicious. A favorite of mine is the clam linguini and the veal ravioli. Now the ravioli has a double sauce, half white, half red - try it. It'll blow your mind and send you into a food coma.The clams are seasoned perfectly, garlic and butter, laid out on fresh linguini. Bring your own bottle of wine, no corking fee, and they have cute 4 ounce glasses to drink from. Have yet to try the pizzas, but I prefer the staples.
(5)
IntheEyes I.
Went back again tonight alone for a nice peaceful dinner. I'm a total foodie. Xmas Eve, no work till Friday. A treat to myself. An employee accused me of taking his phone that he supposedly left in the restroom. As I came out of the restroom, he said to me.."Uh..did you see an Iphone in there." I said to him no, in which he then became very confrontational . I have had my HTC One M8 for 5 months, as I despise Apple products. After this accusation, it turns out that this gentlemen ended up leaving his precious IPhone at the register where I assume he was working. It is very disappointing as a long time loyal customer to experience this irresponsible unprofessional behavior from this establishment. I was extremely shocked. I spoke with the owner and he did reciprocate that the matter would be attended to. As a medical professional, my phone is turned off in my work setting. My phone stays in my pocket during work so I do not risk losing it. I felt very bad to have such a great Xmas Eve spoiled, temporarily of course, by an irresponsible employee whom cannot keep track of what seems like his most prized asset. I HOPE YOU FELT LIKE AN IDIOTIC SIMPLETON WHEN YOUR H, J OR I PHONE WAS IN THE FRONT ALL THIS TIME, Truly sad buddy. I hope you and your phone have many wonderful experiences together. Merry Christmas. Eddie was very professional, staff was a hit or miss tonight. My coworkers and I were planning a nice dinner here Saturday night but we have changed our plans for the 14 of us. Tony P's....we will see you soon. There are so many great places to dine here in the Marina. Your employees represent your brand and it's trademark. One sour experience is enough.
(2)
Nova P.
Consistently good food, great service, casual, small, cozy seating with neighbors, and BYOB. Most of the times I've been to Alejo's it fills up quickly and many times had to go on a wait list. If you forget to bring drinks, there is a 7/11 in the same lot. Located on a busy corner, the parking lot is tight, so be prepared to get lucky with a spot or park nearby. Great place to share family style. I've been coming here off and on for the last few years, and these are my favorites: *Spaghetti with meat sauce - generous sauce, may require more pasta or bread for dipping *Italian chopped salad - sooo goood *Eggplant parmigiana - not a huge fan of eggplants in general, but I really like this dish
(4)
Adam G.
I'm Italian and I love to cook Italian food. I've tried three things on their menu, the linguine with clam sauce, pizza with meatballs, and the chicken Alfredo. All were below average by my standards. Very little flavor, the meatballs tasted frozen, the clam sauce was bland and runny, and the bread is very chewy. The only reason I gave them 2 stars instead of 1 is bc the garlic and oil they bring to the table is great. But you can't just eat bread and olive oil... There are better Italian options for the same price. Next time I'll just cook at home.
(2)
Michael S.
Are you hungry? In the mood for big portions of hearty Italian? On a budget? Eddie's (formerly Alejo's Presto Trattoria Italia) in the Marina is the place for you. Driving by this tiny strip mall on the corner of Washington and Lincoln, it is very easy to miss the small white sign for the restaurant. The parking lot is also undersized and littered with trash. Seriously, it's not a very inviting environment, but don't let it deter you because the bread and pasta will make the visit worthwhile. The free Soft Bread served with meals is hard to put down because the Garlic and Oil Dipping Sauce is filled with real pieces of garlic. Everyone in the party will carry the smell with them for the rest of the day. I say, don't hate it... celebrate it... We could tell by the dishes at tables near by that the portions were huge. So, we split a couple orders. The large chopped Alejo's Salad is an Italian salad with Turkey, Bacon & Red cabbage. Almost like a zesty Italian Cobb. For a main entree, we selected the Veal Three Color Ravioli served with both Red & White sauce. The ravioli itself was pink. The presentation was beautiful, but the sauces required more spice (aka crushed Red Pepper). Overall, Eddie's is sort of a dive Italian Restaurant. The kind of casual place you bring your own alcohol and simply hang out eating pasta and talking with friends. I'm a fan.
(4)
Andrew S.
Rest restaurant, great prices. My wife and I stopped in after reading a few reviews on Yelp and we were pleased with the food and service. On top of that they allow you to bring in your own wine or beer so that cuts down on the overall cost. They brought out a large basket of bread with a garlic oil sauce. My wife thought it was a tad bit too garlic, but I enjoyed it. We split a pepperoni pizza with extra cheese and I added mushrooms to my half. We found ourselves wishing we had a similar restaurant in our area.
(4)
Dina B.
The food here is fantastic. The location and ambiance, not so much. Grab your food to go and avoid the nightmare parking lot if you can. I don't know why they decided to change their name after having a good reputation as Alejo's -- the rumor is they were sick of people confusing the two locations. But plenty of other restaurants manage to have multiple locations with the same name, so who know why anyone does anything. What I do know is that the pizza here is AMAZING. The dough is fresh and homemade daily, and the ingredients are high quality. Absolutely delicious. I also love the chopped salad with their special tangy dressing, and the angel hair pasta with tons of veggies. They also provide you with free bread, garlic/olive oil dip, and Parmesan cheese, even if you're taking your food to go. Good prices, great food.
(4)
Jens A.
What a great place for authentic Italian wether ur needing take out, dining in, or catering they know how to take care of their customers very well!!!
(5)
Jenn L.
Summary: Parking - small lot with small spaces. avoid door dings and park on the street behind Alejo Price - $12-15 Food - great, I liked my eggplant mama-mia Portions - large Service - great Ambiance - not great, cafeteria-like, tiny place BYOB - free corkage! :) :) :) GAAAREAT! My experience: I had no idea where my good guy friend was taking me so I had no expectations prior to coming here. But it's on his company dollars...so no complaints from me. My initial reaction upon arrival was... this area is freaking ghe-tto..... I saw an empty cheap whisky bottle among other trash littered on the sidewalk as I stepped gingerly out of the car on the street behind Alejo where we parked. I clutched my purse tighter as we passed a group of shady looking/homeless people hanging out in the corner, and then witnessed a crazy looking guy totally fall off a bicycle while crossing the street cause he had stuff strapped onto it... "Did I remember to lock my car?" was my friend's initial reaction as soon as we entered Alejo. He went out to double-check as I sat down near the back of the lackluster restaurant. This is not really a date spot...unless you plan to not score. The place is tiny. I mean, maybe 20 people would fill it to capacity. But, it did have the feel of a popular local good eats spot. Our server was phenomenal. He was so attentive and professional, I almost forgot we were sitting in a cafeteria-like restaurant. Bread with a bowl of garlic in oil (really just canned garlic in oil) held us over until we got our food. We never saw the bottom of our ice water cups (with weird advertising on it). I ordered the Eggplant Mama-Mia with a side of steamed veggies instead of pasta $15, and my friend had the Spaghetti with Meat Sauce ($12 + add mushrooms $1) Both were delicious, especially mine. It arrived piping hot and delicious. Despite the lack of ambiance, I'd come back with some friends for the good food and fair prices. I'd definitely show up with bottles of wine next time too and take advantage of the free corkage!
(3)
Amy V.
Just ordered Eddies delivery. Took over 1.5 hrs. I got the gnocchi and it was a pan of rock hard white sauce and bland pasta. No flavor. The garlic break tasted like a block of oil. I threw it all out. Extremely disappointing to say the least.
(1)
Serena V.
Good food. Garlic olive oil and bread awesome. Service was great, the waiter refilled water cups three times. Pizza had plenty of mushrooms and quality cheese. Parking lot is kind of gross but once you're inside who cares.
(5)
Joy S.
We got there at around 6PM and the place was fairly empty, by the time we were leaving, the place was starting to fill up. Get there early. The bread and garlic dipping were amazing! We ordered Linguini Pescatore, which had shrimp, clams, and calamari in a wine garlic tomato sauce. I absolutely LOVED it! The portion was large, and the restaurant was very generous with the seafood. The Chicken Marsala we ordered was not as good as expected. There sauce still had a lot of alcohol taste from the wine. It over-powered the flavor of the mushroom and chicken. Overall a really good place for a weeknight dinner...
(4)
Joe I.
Raymond gave me a wonderful tip about using a bottle opener. Chicken Cacciatori. Mixed vegetables. Tiramisu. BYO Wine. Great Service. Friendly staff. Food is really hot (not spicy). Hole in wall but worth it. :-)
(5)
Amber B.
Crack olive oil + garlic dipping condiment for the soft chewy sliced bread. I would come back for this alone...but not on a date. Unless he's into double-garlic-breath making out. BYOB with no corkage.
(4)
Christina K.
I'd actually give this place 2.5 stars, but rounded down for a couple of reasons. Start with the bad news first: -Red sauce was much too tangy and sweet. I overheard the coupe at the next table saying the exact same thing. When I eat pasta, I want savory. I couldn't eat much of it due to this fact. -For 2 people they sure do waste a lot of bread. And the garlic butter was a big bowl of melted butter with a lot of garlic on the bottom. It was not a good idea to put that in such a deep bowl. And boy was I tasting garlic for 2 days!!! Reminded me of when I ate dinner with friends at Stinking Rose and we had the bright idea to go clubbing afterward...FAIL! Or should I say "pee-eww"! Good stuff: -The portions are humongous! Each order can easily feed 2-3 people. If you're going to do family style that'd be ideal-io. -The caesar salad was rocking! First time trying anchovies on a salad and I liked it. -The service was friendly. -Plenty of tables when I visited, but I hear it gets crowded and they often have a line. Pretty small venue. Take out is popular at this location for this reason. What I ate: Fettuccine al Fungi (spinach fettuccini & mushrooms in marinara sauce). Again, just too tangy. Wasn't memorable. And I'm one who loves pasta on day 2 as leftovers. I left mine purposely at my friends house. bon appetite. Friend had Chicken Parmigiana (lightly breaded, served with red sauce & mozzarella cheese). Sauce was still too tangy, but I enjoyed my bite of the chicken itself. Nice breading. Lots of cheese draping the top. Parking: Kind of sucks ass. Small lot with tight spaces. Maybe holds 8-10 cars. You may need to park in a neighboring lot and walk a short distance if busy. *Maybe I'd go back to try something else, but nothing with the red sauce. That's unfortunate.
(2)
Paul S.
This used to be a restaurant called "Alejo" some many years ago. It too was an Italian restaurant. The wife and I decided to go here because the reviews were high and my recollection of meals here was great. The ambiance is quite nice. The tables are a little close (you gotta pack the tables in if you're in the high rent district) but it was comfortable. We ordered a main dish and a large salad. That was definitely enough for two adults. The salad was filling and flavorful (we couldn't finish it). The pasta had a great tomato sauce and seasoning (it was yummy). Oh, how could I forget the garlic and bread. Before you order your meal, they give you a bowl filled with crushed garlic and extra vigin olive oil. They also give you some great Italian bread to eat with it. I almost got filled up on the bread and garlic dipping sauce (it was so good). So, taking in the 3 disciplines (hors d'oeuvres, salad and entre), Eddie's hit the nail on the head. This is definitely a restaurant worth visiting time and time again. It is now one of my favorites when I'm on the west side of L.A.
(4)
Stuart P.
Came by last night after checking Yelp reviews + less than a mile away. Yelpers pretty darn spot on! We liked Mamma's Eggplant alot. Great garlic dip.A little overload chicken to pasta ratio wise in the fettuccine but still good. Will be back!
(4)
Stylestyle L.
We went back last night and had a wonderful dinner: I had a pasta with frutto di mare and can not be happier! We also tried the new calamary salad!!!!!!
(5)
Shirley K.
Restaurant name has been changed to Eddie's Italian Kitchen. The complimentary bread is served with crushed garlic in olive oil - tastes great! My overall impression of the food is 3 stars but because the service is excellent, it gets 4 stars! Parking: Free parking provide in the small lot.
(4)
Alex V.
This is a hole in the wall Italian spot that's popular with the local crowd. The food is very good, the service is great, and the decor is ok. Wish we had discovered this place sooner, but we'll definitely be back. Definitely loved their bread and garlic olive oil and the traditional Caesar salad.
(4)
Chris H.
garlic!
(5)
Dani Z.
Reasonable prices, huge portions and soft tasty bread with garlic and olive oil. Easy to miss if you are not familiar with the area. It's in the corner center with the 7-11. Enjoy!
(4)
B D.
This place was terrible! I got excited to try it seeing all the great reviews and my wife and I completely got our hopes up! It was the worst meal we've had since we moved to California. Frozen pasta in the grocery store isle made in the microwave would be better and absolutely DO NOT order the Garlic Bread! Find a different place and stay away from here!!!!!!
(1)
Suzanne C.
(Formerly Alejo's) Eddie's truly embraces garlic, that's for sure. They serve you bread with a heavily garlic infused olive oil when you arrive. I've had different pasta dishes here - bolognese, meatballs, clams, and mixed seafood. They are tasty. The thing I enjoy most is their chopped salad and fried calamari. They don't serve alcohol and you are free to bring beer or wine (no corkage). There is a 7-11 right next door too. This 7-11 has a pretty decent wine selection because of Eddie's. Parking is really challenging. Since the restaurant is pretty sterile and I only live a mile away, I usually order take out.
(4)
Fabian V.
The italian food at Eddie's is off the chain with very addicting complimentary bread and garlic oil dip. My family and I have been coming here for about a year now & are hooked. My wife likes the sea bass linguini that comes with plenty of garlic lol. I personally love the huge calamari with marinara sauce and Eddie's pizza is delicious!! It's thin crust and packs plenty of flavor. The Linguini Pescatore is very flavorful and we usually order it extra spicy since we love spicy food. Their staff is very friendly, attentive & won't let your glass go empty. They really make you feel at home in this place. I'd recommend Eddie's to anyone who's looking for great food at an affordable price.
(5)
Zotto N.
Best creamy pastas in town...hands down! Garlic baby! Garlique. The only thing i miss about having moved to Silverlake.
(5)
Joey L.
There's not much more to add to what's already been said. I can't believe I hadn't already reviewed them. Everything is great from their pizza to their pastas. -Cheap -Generous -Delicious -Friendly -Parking -Free bread -Consistant
(5)
Kyle D.
Some of the best family style Italian I have ever had period. Don't judge this book from its cover... Outside may be rough but you have to give it a try and find out for yourself.
(5)
Lisa M.
This place doesn't look like much from the outside - hell, it doesn't look like much from the inside either. Located in a strip mall and sparse inside, but don't be fooled. The food, oh my god, the food... Had the chicken piccata, which was perfectly prepared with thin but juicy cutlets of chicken breast, a tangy lemony wine sauce and AMPLE garlic. I love garlic... The pasta came with fresh basil and more fresh garlic. (So maybe don't come here on a date unless they're eating the same thing...) Seriously though, I'm drooling again the next morning while writing this. It was amazing. My husband had the lasagna, which he said was ok - he thought the tomato sauce was a little "pasty" and that there should have been more noodliness, but he's kind of a negative Nancy and this is my review, so I'm giving it 5 stars. Service was great as well - very friendly, attentive and fast. You should go here. And eat til your buttons pop.
(5)
Petey K.
Great little place in a strip mall. The downside is parking.
(3)
Tommy L.
I've only been here twice--when I have to pick up or drop off someone to LAX. And both times I enjoyed my food a lot. Parking is hard to find because its on a busy street but if you go into residential a little bit, its not that difficult. The restaurant itself has a very homey feeling. The first time I went it was around 7pm and there was a wait. The second time I went around 5:30pm and it was not as packed. The bread they serve is SOO yummy. Seriously I can get full off the bread and not order anything else haha. Both times, I ordered the spaghetti carbonara. Its sooo good. I normally don't like marina sauce in my pasta but they made it soo goood. I repeat sooo goood. The portions are rather large too. I will definitely come back again. Well whenever I need to drop off someone I hate or pick up someone I love. :).
(4)
Travis R.
About the best pizza I've had in the entire MDR area. Not the cheapest, but it's worth the extra dollar or two.
(4)
Nicholas L.
I was with my wife and our friend, I felt like pizza and they were ok with Italian so here we came. Here's how we did... Alejo's is changing their name to Eddie's Italian Kitchen soon. I was told that everything is staying the same (menu, staff, decor, price) except the name. This was my first time so the name doesn't matter. I ordered the pep and mushroom pizza (pic,) and it was ok. It was thin crust which I love but just super greasy, I had to pat it dry with the napkin. My wife got the salad Alejo, probably soon to be called salad Eddie! I took a pic, it looked great. It was all kind of crunchy veggies and a perfect portion for my health concious wife. God she's hot! Our friend ordered the spinach ravioli (pic) which I tried that night but it tasted better when I reheated it the next day. The presentation was outstanding though, this type of dish inspires me to bring out better looking meals out home! The free bread was nice and soft. It comes with garlic olive, we asked for balsamic which is mandatory. A dip in the garlic olive oil and then a dip in the balsamic and Viola, an amazing starter. This was my first time here and I noticed that almost every table had a bottle of wine.... all different. After a small inquiry i found out that there is no corkage fee. That is a nice gesture! Service was very nice and I hope they make it as Eddie's Italian Kitchen. Will I again?.... Yes, but with so many food options in this area, it won't be for some time.. Tutalu!
(4)
John L.
I like this little hole in the wall and hope it remains a secret but with Yelp, everything gets out after a while. I just want to comment that the food is great. Even the Fish is fresh and super juicy. The bread that comes before the meal is highly addicting so I would strongly suggest to eat maybe one or two. Because if you don't control yourself you can finish the basket of 12 by yourself and the main meal will be impossible to finish.
(5)
Jessica I.
I was totally craving Italian food and was not feeling like getting off the couch..ha! Found these guys on yelp..I went a few years ago but was not impressed, I think it was called something else at that time. Anyways I ordered it to be delivered with their delivery service they offer. I think it was 4 bucks charge plus tip. The food came in like 20 minutes..on a Saturday night! I ordered the calamari and it was still crispy which is rare when you get take out. Sauce was tasty and it came with bread witha garlic olive oil dip..delish! I was disappointed with the spinach and cheese ravioli,s sauce was too chunky for me and the ravioli s were kind of tasteless..but I'm Italian from ny so I am picky! I would definitely order from eddies again and try something else!
(4)
Heather F.
Hole in the wall Italian place but worth a visit. Everything is cooked up fresh here so you don't have to worry about the pre-packaged taste. Their bread and oil with garlic is pretty tasty and so is the rest of their entrees. Salads are very popular here. The noodles are not fresh Italian noodles or anything so don't be expecting authentic stuff there because it just isn't quite that. The actual restaurant is small being in a small strip shopping center next to a 7 Eleven so parking can be a problem. Check their hours before going because certain days of the week they close during certain times of the afternoon. PS: Portion are HUGE so you can get more than one meal out of your dish. Yea!
(4)
Heather R.
I've been here twice now and will definitely be back. The first time I had the clams and linguini in a red sauce. I've tried this dish other places and I thought this was the best I've ever had. Fresh clams, perfectly cooked pasta, very flavorful sauce. This past time I ordered the same dish, with very high expectations, and was quite dissatisfied. There was something off about the flavor, maybe the wine had gone bad? I'm not one to send food back, I can't think of another time when I have, but I really had to say something. The server was so so kind and very willing to make me a new dish. It is so refreshing to get such gracious customer service! The fresh bread and garlic oil is very addictive. It's hard not to fill up on that before your entree arrives. I also took some advice on ording the chop salad and very glad I did. It was soo delicious! So even though my linguini didn't turn out quite like I expected, I'm still giving five stars because of the way the problem was handled, the quality of the other food and because I'm just assuming it was an off-night and will probably try the clam dish again next time :)
(5)
Tina N.
Delish & all at a great price. Not to mention great service and best of all, there is no corkage fee! So nice to be able to enjoy dinner and bring a bottle of wine. I do have to say the place is a bit quaint and small, but who cares.
(5)
Andrew G.
Very nice pizza. Quick, tasty. My friends did not like the shrimp/seafood pizza (I think it may be called Alejo's special or something). I loved it. Maybe I need new friends! In all, we rate it highly. A little pricey perhaps? We did pickup and it was hot, ready, and fresh. A good choice for the area.
(4)
Brett D.
Taking the top spot on my list of "Things I Miss About Living In Mar Vista" is that I'm no longer walking distance from Alejo's! The food is flavorful and plentiful. They don't kid around with the minced garlic in olive oil that they serve with the bread appetizer - Stinking Rose would be proud and it's fantastic. The prosciutto, olives and melon appetizer is another fave. I've had pastas up and down their menu and have yet to be disappointed. Plus, the portions are gigantic - I've got a rep as my group's human garbage disposal and I don't think I've ever walked out without lunch for the next day. Of course, I couldn't do a review justice without mentioning...no corkage fee! It's the perfect place to go if you've got a big group and you're each armed with a bottle of wine. The staff is very accommodating and any patrons inside know that they've signed up for a boisterous experience before walking in the door. Yes, the parking lot sucks...but you can park with zero problems on Del Rey Ave., a brisk 60 second walk from the front door. A last quick word about the food, people...It's nestled between a donut shop and a 7-Eleven, so don't go in expecting some kind of Mario Batali-esque revelation. Kick back and appreciate a true diamond in the rough.
(5)
Julianne B.
It's true, you can smell the garlic as soon as you are in the near vicinity of this place! Only tried take out which was great. Portions were LARGE. We tried chicken marsala (they asked if we'd like it served over pasta which is my favorite way to eat this so I liked that a lot) and also the meatballs. Will definitely be frequenting this place again
(4)
Cjka K.
My husband & I had a late dinner here this evening,first time . Now the location is sketchy but don't let that fool you.The food was wonderful,service exceptional ,friendly waters and staff. We will be back for sure! 5 star Eddie!
(5)
AdaPia D.
Pretty damn good! The pizza is yummy, the service is quick and there's parking. This is a good quality and value Italian on Lincoln. Though it is the 'after Alejo's' and not as quite as good, it's closer to home and not a bad substitute.
(4)
Joel G.
LOVE this spot. Super tiny but that's ok. Bring your own bottle of wine! Chicken parm is heavy but you will leave without an ounce of regret. The first time I went the calamari was some of the best I've ever had, but trips since it hasn't matched up. Not sure what happened that first time. You will leave stinking of garlic but completely satisfied. Just a hidden gem in Venice/MDR.
(5)
Ida C.
3.5 stars but rounding up since others I came here with either are or were locals with an affinity for this mom & pop establishment. Bread & garlic dip - Other in the party loved this and I thought it was simply lacking in flavor. The bread was at room temperature and could benefit from a few mins of being warmed or toasted in the oven. To add oomph to the garlic dip, I made two different concoctions for myself by mixing the garlic oil with balsamic and parmesan cheese. Chopped salad - Large portion with bits of salami and cheese. We were able to share this one salad between 4 ppl. Meat Lasagna - Also a significantly sized portion. The lasagna itself was really tasty although I thought there was waaaay too much sauce. The sauce was more sweet than tangy as well whereas I prefer the latter. Shrimp Diablo - The sauce could have been more substantial and less watery but I still really enjoyed this dish which paired really well with the sauvignon blanc we brought. We were seated in the back of the resto so the weak AC machine above the front door did a poor job of keeping us cool. By the end of the meal, we were all sweating like pigs :(. One of the BEST aspects of this resto: NO CORKAGE FEE!!!
(4)
D N.
Pro: Customer service outstanding and though no wine sold you can bring your own bottle without corkage fee. Con: Tight parking lot, small restaurant and the food was missing an Italian flavor.
(3)
Mathew M.
Great place. Have been coming for years from when it was called Alejo's. We eat here at least once every other week. I nearly died of a heart attack when we pulled up for dinner one night and saw the name Eddie's over the door. Panic set in as I considered that the best neighborhood Italian restaurant was no more. Thankfully as we walked in we saw all the same familiar faces and learned that it was a change in name only. That being said, I'm born and raised in New York City. I know, I know...I've heard it before..."You New Yorkers think that New York is the center of the universe." To which I reply, "we don't think NY is the center...we KNOW it is." And that certainly includes food. This is the only neighborhood place I've found in LA that rivals NY food. The pizza is pretty good, but that's not what I'm talking about. I mean their amazing marinara sauce and all the good old favorite dishes from parmasagne to zuppa de pesci (they call linquini pescatore), to an amazing chopped salad. Place is small and unfancy...and that is part of the charm. Staff is always friendly and the food is always great. Prices very reasonable too. A winner on the West Side.
(5)
Marta P.
I have been wanting to try this place for years, but was always scared off by the claustrophobic inside. Verdit: the food is officially worth the panic attack I might get as a result of being crammed in such a tiny restaurant. The only complaint I have is that they don't deliver! PLEASE PLEASE start delivering and you will have a very loyal new customer!
(4)
Vic B.
Close to, if not at, the top of my short list of favorite Italian restaurants. Marinara sauce is one of the best I've ever had. Looks like a dive from the outside but the food is great!
(5)
Ken S.
I saw how many people already chimed in on this great restaurant, and I thought my words would only prove redundant. But then I read some negative reviews by cretins who complained that they were brought "too much free bread", or that the bowl the garlic in olive oil made her "breath stink for days". That's all it took for me to give Alejo's 5 Big Stars! I have to counteract the nimrods who are compulsive whiners. I've loved this place for over a decade, and they always are friendly, prompt, and accurate with my orders. I'm a vegetarian and they accomodate any dish that I ask that meat be omitted. It's not fancy, but the food is better than a "fancy" joint. So if you're here for the food, you scored. If you're here to see and be seen, find that woman whose breath stinks for days. This is where you go when you're hungry and thirsty, and when you leave, there's a huge smile on your face.
(5)
Tim P.
NOW CALLED EDDIES! Oh man. This place is awesome. Great service, incredible food and huge portions. Come hungry and bring a bottle of wine. It's a tiny restaurant near a 7-11 in a strip mall which makes it even more of an anomaly. I had the spaghetti and meatballs which was perfect. The sauce is tangy and fresh, the pasta is perfectly al dente and the meatballs were perfectly spiced and nice and big. The lady had a ginormous plate of chicken alfredo which was also really good. Perfectly cooked chicken chunks, great sauce and good noods. We also shared a delicious caesar salad with anchovies and a basket of really good soft bread and garlic dip so needless to say our breath was pungent. Washed it all down with a '09 Coppola Cab that we brought. I joked that I would have gladly paid twice the amount for that level of service and tastebud happiness. Can't recommend this little gem highly enough.
(4)
Anne Marie B.
Eddie's was great!! We got the vegetable pizza which had carrots and was quite yummy. The meatballs were very yummy. The tri-colored ravioli was excellent - creamy, rich, very filling - and a huge portion. The calamari marinara was also a huge portion and very fresh. The oil at the table is very garlic-y -- good if you like that, surprisingly spicy if you do not. The service was friendly and efficient.
(5)
Steven K.
This is the worst italian restaurant experience I've had in my life. Between the five in our party, every single dish tasted like cardboard smothered in canned sauce. The service was shoddy at best, one of our party's meals was completely forgotten about, and we had to remind the server twice about it. The only good part was the bread and garlic oil served with it. It also appears you have to walk through the kitchen to get to the restroom, which is incredibly inconvenient. If I could give this place less than 1 star, I would. The fact that people here were seeming to enjoy their meal is truly shocking. We will be stopping at in n out in the way home, at least we can be sure we will get a decent meal there.
(1)
Becs L.
Be sure to give it a chance, people do not come here for the atmosphere but the food is absolutely delicious. This place is definitely more than meets the eye. From the outside, it is this hole in the wall that seems a little sketch and then you walk inside and there are a lot of tables in the small dining area so it seems a bit cramped but it's not really and you'll be thankful for the extra seating if you plan to eat here during peak dining hours because this place can get busy (the long wait can be a major downside sometimes). They start you off with bread and a garlic oil dip that is quite good but make sure you don't fill up on it because the food portions are huge; so sharing entrees is a good option or just go ahead and prepare yourself to take half of it home. I've never had a dish here that I didn't like, all of it is tasty.
(4)
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Address :4002 Lincoln Blvd
Marina Del Rey, CA, 90292
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
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Melissa H.
What the hell did I just eat? Ok, so for years everyone has raved about this little hole in the wall called Alejo's. I finally decide to take my kids there tonight. We're all about local HITW joints so I figured we'd be happy there. Wrong! We ordered a Caesar salad for statrers. In my book, Caesar needs to have a thick creamy type of dressing to be called a Caesar, not some oil and vinegar concoction. It was a boring plate of romaine lettuce with the tiniest crutons burried at the bottom of the plate and the cheapest industrial foodservice grade parmesean chesse dumped on top. Ick, but I'll move on since I am expecting to love one of those huge plates of pasta I see everyone getting. Next we get the pasta carbonara. Now I know I'm not in some authentic Italian restaurant, so their interpretation of carbonara is a bit skewed, but I'll roll with it. The menu says its a bacon and mushroom pasta with a creamy pink sauce. I love a good pink sauce when done right. I'm eager to get my plate. Yum I hope! The huge plate finally arrives and I dig in. Yikes my taste buds scream. I don't know how quite to describe the taste that I am getting, but all I can say is that its not a freshly made sauce and it came from some can or mix. Its super thick, way too much to easy to eat. I can't taste the bacon to save my life, not the mushrooms either. Its just this taste that isn't tasty. I tried to spice it up with chili flakes but after 4 valliant bites, I was done. The waiter came over with a to go container and I told him no. I said he could get rid of it. The enitre plate went into the trash. $11.95 down the drain. Next is the pizza. We ordered a small pepperoni. It looked good, smelled amazing with that fresh basil on top, but my god was it salty! I know mozzerella is salty and I like it, but I'm not a horse. I don't need a salt lick. Its a great thin crispy crust with three times the thickness of cheese on the top that was super stringy and slid right off. You can't put that much cheese on top a crust that thin. It just doesn't work and honestly, I don't need that much cheese. It needed half that amount and I could have given the pizza a thumb up. The flavor from the basil and sauce was good, so there is hope in that front. Lastly, just because I didn't order any sodas doesn't mean you can't come refill my water glass. Don't come here expecting to be eating like you are in Little Italy in New York or Boston. I am not a food snob by any means and it takes a lot for me to literally throw away a full plate of food, but I am really disappointed with this place.
(1)Ryan M.
This is not a restaurant you would go into from the outside decor - not sure how I ever ventured inside, but I did and now I am happy. The Alejo's Chopped Salad is fantastic and humongous. I have had a seafood pasta in a marinara and a pesto pasta with chicken - recommend both. They do not have a liquor license, so feel free to bring your own wine to enjoy with your meal.
(4)Matthew M.
Mixed opinion of this place. I've been here twice and while the portions are large, the quality (and consistency) is lacking. On both occasions I've had to spit out gristle in the meat sauce. On one occasion my brother found a hair in our chopped salad - needless to say there's nothing that kills the appetite quite as quickly and thoroughly as this. On my first visit the pasta was al dente, however on my second visit it was overcooked to the point of disintegrating upon twirling. The food here is definitely Americanized Italian. I typically have no problem with over-sauced pasta, but found myself actually wishing for a greater ratio of pasta, which became lost in a ocean of bolognese. On a positive note, the bread is delicious and the no corkage fee is a great lure. The pizzas look good and I'd like to try one on my next visit. As noted in every other review, garlic here is prominent and abundant - be forewarned. Overall, a good option if you're looking for a hearty meal and enjoy leftovers. Check out Novecento for a bit more authentic and portion-appropriate pasta experience.
(3)Justin M.
Delicious and well priced. One of my favorite Italian restaurants in the LA area
(4)Ian C.
I'm even pickier about Italian than I am about Thai, bc I can't cook Thai. I ran a pasta line for a year, and am hard pressed to find Italian that I don't regret ordering. This place is maybe the solitary exception to that rule. Their Spagetti with Meat Sauce is the best I've ever had, and makes me realize why you would ever order something seemingly as simple as Spagetti with Meat Sauce. It's a big portion, garlicky, and super delicious. They bread is awesome, and the garlic/olive oil stuff is delish. They're in a strip mall, which I think fits their iconoclastically awesome deal they got going on. They don't serve hooch, but you can go next door to 7-11 and get your wine, and enjoy is sans corking fee. A great place to hit if you're taking lincoln to or from the airport, or are just anywhere in the area and want some awesome food. The only caution, I guess is to watch the add-ons. The alfredo is great, but it adds up quick when you start adding +pesto sauce, +mushrooms, +chicken and you wonder how you ended up ordering a $18 alfredo, otherwise this place is a home-run!
(5)Thao L.
4 stars for the red EZLN beret-wearing cooking staff.
(4)Rod B.
Probably one of my favorite spots in all of Los Angeles. Bring wine. Lots of it.
(5)Nala P.
BYOB makes this place very attractive! The spaghetti is great, a teeny over cooked but it's what you expect from an east coast style huge plate of pasta. The portions are large so order accordingly. The chop salad is the best one I ever had!! I crave it on a weekly basis. Expect to wait a little while, but it is a tiny hole in the wall place which are usually the best ones! Oh, plus this place is so so cheap. I ordered a "small" portion of pasta that was only $8 and it fed me for a week!
(4)Mel C.
Went to dinner here with a few friends and was surprised that the food was so good. The bread was really good- I liked the crisp crust and the inside of the bread was perfect for dipping in the olive oil and minced garlic mixture they provide. The garlic-oil dip was really, really good, but we had to restrain ourselves because we were going clubbing afterwards. We ended up ordering their paella special of the night and a small capelli piponi pasta dish that came with shrimp, chicken, mushrooms, onions, in a tomato sauce. I was skeptical about ordering paella at an Italian restaurant, but it was good. Lots of chicken, shrimp, and clams. Those two dishes were enough to feed four not-very-hungry adults, and we still couldn't finish it. For dessert, one of the guys raved about the chocolate mousse so we had to try it also. I found it too sweet and rich, but I'm not the biggest fan of sweets.
(4)Rhonda N.
Great meat lasagna. Amazing shrimp diablo. Pastas are fresh and correctly cooked. Bring your own wine/beer in from the 7-11 and you are good to go. A locals only hole in the wall. Prepare to wait for parties of 4 or more. Did someone say the best garlic sauce. yay. Parking sucks, park on Washington and walk over.
(4)l. a.
I dont understand the appeal of this place. The restaurant is really tiny. The food is only o-k and you leave tasting garlic for days. It's definitely a hole in the wall, but not one to brag about.
(2)Max M.
Though it bears his name, Castro Alejo is number one, divorced from his wife who got this location in the settlement, and number two, dead. His ex-wife has frozen the menu in place for probably at least a decade and it's just fine that way. Even the special menu written on a white-board hasn't changed in years. The small place is always packed along its family style long tables, and you'll always see someone who remembered to bring their own wine. Everything on the menu is good. Come to Alejo's expecting a garlic bomb. When I worked for idiots, nothing would give me more pleasure than eating a whole order of garlic linguini with mushrooms and then working on the CFO's computer while breathing all over him. What a schmuck. He deserved it. Pasta dishes are about seven dollars.
(4)Dj S.
My absolute favorite place to eat: good quality, hot, affordable, tasty, authentic, home style, large portioned, melt in your mouth, to die for Italian food!!!! If anyone knows a place similar to this besides Lomeli's in Gardena than please send me an email at jewelrymasters@hotmail.c… . I love their Chicken Piccata, Chicken Parmesan, Garlic Shrimp Scampi, and 3-Color Chicken Ravioli. Meals are accompanied by a complimentary basket of warm ciabatta bread and the best olive oil/ garlic dip. If you are going to bring a date here make sure you know her/him well cause your breath will be kickin' till the next morning!!
(5)Munchie S.
SUPER small inside, not the best hours, and the food is far better at the one in Westchester (a tad bit south on Lincoln, across the street from Bristol Farms)
(3)Gary F.
Don't let the name change or the facade fool you. Eddie's (formerly Alejo's) sits in a nondescript strip mall on the corner of Linclon and Washington Blvds. Eddie's is a fantastic neighborhood Italian restaurant, characterized by large portions of reasonably priced excellent food. Their marinara sauce is memorable and the staff is wonderful. I was reluctant to review Eddie's on Yelp because there is a selfish part of me that doesn't want too many people to learn of its existence for fear that I would have to wait an inordinate amount of time to be seated.
(5)Robert S.
This restaurant may qualify as one of those finds or dives that turns out to be something much better inside than it looks from the outside. It is located at the SE corner of Lincoln and Washington in a run down tiny strip mall next to a 7-11. The parking lot is tiny and crowded with time limits appropriate to a 7-11. The restaurant was crowded and busy inside. The tables and diners sit right next to the open kitchen. There were a lot of great Italian scents in the air that were so abundant, I could not identify just what I was smelling. Unfortunately their pizzas are too small and for their size cost a somewhat expensive $14 for plain cheese. The most outstanding aspect of their pizza was their excellent fresh crust. Interestingly, like some other pizza restaurants with excellent pizza crust, they also served a delicious bread/roll with their meal. The crust was notably chewy and elastic and perfectly thin. To make it even better, the crust had crisped cheese at the edges and underneath. They used outstanding quality mozzarella which was both very stringy and firm. Their sauce was fresh and had lots of flavors and some small tomato chunks. I would have preferred that the sauce was a bit spicier. Overall this place is quite intriguing with really excellent quality pizza. My only reservation is the somewhat small size pizza you get for the cost.
(4)Mimi P.
My boyfriend took me to this little restaurant on Saturday night. He said he used to come here all the time when he went to UCLA. I really didn't think much of this restaurant when I saw the outside appearance. Boy was I wrong! After ordering, boyfriend went to 7-11 next door and got some Pinot Noir to go with our meal. While he was gone, I tried their warm bread with the garlic infused olive oil. My God! After one bite, I couldn't stop eating it. By the time he came back, I think I already had 3 pieces of bread. The garlic olive oil was heavenly. But I wouldn't recommand eating this on your first date. We arrived around 5:00PM. By 5:30PM, this place was packed. There were people waiting outside the door. And the to-go customers just kept on coming. So the food came a little bit slow, but we didn't mind. We were just enjoying the bread w/ garlic olive oil and our wine. Boyfriend ordered Seabass. It was broiled and served with a white wine, garlic and tomato sauce. The fish was so soft and tender. Sauce was wonderful and garlicky. It went really well with the pasta that came with the dish. I ordered Linguini Ala Mare. It's seafood pasta with a white garlic tomato sauce. There were lots of seafood in this dish: halibut, salmon, calamari and shrimp. However, I was a little disappointed at the sauce. It didn't have much taste. I think the chef was too busy and forgot to add any salt. But after a little bit of salt seasoning done by myself, this pasta dish turned really good. Portion was huge, or maybe I was too full from the bread? I could barely finish half plate. After our meal, we ordered coffee and flan. The flan was pretty light. It was a good finish. A wonderful meal with tons of leftover for next day, bill was only $42. I have a feeling we'll be back in no time.
(5)Brad G.
Alejo's Presto Trattoria in Marina del Rey used to be the absolute bomb. Unfortunatley, my last few visits here have been a bit underwhelming. Last night was another Meh experience. Their amazing bread is still served with the amazing garlic soaked at the bottom of olive oil can't complain about that. I usually order the very spicy Shrimp Diablo with Linguini. The pasta and shrimp were cooked perfect but it was very skinny on the sauce which makes the dish! They did bring us more Diablo sauce but the previous magic was just gone. I also took a bite out of my Son's Spaghetti and Meatballs. Unfortunatley, his meatball was very dry and the sauce tasted like tomatoe sauce from a can. Dishes here are now up to about $16 each so based on the total hole in the wall ambience, I believe the prices are way too high. Also it was a Friday night around 6:30pm and there wasn't even a wait. You used to have to write your name on a clip board and wait for ever. Sorry Alejo's, your "magic" is gone.
(3)J C.
If you love having the smell of garlic oozing from your pores, this should be your new home! Who wouldn't love a heavy dose of garlic and olive oil served with bread that resembles an airier, fluffier, softer version of pizza crust? Pastas are your typical workhorses, the sauces are solid but unremarkable. Great place to call ahead and pickup some takeout, as the restaurant is small and at peak times you will have to wait for a table. The parking lot is also pretty small, so finding a spot can also be a challenge.
(4)Natalia R.
I was going to give it 2 stars, but the yelp "meh, I've experienced better' description does not cut it, so one star it is. Listen to your instincts. When my boyfriend told me that Alejo's had great yelp reviews and that we should go try it, my response was "Alejo? that is not an Italian name." I decided, hey maybe the chef was not born in Italy, but studied for years and years, and mastered the best culinary tradition in the world, perhaps it is possible. So I gave it the benefit of the doubt -- and I'm sorry I did. The food is NOT Italian. I have had Italian food all over the world, and let me also say that some of the best Italian food I have had has been in America. The pasta is overcooked, sauce only has salt as a flavor component, portions are absurdly large, and salads are oversalted. And the funny thing is, I love salt, so If I think there is too much salt, there is REALLY too much salt. First thing that startled me was the garlic oil mixture they bring with the bread (btw, the bread was the only part of the meal I enjoyed-- it was not Italian bread, but it was good). I could be wrong, but it did not taste like Olive oil-- just regular vegetable oil -- a HUGE no no in any kitchen. Secondly, there was no fresh parmesan -- just some Kraft style parmesan in pizza joint shakers. I will say this much, you can bring your own booze with no corkage fee which is always nice (but a few other Italian restaurants let you do this too). The staff was friendly and I'd say they were pretty attentive-- so I have no complaints there. But for me, food is first and foremost, and this was not good food. All three people in my party were disappointed. I live in Santa Monica and am hoping to find a place in the neighborhood as good as Mama D's or Pane e Vino. One day....
(1)Vicky V.
3.5* Alejo's-Hearty and comforting with classic traditions. The Spaghetti Pomodoro and Gnocci. If you've made gnocci from scratch, then you'll appreciate the labor of love that goes into creating these tender potato dumpling's at Alejo's. On a mission to find the best gnocci in America, I would say that the gnocci here ranks fairly high above the rest. Served with white and red sauce, the gnocci are like luscious smooth pillows with just the right amount of chewiness. Although not gummy, the gnocci lacks a certain amount of fluffiness. The gnocci here is strangely larger than usual and slightly on the heavier side. The sauces are classics which when mixed together help to achieve a nice balance between the acidity of the tomatoes and creaminess of the white sauce. The pomdoro was tasty, standing out for it's subtle herbiness, chunkier texture, and pleasant flavor. Pasta was a bit pass al dente unforunately. I don't think I need to say much about the ciabatta given it's reputation, but the owners should definitely keep this recipes in the family. The olive oil helps to take the edge and sharpness off the garlic, making the garlic a perfect accompniment to the soft, light, crusty bread when you dip it in your pasta sauce. Why the 1.5* deduction The gnocci is a bit too large Pasta was overcooked, and Sauces are a bit flat and one dimensional Bread is not consistently always good, but passable Very small restuarant, no ambiance Courteous servers, but no real service
(3)Carmie J.
My experience wasn't here wasn't great because of the food. If you like garlic, this still might not be the place for you. I love garlic, but everything here had too much garlic. My boyfriend and I ordered fettuccine alfredo and the breaded chicken with marinara and mozzarella cheese. Firstly, the prices were too high ($13-$18 per plate). Secondly, the Fettuccine seemed watered down. We got garlic bread ($6-8) with four very very garlicky pieces. I had to scrape off the garlic so that it would be somewhat edible. I could see why people enjoy the garlic/olive oil dip for the bread, but even that seemed a bit too garlicky for me. We wound up paying around $35 for two people, and honestly, I would rather have spent that much money at another location with better quality food. Service was okay and they checked on you, but still the food ruined it for me.
(2)Dean Y.
Very good- food. A bit crowded so- if you don't mind to wait or share tables then this is not an issue. Sign your name on the board system when you get in. Also the parking sucks. But they don't charge corkage fee so you can bring your own wine. the veal piccata is very good- very authentic - and the house salad is a nice dressing - lite. Also tried the chicken ravioli- 3 sauces style. Very good!!! best italian food in this area!
(4)fran d.
it's hard to write this review since my mouth is watering just thinking about their garlic heavy dishes including the garlic + oil combo they give you to dip your bread on. dang it! if you love garlic, you'll love this place. you'll also not be able to get near anyone because you'll reek of delicious garlic. ha ha. this place is a hole in the wall so if you're slightly claustrophobic this may not be a place to visit since they're always at near capacity. however the food more than makes up for it and the prices while they're not the cheapest, the food portions make up for it. you're almost getting two meals in one. most people i know end up taking left overs home. hmm. sweet leftovers. things to order here: linguini pescatore, (garlic tomato wine sauce, hello!), tracciatella a la mare (homemade spinach fettucinni!) and if you want something to fire up your taste buds, and i mean, really fire them up, try their shrimp al diablo. it's bomb. other delicious items here are their calamari and pizzas. people seem to like the chopped salad but who the hell goes to an italian place and orders chopped salad. give me a break! if you're craving garlic, this is your place folks.
(4)Mary F.
Wow. My boyfriend brought me here last night. It was such a nice surprise. I wasn't sure about it at first because like the other Yelpers mentioned, it's in a random strip mall. I actually had to wait to step onto the sidewalk so a homeless man could stroll by. The garlic dipping sauce for the bread was orgasmically delicious. I couldn't stop eating it. Sure, I stank up the entire pilates studio this morning, but it was well worth it, my friends. I ordered the eggplant parmesan and it was absolutely delicious. I hate when there's too much breading and at Alejo's, this was not the case at all. It came with a generous portion of spaghetti with marinara sauce that was also my lunch today. My boyfriend had the chicken cacciatore and he said it was really good, too.
(4)Kelly H.
This place is FANTASTIC! I ate here Saturday- I can still smell garlic and its Wednesday. Great food. Super nice and attentive wait staff. This is the kind of place you bring someone who will kiss you despite your krazy garlic breath. I would recommend this to anyone who just wanted a good meal.
(5)Alex B.
The pizza and pasta here are both good The pizza was a little bland and didn't stand out The dough was not the best The pasta had a little too much sauce Olive oil dip for the bread was good Overall its an okay choice but you can find better
(3)Condor C.
I'm giving this place only a three star because the food really isn't that great. Everything needs to be more seasoned. A some salt and I will bump up the rating. That said the crowded,hold in the wall, bring your own wine, garlic old, bread all is fantastic. The food is not great but I still get cravings for it. strange..Maybe it is good and I'm just confused.. love it!! check
(3)Greg A.
Food is tasty but spotty. My mom and I ordered the same dish, Shrimp al Diablo. Her's was terrific. Mine was a little more than half the size and slathered in oil. I didn't realize how slathered until I got to the bottom third. I asked the waiter, who told me there's no oil in it, only wine, garlic and tomato sauce. I pointed to the 3 tablespoons of oil I was siphening from the plate as we spoke. He said that must be wine (duh! Bad lie!). The manager came and said of course it's olive oil. I asked why there was so much when my mom's had none. They never said anything like I'm sorry, let me fix it, can I get you something else. Instead, they looked at me and said "what to you want us to do with it, we can't take the oil off, after all". They took the dish away (with some food still on the plate) and never brought anything else out, never said amother word, and STILL CHARGED ME FOR THE DISH!!! I was totally appalled. Never a word of I'm sorry, anything of the sort. I should note that they have no kids dishes, and the chicken piccata, while somewhat tasty, was so small that my kids couldn't really share it. Fortunately for them, I guess, they got plenty of bread beforehand so they didn't leave too hungry. It pisses me off the most because I've been going to Alejo's for years, always enjoyed it, and have never been so angry leaving a restaurant as I was this time The dish itself was good - on my mom's plate. Mine was so oily it became inedible as it got to the bottom. The place was small, the crowd was big, so it doesn't seem like they'll care about this bad review. In fact, when I left the restaurant I told them how upset I was and that I was planning on panning them on Chowhound and Yelp. The reaction? Oh well, too bad. Last time I go there. Beware of the service and spotty food.
(1)Rochelle R.
YUM! I usually don't go out for Italian, I feel like most of the time you could have made it better at home, but I'll make a trip out to Alejo's! Especially since it's quite inexpensive. The bread is very well made and with the garlic-butter awesomeness, you're off to a great start to your meal. Just don't be expecting a serious make-out afterwards, that garlic taste liiiiiiingers. The seafood pasta was legit. Meatballs very very tasty, I believe they use several different meats. I thought my carbonara was too heavy on the sauce so I'll request less next time. Don't get me wrong though, the sauce was delicious....I guess you can have too much of a good thing! BYOB. Wine that hasn't been jacked up 200% tastes better any day! Atmosphere: you get what you would expect in a popular restaurant functioning in a tiny strip mall. Tables are tightly packed, but I see it as a better opportunity to check out what other people are eating so I know what to order next time. They don't take reservations and parking is nonexistent, so plan to get there a little early, then pass the time, checking out the magazine rack at 7Eleven, staring at the people eating donuts next door, or starting up a game of dice in the parking lot. Also, trim your party size down and you'll get seated much much faster...
(3)Scott K.
the "alejo's salad" is quite possibly the best salad i have ever eaten. as ridiculous as that may sound to some, it's the absolute truth. comes with creamy italian dressing and contains: chopped lettuce garbanzo beans mozzarella cheese tomatoes red cabbage salami turkey bacon even if i were a vegetarian, i would still eat this salad, WITH the salami, turkey, and bacon. yes, it's that damn good. notes: - orders come with complimentary fresh bread and olive oil w/ garlic - pizza is european style (thin crust and light on the sauce); they're solid - entrees (chicken marsala; chicken parmigiana) are ehhh - parking lot sucks ass - another location in westchester on lincoln near manchester
(5)Adam B.
A pizza place without deliver that's, so unAmerican.
(1)J.C. K.
Superb food. Wonderful bread. Bowl-you-over-and-kill-your-date garlic and oil dipping sauce. Delicious marinara sauce. Reasonable prices. No corkage fees, so bring your own wine. And tight, meet-your-neighbor atmosphere. Been going here regularly for 20 years.
(5)jeff f.
Alejos really is a great fun place to go. Love the food and the byob really puts it over the top. yes its in a mini mall and its nothing fancy but they treat you right and the food is great, fresh and really reasonably priced. the seafood pizza is great, shrimp dishes all rock, and the eggplant and bolognese are amazing. start with the alejos salad and then maybe a pasta(such as the pesto or seafood) and then maybe a chicken marsala. really good cheesecake for desert too. been coming here for years and never disappointing. only wish there was one in my neighborhood!
(5)Gina N.
Loved this place! Huge portions, tons of taste and easy on the wallet. It's definitely authentic home style cooking that will make you feel guilty and happy all at the same time. We ordered the lasagna, spinach ravioli and pepperoni pizza to share among the 4 of us. We pretty much licked the plates. The lasagna was hearty and had a lot of sauce and cheese without the oil and grease. The spinach ravioli was simple and light, but tasty. I didn't have a slice of pizza but everyone else seemed to like it. We didn't even mind that they don't serve alcohol. But next time we'll make sure to bring a bottle of wine. All of the regulars already knew to show up with their own bottle =) Don't walk in expecting a fancy, highly decorated restaurant. This is not that kind of place. Its teeny tiny and feels like you're sitting in an old school kitchen. There was something very comforting and inviting about the setting, it has real character. You'll probably have to wait a minute for a table and the parking SUCKS! But it's definitely worth it.
(5)Michael S.
This is place is amazing. The food is great, the prices are very, very reasonable. The only problem are the hours and the wait, as this is kind of a small place, and so you could end up waiting 20+ mins for bigger parties. But the pastas are great, the bread is amazing, and it is just a nice little niche place. I would say a great date place too, it isn't all that romantic, but the place is kind of secluded area, and your date will feel like you have put a lot of thought into it. This place is not good for kids. I am not anti-children, but can't there be places where kids are not allowed. I mean this isn't a children oriented place. It is good for small groups of adults.
(4)Megan S.
Alejo's is pretty wonderful. Really, really excellent Italian food, served in a tiny hole in the wall (in an even hole-in-the-wallier strip mall). The service is fast and friendly, the value is good, and the locals are friendly and quirky. What more can you ask for? The meal starts off with copious amounts of excellent bread and crushed garlic in olive oil (they'll bring out more if you ask for it) which will make you stink for days. The menu is simple but delicious. My boyfriend had the three color veal ravioli--the pastas are actually each three colors, it's pretty cool)--and I had the meat lasagna. Both were excellent. I noticed the table next to me ordering a seafood pasta, which I'll have to try next time I'm here. Also, this restaurant is BYOB, which is another big plus. This would be a great place to take friends or family and just hang out. Although the food is beyond wonderful, it's probably not the best date place (at least not the first few) because it's not the classiest looking joint, and both of you will be so garlicky that kissing is probably out of the question.
(5)Brad N.
This place leaves your stomach feeling happy, your heart feeling weak and your breath smelling awful - it's the good stuff. I would give them five stars, but unfortunately, they have the case of the dry-chicken. The first time we went there, we ordered the Spaghetti Pomodoro with chicken. Now, usually when we get dry chicken, we pretty much won't consider that restaurant again..but the pasta was just perfectly cooked (and texturally feels so damn good in your mouth) and the sauce was so amazingly delicious..and not to forget, the bread and the garlic oil you dip it in is just soooooooooo good. So yes, we came back again, again and again. Now, we steer clear of their chicken dishes and always order their spaghetti and meat sauce. Simple and tasty, go Alejo's!
(4)Dave E.
Love the Pizzas, and sandwiches Parking is a paint but worth it!
(4)Judy T.
Never again, what a shame, I will miss it. I was a longtime customer, but with the name change (owner change? I have heard so many different things....) came a change in attitude. Lame, because I really liked their food for a long time, and could care less if people are pleasant or not, or hurried. Choose another spot if you want to avoid being treated REALLY poorly. Very rarely have I been spoken to like that by someone working in a restaurant ...whoa. He seemed to be either the manager or the owner, sad statement about this once neighborhood favorite.
(1)M H.
Not sure what the hype is here. Been here SEVERAL times, and each time quite disappointing. The service is great. The restaurant is small. The food... the food makes me wish I saved that money and cooked better pasta & sauce in my own kitchen.
(2)Jessica N.
ooo, alejo's! I always order the Alejo chopped salad! Oh my goodness, I never knew a salad could be so delicious. It's a standard chopped salad, but with red cabbage, turkey chunks, bacon bits (that give this salad a really nice crunch), and red cabbage. The salad dressing is a creamy, honey mustardy, vinaigrette.. it's really good. The best part about this place is that there is no corkage fee. You could step into the 7-11 next door and buy a bottle of wine and bring it over for dinner, they could care less. Parking is a pain since it's in a little strip mall, atmosphere is no where near romantic, cramped seating, but great food and they try their best for good service (hard with such limitations). oh! how could i forget.. they give you a crushed garlic and oil to dip your bread into... garlic lover's heaven! :)
(4)Robin S.
I'm the type of person who love to try out new restaurants so this establishment keeps me from doing so since it's so good! Bottom line, the best cabobara i've ever had anywhere else.
(5)JJ W.
I come here for the seafood pasta. If they have the sea bass pasta I will take it. People rave about the shrimp diablo but I am not a big fan of shrimp so I will pass. So many other things to choose from. They do serve bread and olive oil here to start you off and that is a plus. It's kinda small and cramped but if you home here for the food then you will not mind. In my opinion C&O and all the surrounding pasta joints got nothing on these guys.
(4)David M.
I'm a big fan of this place. If other reviewers say it's gone downhill recently, I'd love to have seen what it used to be capable of. Every dish I've ordered there has been tasty and generously portioned. And by generously portioned, I mean you get a heaping helping of actual seafood when you order a seafood dish. The garlic dip they serve with their bread is a treat as well. My other favorites include the spaghetti pomodoro and the veggie lasagna.
(5)AJ B.
Man, this place couldn't be at a crappier location. That said, oh man, the food is great! I went here for lunch today and basically furrowed my brow and scrunched my nose when I saw the strip mall that it was located at. I mean, it's Friday, and I wanted to eat at a fancier place for lunch, I guess. After hedging for a second, I decided that we might as well give it a shot. I'm pretty happy I did. You're not writing home to tell people about how this place looks. It's bare-bones, not unlike a taco shop. It is big enough to seat a good number of people, though. We chose a seat in the corner with a good view of everyone else. I ordered an eggplant parmigiana and my friend B went with the seafood special. The portions are humongous! How huge? By the time we were done you could simply take our plates and feed it to someone else and they'd be full too. Quality-wise, we were very satisfied. The bread that came out prior to the meal was delicious, served with an oil and garlic sauce that was really good. We were super satisfied here. Bring your A belly if you intend on finishing your meal, or count on taking half of it home. Too bad it's located in a pretty dumpy corner on Lincoln and Washington.
(4)Julie K.
Ok, this place is located in a tiny strip mall and looks real ghetto from the outside. The inside doesn't get any better. Real small space, real cramped. BUT... the food is great. Huge portions, enought to have for lunch the next day! But man, oh man, their garlic dipping sauce for the bread is off the hook!! Make sure your date (if you 're on on) has an equal amount of the garlic stuff otherwise there will be no kissy kissy at the end of the night! This place is BYOB, last I remember and no corkage fee :D
(3)Ivy E.
I'M ALL ABOUT ALEJO'S Alejo's Presto Trattoria Italia 4002 Lincoln Blvd. Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 (310) 822-0095 About 10 years ago a girlfriend of mine and I used to go to unassuming little Alejo's after work. Somehow we were lucky enough to get off work at a time that allowed us to get a table before the nightly rush. We'd happily munch the delicious fresh bread after dipping it into the insanely divine garlic oil. Then we'd admire the handsome waiters and finally order dinners that silenced our conversation - only groans of ecstasy would emanate from our mouths. Every last item on their menu was delectable beyond words. Then we'd go home to our boyfriends who would could tell where we'd been by the waft of garlic that preceded us through the door. Mine would tell me to go shower and brush my teeth, but it never worked. Alejo's garlic is powerful. Last night I went back to Alejo's and the place was packed. We signed in for a table and only waited 5 minutes. We didn't bring a bottle of wine like the other diners, but all I was focused on was the food. It didn't disappoint! And the garlic oil is exactly the same! I gobbled up the Shrimp Al Filletto until I was beyond full. The sauce, roasted garlic (hello! yes! more garlic!) the tender butterflied shrimp had the shell on it so I got to play with my food and it slowed me down just a tad so I could take a breath in between bites. They have very generous portions so I took the rest to go. Hudson had the simple House Salad which has dressing that is so good it should be illegal, tomato and meaty chick peas. I shared that with him but I was careful to only take a bite of his Chicken Piccatta because what I really wanted to do was dive into that Piccatta and do the back stroke - and that would have been rude. We wandered out into the night and I had a revelation - 2 garlics cancel each other out! See you at Alejo's (but this morning I've got Alejo's in my fridge and I'm about to have the rest of my stash of roasted garlic Shrimp Al Filletto for breakfast. Yes, cold, standing right in front of the fridge). Ivy IvyEatsEverything.blogsp…
(5)Ryan J.
Mmmm. Garlic and olive oil. Does it get any better? What, you're going to mix them together and give me some really good homemade bread to dip into it? I love you you know... Alejo's is a locals' only affair. There are two locations... both on Lincoln. One is tiny and located at Washington and Lincoln... the other is larger (ie, shorter wait) and is further down by LAX. This is one of my favorite Italian joints. Nothing fancy. Nothing expensive. Just good ol' homemade Italian food. I've had most of the food, but my usual order is a) I get full off of the bread and garlic/olive oil combination, but then I still b) power down a chop salad and c) manage about half of the gargantuan order of chicken parm. Uhhh, it's soooo good. I can't get enough. Prices, like I said are totally reasonable. The wait times aren't bad, either... just go hungry, because you get a ton of food, regardless of what you order. Only thing? Make sure that your date also eats the garlic/olive oil with the bread, because otherwise you WILL end up on the sofa... I swear, you will smell like garlic for two days. But it's delicious. 4 stars.
(4)T L.
Italy lives in a Strip Mall! Fabulous and super-well-priced meals of comforting & flavorfully-delicious pastas. I never order Spaghetti & meatballs, but Work-Associate insisted I try Alejo's; I was not sorry. The vat of steamy-hot, tangy yum-yum was more than enough for 2, for a mere $11.95! Comes with several freshly-baked artisan bread chunklets and garlicy olive oil for dipping. The meatballs are huge, 2 to an order; the meat sauce is awesomely flarvorful; garlic-ee, meaty, tender noodles. I can't wait to return and order untasted dishes. Total surprise, as the front looks like a shabby cafeteria-style eatery. Inside is cute and quaint and is perfect for a date, but not the 1st date, because you will smell and taste like garlic.
(4)priscilla d.
I was only where for wine and some appetizer waiting for my class to begin at LMU, but from what I got, it was very good. Fast, efficient service, no fakeness ( and by fakeness I mean " my name is bla bla bla and our specials are bla bla bla). I like " normal " service with good food and this is what this place offered, However, some musis would have been appreciated :)
(4)Nano N.
If you are expecting to eat pasta from a box and sauce from a jar, this is the place to go. I don't know why they called "trattoria" (means factory of pasta) if you can tell that the pasta is not homemade. The price is good, very cheap, and big portions.
(3)Kim l.
My bf and I dined her last night. We ordered a house salad to start, and I got the 3 color veal ravioli and bf got the seafood fettuccine. The waiter brought us bread which was cold....minus one star. It was still ok when dipped in the olive oil and garlic. My ravioli was yummy as always. Never disappoints me. I tried my bf's dish and found it to be ok. I am not really into seafood...so that could have explained it. He seemed to have enjoyed the meal. Yay!
(4)Chiquita G.
The pricing was a little high but typical for the area. THE RESTAURANT IS small but cozy and I'm so glad it was clean (I can't sit down if its gross, sorta neurotic about that, but im workin on it). I wasnt a big fan of Italian food before I went here but after trying their version of tri-color ravioli, I'm a fan. It re-excited my taste for italian food that was once subdued by Olive Garden food. Yes, you can bring your own bottles of bubbly but I didn't. This is a pretty good restaurant and I'm glad I ate here.
(4)Shaun A.
Yay. Beware of the overly garlic olive oil. Bring your own wine. Pizza and pastas are great, and even the garbanzo salad is tasty. Parking sucks so try to walk, bike, or bus it down there.
(5)Christian L.
If you don't mind having indigestion from garlic or the fact that your mouth will STILL taste like garlic when you wake up in the morning, then come here. The place is a real hole in the wall and you put your name on a list to be seated. The service is fast and polite. The portions are HUGE and the garlic and olive oil dip is delicious. the Lasagna is good and has a hint of cornmeal in it which I really liked. The fried calamari isn't too greasy and maintains its flavor. The Pizza Alejo has a very soft crust and has claims, basil and shrimp on it. Sounds weird but it was great. There will be enough for leftovers so come hungry.
(4)Jessica M.
WOW! I visited Alejo's on a recent visit to LA thanks to Yelp and driving by as it was near our airport hotel. This was more incredible than I could have imagined, having married a second-generation Italian and eating in South Philly. Alejo's eggplant parm was to die for, and my husband said their Pizza Margherita was the second-best ever. You will see what everyone means about the garlic for bread dipping, but just skip it if you don't like it. The dishes were incredible.
(5)Jesse K.
Great atmosphere, awesome food, and incredible bread. On my first visit I met an man whose been coming here for 12 years. He said he drives from Compton just to eat the "Capelli Piponi" (angel hair pasta with chicken, shrimp, mushrooms & onions in a garlic tomato wine sauce). He told me told me to only dine here if Armando the head chef is working. Armando definitely knows whats up. We ordered the "Capelli Piponi" and it was amazing. Unfortunately there is almost no parking.
(5)Neely M.
I wanted to love this place. It has been raved about to me by both roomie and parent, but I have to be honest it was just ok. We waited for ever - a little over an hour at 8 on a Friday night. That wouldn't bug me if th emeal lived up to my expectations. It just didn't. I dunno. I'd hit it up for lunch or something but I wouldn't wait another hour for it. The good? The chopped salad. Wow. It rocked. I really liked it alot. It got a star of its very own from this girl. The bad? Uh, parking SUCKED. It's never fun to share a lot with a 7-11, I am sure. We parked around the corner and walked over. Would I go back? Yeah. Would I insist upon it? Nah.
(3)Jason M.
This place is not the cleanest place to eat Italian. But their is no corkage fee, and the portions are big. But be warned they dont have wine glasses expect shot glasses instead. Good for friends, and dinner that is bound for a barrel of laughs.
(3)Arthur S.
Garlic. Huge portions. Cheap. Stripmall. Not a place to impress your date, but your college roommate might be impressed.
(3)Omid T.
Solid food at reasonable prices. Very low key envirmonment. Bring your own wine, no corkage fee.
(4)Benjoseph M.
If you live on the Westside you've come to know and love the small italian restaurant Alejo's. This used to be a great Italian restaurant, bustling with people, and fantastic food. However, my past couple experiences have been unsatisfactory. Once again a great family neighborhood restaurant has changed for the worse. Food is mediocre and atmosphere is like a cheap fast food place you would find in a food court except you are paying $15 plus for pasta dishes. I would probably even say Sbarro tastes better. They either changed owners or the chef left or quit. So sad. Bread is thick and chewy and pasta sauce taste like it came out of a bottle. This happened to a local Indian place, Hurry Curry. Their daughter took over and the food hasn't been the same since.. Another restaurant down the tubes. I guess good things don't last forever.
(2)Keith R.
Strip mall parking, boo Pastas proper al dente Yay, no corkage fee
(4)Bobena O.
This review is strictly for pizza to go. Called in a to go order. The lady on the phone made it seem like I was bothering her. The crust was chewy and not a good chewy. The cheese was not quality cheese either. Maybe their pasta dishes are the way to go here based on all the other reviews.
(2)Anna K.
absolutely LOVE their bread dipping garlic olive oil! food is nothing special. pizza is a bit watery. but it's the garlic olive oil that makes me crave this place. yum-o!
(4)Missy M.
Don't think you will ever see less than 5 stars. Went there years ago when it was called Alejos. Was on my Must Do list when I returned to CA. Seems like they changed the name to Eddie's in August. Just went there last month and the food is amazing and just as good as I remembered. The meatballs, the lasagne and of course the garlic/oil dip are an experience. Its a tiny place, but big in service and quality. Two thumbs up.
(5)Sue Z.
i'm sorry alejos. what you served today was barely edible pasta, drenched in ready made alfredo sauce. the sauce was so heavy, that my partner couldn't taste the pasta. yes. the shrimps in there were great, but does that salvage the meal? my spinach and mushroom dish was about the same. pasta was a bit too aldente, with no remnants of spinach. the chopped mushrooms were nothing special, and ofcourse, too much red sauce. i understand my tastes have changed, since going to places like Il Pastaio, and Mosto Enoteca, where the dishes are made from scratch, and nothing is pre made. and once you've had it the way it SHOULD be, its very difficult to go back. but i'm not throwing the baby out with the bath water here. THREE SOLID THINGS TO GET HERE: bread with the garlic and olive oil dipping sauce. you can't go wrong. the bread is as chewy as ever, and you want to drench yourself in the dip. ALEJO'S CHOPPED SALAD. you know, the one with the magical dressing, that NO ONE can recreate at home. i usually get mine without the red meat. it's delicious, and if you order the bigger size, can be a meal on its own. THREE COLOR RAVIOLI i get mine with chicken, and the sauce does not completely cover it up. the chicken is fresh, and the taste, - great. all in all i would only come here for the bread and the salad. everything else on the menu can be substituted at other eateries, at similar prices, and much better quality.
(2)Amy S.
Mmmmm...garlic! Alejo's is fantastic. Tasty food. Small price. Big portions. BYO. My boyfriend loves the eggplant mama mia...eggplant parm with some meat (what guy wouldn't love that). I go for the linguini pescatore...the best part is that you're not stuck with like 2 shrimp and 10 lbs of pasta, it's a nice, hearty portion of seafood mixed in with the linguini and sauce. Alejo's salad is fantastic. Pizzas are good too (go for th meatball). Veal marsala, amazing... There's really nothing that I don't like there. Don't expect white linen table cloth and beautiful stemware. Alejo's is loud, crowed, and your wine is served in a water glass...but who am I to complain because it's wine that I picked up at the 7-11 next door. However, if you were looking for something a little nicer, The Pasta Factory ,just down the street (on Washington, just before the Venice Peir) has the same owners of Alejo's and it's not BYO and you do get your wine in a wine glass. It's Alejo's only a little more in price and class.
(4)Jo K.
My favorite hole in the wall Italian restaurant in LA. It's teeny tiny, and it's name sounds like a burrito joint, but everything I've tried on the menu is delish and they give you large portions. Even the bread is perfect and if you ask for some marinara sauce to dip it in, they're more then happy to oblige. I've been going here for 10 years, and it never disappoints. I think it's still BYOB (haven't checked lately) so bring in a bottle of wine.. One con- Parking SUCKS.. Try to find street parking!
(5)Bill M.
You better love garlic! Food is great, no liquor. However, BYO or go to the 7-11 next door with a large selection of wines [not the typical 7-11]. Parking is an issue but well worth it.
(4)Wen L.
When my friends first told me about Alejo's, I thought it was a Mexican spot. So when we pulled up to the restaurant one day, I was surprised to see "Presto Trattoria Italia" in the name. Who knew?! (Obviously, I didn't...) The place was small, and pretty much your run-of-the-mill hole-in-the-wall. At first instinct, I was expecting mediocre food. I was definitely surprised, however, by everything. The food was plentiful and flavorful. I remember delving into my eggplant parm (w/chicken!), and after a good half hour or so, it looked as if I hardly made a dent in it... but I had eaten a lot, and was already full. The food was that good --not in the sense that it was gourmet or anything, but it was good, no-nonsense COMFORT food...all in the confines of a cafeteria-like box. This spot is one where ambiance is clearly unnecessary. It's no Da Mimmo (if you're familiar with Baltimore's Little Italy), but the food does it's job. You will (more than likely) be coming back for more.
(4)Lillian K.
Mmm... I love this place. First, the bread is absolutely amazing, especially with the olive oil and garlic dip they give you. Probably, you could fill yourself up on just that. I've never tried anything but their pastas, but they are delicious. I especially recommend any of their seafood pastas. The portions are big and generous. This place is always crowded and loud. Usually you're seated right up against the people at the table next to you. There's no ambiance. It's not romantic. But the food is solidly good and the prices are very reasonable for Italian.
(5)Josue P.
The name has changed to eddies italian restaurant. Omg the food is so amazing. It is still under the same management just different name. I recommend this place to all my friends.
(5)Lynn T.
When I moved to this side of town my boss and a few other co-workers vouched for this place. Since it was only a mile away, my boyfriend and I checked it out. BIG +++ because you can bring your own wine and no corkage fee. The 7-11 next door has a great selection for this reason but the prices are a bit more than average. First off they give you bread with the most potent garlic with oil dip. At first the strength of the garlic blows your mind and you can't decide if you like it or not. But then you find yourself going back for more and then you just can't stop. They have a great calamari for starters. The Alejo's or Italian chopped salads are fantastic with their own very unique dressing. I normally don't like sausage pizza but someone else ordered it with fresh basil and I had a slice and now it's the only thing I order. They have a dish that is an Eggplant Parm and Chicken Parm combined. yummy. We took couple from New York and they said it was the best italian they have had since moving to LA.
(5)mike j.
I think an earlier reviewer touched on what i experienced, "ready made" pasta. I know what I have on two occasions, bland pasta. I don't like places because they happen to be inexpensive and have been in the community a long time. I like a quality meal, thats not what I have experienced. I think people give this place too much credit for no corkage as well. I would like a good meal, and I have not had one at Alejo's. I have never had the Pizza fyi, just pasta.
(2)Cathleen C.
This is easily one of the best Italian restaurants on the West side. The one in Westchester is good, too, but I particularly love this location because it's such a hole-in-the-wall. It's small, crowded, loud and there's always a wait. There are some tables against the walls, but if you're lucky, you'll get a space at the "community" table that runs right down the middle of the restaurant and will actually have some interesting people sitting next to you that you can chat with -- it can be a really fun experience if you open yourself up to it. On to the food. Oh... Mah... GAWD! Of course everyone raves about the bread with the chopped garlic in olive oil dip -- pure GARLIC GOODNESS. It's okay to indulge as long as everyone else in your party is as well -- then you won't notice the garlic breath! Start off with a chopped salad. I think they put crack in the dressing because I actually do suffer withdrawals when I don't eat it at least once a week. For dinner, I recommend the lasagna with meat sauce. It's a large serving and sooo delicious that no matter how good I try to be... no matter how much I really want to take half of it home... it somehow disappears. Also, the Shrimp Diablo -- deeeeelicious! But really, no matter what you order, you can't go wrong. And don't forget to bring wine -- they don't sell it there and they don't charge a corkage fee, so if you want it, bring it. The other related restaurant -- the Pasta Factory down the street on Washington -- is also really good. I'm not privvy to the drama -- I think it was Alejo's wife that opened it or something like that -- many of the recipies are very similar and they salute him on the menu.... so I'm not sure. It's a bigger space and a bit more romantic and it's ALMOST as good as Alejo's.
(5)Romy L.
small space, order to- go; share huge portions. garlic lovers fantasy
(5)T Z.
Good italian restaurant, with good bread and garlic dip.
(4)Ben Z.
I've only tried Alejo's pizza and it easily one of the, if not THE best slice in town. If you're very hungry and order take-out be prepared to eat the pizza in the car on the way home and make sure you don't lose control of the vehicle from the oil on the steering wheel. It's definitely tasty enough to risk getting into a car accident, which says a lot. The garlic bread and tiramisu are also delicious. Friendly service, a little cramped for dining, so I prefer take-out. The other location on Lincoln and Manchester is also very good (and more spacious). A fantastic restaurant. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Yasmine T.
I got the chicken cacciatore, and It was enough food for 3 days. The food was really good, and they have no shame in using garlic. They also have yummy bread. Its perfect for lunch or take out dinner
(4)Weimin C.
Alejo is one of my favorite restaurant. I've been there or ordered take-out many many times. And their garlic olive oil is always my favorite. But yesterday, the first time I had bad experience with them. When I went pick up my to-go order, I noticed that the garlic olive oil may leak in the plastic bag. So when I went back to my bad, I opened the bag to check. Instead of the yummy smell I always got from the garlic olive oil, this time, it smells. I even opened the jar to check. No, they didn't smell right to me. It's bad. When I went home, after many times of confirmation. I still think that the garlic olive oil is bad, so I threw both jars away. And I made a call to Alejo, 'cause I really don't want this kind of situation happens again to my favorite place. I talked to a staff lady first, she sounded nice. Then the phone is transferred to an older lady. She didn't say sorry, she just explained garlic is grounded, blah blah blah ... they're fresh.....blah.....anyway, I realized my call won't change anything. If this would happen, then this will happen again regardless I made this call or not, 'cause she didn't take my words at all. It's a pity. Farewell, Alejo.
(2)Esther T.
Alejo's was great! I love the hole in the wall atmosphere. No pretension, decent prices and great food. Sure, it's cramped, the tables and chairs are bare bones and there aren't candles and flowers. You want romance? Bring someone you love. The service was efficient and attentive. The free bread and garlic-infused olive oil was amazing. That could be a meal in itself. The Italian chopped salad was excellent! It wasn't drowning in dressing and it was very tasty. We tried the pasta and chicken dishes, both of which were very good and had good sauces. The best part, of course, is bringing your own wine and beer.
(4)Jaime T.
This is one of those places that you would keep driving by because the location is so bad. It's right next to a donut shop and a 711. The moment you walk in, you smell garlic--and lots of it. If I were a vampire, I'd have to stay away that's for sure. You get a basket of light, fluffy bread and olive oil infused garlic. Yes, I said that right---it's not garlic infused oil, but oil infused garlic--to start your meal off with. The portions are huge and certainly the fare is much better than the decor. Their meat sauce is savory, infused with flavor and lots of it. The menu is simple so you don't have to worry about fou fou pseudo italian fare. Good prices, good service and good food. You can also bring your own wine and for a small corkage fee.
(3)Sylvia C.
This is one of my best lunch spots. Just make sure you have no date planned for the evening. The garlic oil spread along with their house bread is addicting + a splash of vinegar. I still reek of garlic by mid afternoon. Its a great place to share - well thats my eating style. I would get an Alejo's Salad and Spaghetti Carbonara. The half size is plenty, while the full size overstuffs you!
(4)Jim A.
The place is small, noisy, there is no parking, and sometimes you have to wait for one of the limited tables. That being said, I travel from Hollywood about seven or eight times a year to get the taste of Alejo's in my mouth. Take someone and split a chopped salad. You start with truly wonderful bread and garlic/olive oil to help it down. Its great. The Lasagna is the best and it's the size of your head. It's what I order 52.532% of the time, give or take a point. Anyone south of 150 lbs. might not be able to finish their meal. Even a simple dish like spaghetti and meatballs has a high yum factor. The pizza is better than some I have had in Italy. Try the Alejo's pizza with four fresh cooked clams on it. If you want wine, they don't sell it but bring your own and they will serve it to you. Usually the wait is no longer than about 10 minutes. I found parking in the evenings across the street where the blinds store is, is no problem and that center is usually mostly closed at that time and seems to work. Prices are very reasonable, portions are generous and quality of food is really world class. If you are within 30 minutes of Alejo's, do yourself a favor and go there once, that's all it will take.
(5)Tyler N.
I honestly do not know why everyone is giving this restaurant good reviews because I barely EVER write reviews, let alone give bad ones. This place is awful, plain and simple. The pasta is low low quality and prices are high. If you have ever had good Italian you will be disgusted. Not good.
(2)marlon e.
i hate this place!
(5)Alice C.
This is by far my favorite Italian restaurant and I think I actually like it more because it is a hole in the wall. I've been going to Alejo's since I was a wee little lass and I am addicted to their fresh homemade bread and marinara sauce! I used to always order the spinach fettucini with pesto and mix in marinara, but since I don't eat cheese at restaurants (you never know whether the cheese is rennetless or not) I now get it sans pesto. These people make the simplest dishes absolutely incredible! I can even bring my stubborn "I don't eat Italian at restaurants because I know how to make pasta" boyfriend here, and he fully enjoys himself :) Oh, and for my elders: it's BYOB--no corkage fee!
(5)Mariah S.
I love the simple, good Italian food here. It is awesome that there is no corkage fee. I took a few friends there the other night...it was their first time there and my friend ordered the "homemade" chocolate moose. They were out, but instead of saying so, the waiter brought rock hard, store bought moose cake that was not edible. I was a little disappointed and I wouldn't recommend ordering dessert.
(3)Ed T.
Dear Alejos, You are on of my favorite pasta places, I never had problems getting a table. Your pasta portions are so big, they fill me up and possibly some leftovers! You know that never happens with many restaurants. Also where do you get your bread? Its so tasty especially with that garlic dip you provide, I could eat that days on end but then I'd scare away everyone but at least I could ward off vampires with my garlic breath. I did eat with an acquaintance who got your pasta with meat sauce which was extremely lacking in the meat department. They are best off ordering yoru meatballs and breaking it up into the pasta sauce for a better experience. SIncerely, Ed
(4)Janet T.
Hole in the wall located on the corner of Lincoln & Washington. I give this place a two thumbs up! Small restaurant nestled near a 7-11 with a super small parking lot to match. I'm not a huge italian fan but I found that the food here was really good and very authentic. It's a BYOB establishment so don't forget your bottle of wine...they don't charge a corking fee either! Try the spaghetti & meatballs, Seafood pasta ever which had mounds of squid and shrimp piled high. Don't forget to try the yummy caesars salad....the best that I've ever tasted! No joke. In any case, the service was good and the prices were fair therefore I give my seal of approval. :)
(4)Lindsey J.
If what you are looking for is good portions of good food at good prices, this is the place. Its not some fancy schmancy place, which builds its character and reminds you that you go there for the food. The bread and garlic olive oil they serve are worth the visit alone. BYOB makes it chill and the servers are always attentive and friendly.
(4)Judy H.
This place is a good neighborhood kind of restaurant. The portions are huge and very reasonably priced. The food is good and the best part is you get to bring your own beer or wine with no corkage fee. The place is small and there can be a wait so probably not best for large groups.
(3)Themetro M.
I am a regular here at this location and the one near LAX. This past Saturday we stopped by for dinner and were disapointed with the service. not only that, but the salad we asked for was somehow chopped, which we did not ask for, which left us eating tiny bits of salad which seemed mulched. Service was haphazard and far from attentive. I was generous on the tip though, all things considered. Be careful if you get table by the front door which they had cranked wide open at 8:00 pm at night into a parking lot and 60 degrees or less temperature.....not cool.
(2)Ken N.
Update: We've been here three times this week and have had the Sausage Pizza, the Meatball Pizza, and the chopped salad, to go along with the Pizza Raviata we had the first time. OMG. Is that excessive? We're addicted to the bread, we're addicted to the garlic and olive oil, and we're addicted to the pizza, which is among the cheesiest, most savory pizzas we've ever had. And guess what? No wine or beer, but no corkage fees, either. Nice! One star off only because it ain't pretty inside...but it sure is good! *** Well, you'll have to take the words of my friends Arlene and Jerry, who come here with their tall brood Alex and Lily, and have had many excellent meals here, or you can also take it from the articulate and helpful Hope, who always gives it to ya straight. I've only tried their pizza, but WHAT a pizza: First of all, they told us it'd be ready in fifteen minutes and it WAS ready in fifteen minutes. Second of all, as I stood at the counter, I got to watch them make the sauce for the shrimp diablo, and when he poured the sauce on some pasta, then scraped the rest off the sauce pan straight into the garbage, I was tempted to say, "uh...I'll clean that pan for you, buddy. Got a little bit of bread?" But this is about the pizza: Pizza Raviata: Veal. Yes, you heard that right. The tender meat from tortured baby cows. So good. Roasted peppers, tangy black olives, and crushed red chili to occasionally give your taste buds a serious goose...and...anchovies. Lots of 'em. Yum. Thin crust, cheesy, garlicky - it might just be better than Pizza Antica. The bread - the chewy, complex, dusty bread that they give you with your take-out (and presumably when you eat in) - is as good as it is homely. You think, "What is this, leftover pizza dough?" and then you bite in. Mmm. The ambiance - nolo contendere. I really suggest taking out, because this is a tiny place in a tiny strip mall right in the crotch of where Washington meets Lincoln, and if you can imagine that, then you know what I mean. The food that I had - one dish - probably not enough to give the full five star treatment because after all, I only had one pizza (one that just about killed the three of us, by the way - death by engorgement, a good sign!) . The things I've witnessed and the things I've heard about....well, I'll just have to go back for more and add to this review as the opportunity presents itself.
(4)Gemma R.
This restaurant shame's most other Italian spots that I know of in LA. It's a total "hole in the wall" and when you pull up as I did on a first date - I remember thinking "oh god"! That was 7 years ago and I am still with that same "date" - soon to be married and we go to Alejo's for our anniversary every year and as many times as we can in between. Whenever we have visitors from out of town - we take them, my parents (quite fussy) LOVED IT. What's more is - you can take your own wine/beer and they will open it for you and not even charge a corkage fee!!! We were in there one time and Donald Sutherland of all people was sitting behind us slurping his spagetti. If you have not tried this place - I would HIGHLY recommend that you do!
(5)L M.
I love you Alejos! I always eat here to load up on carbs before a long run. I've never eaten inside I've just done takeout. They are very fast and you just park in the back alley lot. The portions are HUGE which is great cause for one person it could last you 2-3 meals. The dinners also come with a lot of bread and garlic dipping sauce which I love.
(5)Gloria S.
I balked on reviewing this place on Yelp because I wanted it to remain a secret..but looks like the secret's out so I'll contribute to the chorus of praise. Yeah yeah, I hear you naysayers who poo-poo at their "not authentic Italian food"...well fine, then don't eat here, and open some tables up for the rest of us who love the garlic, garlic and more garlic. The bread and garlic & olive oil is enough to fill me up even before my ginormous meal comes. Order a side of marinara, mix it with the olive oil, and it's heaven. As for main courses, I alternate between the chicken picatta and chicken marsala, both sinfully steeped in wine. I tried the arrabiatta the other day, and it was also delicious and spicy. Don't go here on a first (or even second or third) date, as you will be sweating out the garlic for days. I mean, unless you're into that kind of thing. In which case, I hope I don't run into you at Alejo's.
(5)Kay N.
I love Alejo's! Sure it's a little cramped and the service is a little slow but it's great food and no corkage fee! I had the linguine pescatore and my boyfriend had the three color veal ravioli. Both dishes were excellent. We wolfed down everything and sopped up whatever was left on our plates until everything was gone. Definitely don't go here on a first date because you will have garlic breath for the rest of the night for sure unless you are willing to forego the tasty garlic dipping oil. Their garlic olive oil tasted like heaven to me but it can't be great for a budding romance. Also, depending on who you might end up sitting next to, you might end up unintentionally overhearing other patrons' entertaining but highly inappropriate private conversations--we learned a great deal about cheating on your sigo and getting arrested for acid use. Entertaining, yes, but also not very good for a first date.
(4)Megan T.
As one of the first "hole-in-the-wall" local secrets my dad and I tried out when I moved to LA, Alejo's will always hold a special place in my heart. *Food: Delicious! Huge portions (easily two meals each) served hot and fresh. Their pesto chicken pasta is fantastic. The Shrimp Diablo (sp?) is sinus-clearing spicy and oh-so-good. *Drink: BYO - there's a convenient 7-11 next door, and Alejo's is cool about providing glasses *Price: A little on the high end, for a hole, but not prohibitively so. *The Wait: Almost as legendary as Alejo's itself. I think we went at like 4:30 on a Wednesday or something . . .it wasn't unbearable, but I can see how it would definitely get crazy around dinnertime. I wish I had something outrageous to say about this tiny little strip mall surprise, but honestly it is just a good, solid, LA staple.
(4)Roxy S.
LOVE THIS PLACE. BUT, hate the parking and wish they delivered.
(5)Min T.
Probably one of the best chopped salads I've ever had! And the other fine options aren't bad either. They will happily give you more garlic sauce if you want it though you hardly need it since everything is heavily garlic-ed. But being a garlic fiend and non-vampire, I love the extra sauce for the yummy bread they give you by the pound. Some tips: call ahead and take out! Alejo's is an awesome choice for catering a small house party. One party tray can probably feed all your hungry friends. And don't forget a tray of the chopped salad. Mmm, Alejo's chopped salad! Also, park on the street around the corner (yes, on that somewhat shady street!) instead of the definitely shady parking lot. I've witnessed too many near misses and bad drivers on cell phones trying to park one-handed here.
(4)Theo C.
Found this restaurant on yelp (thanks guys!), and sure enough, it lived up to its reputation. I ordered the chicken picatta, which was really good. My girlfriend ordered a caesar salad with chicken, which she approved of. Beer and wine is priced well, with most beers in the $3.50 range. Our total for dinner, 2 beers and one glass of wine was $42.XX - not bad at all! The restaurant was crowded and loud, but I think it matched the "family Italian" theme. Parking was a little tight, but I found a spot on an adjacent street. Overall, it was great! Definitely give this place a try!
(5)Vanessa L.
Mota brought me here tuesday. I was slightly demoralized by feeling like i shamed myself at WOW and I was not too excited about filling up on carbs when he brought up italian, i was less excited by the site of a strip mall, but boy was i wrong...on all counts! SOOOOOOOOOOOOO yummy was this place. decor: ehhh, ambience: ehhh, food, amazingly good and affordable. BYOB which we will do next time. the yummy goodness began with the arrival of a basket of bread with the most successfully GARLIC INFUSED OLIVE OIL i've every had! Being garlic lovers, we were not afraid (mind you, after a little orbit later, brushing my teeth upon getting home, again in the middle of the night and not until the morning brush, did the lovely aroma leave my body...so gooooooooooooood. i ordered a special, linguine a la mar, seafood filled plate in a light tomato sauce that could serve four really, next time we'll share. Although Mota had no problem cleaning his plate of Shrimp linguine from our skating workout...delicious authentic italian...that came up unbelievably quickly. The staff was fantastically attentive even thought the place was in close quarters it wasn't crowded by our 8:30ish arrival and it felt like a long leisurely dinner as we closed the place down at 10pm. in the words of one, governor schwarzenegger... i'lll be back.
(4)Ken N.
One of my fav Italian restaurants in LA metro. I manage to inhale the carbonara every time and wash it down with a carafe of its house wine...all that after a couple of baskets of rolls soaked in the garlic olive oil mixture. Oh man, I'm craving it as i write this review.
(5)Tracey Lee D.
After the debacle at Valentino's, Kim and I decided to come here for our main course. This place is tiny, and it is in a tiny little strip mall, but it has a great feel to it. It's just one small room, packed with tables, and the kitchen is right there with you. It's busy and loud, but you can tell just by walking in the food is going to be great. We waited for a short time for a table, and then got down to business. They brought us a large basket of yummy bread, with plenty of dipping oil. We ordered and our food was out in a very short amount of time. I got the gnocchi pesto, and it was SO GOOD and I had tons of left overs for later! Possibly my new favorite gnocchi. My sister got some fish dish, and she liked it too. This place is a total hole-in-the-wall, but don't let the looks of the place deceive you-- it is worth a visit!
(5)Noah G.
I hadn't been here in years until a couple weeks ago. We decided to actually eat in there for the first time, since my dinner partner and I found parking in the lot outside next to a sleeping homeless guy and his shopping cart. I was always a fan of their bread and garlic and oil and their awesome Eggplant Parmesan, but we shared a chopped salad and a vegetable pizza. Unfortunately, the pizza was very bland and we only had a few pieces of it and took the rest home. The crust was good, but I couldn't taste the sauce at all. The salad and dressing was good and big, enough for two people The warm oil with garlic and bread that I remembered so fondly was just gross. The bread and garlic and oil were both exceptionally cold and I realized this time that just chopping up 40 cloves of garlic and pouring olive oil over it is really nothing special or very good. I suppose I'd be willing to go back if I was in the area to try the Eggplant Parmesan again, but I won't go out of my way again.
(3)David Q.
Alejo's is maybe the best pasta stop for the buck. Trying to find this place is maybe the hardest thing to do, but once you do, park the car and run in to get a seat while your friends run into the neighboring 7-11 to get some booze. Once you get the complimentary bread, dig in, because it is mmm mmm good. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu. My girl and I can usually share a bowl of spaghetti or fettuccine. But if you're really hungry, your should probably have your own. The only warning I should make is that their food is known to be full of garlic. Trust me, you'll wake up in the morning with that taste no matter how much mouth wash you use. If you can get past that, then you'll enjoy Alejo's just fine.
(5)Mike F.
For a small place in Venice, this place is super low key except for the fact that people wait here for a long time to get seated. And you know what, its damn worth it. Stared eating here when I first moved out to Marina Del Rey and loved it since. Every time I eat calamari, for some reason, I always compare ANY calamari to this place. Lightly fried and great portions along with their fantastic dipping sauce makes this dish one of my favorites. I had their garlic chicken with spinach fettucini and it left me saying "Call 911! I think my water broke!" My only knock on this place is that parking is a pain the nalgas and be careful of all the parking signs in the neighborhood cause the parking patrols are ALWAYS looking for an excuse out here.
(4)Stacey H.
I have to thank Yelp for finding this place. I drove by it hundreds of times or stared at it blankly while stuck in traffic but never considered going here. Once I read the BYOB newsletter I was all about it. I liked the vibe of this place. Good, affordable food and I was interested to see also what bottles of wine made their way into the restaurant. We decided to bring one of our nicer bottles and we really enjoyed not paying three times the value of the wine just to drink it in a restaurant. I ordered the Chopped Italian Salad and loved it! A big mound of fresh tasting lettuce and ingredients with their house dressing. When I order a salad I want a SALAD, which I surely got. My boyfriend ordered a seafood dish (Linguini Pescatore), which is another plus as similar dishes cost twice as much anywhere else. I have heard from friends that the pizzas are where it's at but I have a feeling I will stick to the pastas and salads for a while longer.
(5)Jason G.
My Alejo's Presto theory: Some guy named Alejo narrowly escapes being killed by vampires in Italy by moving to LA and opening a restaurant in the least conspicuous spot imagineable. The evidence? Alejo's is located in a tiny strip mall located at perhaps the busiest intersection in Venice. Last place a vampire would look. He floods the space with lights to keep the undead away till sunrise. Every bite of food is stocked with enough garlic to blast Dracula out of the entire Pacific time zone. You do the math. That aside, this is surprisingly good Italian food for us living folk. There's no liquor license (because red wine brings back too many bad memories I suspect) but you can get a fine vintage at that classic and knowledgeable cellar of wines next door- 7-11.
(4)Cokopui Z.
Usually, I'm not a big fan of dipping bread into olive oil but after my last trip to Alejos I'm one dipping fool. I never realized what I've been missing out. Please kick me. I don't know how they do it but the percentage of olive oil with the garlic is like no other. The zing it leaves in your mouth will have you coming back for more. What I like mostly about this place is it's a no nonsense, non pretentious neighborhood eatery. Yes it is small but that gives it character. Any bigger and it'll loose the intimacy of dinning with personalized attention. The portions are big so pace yourself or use the leftovers for lunch. Food is always fresh and always delicious. You will not be disappointed.
(4)CMR L.
Their Alfredo sauce is great. Their pizza's are really good too. It's a cozy little place close to home. Their portions are huge, I always have leftovers.
(4)Gol D.
The tiny strip mall hardly accommodates parking for larger vehicles. If you are do not mind close quarters, then this is a great place for a quick, delicious dinner. BYOB is a definite must and no corkage fee. Sweet. This is a place I go for specific menu items, every time. Between two people, you can share the Italian chopped salad, the fried calamari with an additional side of pesto. I like to order the special pizza with thinly sliced meatballs and green olives and linguine and clams. I occasionally order a different pasta. Just love the clams. The portions are plenty and we still have leftovers for later. SO good.
(5)Stephanie C.
I wanted to like this place...it had all the elements of a good italian restaurant. Great sounding menu, unassuming strip mall location, and its a byob! However, both the food and the service failed miserably. I ordered a seafood dish consisting of spinach fettucine, chicken, shrimp, calamari, onions, and peppers in a garlic wine sauce. Sounded tasty however it just didn't deliver for me. The seafood was not fresh and was tiny. The pasta was not cooked right and everything was floating in a thin tasteless sauce. My friend ordered the spaghetti carbonara and it was even worse. The sauce was bland and did not taste the slightest bit homemade. Both of us barely touched our meals and had no desire to box them or ever return again. Not quite sure how this place gets good reviews. Its probably fine if you didn't grow up eating good italian food but this place doesn't pass. I have however ordered pizza to go before and that was not bad. Maybe just need to stick to the basics.
(2)rachel m.
Absolutely delicious food in a totally busted hole-in-the-wall restaurant. The portions are huge and super garlicky (so don't plan on chatting up anyone except the people you dined with after dinner). They also let you BYOB with no corkage fee, which is awesome. This is most definitely NOT a good first date restaurant; it's in a little strip mall wedged between a 7-11, a laundromat and a donut shop.... perfect for the 34th date.
(4)M G.
** Review is for the Westchester location** Home-style, neighborhood Italian restaurant where dishes can be shared. I won't say it's "the best" but it's solid and the restaurant is kid friendly. Also great for takeout or delivery in the local area. (I've done both.) I believe they take reservations for large groups but with large banquet tables and two rooms it's usually easy and quick to get seated. Favorite dish is the seafood pepino. Unless you've starved yourself before the meal, this dish is large enough to share. The flavor is outstanding and their generous with the seafood ingredients. The garlic sauce and complimentary bread is a great starter and addictive. You will taste the garlic until you brush your teeth and possibly still the next morning. Don't fill up too much so you can save some room for the actual meal. My other regular dish is the eggplant parmesan which comes with a small side of spaghetti. Service is great -- almost psychic or they have impeccable hearing. The only thing I don't recommend here is the dessert. I don't think any are made on the premise and I know the tiramisu came out of box. But after eating all that food, you shouldn't have much room for dessert. Good value for the money.
(5)Eddie K.
This review is long over due. I have been coming to this place for years. This is a great place. Most of the items on the menu are really good. I say most because I haven't gotten around to order them all. The place is tiny and crowded but the food really made up for it. The only real complain that I have is the parking, but that doesn't really stop us from eating here.
(4)Nate B.
For a place that doesn't look like much (in a dirty looking strip mall) the food is very good. Its one of my favorite restaurants for chicken parmesan.
(4)Ema S.
So I finally tried this place everyone raves about....and I finally know what they are talking about! Little hole int he wall place, looks a little shady, dirty....but it was packed! It was hilarious to see everyone going next door to the 711 to either buy beer or wine for dinner. Its cool that they allow you to bring in your own alcohol, so of course I took full advantage! We went next door and got 2 delicious Stella's and sat down. The kitchen is literally right in front of you so its noisy but at least you can see them cooking. We had a couple of appetizers and one entree. I wasn't too hungry so I skipped on the entree. But I did have taste. Everything is covered in cheese.....YAY!!! I heart cheese. My BF ordered the chicken Marsala which you really couldn't see the chicken since there was like 10 layers of cheese covering it! Awesome! Cant wait to come back and order something different and actually eat...rather than drink
(4)Derek M.
Ugly location with heckling drunk bums out front, ugly exterior, ugly cramped interior. But good food. I used to give this place 5 stars. But last time i got the Sea Bass. It actually was kind of odd tasting in both my opinion and my gf. A diner next to me returned her whole plate of food complaining it tasted wierd. Hopefully, that was just an anomaly and this place can get back on track. Smells like garlic for miles around. Bring your own wine.
(3)Meg B.
I have a tough time giving this place four wholehearted stars, but I'll give it to them anyway. Their tomato sauces are great, but don't come here hoping for any great alfredo -- it's decidedly creamy but lacking cheese, which is really what it's all about, isn't it? The service is friendly and prompt, and the bread and garlic olive oil are killer-- I think I wreaked of garlic for the rest of the weekend. They have a really reasonably priced menu, and you can even get a small portion of any of their pastas if you're not feeling like a champ the night of your visit. What this place really lacks above all, though, is atmosphere. There is a FANTASTIC portrait of a lady with awesome, blown out and teased mom hair circa 1989, but aside from that there is nothing to be said for the decor. The lighting, while not fluorescent as other reviewers have claimed, is clearly not on a dimmer system and it would benefit greatly from one. It's a really casual place, and it sort of just feels like a pizza parlor that happens to mostly serve pasta... In summary: the food is reasonably priced, it's a nice change of pace from the circus that is C&O's, and you'll get to look at that awesome portrait for a while, which is probably worth the trip alone.
(4)Aghavni W.
Probably my favorite Italian restaurant in LA. The food is delicious and affordable. They really don't waste their time on ambiance so it's very simple and crowded inside. It sounds like a loud Italian family dinner. They don't have alcohol on the menu but it's BYOB (no corkage fee) and 7-11 next door had a decent wine selection. Makes for a very yummy and fun night!
(5)Owen H.
This place is a great dive Italian place. Great food, homey feel. Not a date place. More a lunch or rush dinner place. But good food.
(5)estelle s.
Things that are excellent: -the food: high quality, delicious, flavorful -WATCH OUT: they offer unlimited bread and it will make you full before you can eat your delicious meal!! -their servers are very friendly Things people should take notice of: while some may consider the size and space of the place to be too congested, i think it offers the character that is alejo's. from outside, it is a whole in the wall italian place between a stale donut shop and 7-11. inside is a warm, delicious frenzy! i would probably not take more than a party of four there, but if you are up for the shoulder to shoulder challenge it would be fun nonetheless. make sure to make reservations first! i don't think i would ever go to another italian place. it is just around the corner, and always welcoming no matter how long the wait!
(5)Jennifer H.
A real gem. Delicious and authentic Italian food, friendly service, ridiculously cheap prices and a 7-11 serving liquor in the same strip mall (since there's no corkage fee here)? It's fantastic. It's not chic, but I think Italian food is best served messy and tasty with minimal fuss and that's exactly what Alejo's does. If I lived closer, I'd carry out all the time. As it is, it is entirely worth the drive to Marina Del Rey for pizzas that rival Mozza's.
(5)Tom S.
Great local find, quality food, asap service and BYO..back table on right makes a super hot date! Did I mention it's BYO??
(4)Debby D.
Really not all that impressive. I was very disappointed after all the top reviews other yelpers gave this place. I got a simple Alfredo and it was very bland. I put a ton of extra cheese on it and that didn't help. Even a dash of salt didn't help. I did like the garlic dipping oil. Super garlicky!
(2)N. C.
Simple and good pasta dishes! This is one place that my friends and myself would go back again and again. It's not fancy food couture, but really good traditional italian dishes.
(3)NYSD G.
we tried the place because a few of the reviewers said it was east coast italian style food. they were right based on the menu, preparation and the side dish you got with your meal. there are plenty of italian places when ordering a veal marsala or chicken parm you end up getting a side of roasted potatoes, screw that give me some penne with garlic and oil or some long pasta with marinara with my veal. yeah, in italy the pasta is not with the main dish more like a starter but not in new york. seating were a pinch when you sat in the middle tables but it was a great way to see what others were eating. the place would've been 4 to 5 stars for me if it weren't for their overpowering garlic in their sauces. the chicken parm had great breading and the sauce was very good when it wasn't being overpowered by the garlic. when i tried my wifes seafood pasta dish i thought maybe her gravy wouldn't have as much garlic but it did. does anyone know if you can ask them to be light on the garlic? again if the garlic wasn't so overpowering the restaurant would be a gem but its hard to eat that much garlic no matter how good it is for you.
(3)Sean G.
This place gets five stars just for the face that you can bring your own wine and they do not charge you and will uncork it and serve it to you for free. We used to drive by thinking it was a dumpy mexican restaurant but now this is one of our favorite Italian restaurants. We won't start a meal without a chopped salad. It is so good and easy to share. The bread and garlic oil is amazing, but hard to get your breath to not stink after eating it. The shrimp diablo is a bit too hot, you lose the flavor. The regular tomato sauce is to die for. The pizza is good and thin. they have one with clams on it which is good. We've never made it to desert and always gone home with leftovers. The bill is never over $40 and we eat like pigs. The parking is a little dicey. Try the street behind. also make sure you bring your own wine b/c the 7-11 has a good selection but is ridiculously expensive for the kinds of cheap wine they carry. You can also get the food to go which is great for week nights.
(5)dodo d.
What i like about this place - huge portions, friendly servers, great food!! One serving is more than enough for 2 or more people, depends on how much you eat. Be careful not to eat too much of the bread + yummy garlic in olive oil before the main course arrives!!
(4)Diana G.
Back when I lived around the corner from this place with my ex, we used to walk over for dinner, pop into the 7-11 next door for a bottle of wine, and wait for a table in the parking lot of the little strip mall. We felt like were were in on a great L.A. secret--a place with good, cheap food. Sure, there are places to get good food, and plenty of cheap eats, but cheap AND good? Ah, how I miss Alejo's... The pasta is yummy and freshly prepared--I know because you can see everything that happens in the kitchen, which is practically in the same room as the dining tables--but my favorite thing about Alejo's, the thing that gets my mouth watering just thinking about it, is the garlic dipping sauce that they serve along with bread when you sit down at your table. The garlic is freshly chopped and HOT and soaking in olive oil, and we would devour the entire bowl and demand more. Another thing I liked about Alejo's is that it's so small and the tables are so close together that it becomes a communal dining experience. If you end up sitting at the long table in the center of the room, you'll end up rubbing elbows with the couple sitting next to you, and if you're lucky maybe they'll offer to share their shiraz with you.
(4)lil l.
Everything is garlic-infused, and when you leave you will be too. Ever since I left Marina Del Rey, I left my heart with Alejo's as well. It's just around the corner in the seedy strip mall: parking is a tight squeeze, but if you forget your bottle of vino, pick one up at the 7-11. Stuff yourself with the soft bread dipped in olive oil and smile at your neighbor when you bump elbows. When you dig into that pasta or seafood or veal, you'll sigh with content. Their best desserts run out pretty quickly, but if you can nab some, better hope you left room for it.
(4)Rodney w.
This place is great. You either love it or hate it , thee is no middle ground. The Venice location is small, crowded,horrid lighting , and the parking non existent. That is part of the charm , huddle among your fellow humans in a garlic filled room clutching your wine purchase from the 7 Eleven, while you contemplate what saucy dish you will consume tonight. When you finally do sit down the attentive waiter will be quick to open your wine and plop down a loaf of crusty french bread and a bowl of olive oil swimming with garlic. after ordering and gazing at the poor sods who are still waiting for a table , your piping hot meal arives before you have completely devoured your Italian Chopped Salad. No worries you can take that home with the left over linguini with clams, and Chicken Parm. Yum. If you can get past the initial hurdles of the place , it proves to be well worth the visit. Cheers
(4)Lily H.
We walked in unannounced at around 6 pm on a Tuesday night, and seemed lucky to get a table (well, the back room was empty but for a table with two ladies, but they seemed like a special case). They bring out bread and a cup of chopped garlic held together with a little olive oil -- very spicy! Both our dishes, the Shrimp al Diablo and the linguine pescatori are made with the garlic/wine/tomato sauce, but I preferred the spicing (and heat) of my shrimp sauce to my husband's sauce. Also, his sauce seemed a little salty, especially with all the seafood. The pricing seemed fairly good for Italian food (which, in my experience, almost always equates with expensive)
(4)An L.
This place is the best. We have been going here for years, and not only is the food awesome, but the service staff, who have been there for years, is really really nice. We will make the trek from the eastside to go here - one of the few exceptions we will make. And it's well worth it. Besides the entrees, it's BYOB, and they serve you yummy bread with oil and garlic. It took years but we've gotten ourselves to a point where we don't load up too much on the bread to save room for the entrees. But it doesn't really matter because the entrees are so big that there's always leftovers to bring home. And it tastes even better the next day! Yums!
(5)Sarah K.
Never again! It is absolutely understandable why the restaurant is named a Spanish name of Alejo's instead of an Italian name. My pasta was WELL WELL WELL past the al dente stage and was so covered in an unfreshly made tomato sauce that one could hardly taste the way overcooked pasta. It was inedible! I could have made better Italian food with my eyes closed by randomly grabbing stuff in my kitchen. Don't go here expecting people to understand "Mi piace" anything. If anyone working here knows more than one language Italian is not one of them and they know nothing about true Italian cooking!!!!! It is definately a quantity over quality restaurant so fat cheap skates with no taste buds are the one's giving it high reviews!
(1)Aaron D.
1 word. GARLIC. love it!
(4)John L.
Part 2 of the Lincoln/Washington Strip Mall Series 4th Time Around As has been mentioned earlier, Alejo's shortcomings are evident immediately - a cramped, nearly claustrophobic jumble of tables, fluorescent lights reminiscent of being in a costco, and the dreaded garlic stained walls. But only after this wonderfully non-descript first impression, does the true magic of this place start to assert itself. You can sense there's an element of deception going on, Alejo's is hiding something from you. Only if you manage to stick around, can you discover the secret. Maybe Mama Alejo purposely likes to keep the expectations low, to strip off the kitchsy Italian decor, and get back to the basics, so those brave souls who don't scamper away with fiery garlic breath are sure to be pleasantly surprised when the actual meal arrives. The shrimp al diablo, shrimp with linguini in their trademark wine/tomato sauce, is a good choice; and they manage to bring something new to classic Italian fare such as lasagna and parmigiana. As a postscript: There are many valid debates about whether this is "authentic" Italian or not. True, the flavors here are quite a bit different and lack the variety that I've sampled in the old country, but I don't think that detracts from Alejo's quality. To the contrary, arguments revolving around authenticity are moot when quality is the issue. Especially when the value of food and price are excellent, particularly for an American restaurant hiding in a strip mall in Marina del Rey.
(4)Tina D.
I don't know why this place gets 4 stars. This is my second time here. Maybe I would have given it 3 stars last time? maybe? The portions are huge. I've had the cobb salad before and didn't care for it. i went here last week and felt that the food was pretty standard. I ordered the Egglant parm with chicken. The eggplant was good but hte bed of spaghetti noodles were standard. I can probably buy the eggplant parm from the frozen section of Trader joes and make something even yummier. My bf got some pasta and the sauce was very watery so he didn't enjoyed it much either. We probably will never go back.
(2)pedro p.
Great food. Friendly staff. Cheap alcohol (from 7-11, no corkage).
(4)Mike B.
I've been a semi-regular at Alejo's going back nearly a decade. For reasons having nothing to do with the restaurant its self, this past weekend was my first visit in more than a year. Unfortunately, I would be hard pressed to convince myself to return. My favorite dish has always been the Shrimp Al Diablo. I absolutely loved the wine infused sauce, with just right level of heat. In the past I've had to ask for extra bread to wipe my plate clean of every delicious drop. Well, on this recent visit I can say that the sauce was just as good as I remember. But for a $15 dish they could have done far better than the 7-8 frozen SALAD shrimp they insulted me with. Not only were the shrimp small and of poor quality, but I'm pretty sure they got me sick. I am being fair in giving them 2 stars. The service was still friendly enough and who could ever get enough of the hearty bread and garlic drenched olive oil. Even giving them the benefit of doubt and assuming they were having a supplier problem (and not just cutting corners), next time please just take the item off the menu rather than get your patrons sick.
(2)rob g.
The time of alejos has come and gone.... they do still have no corkage fee and you can stroll in with a group of friends and a 6 pack of beer and all is well.... BUT the food has completely gone down hill in the last couple of years.... a few years back it was amazing and hands down the best classic little Italian restaurant in all of Venice and Santa Monica.... but those days are long gone.... the spaghetti carbonara , pasta pomodora , seafood pastas , chicken parmesan , etc.... none taste even close to as good as they used too.... bottom line is if it were 4 years ago id give this place a 5 but the way the food is now it has to go down as a 2... i do truly hope they bring there food level back to where it was years ago.... if it ain't broke don't fix it !!!
(2)Danny C.
This is a total hole in te wall joint, and it's totally good. This is probably more of a 4.5 star review, but I can't put in the extra star, as the best Italian food I've been to has to be the hole in the wall joint I found in NYC. The garlic dip they give you before the meal, wow. Seriously, it was THAT good. I think I almost filled up just on the bread and I had to watch it, otherwise I'd have no room for my main course. I picked the safe choice here and went with the Pasta Pescatore and I think I had more seafood than the actual pasta. The sauce is a bit watery, but it was good nevertheless. I didn't know that they don't charge a corkage fee, but it's definitely good to know. Great value for the amount of food you get.
(4)Jobe L.
i went with 4 stars but it could easily be a 2 star based on what you like. Its got a grubby exterior (and interior too). The bread is good, and the oil and garlic sauce for dipping is as lethal as everyone says. The portions are huge, way more than we could eat. You either leave with leftovers or probably need gastric bypass if you can take it all down. Food was good, but not inspired. Very Americanized Italian food. The carbonara I had wouldn't be recognized as a carbonara in Italy, but it still tasted good. My fiancee had spaghetti with meat sauce, it was quite good. I wouldn't drive far to visit, but as a neighborhood joint it does a solid job.
(4)Miz J.
I used to hit this hole-in-the-wall regularly when I lived in Venice. Hearty, casual grub-- the seafood pasta dishes are fresh and the garlic olive oil & bread are medicinal. Salads are tasty too- the chopped salad is a colorful julienned stack of flavor!
(5)Reg L.
This is a great place for lunch with the family, it's always got a long wait (there are only about 5 tables in this place) but totally worth the wait. They also make stuff to go and quality in no way suffers. I always end up ordering the same thing because every time I go I think "oooo, that looks good!" and when it comes I realize it is good, but it's also what I always get. It involves green pasta and mushrooms. But it's very good. Go with people who you won't mind smelling like garlic later. There's one up the hill by the Airport. It's larger but also manages to be crowded most of the time.
(4)Bonnie L.
Alejo's!!! You are awesome. Last month we went to a "Japanese-style Italian restaurant" and I wanted to cut my own face off. This month we go to a real Italian restaurant (which, my Italian friend called "Mexican-style Italian" due to its Mexican-restaurant appearance and most of its staff's ethnicity) and I wanted to die of happiness. As my brother would say, there was an "almost inconvenient meat to pasta ratio" but that makes me very, very, very happy. In fact, I even took my leftovers (they give you large portions) and at home, added more pasta and sauce and had 2 more meals out of it. So much meat! It was the spaghetti with meat sauce. Sooooo good. Their menu is very simple. It's like "lasagna" or "ravioli" or "spaghetti with meat sauce." Well, I guess do I really need more description than that? Haha. And they have some specials too, my friend got their linguini with seafood, which looked like it had a hefty amount of seafood in it. Their ambiance is basically... nonexistent. I think this used to be a sandwich shop, the way it's set up with a long counter and a tiny dining area. The tables are basically pushed super close to each other, and I think the biggest party you could bring here is probably 4-6 people. They do have wait service, very minimal and no customer service really, but he is there to bring you water and your plates. I think for this alone, they get one star knocked off because their prices are pretty high to have such a dingy atmosphere. My spaghetti was like $11.45. I think they'd do well if they made it a take-away counter with numbers and you get your own food, cuz that's really what it feels like here, especially because of their location too (in the parking lot with 7-11 and a bunch of bums hanging around outside). And drop the prices a little. They do have a GIANT mounted flat-screen TV that was playing the Lakers game, which is always a plus. And I saw some tables that had brought their own wine! OH WAIT but I almost want to give them one less star for this, but I won't, since I am an exception to an almost universal love for garlic. I haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaate garlic, especially when I can see chunks of it. So they have this bowl of oil and garlic and butter, to dip your bread in, and I almost gagged at the sight of it, and most definitely vomited a little in my throat when I smelled it. It is basically like, so do you serve any bread with this garlic??
(4)Nicky C.
Food is tasty. Portions are more than generous. Service is fast. Alcohol is right next door at the liquor store or BYOW. Ambiance is lacking. Parking is impossible. Come to this place if you are want home-made Italian food. You will not regret it.
(4)Shannon W.
I'm sorry to say that this place is NOT good Italian food. I work very nearby and out of the 100+ people in our office - no one here likes the food! I've been there on three different occassions (it's within walking distance). The sauce is okay but the pasta always tastes mushy like it's been sitting in a warming tray for hours.... think leftover Italian food and maybe you won't be as dissappointed
(1)Albert L.
One of my favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. I come here about once a month and I live in Silverlake. It may not look appealing from the outside as it's in the middle of a strip mall but the food is top notch. First, you start off with garlic in olive oil. The bread's consistency is just right for this dip. You can also bring your own wine. The wine and bread can be a meal in itself. But don't eat too much bread because the food is the main feature. Two of my favorites are: Pesto pasta with chicken picatta with extra lemon. Also, the spaghetti with meat sauce and sausage. Alejo's will make any combination you ask, too, so you're not restricted to the menu. The wait staff is very knowledgeable about the menu so ask for help if you can't decide. And if you go on Sunday, George is the absolute best. He'll spend time with you and ask you want you like and will try to find the right dish for you. George only works on Saturday nights.
(5)Sue C.
My BF and I tried Alejo's a couple years ago and really enjoyed the food. The pungent, slightly spicy garlicky olive oil dip with their soft and chewy bread alone makes the meal a memorable experience. We couldn't get enough of it. I remember we had a chicken dish and a pasta dish, and everything was yummy. And the bonus is being able to take home leftovers. Don't ask me why, but we didn't return until recently - this time for takeout. Oh my the pesto linguini with pine nuts and chicken really hit the spot after a long hard week of work. And to my delight - they give you the bread and garlic olive oil dip with your takeout order! After my dinner I blissfully passed out into a carb-induced coma. My BF had the calamari linguini - and ate until he was about to pass out. It was fantastic. We can't wait to have Alejo's again. Next time we stop in we're going to have some dessert too.
(4)Michael C.
I didn't think it could be done. Great Italian food on the west coast? Unheard of. Blasphemy almost. I was working in Santa Monica and a fellow foodie begged me to try it so I did. We ordered up a feast, but my go to quality check for Italian is meatballs in red sauce. I was pretty impressed with all the dishes, but the meatballs were outstanding. So much care and love went in to the marinara it rivaled the best meals I've had come out of kitchens in Italy and New York. I couldn't have been happier and will definitely be eating here again.
(5)Eric W.
I'm not usually a big fan of Itallian food, but I love Alejo's. I always have a good time (probably because we could buy wine from the 7-eleven next door and bring it to the restaurant without corkage fees!). My first meal there was chilean seabass (the best I ever had) - many years ago when it wasn't endangered. Being a garlic lover, I always got loaded up on their bread and garlic dip. Their pesto is excellent as well. I like that the customers sit really tight against one another, so the good times are spread all around.
(4)Teri B.
They catered my husbands hospitality suite for the CABB Board meeting. Amazing Paella, caprese salad and the clam & shrimp pizza was a huge hit. We order 12 different dishes and all were good, even the most basic cheese pizza. The garlic bread was heaped with garlic- I loved it and no vampires will bother me for a long time. Very Impressed with quality and variety.
(4)N Z.
It's real nice for a neighborhood Italian place. Eddie is so nice. The only place my kids will eat garlic dip. I always get the gnocchi with half pink and half white sauce, my son loves the sausage and pepper pasta, my daughter loves when the have salmon ( a special). Staff is always great and so so sweet.
(5)Shanice K.
Eddie's Italian did catering for our movie last weekend and the food was amazing. Every crew member was impressed. I didn't know a simple spaghetti with red sauce and meatballs could be so tasty! Their garlic sauce and bread is also amazing. This place is a true hole in the wall, you wouldn't expect much from seeing it on the outside but the food is great and Eddie is a great guy!
(5)Joey H.
If you want excellent service and amazing food this is the place to be. The chopped salad and Pizza are my favorites. I have never been disappointed with any of the items that I have ordered. A+ in service and food.
(5)Kat K.
I love places that don't skimp on the portions, and allow me to leave with garlic on the breath for the next three days. Their olive oil dip for bread with crushed garlic is to die for. If you're squeamish about smelling like garlic for a week, avoid this dip and be prepared to be sad for skipping one of the most delicious things you can eat at this place. Came here for lunch with the coworkers - lunch time wasn't too huge of a rush, but it looks like this place is popular enough to get some action even midday during a workday. I can imagine this restaurant getting packed at night. Ordered the calzone and, I kid you not, it was about the size of my head, if not larger. I remembered the calzone I used to eat back in high school - a good large-burrito sized pocket packed with cheese and goodies. This one was so huge that it fed me for the next 2 meals after this. The inside was filled with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese with ham slices. The crust and bread comes from freshly kneaded dough and comes out piping hot and fresh. Excuse me, while I wipe off the drool... Service is speedy and friendly! I would definitely come back here again to see what else they have to offer! All my coworkers' meals looked good but I was too busy tackling my own to try steal a forkful from each of them.
(4)Andrea W.
AMAZING pizza. One of the best pizza places i've ever had the pleasure of knowing. perfect crust, sauce, cheese, and can add almost any topping you want. Toppings we love: sausage, mushroom, onion, peppers. The bread they serve everyone is also delicious, with olive oil and chunks of garlic. Between the two of us we usually get a medium-large pizza and have some leftovers to take home. Everything time we go, there are lots of people getting pasta and really enjoying it. We had linguine with pink sauce and seafood and it was alright. Honestly, the pizza is the way to go!
(5)Antho L.
Great little hole in the wall spot for Italian food in the MDR! Came here last night with a group of people as one friend had her parents visiting from Chicago! At first, I admit, I wasn't that impressed when I arrived as the ambiance was very casual and decor was unimpressive. I was expecting a more formal type of restaurant but for being as small and cozy a place as it was, it seemed to be packed all night and especially got crowded after 7:30 pm. As the legend goes, the original owner who opened the place was a Spaniard who grew up in Italy and opened this place many years ago but has since passed away. It is now owned by an El Salvadorean and the main chef is a German-Ecuatorian! Talk about international! About the food, I had the grilled salmon on linquini olio and mixed vegetables. It was not too bad! I had a choice of either pasta or veggies and wanted both so the waiter said I could have it for $2 more. I was expecting him to either bring the pasta or veggies on a separate plate but ended up having both the veggies and pasta on the same plate making the portions of both rather modest. I felt like I didn't get enough pasta but I didn't complain but will know better next time. They allow you to bring your own beverage so everyone that walked in had a bottle of red wine in tow. It's a perfect setting for getting together with friends over a good Italian meal in a cozy setting. I'll definitely be back!
(4)Jmar G.
This place is ridiculously overrated! The food here was so unpleasant that I was actually depressed after leaving here. We had something else to get the taste out of our mouths. I really think one of the major reasons for it's 4-star rating is for two reasons: the service or people haven't been around enough to know good vs. bad food. I honestly would give this two stars for the service but one star says "Eek! Methinks not!" That is exactly how I feel whenever I think about this place. My girlfriend loves garlic and hates this place. Everything we had was either overcooked, drenched in garlic, or tasteless. Worst of all, we paid $30+! We go out a couple of times a week and this place is easily one of the most expensive AND one of the worst. Eek, methinks not? Indeed, definitely, never again. I'm depressed just thinking about it again. Sorry, servers. We did appreciate your service.
(1)Helen C.
NO CORKAGE!!! Woohoo! Okay, so I sound a little too much like a drunkard given my level of enthusiasm for their lack of corkage but c'mon, aren't you tired of going to restaurants that sell $7 bottles of wine for $20-30 buckaroos or punish you for bringing your own vino by charging you $15 bucks for their 10 second effort of opening your bottle? Because I am. Valentino's it ain't, but if you're looking for massive portions of very solid Americanized Italian food (think heaping mounds of spaghetti with meatballs or veal parm with a side of pasta the size of a child's head) that's cheap and allows you to bring your own wine, then this is your place. As soon as you sit down, they bring out a large basket of bread and a mound of garlic sitting in olive oil. It's strong, no doubt, but tasty. The parm with a side of pasta was a mound of fried tastiness and the pasta's pretty close to al dente. The ravioli alla checca was the only disappointing dish we had (just a little bland). I didn't have issues with the wait staff as other reviewers mentioned as our servers were fast, efficient, and friendly. Definitely a place to return for low key weekday dinners.
(4)Warren H.
I've been here dozens of times. It's in walking distance. Great chicken picatta and marslaes. Lots of garlic. Good place, small dining room, lots of people do take out here.
(3)Candy Q.
Ummm it's called Eddie's now. Supposedly because of some legal thing. I heard nothing but the name changed. Phew.
(5)Arizona T.
This was seriously some of the most watery and tasteless dishes we have ever had. 3 people, 3 dishes, 3 huge negative feedbacks. Skip this place. Even Olive Garden is better. MUCH better actually.
(1)Eric L.
Damn good Italian food in a crappy strip mall. I said it because its true. My friends and I have been enjoying Alejo's for a number of years now as it offers very good Italian fare at great prices, and you can bring in your own wine without any corkage fees! You are greeted by the ultimate appetizer in the form of bread and garlic with oil, I say this because you get a few dishes of freshly diced garlic in olive oil, vampires beware! For a garlic lover, this dish is refilled many times as you will find yourself dousing just about any part of your meal you so choose. Personally I usually go for a personal pizza and gnocchi, which then winds up on the pizza for the best starch sandwich in the world. It sounds odd, is a mess to eat, but taste really good. I would opt and suggest pink sauce either way with the gnocchi. Other damn good dishes include the eggplant Mama-Mia, chicken Marsala, chopped salads and the tricolor pasta. Save yourself the heart ache of using the parking lot and grab a spot on the street somewhere, brave the harrowing walk in and enjoy your meal.
(4)Matt L.
It's strange that a place with such a huge following would change their name without changing ownership -- It seems that their was a lot of confusion for people about the two Alejo locations, so now we have Eddie's Italian Kitchen. Luckily, there has been no change in the food, which is still amazing. I have never met somebody who wasn't happy with their order here. From their salads, to pastas, to pizzas, everything here is amazing. Personally, I'm a fan of their calzones -- these things are big enough to fill a family of four. Prices are low, no corkage fee (BYO) and wonderful service both in the restaurant and take-out. A review on Eddie's wouldn't be complete without mention of their olive oil/garlic sauce. It will stay with you for a couple of days and may stink up your breath, but it's absolutely worth every penny (especially given that it's free). The location is a hole-the-wall spot in a strip mall, but don't let this deter you. Eddie's is definitely worth checking out and you'll be happy that you did.
(5)abigail K.
This place is pricey and small. REALLY SMALL. Like tables and chairs crammed together small. Which I have to seriously consider before going back. I just dont enjoy moving my foot and kicking someone or rubbing elbows with the person (stranger) next to me. REALLY CRAMMED. The food is home-made, homestyle italian food that is delicous that is why they get the 4 stars. I want to go back but the spacing, gees, that is really something to think about. The garlic oil is strong, watch the breath. BUT NO COMPLAINT, really good. From the outside you could really under-estimate the place. Looks like a random, nothing special place, you wouldnt think it would be this good. The parking is horrible. its in a 7eleven lot. there has to be no more than 15 parking spots there and not for the restaurant only for 7eleven, dry cleaners and a chinese joint. So can be a BIG challenge to find a spot. However the street over usually you could find something if youre lucky. The service is great, as you walk in even the cooks look over and smile, everyone greets you. Everyone is usually always in a good mood here. We will see if I return, not sure maybe ill get over this space issue.
(4)Lee L.
Delizioso! Who knew you could get good Italian food from some dinky little hole in the wall in a strip mall. Small definitely describes this place. There are about a dozen tables and they're all squished next to each other. You can eavesdrop on other people's conversations without trying. Let's just hope you don't get any TMI stories. I had the special which was the Linguini ala Mare. Loaded with chunks of fresh salmon and halibut, squid, and shrimp. It was tossed in a savory tomato sauce. This is a must try dish here. We also split a seafood pizza. It had roasted red bell peppers, clams, and I think shrimp. I really liked this because it had a nice thin crispy crust. We got there right before the dinner time rush. There were people lined up the walls waiting for seating, a sign that this place is worth the wait. No wine menu, but looks like you can bring in your own bottles. Will definitely make trips back here.
(5)Al B.
I love this place!! Alejo's is awesome!!! Its one of those great restaurants that I wish I frequent more often, like I did in the past. My excuse? No car, and its way out there! And public transportation out here ain't all that great! Anyway, each time I come here, the food and service is always consistent! The portions are decent, although they've raised their price just a bit!!! I don't mind. The place isn't that big! If you're driving, parking can be awful. And if you come during peak hours, you'd have to wait a while! But I think it's worth the wait, guest turn overs can be pretty quick at times, depending on how big your party is. The bread you're given comes with olive with garlic in it!! So tasty. I usually get the same thing, starter...fried calamari, then...prawn or shrimp pasta!!! So goooood!!! I always leave satisfied! There is no place in my area within a ten mile radius that can compare to this place!! And oh...be careful when you go use their restroom, I almost ate shit at one point, 'cause it can get pretty slippery since you're walking into their storage/kitchen/office area. PS: its a good place for a first date, or a significant others, or anyone, or alone, they don't have the most romantic atmosphere(according to society) but hey, I'm different!!...but please byob... lol!
(4)John K.
This place is perfect for kids and adults. Bring your own wine. Prices are good. Food is excellent. Yea - it is kinda old and worked, but you just don't care when the food arrives. The garlic oil for bread is tasty - may leave you thirsty because we all eat too much. Enjoy. The take out works. My only negative is that the way they stack the food caused leakage in my car.
(5)Alan L.
I'm giving them 5 stars because its just about as good as you get from a place like this. Basic hole -in- the- wall bring your own booze and they will fill you up on fresh Italian grub. My whole family loves this place. Challenges are parking and seating however if your a sociable individual, this settings is fine. try it!
(5)David R.
Eddie's chef salad is the best!! No matter what you get, make sure tohave the Chef salad also! Note: Everything is really good! A bowl of Marinera and Bread is always nice!!
(5)Karl F.
I'm normally not a huge fan of Italian food [except pizza] Ate at Alejo's after an event in the area and this place is great!. Family style independant restaurant, great portions, good service! Started off with fresh bread and garlic/olive oil dipping suace, this stuff is awesome! I ordered "Eggplant Mama Mia" which is eggplant parm with chicken sandwhiched in between. tooped with Mozzerlla and sauce, it was GREAT! I would def go here again
(4)Paul V.
Good Food. As others have noted the place is small, we picked it out actually because it looked like such a hole in the wall we figured it'd probably be cheap too. Wrong. That's the only thing that does bring the score down just a tad. I'd of easily given this place a 4 on food alone but for the price? Ahhh... Gotta do a little bit better. Now the food is fine, it's the prices that need work, they're too high for the food being what it is and the restaurant being what it is. I love eating at hole in the walls, I love cheap food, I just don't like it when it's overpriced. I didn't like, regret eating here or anything, but I really doubt I'd ever come back simply because... There's just not really a point. Since it's a drive for me, if I wanted to, I could drive the other direction, get a chicken parmesan from Tutto Fresco that also comes with a caesar salad, and I'd still be saving a good $7 per plate. Now the portions here are fantastic, I don't think I was even able to eat half of my food before I took it home, so you do get a lot of food for the money you spend. Italian food makes the best leftovers. That said, don't get this food to go. Why not? Because there's too much value dining in. Why? The bread. The bread is fantastic, or more specificly, the dipping oil with the garlic in it is. I usually only go for basalmic, which I did here too (And they had it), but that garlicy olive oil was just too tempting to not use too. Fantastic! If anything at all about this restaurant will pull me back, it's that. If I was in the area and hungry I might go inside but this is sadly one of those places I'd like to enjoy, but just don't have the budget to spend the extra money consistantly. Great service though.
(3)Sofia M.
Best Seafood a la diabla pasta ever! I love Alejo's because they take Italian food and go nuts with the spices. I'm not sure if this is common practice for a lot of Italian restaurants, because I always find myself having pretty bland italian meals. But Alejo's knocks it out of the park. Their dipping garlic sauce is p-o-t-e-n-t! Providing you with an instant insect and douchebag repellant ;) Their prices are pretty reasonable and they offer huge portions. Perfect for family style or leftovers. Setbacks: It's a pretty small restaurant, so claustrophobes beware. Also, because it's so small and their food is so delicious, your waiter may try to get you out of there pronto. However, if you enjoy wham-bam-thank-you-maam's, then that may not be a problem for you. Enjoy!
(5)Caroline K.
I like this italian restaurant. I went inside to order to-go, and customer service is great. They were very attentive. The food is awesome as well. I ordered the three cheese ravioli. Mmm... I love ravioli, and they did not disappoint. Plus their bread with the garlic sauce is heavenly.
(5)Denis S.
This is one of those rare times when Yelp has steered me in the wrong direction. Yes, the place is a hole-in-the-wall, yes it looks horrible from both the inside and the outside, but no, it does not have amazing Italian food. I tried both their chicken and their seafood pasta dishes, and was disappointed with both. The seafood dish tasted somewhat acidic to me, so I didn't think the ingredients were that fresh. Although, I must admit, the calamari were excellent. The chicken dish was average, but nothing special. Usually, the good thing about hole-in-the-walls is that they have good food AND are cheap. Unfortunately, this place, doesn't even have the cheap part time. The meals cost about the same as they would in a pretty good Italian place (especially in Venice), but lack the same quality, atmosphere, or service that other Italian restaurants offer. For some reason this place has something of a cult following. In fact, as we were eating at the table, a random person who was getting takeout stopped by just to tell us how much he loved it and that it was BYOB. He then proceeded to explain to us what "no corkage fee" meant... yea, thanks!
(2)Celine P.
After picking me up from the LAX, my aunt took me to this place. She was raving about it while driving. She said she used to go to this place 10 years ago and it was just awesome. Parking is really tight. Its a good thing I wasn't driving cause I would have been really stressed out. This place is a hole-in-a-wall type of place. Small, but packed. So i figured it must be REALLY good. Bread in the garlic oil was good. I probably had 3-4pieces before my meal. lol. but it was just as good as any other italian restaurant that serves bread with garlic oil. Come to think of it, I prefer Stinking Rose's a LOT better. I digress.. I was craving shrimp at the time so I got the Linguine Pescatore. My aunt got the eggplant parmesan. We also got the italian chopped salad. The salad was meh. It reminded me of coleslaw but with a more subtle dressing. There were about 5 pieces of shrimp in my plate. Thats it. And while they were really flavorful (the shrimp nicely took in the flavors), the calamari that came with it was bleh. I've never tried clam before, and the clam in my dish was not as bad as I thought it was going to be. The eggplant parmesan, however, was really good. It's almost as good as mine:) Overall, this place was okay. It wouldnt be a first.. or second.. or 5th choice for italian food, but I wouldn't mind coming back here. (auntie, if you're reading this. sorry, i just didnt like it as much as you did)
(2)Jas C.
Get The Capelli Piponi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Â!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it's!!!!!!!! sooooooooo!!!!!!!!! bomb!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Â!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The other pasta's are bomb too and the chopped salads are also very good and the bread and garlic dip, oh man yes, but I must say the Capelli Piponi is dankerriffic! The parking lot is small and it gets awkward when people are coming and going. There's parking in the back along the street and in the back plaza (u gotta be sneaky if u park in the plaza though e.g. i usually walk through the yogurt shop so it looks like i'm going there). There's no corkage fee for wine. Oh yeah there's a lota bums that hang around this plaza too, be nice and give em your left overs or buy them something! If you're fortunate enough to be reading this, I bet their lives have been a lot tougher than ours, so count your blessings, and hook em up with some food! And Remember: Capelli Piponi! Update: The Spaghetti Carbonara and the Shrimp Diablo Linguini are both HELLA good
(5)Joy G.
the olive oil with the garlic that they give you to dip their soft bread pieces in is amazing. definitely looks better inside than outside. the food was just mediocre. I would go back, since it's close by my house, but I like c&o's better, and this place still doesn't stand up to my favorite -- the kitchen in pasadena.
(3)Janis F.
Great food, lask a little in the atmosphere. I'd give it 4 stars if the interior was updated. If you're not a garlic fan stay away, you can smell the garlic down the street. Big portions, incredible bread. Lasagna, parm chicken yum. It's great for take out as well.
(3)A B.
well i ordered a large pizza which was very dry and burnt. i had also ordered a chopped salad that had two long black hair's in it. ok everyone i called eddie's italian restaurant, and spoke to the manager and this is what he said "well what do you want me to do about it, the guy is bald and shaves his arms." i see you have mostly 5 stars on your ratings, it must have been the employees who rated you, not your clientele!! so i give you no stars eddies italian, and will never be ordering from you again!!!!!!
(1)Debbie E.
Any of the pasta dishes are solid. The special ravioli is usually a go-to for me. The Alejos Salad is also yummy. All meals come with fresh bread with garlic oil for dipping. SO GOOD but unfortunately since it is just crushed garlic in oik, you will be tasting garlic for a good day afterwords. So good though. The wine list is just so so; don't expect any 98 pint wines here. Service is usually good. The parking lot is in the back and is horrible. Allow extra time for parking during peak hours.
(4)Heather W.
I love Alejo's so much. Portions are big, prices are reasonable and the service is fantastic. Best tip ever - empty some cheese on your plate and add pepper, then dip your bread in garlic deliciousness first and then your cheese plate second. YUM!
(5)Patty O.
If you love garlic, you'll love Alejo's. Also, they have amazing chopped salad, pastas and chicken dishes. This location is bigger than the other location and has two rooms of seating. They also are great for take out or delivery. My favorite dish is the chicken milanese with the spaghetti on the side. Great service and again...if you love garlic, you'll be in heaven. They bring you bread with this crazy garlic dip.
(4)Judy T.
This rinky dinky little restaurant is a great find when you are looking for decent food and a good atmosphere. It's tiny and they don't serve alcohol, but their menu is medium sized and has something for everyone. Plus, everyone brings their own wine anyway, and you get these big shotglasses to drink it with. Bottomline- not great for a first date or to bring a group of people to if you're trying to impress, but the food is very straightforward and you get what you order. It's very simple Italian food- you can tell by the menu. No additional touches or a flair of this or that- your pasta is just that- red sauce, pasta, and meat. If you like hearty then this is a good place. There are 5 or 6 tables placed side by side in the middle of the room, and it gives it a communal feel. If you are sitting there with strangers they just move the tables apart a little bit. I tried to seafood mare dish and it was light, fresh and good. The eggplant parmigiana was also very good. If you like garlic, you'll be delighted as they give you bread with garlic and oil when you sit down and it is pretty tasty. This totally sounds like an ad, but anyway, you can't go wrong if you're hungry and want a good meal!
(4)Bartolo K.
Meh. This place could be better. I got the shrimp diablo which had a delicious spicy red garlic sauce. The lasagna is okay, has a great unique flavor though. Small dish of Raviolis were outstanding but unlike the rest of their small dishes, is actually small. Only consisted of maybe 7 raviolis. - but this is standard of most Italian places. The Good: Linguini was cooked right Even for the "small" you get a lot of food!- (except ravioli) The Bad: Shrimp quantity was few. Shrimp was small and overcooked. Probably fantastic size during nonpeak hours but terrible during the dinner rush. It gets so loud from everyone having to yell over one another, you actually get a headache from all the noise. The Ugly: Waiter was a jerk. Snapped at us. Was very impatient and upset that we didnt know what we wanted almost as soon as we got our table! They must not like the youngins from the LMU crowd nearby. We're young and we were treated as though we won't tip. Well you made sure of that Mr. Waiter! Ultimately I'll come back during nonpeak hours and try another dish, but the only incentive is that bread and DELICIOUS knock-you-down garlic dip.
(2)Marion Z.
This place is just chill. Sometimes you just want to enjoy a nice tasty dinner without the hype or price. This is the top stripmall italian spot on the westside ;) I know that sounds terrible but seriously worth a try. You can take in wine if you like. The portions are sizable and the dishes are yummy. I enjoy this little local spot.
(4)Maxwell P.
This is no longer Alejo's, it is now EDDIE'S ITALIAN KITCHEN, check out the yelp there, Eddie has owned it for 6 years and has finally changed the name, the same food, same prices and same great place you love to love!! Go to Eddies and eat some food, be happy and have fun!!!
(5)Elizabeth E.
Great place for take out, a little tight and hot to actually eat here although we have. They make your food quickly and the quality and quantity are great for the price. Love the no corkage too!
(4)Andrea J.
As Annie said...oh, my goodness, oh my goodness! Alejo's is amazing. It makes me so sad that I never tried Alejo's during all my years at LMU (when I was literally a hop, skip, and a jump away) because I prejudged this little hole in the wall, no decor or ambiance to speak of, questionably "Italian" restaurant, etc., etc., etc., Well, mea culpa! Alejo's shines DESPITE the hole in the wall, DESPITE the lack of decor and ambiance, and despite the apparent lack of Italians in the kitchen (don't know about this for sure or the background on Alejo's). I ordered the Linguine Pescatore which came out steaming and stayed hot throughout my meal. The garlic tomato wine sauce was devine~not too heavy, not too light and just salty-savory enough. This dish was humongous and there was no shortage of shrimp, clams, and calamari. Alejo's is a prime example of how one should never judge a book by it's cover. Maybe if I had read up on it on yelp I wouldn't have missed out on it for some many years. Guess I'll just have to eat there often to make up for lost time~oh well ;-)
(4)Jeannie J.
I agree with John A., I was tricked into coming here too by the 4 star average! The only reason for the 2 stars was the service. Everyone was polite and nice. The bread was chewy and warm, but garlic in the olive oil was quite pungent. Could have been toned down. But whatever, it was free. The spaghetti and meatballs was terribly disappointing. The noodles were mushy and overcooked. Meatballs were eh. The sauce had this off-taste, it was kind of sweet. Maybe Alejo's serves fare from a diff region of Italy that I'm not used to? My linguine pescatore was luckily not overcooked, but really tasted like something I could throw together at home with frozen seafood, a bottle of sauce, and dried noodles. Also, when my husband and I came home, we were incredibly thirsty and parched all night. MSG in Italian food? I hope not...but I won't be back to find out otherwise. I've had better Italian food at other joints. Too bad, I really wanted to like this place!
(2)Hernano L.
Alejo's Trattoria is cheap and bad. Worst pizza ever and pasta float in cheap oil (you'll see it when you cook your food)
(1)Nobutaka A.
While I don't blame Yelp for misleading me here since I was brought here against my own accord, it puzzles me how this restaurant can earn more than two stars. But let's get into my actual experience. We walked into a fairly packed restaurant on Father's Day. However we were seated right away and a waiter came by within a few minutes to take our drink orders and drop off some menus. The menu itself touches bases with many of the dishes you'd expect at a standard italian restaurant and it's quite respectable that they serve a traditional gnocchi when most restaurants are sticking to breadsticks, salad and spaghetti. We ordered the shrimp linguini. meat sauce spaghetti, margherita pizza and ravioli. Out of the four dishes that we ordered, the shrimp linguini was the only respectable dishes. Everything else had way too much salt and lacked the finesse of a restaurant that charges $20 a plate. At first I thought I was being too picky but upon consult from my fellow diners, we reached the same conclusion that this restaurant was just awful. Just absolutely awful. If you can go to any other italian restaurant then I beg you to do so because any yelpers give this place more than a two star rating is seriously endangering their reputation as a reviewer.
(2)E K.
What a funny experience! First of all, is the staff. They are very friendly. They gave us good seating which I was all excited about. The funny thing is, it turns out they seated all the Asian people in one half of the restaurant - there are two halves of the restaurant. The first half of the restaurant had no Asians whats-so-ever from when I went in and when I went out as well. Any group with Asians were seated in the other room. I just thought that was funny. Don't let that deter you... The food here is reminiscent of authentic food in Italy, I loved it! Which is funny b/c the whole staff looked Mexican... The sauce does have a tad more to it than the plain pomodoro sauces you get in Italy, which was good and better for American tastes. I got the eggplant parmesan and the mozzarella on it was very good. The dish was good, but it's soggy compared to what I've had at other restaurants. It was interestingly also similar to ones I made myself at home. As been described as a "hole in the wall", don't expect freshly shredded parmesan served for you. They have them in little shakers for you to serve yourself - that's still better than what you get in Italy sometimes! The BF enjoyed his spaghetti with meat sauce. Apparently it has more meat than the spaghetti with meatballs. The dish was so big though, he could not finish it. We both got boxes to take home. The desserts are homemade, which I also love! The Turtle was better than I expected. I thought I'd only have one or two bites from being full already, but just kept going. Try it!
(4)Amz T.
Delicious Italian cuisine. Generous portions and super friendly service!
(5)Warren G.
My wife and I decided to try this place. It was a Sunday night and we were busy running errands. She had heard of it from a friend so what the heck, we gave it a try. The parking lot is really, really, small but I was lucky to find a spot. My wife had heard that there was no corkage if you bring in a bottle, and she went in and confirmed this while I parked our SUV into a tiny space. My first thought were, this is a hole in the it must be a family run business. I ordered the eggplant parm, my wife had the linguine pescado. The bread is warm, moist and heavenly with the olive oil and garlic. We added a splash of vinegar to the olive oil. It was even tastier. The food was good. I enjoyed the taste of the marinara sauce, egplant was not overcooked. My wife's dish was tasty too. In all, I spent $36 for dinner for two including wine. Not bad! The service was good, I felt like I was in a family atmosphere. I spent this morning reading reviews, and you can get extremely picky if you like. Yes, there weren't any Italians preparing or serving the food, our waiter was Salvadoran. Yes the parking lot was extremely small. The prices were average, without the corking fee they became more reasonable. The bottom line is that I enjoyed myself, and I'll be back again.
(4)Keith I.
Love this place, some of the best Italian food I've tasted. A nice hole-in-the-wall in the middle of bustling Culver City/Venice, we frequent here for lunch. I always find myself having to restrain from eating the endless bread and olive oil garlic dip just to be sure I have room for my meal. I'd like to try other items on their menu, but I can't seem to get away from the Pizza Raviatta...it's THE best.
(5)Doug L.
I've been going to Alejo's for 20+ years. Let me clear things up: the original owner/chef was Argentine, so don't expect traditional Italian flavors. They are famous for a handful of things: RAVIOLI with red and white sauce; the Alejo's chopped salad, and the bread with olive oil and garlic. Lasagne and pizzas are also very yummy. Stick with these menu items if you want to experience what the fame is about!! If you step away from these menu items, you are on your own!! I once tried chicken cacciatore and it was "so-so". But the above-mentioned dishes are VERY Good for about $10-$13 each. Those who blame the service, or the wait, or whatever... all I can say is we aren't going to Alejo's for that! We're going for the bread/oil, salad, and ravioli! So get with the program. You wouldn't go to Cheesecake Factory for dessert because you were craving ice cream!! THINK! PEOPLE!!
(5)Jeff M.
You can bring your own beer or wine...order a $14 pizza that is incredible stink like garlic and feel like a king... You get to know the folks next to you and it is excellent... Sorry...but byob, garlic, and cheap eats...count me in
(4)Keith M.
It's now called Eddie's, and supposedly has the same food as Alejo's. We shared a chopped Alejo's salad which was OK. The bread was not fresh, as it used to be. I ordered the salmon special with sauteed veggies instead of the pasta. My friends ordered the linguine pescatore. The entrees were beyond awful. The salmon was swimming in a watery gruel of a sauce with overcooked zucchini and carrots sitting on top with burnt garlic cloves. The pasta dishes both had pasta that must have been cooking for several days (that's how overcooked it was), swimming in gobs of tasteless, watery tomato sauce. The calamari was rubbery, the shrimp tasteless. If I randomly selected two people just walking down the street they probably could have done a better job cooking these dishes. So why was the restaurant packed? Besides being Sat. night I suspect that people go there because the portions are HUGE, HUGE, HUGE, and that's the criteria they use for judging a restaurant. I didn't have the pizza, and who knows, maybe those are edible, and that's what the regulars stick with.
(1)El S.
Come on! Are you f'in serious, people? Bay Cities and now this crap? This is extremely greasy Italian food made in a revolting mini-mall next to a 7-11 that has meth-heads loitering outside of it 24-7. This is not Italian food....the food is like Monique's face - large and greasy....even the saladsThe garlic bread tastes like your fat college roommate from Kansas pressed it between his inner thighs before serving it to you. It all tastes ready-made. People in LA have horible taste in Italian food...a place like the Olive Garden or Macaroni Grill would thrive in this neighborhood (ironically, it would actually be an inprovement!). If you want good Italian go to Brunello in Culver City or Da Pasquale in Beverly Hills. Salute, Alejo's.....now go home and get your f'in shine box!
(1)John A.
This place is pretty dirty italian. Was tricked into coming here from yelps giving it 4 stars. It deserves 2. Dirty olive oil and garlic dipping sauce for the bread will have you burping up garlic for two days. Not fresh at all. Best part is that it is BYOB and we brought in a nice bottle of wine. Don't recommend coming here. Treat yourself to LaVeccia or Guido's. It's worth the couple extra bucks!
(2)Randi M.
I really, really wanted to like this because my aunt and others have raved about it, but I wasnt that impressed. First, the garlic "oil". Cheap, cheap oil that is in full view of everyone. Big huge gallons full that is NOT EVOO. I'd be surprised if it was even olive oil. It seemed more like veg oil to me. I loved the Alejo salad, that was done well. My chicken marsala, whole other ball o'wax. The sauce was very thin and the mushrooms were thin as well. No substance at all. I had to send it back because it was so freaking spicy. I just dont expect my marsala to be spicy. It was a huge portion on a tiny plate. When I sent it back, I asked for a bigger plate, I mean I couldnt even cut it on the small plate. My aunt got the meatballs. She said they were spicy too and because I dont eat beef, I didnt taste them. She cut them open and they seem like they have a lot of filler( bread crumbs). My partner had the pepperoni pizza, she liked it, I blotted off a lot of grease before I let her eat it. LOL. I dont know, I'd try them again, but I wouldnt make a special trip over there.
(3)Shauna R.
Love the food...hate the parking. Definitely a hole in the wall restaurant with LITTLE parking (right next to a 7-11) so best for take-out at least at this location. They have another one but never ate there, so cannot comment, for now. I tried their lobster ravioli....yummy! I normally would never order it but after trying what my friend ordered.....why not? I would come back but may try the other location next time. It's more of a sit-down and has parking across the street in a parking lot. I would definitely avoid the typical lunch/dinner rush if you're short on time. Again, their bread with olive oil is yummy as well!
(4)Kathleen M.
Don't go to lunch at Alejo's if you have a date later! Better yet, bring your date, so you both have garlic breath! The fresh ciabatta bread dipped in their minced garlic-infused olive oil is the real reason why I love Alejo's. Their chopped Italian salad is terrific - chopped lettuce, garbanzo beans, shaved mozzarella cheese, salami, tomatoes, and their house dressing. The Alejo's salad is great too - they add cabbage, turkey, and bacon to the Italian salad. The full salad is definitely large enough to fill you up at lunch. They also offer half-salads. For dinner, the linguine with clams is a really great dish. The time I had it, the linguine was perfectly cooked, the clams were delish, and I found myself craving the flavor of the wine garlic sauce again right away. Be prepared to smell like garlic for a day or two after eating at Alejo's!
(4)Emily R.
Do you have a love affair with garlic? I sure do and this was the place to indulge in my passion. For a hole in the wall in a strip mall, I have never tasted better Italian food. The garlic aioli served with the soft, yet slightly crusty bread has got some serious kick! Don't hold back with this stuff. Slather your bread and entree in this stuff for additional garlic goodness. It's all about the seafood pasta! The calamari, salmon, clams and mussels were perfect. Sometimes other places overcook the shellfish to a rubbery consistency, but they were spot on perfect! Since my little Miss Z was in tow, we also ordered a linguine pasta with marinara which seems boring, but the sauce definitely had some zing. I, of course, added more garlic aioli to satisfy my taste buds. She ate a quarter of her small portion and for a little tyke that made mommy and daddy real proud. The place is really unassuming, so don't arrive expecting a maitre d' at the door and soft lighting...it is after all in a strip mall. However, be prepared to get down and dirty in a garlic love-fest. If you don't walk out splattered with garlic or sauce, you really missed out on the joy of Alejo's.
(4)Joe C.
They let you bring your own drinks. Hard to park
(4)Michael W.
This is my favorite Italian restaurant on the west-side of Los Angeles. I tried to deny this place for a long time, feeling that the strip-mall style and neighboring restaurants were an indication of the food. Boy was I wrong. Massive portions. Garlic by the handful in most dishes. Flavor like you haven't had since grandma made her special sauce. Fresh meats and seafood, fresh pasta, pizza that was so good I couldn't wait until the next day to eat the leftovers. This place is not fancy (the interior isn't much of an upgrade from the exterior.) But you will be pleasantly surprised by the swift (and non-invasive) service, the incredible food and - oh yeah - it's BYOB. Prices seem a little on the higher side until you eat the food.. then you'll be looking at the menu a second time to see what you can take home for later.
(5)Caitlin C.
Alejos is squeezed in between a 7-11 and a donut shop, on the ugliest corner of the West side. It's been there for as long as I can remember. Back in the day I remember everything about it being fantastic, but these days, years and years later, it's still good but not fantastic. The restaurant usually gets busy busy, at night. There aren't that many tables, and what there are, are attached to each other family style.There's no real lobby to wait in, and the kitchen is literally on display for all to see. The wait is usually a long one, depending on the night. One time I sat next to a Baldwin brother. You're allowed to bring your own alchohol too. Nowadays I rarely eat in. My mother and I stop by often to pick up the chopped salad and egg plant parmesan. It lasts for days! I swear pounds of food, I'm not kidding. I think the best part about Alejos is the freshest of fresh breads they serve with chopped garlic in olive oil. It's the best starter bread at any Italian place I've been too. C&O's garlic rolls are good, but Alejos bread is more traditional and also amazing. It's reasonably priced for the amount of food you get, and since it's in my local neighborhood, and a realiable place for homecooked food I'm giving Alejo's 4 stars.
(4)Mika E.
Great food. Great service. Great grilled fish with veggie dish!
(4)melissa h.
We love the food here, it's definitely a whole in the wall, but I think that's what gives it some allure. I love that I can bring in a bottle of wine and there's no corkage fee. The linguine del mar is great, with tons of fish and big portions!
(4)Aynge M.
Fantastic food for very little cash. A friend of mine took me here and I was blown away. I'm a garlic freak and I just adored the garlic in oil with bread as an appetizer. I had the eggplant parmesan which was divine. They do not serve alcohol but my friend bought some beer from 7-11 next door and brought it in. Looked like everybody does that. Yes, the wait can be long, and you'll probably have to share tables with strangers, but it's worth it. Recently someone told me this place is closed down, but I don't know if it's true. I hope not! I love this place!
(5)Antonio A.
It was a Friday night. I called my boys who had been working in the studio all day on some new music and asked if they were hungry. Hell yeah, was the response. So I asked what they wanted to eat. Sushi? Umami? Tacos Ensenada? Na...not feeling any of those! So what do you want then? Any place with good pasta that isnt crazy expensive. I got the place but are you down for a ride? After some coaxing and confirmation that I would be the one driving we picked up our ladies and headed out from East LA to the farthest part of the West LA. The entire time I kept getting shit about how far we were driving, but I assured them it would be worth it. Once we got to the run-down strip mall, I said, "we're here?" They said, "are you sure?" So we walked in, sat right down and started to grub on the bread and garlic olive oil they provide. I ordered my usual which was the Carbonara that they do the way I love (pink sauce w/ bacon and no peas). Other dishes we had were the Chicken Piccata, Lasagna, Spaghetti and Meatballs and two different salads. Besides the Chicken Piccata, which I dont really like anywhere, everything was great. This is filling home-style italian restaurant. Its not fine dining but its everything I want when Im craving pasta and a lot of it. Needless to say, nobody talked crap on the way home. Partly because they were satisfied and partly because everyone passed out from their food coma! Special Notes BYOB Limited Parking in parking lot
(4)Anne L.
This place is horribly overrated! Soupy and tasteless Italian food prepared by Mexicans who have no idea how to prepare Italian food. Bad, bad, bad!
(1)D. K.
Go here for a casual fun dinner night with friends when you don't mind picking up the tab because it's only $50 for the 8 of you. Go here when you are on your way home from a long day of work and you want take out. Go here for a first date because if she sucks you can drink some extra wine or even go grab a beer from the 7-Eleven next door. DONT go here if you want high end Mario Batali style Italian food for your Mom's 60th birthday or your 10 year anniversary. For that go to Mozza and drop some mad coin. Make sure to say hi to the cooks--they are super nice and hanging out right there when you walk in. The wait staff is personable and right on top of things. Parking is often full--but, give it two minutes and something will open up. There's a lot of turnaround in that lot. Tip these people well--we need more places like this to be around.
(5)Johnny M.
Food decent and out fast. Not overly fancy but free corkage that's right! Bring your favorite bottle! Portions good and so is the taste. Small place and busy.
(4)Truc T.
Mama mia! My breath is garlicky but it was SO worth it. It's been a long time since we've been back to Alejo's and we were so glad that it hasn't changed. Immediately, you are welcomed by yummy soft bread with some olive oil dipping sauce with garlic that seems like they've been comingling with each other for some time. We ordered the Alejo's small chopped salad and it was a great plentiful appetizer for two people. Both us ordered a variety of the linguini seafood pasta with the red sauce and they were both came out piping hot. The portions are super generous and we both had plenty to take home for leftovers. I hate wasting good dipping oil so I asked for a little container and brought it home to cook with! Our small salad and two linguini dishes came to around $43. In terms of parking, I always get anxious about their small lot but we were able to find free street parking on the side street in the back. but... plan ahead! you WILL leave with some potent garlic breath enough to scare vampires away!
(4)Jay S.
I'm starting to believe that every single place in Marina Del Rey is OVERRATED solely because of the lack of quality establishments in these parts. Alejo's is no exception. On the plus side, they give large portions so you get a good bang for your buck. And while the fresh bread with garlic they plop down for FREE when you sit down doesn't compare to C&O's garlic knots, it's nice to see an effort. Unfortunately, the pasta isn't anything to write home about -- a bit overcooked (hasn't anyone ever heard of al dente?). I've had the Alfredo with chicken a few times and it's consistently decent, but a tad on the bland side -- some garlic, pepper and salt would help. FYI, the place is a hole in the wall in a strip mall and only seats about 25-30 max, so if you're planning an event, look elsewhere.
(3)Valerie M.
Garlicky, olive oily, uncomplicated goodness. It's BYOB - if you happen to forget to bring booze, the 7-11 next door has a surprisingly decent wine selection! (But it's still 7-11. Bear that in mind.) Their soft bread, garlic chunks dredged in olive oil, spaghetti bolognese and sausage & peppers have satisfied my hankering for old-school Italian food on several occasions. But beware: you will REEK of garlic. The aroma will permeate your clothing fibers & seep out of your pores. And your friends might not talk to you for a day or two for fear of being set on fire by your dragon breath. Worth it? Probably.
(4)Caitlin M.
The food is unreal. A must eat!
(5)Jin T.
been going here for over a decade. still the same old place with great food. yes it's cramped. yes it's crowded. yes it's that good. casual and BYOB is the name of the game here kids! plus lots of hot pasta and bread and garlic. i've been to the other one in westchester and i swear this one in the Marina is better. same menu and everything but maybe it's because the MDR location is smaller, so the food gets to you quicker. i dunno.
(5)kuchan T.
Our office ordered from Alejo's the other day during our lunch/meeting. This was probably the worst "Italian" food I have ever had. We had the chopped salad, the fettucini alfredo, and carbonara. The chopped salad was okay. The pasta was horrible. Both sauces tasted the same. The pasta was way overcooked. It was disgusting.
(1)kit t.
i have no idea of its italian authenticity but for the price it's the best italian i've had. the basic ingredients in the dishes manage to maintain their individual flavors and still combine delightfully with each for an additional taste. the marinara is not as aggressively salty as buca di beppo's, so it provides a versatile base for pasta's fresh taste to pop out. you can add mushrooms or clams or sausage and the balance of flavors is will be there. their cream sauce isn't too rich nor creamy so when it covers the raviolis (other anything else), you can enjoy the delicate preparation of the wraps. my favorite is the meatball pizza on their special of the day menu. it's not on their takeout menu so you have to remember it when you order on the phone. the tasty meatballs with the spaghetti are great. but when you slice and bake them on a pizza to add extra brownness, its even better. they changed the fluorescent lights to recessed floods which upgrades the ambiance by a half notch. i don't mind the cramped set-up because i think it's part of its appeal. walking past the busy bus stop or check cashing store don't bother me because though it might be theworst corner in marina del rey it's still the marina(-adjacent). besides it can be like your a dirty little italian food secret.
(5)DAVID B.
Probably one of my favorite places of all time. It's small and noisy. They have 4 person chairs around the perimeter of the place but a very long table in the middle which probably fits about 16 people. It can be elbo to elbo action as you try to yell over other peoples conversations and soon enough you may find yourself in full diction with the strangers who you're sitting next to. They don't have a liquor license but you can bring your own booze in there and they will uncork your bottle of vino for no charge. The service is great, the price for two is on par for anyone's budget, and the Shrimp AL Diablo is a must have!
(4)Erick Z.
3 stars for the bread and garlic dip. You'll be better off just eating this and then going home. The pastas are very ordinary and remind me of Olive Garden. Portions are big but sometimes quality is better than quantity. I have friends who love this place so I have been many times and each time I am disappointed except for the bread and garlic. Oh, the service is pretty horrible so be prepared to have them almost spill your pasta on your lap at least once...
(3)Barndi K.
5 stars for food as that it is what it is about. Yes the parking is ATROCIOUS, atmosphere, well, there is none and you better like eating w/ strangers b/c you are jammed PACKED in here. But the food, oh the ravioli, oh the anything else... If you like simple, fresh homemade Italian food (made by hardworking Hispanic chefs who might as well be Italian) in the busy junction of Marina del Rey & Venice beach, this is it. As everyone else has written, not a great date place as you won't really want to make out w/ garlic breath afterwards. Don't be scared of the location & atmosphere b/c once you start eating the DELICIOUS FOOD in generous quantities, everything else will fade out into a blur...
(5)Bananarama M.
LOVE this place. It's a total hole in the wall & hard to find & hard to get seated, but they have the BEST pesto!! I've tried to order other things, but the pesto is just too good to pass up. Yummmmmmmm!! Everything here is yummy. It's BYOB with no corkage fee 7 the 7-11 next door has a great wine selection so if you forget your bottle pop in next door for some wine.
(5)David S.
I hadn't been to Alejo's in a while, but last night we carried out. We had the Clams with Linguini, which was over cooked, and very salty. My wife had the Shrimp Diablo, which was pretty inedible, the shrimp were few and the pasta was overcooked into a mush, the bread and garlic dipping sauce was the only thing that was good. Stay away it has really gone downhill.
(1)Tree S.
Love it.
(4)Amy B.
great italian food, prices are very low, considering the quality of the food..re and white traditional italian table clothes, very casual..worth a try..
(5)Kim F.
Mmmm, dreaming about your bread and garlic dip as I write this. Yes this place is tiny and parking can be a pain. HOWEVER, IT IS WORTH IT. Gigantic portions and great prices. Come here hungry. I love their eggplant parmesan and carbonara. My boyfriend loves their chicken picatta, salad and lasagna. Yes, we do come here quite often. So often in fact, that we have gotten to know the family that owns the place and the staff knows us by name.
(5)Alicia C.
This place has a great homemade pasta taste. It feels like you just had some italian make you there usual dish, which is a break from every other italian place that is over priced and filled with frills. I'm taking my dad here if he ever comes down, he is 100% italian. it's not a five star just because of the fluorescent lights, way to bright.
(4)Nick W.
Classic greasy americanized italian. For me, this is a form of comfort food, growing up with an italian mother. The portions are huge, the quality is mediocre, and there is no ambiance. I say this with a smile, because I love Alejo's for all its flaws and quirks.
(3)Jeri X.
I would've never noticed this place if it weren't for the Yelp reviews, due to its unimpressive exterior. But because of the reviews, I had medium-to-high expectations for the food. We were given bread with a strong garlic/olive oil dip while we waited for our food. (The dip was too garlicky -- bring strong mints if you're going to try it.) We got the linguine pescatore and the chicken piccatta. The linguine was fine, and the calamari and shrimp were very tender. As for the other entree, the chicken had a nice fresh-off-the-grill taste, but the pasta was covered with a tomato sauce that was too sour. This place is very home-style, so don't expect anything fancy. But still, even not considering presentation, the food was just ok. By the way there is no corkage fee, if you want to bring your own wine. Service wasn't good despite the fact that they weren't busy. The bottom line is, for the price that they charge, you can have better food and a better experience at any one of the other many Italian restaurants in LA.
(2)caroline l.
big portions, good food. the eggplant parmigiana is good. a little greasy.
(4)Jennifer C.
Alejo's has really great food, the portion sizes are large and the wait staff is friendly (if you go in often they remember your name and that means a lot these days). If you get a lot of take out someone will walk it out to your car for you too! I work near the area and don't venture much to Marina Del Rey for dinner so I get salads most of the time. The draw to the place is the fresh baked bread and garlic oil that comes with your meal. Don't get me wrong, the salads and salad dressing is awesome but that bread and garlic call to me! The three color ravioli is awesome too with the white and red sauces. I recently had the fried calimari and it is light and delicious!
(5)Dee D.
this place is AWESOME. my fave: spaghetti carbonara. me and my friends agree that the food "make my nature rise." . and i can't really say that about many places. even though it has little parking and there's usually a wait for a table, i'd say that it's worth it. and how many places do you know of that let's you bring your own bottle of wine?
(5)ena c.
love this place... the end.
(5)sean r.
I phoned in an order for 14 entrees that i would be needing the next day to pick up for a lunch meeting i had scheduled. I called about 24 hours in advance and was very clear that i needed to pick up the order at 11:15am the next day and was told that wouldn't be a problem. When i arrived at 11:15 the food was not ready, it was not until 11:50 that they had all of my order ready and i had a luncheon meeting at NOON. the service was lousy and the staff seemed very impersonal, cold, and rude. However, the food was AMAZING, everybody loved it. This is certainly a 'hole in the wall' kind of joint, but you won't be disappointed with the food, and prices are quite reasonable. They use a lot of garlic, so watch out.
(4)brad w.
I love Alejo's. It has been a staple of mine for almost 20 years since they originally opened. The food is consistantly good. The bread is always fresh baked with the garlic and oil to dip. The price has gone up in the last 2 years but what hasn't? Still a good value for the food. Two people can split a sald and entree.
(5)Edwin E.
To their credit, their waiters couldn't be more friendly. And their breadbasket with a bowl of garlic in olive oil is addictive. My wife had their "small" Caesar's salad with chicken. We thought they had brought the large size by accident. Though the chicken was a bit tough, they got the dressing right, which many places don't. Where it all fell apart -- really fell apart -- was the pasta. I ordered Spaghetti Carbonara. And it came so heavily sauced, so glued together with sauce, that when I stuck my fork in it for the first bite, the entire bowl of spaghetti lifted up with it. I sent it back and replaced it with ravioli -- light on the sauce. Light on the sauce turned out to be what anyone else would call "double the sauce". A pity. Nobody gives you more food for the money. But someone needs to teach the kitchen how to cook and serve spaghetti. This is not something that an "Italian" restaurant can afford to screw up on.
(2)Andrew S.
Simply the best inexpensive Italian in the galaxy. I will forever be indebted to Stefan Lirakis who showed me the light... Thanks Stefan and Alejos!!
(5)shehreen j.
wow, i don't get all the 4 star reviews. have you people eaten out before? yes, they are generous with the garlic and the bread is dang tasty. but the food? sub-par at best. not a lot of flavor but the portions are large....if that's what you want, eat here. the other pro is that they don't charge a corkage fee. i'm going to try it one more time and see if i just ordered the wrong thing (spaghetti and meatballs) and my friend ordered the seafood pasta special with halibut, calimari and something else. she also wasn't raving about her dining experience.
(2)Mr X.
i went to this place because of the reviews... i have to say that this is the kind of faux italian food they serve in greasy spoon cafes in england. the kind construction workers eat at because its cheap! give me 15min's in the kitchen, some tomato and herbs and i could much, much better then this slop... what is it with this town, do you not know good food, do you have no taste buds... its not all about portion size its about the ingredients, its all about the ingredients and taste... the mob should take a hit out on this place...
(1)Mychael S.
Man, I miss this place. Since moving to San Francisco, we haven't been able to find pizza anywhere close to as good as our Friday night staple here at Eddie's. Back in town last week, and had to come in and eat (since we couldn't get delivery anymore). Best service and nicest waiter...and of course the food was amazing. We need you in San Fran Eddie!
(5)David R.
Casual strip-mall Italian with little parking and little ambiance, but I like the BYOB with no corkage fee; you can grab some beers or wine at the convenience store a few doors down, or bring from home. They supply wine or beer glasses, and will uncork the wine in a jiff. The free warm bread with a cup of garlic soaked in butter is great, and we usually ask for more without being hassled. Yummy if you like garlic, and the bread doesn't have that rock-hard crust, so it's great for dipping. Everything I've tried here I've enjoyed, and it's cheaper than C & O, which I also love. I haven't had any problems with slow service, but sometimes you might have to wave at someone. No big deal, it's a small place. Don't need to dress up or put on makeup, just eat and enjoy! I do.
(4)Nic A.
Love Eddie's for Italian delivery. Haven't had the chance to dine-in yet. The huge portions accentuate the bold flavors. The Pesto is great; Eggplant Mam Mia is fantastic; nice rich flavor on the Caesar Salad; and the complimentary bread with garlic oil dipping sauce - forget-about-it!!
(4)Adella J.
I used to love this place when it was "Alejo", ate here twice+ a week. But the owner (that had 2 locations) decided to close this place down because the business was slowing down and concentrate on the other location. Surprise! The cook (Eddie) bought the place minutes after it closed down and now.... Same old horrible parking, 2-3 cars only. nothing on the streets. The food went first to smaller portions, than when this didn't help - the prices went up - ALOT! Still the same family style sittings, same BYO wine / beer.( I love the atmosphere). The salads (famous "Alejo") is a goner, now its a soggy mesh, totally uneatable. Lazania - ok about 3 stars, veal parmesan - OMG les than 1 star, the soups are all 1-2 stars. The service went from busy place with 4-5 servers to almost empty place with one slowwwww server, rude cashier ( the owner's wife), the cook? He's the owner..... will do whatever he wants, not the customer.... and when he's not guzzling down beers, he might yell at a helper to fry you some.....food? Forget the pizza - its all trash. The pasta dishes retained some ( medium) quality, but don't ever try the fish. It's a shame that we cant bring back the Viejo Alejo, I miss the good 'ol days!
(2)Tiffany M.
Great little hole the wall eatery. You can bring your own wine; since they have no liquor license. Every time I come the food is superb! I generally order the Linguini Pescatore and my hubby orders the Eggplant Parmesan; both are amazing. The real reason I come is for their bread. Yes the bread! Baked fresh and served with garlic sauce... I swear I could eat it for a meal. It's dangerous.... Carb overload and I love it!
(5)Lynn B.
JoWow.. Eddies italian food is awesome. . The spaghetti carbonara to die for .. the cheese on the pizza great .. service is great they make u feel welcome.. Eddie the owner and his wife treat u like family... the service is great... two thumbs up...
(5)Kailing T.
By far the best Italian place in the area. It's a hole in the wall type of restaurant. I always drive out of my way to pick up dinner from here. I've only actually dined in once here and I believe they allow you to byob with no corkage fee. The place is super small and casual with a mom and pop restaurant vibe. I really like their seafood pastas, especially the linguine pescatore. The linguine comes with calamari, clams, and shrimp with garlic tomato sauce. The shrimp al diablo and linguine a la mare are also pretty good. They're always extremely accommodating. The past two times, I called in 15 minutes before closing time and they still took my order. They also give you extra bread and garlic oil if you ask for it. If you love Italian food, you should definitely try this place out.
(5)G D.
Great Italian food! Really glad we tried this place. The garlic bread is outstanding, and after trying a lot of local pizza places, this is probably the best, or at least in the top two. The veal parm was also good, though the veal was a little chewy and the sauce more on the sweet side than I would have preferred. Adding some hot pepper seeds to it solved that problem for me. Would definitely order from here again.
(4)Jess S.
So, called up at 5.45pm on Saturday, ordered a pepperoni and a vegetarian, picked them up and drove the 15 minutes home. Opened the boxes, with more excitement and anticipation than is humanly reasonable, to be instantly disappointed upon finding one pepperoni and one pepperoni with spinach..?! No vegetarian. So, they'd obviously given us the wrong pizza and when I rang up to let them know, they asked if we wanted to drive back and get another. Nope, I don't want to drive another 20 mins in traffic when I'm starving. There was no apology and no offer to deliver one for us. The only reason I'm giving it more than 1 star is that the lady who served us gave us a bunch of bread and some olive oil to take home too. That got me through the night but I'm bummed that we essentially paid $40 for 2 pepperoni pizzas that I couldn't eat. Next time I will absolutely double check the order before leaving, but I gotta say, that's usually the restaurant's job and I feel like they dropped the ball pretty hardcore here and did nothing to compensate. Plus, according to my boyfriend, the pizza was pretty subpar anyway. Bummer because there was a lot of anticipation (read: hunger) surrounding this order and then a lot of disappointment.
(2)Tara D.
Great service. Strongly suspect the cashier/chef was also the owner. As a small business owner, I have a sixth sense. I smelled confidence and pride. Get the chopped salad. It's huge and delicious (like you might get two meals out of it) and under $9. If you like your salad well tossed (not a pun, really ;), this is awesome. Even distribution of ingredients equals yummy perfect bite after perfect bite. It's so good it didn't even need dressing, in my opinion. Iceberg, chickpeas, finely chopped salami, cheese and ripe tomatoes. Uncomplicated salad...in a great way. I liked but did not fall in love with the side of meatballs and sauce, but I will say they were solid. I'm spoiled; I grew up surrounded by Sicialian-Americans who made their own wine and ate fresh crushed tomatoes with fresh garlic shavings, and the sauce and meatballs were out of this world. I haven't found anything like it in LA. I can cook better meatballs myself than any LA restaurant I've found. Using a ground pork-beef-veal mix is the trifecta. I'll also confess I need an insane garlicky punch to really make me happy.
(4)Paulyn L.
I have been eating at this restaurant for a long long time and have enjoyed their food continuously. There has been no bad meal had at this restaurant. Constantly on our menu is the spaghetti w meat sauce, the carbonara, the Alfredo, the chicken piccata, the lasagna, the chopped salad, the calamari, the pizza... we've practically ordered everything except the seafood bcoz I'm allergic but other that, this is my meal at least once a week. The owners are so sweet and kind and the servers are just as friendly. It's a small restaurant with big taste.
(5)Kelly J.
Thank you
(3)Matt C.
If you're still looking for a very very very good pizza, this may be the place for you. I'm not talking thin cracker crust, or a $25 fresh made mozzarella and organic basil, or even the new Chipotle factory style. This is just a very good Italian restaurant, where you can get a very good pizza for take out, or some excellent food to eat in their cozy, homey little dining room. Whatever your style, this place is worth checking out. I called in a pizza order, and they said they'd have it ready in 15min. The strip mall parking lot is as tiny as their dining room, so you may have to park on Washington next to the sports bar. The pizza was ready when I got there. I also asked about the garlic sauce and they threw some in a bag with bread. At 14in, it might look a little small for a "large". But it's not thin crust, it's just good pizza. Heavy toppings, with very flavorful meats. Cheese is gooey, not watery, so the pizza holds itself together. The crust gets a good enough char so that you can pick it up. And next day leftovers (if you have them) are just as good as fresh. Altogether, just a very good pizza. Not a super expensive, celebrity chef pie. But so solid, that this may be my new go-to.
(4)Jenna C.
Not a lot of great pizza over on this size so I was surprised by how good it was. Fresh and fast delivery!
(5)Jonathan G.
We got to Eddie's during a Sunday dinner rush, and we had to wait in line at the entrance for about 30 minutes before we could be seated. This gave me time to strike up a conversation with the couple in front of us who were regulars and gave us some tips (and a hearty recommendation). A table for two finally opened up, and we were seated in the somewhat cramped dining area. This is a great if you want to talk to your neighbors about what they are ordering, or chime in on their private conversations cuz you are almost sitting in their laps. However, the food more than makes up for the atmosphere. I ordered the chicken parmigiana with side of spaghetti carbonara, and a Caesar salad with anchovies to start. Nearly everything was superb (I would probably go with another pasta side next time). The bread with olive oil and diced garlic that was served was so good I think we went through a couple of baskets. Along with the generous portions of food, this makes for a very caloric dinner (those of you seeking value need seek no further), and there were plenty of leftovers.
(4)Van N.
Eddie's is an excellent choice for dine in or carry out! I've never had a bad meal from here and their portions are generous. Typically, I order the Meat Sauce Spaghetti and it is literally drench in their amazing meat sauce! As a woman on a budget, I use the leftover meat sauce and turn it into an additional meal by boiling my own pasta at home! I consistently have the Spaghetti w/Sausage, Onions, and Peppers and the Linguini A La Mare, and they have yet to disappoint. To note, this restaurant is small so there may be a wait on peak nights. The parking lot is usually difficult but you can always find street parking around the corner. As everyone has pointed out, they have no corkage fee and the bread w/garlic oil is delicious.
(5)Lauren M.
This place is a great little hole in the wall joint that I accidentally stumbled on a few days ago. Food has amazing flavor and portion sizes are huge!! All entrees served with bread and garlic --yum! And service was fantastic. I'll definitely be back to this place!
(5)Kelly G.
So Yummy! Low key but delicious! Love the bread and garlic sauce which is completely addictive! Not she-she; just good, old-fashioned Italian food! Nom!
(5)Pasquale L.
Good for pick-up and always consistent!
(4)Kenia A.
I love this place. The food is great...BYOB!!! The service is always fabulous. The only inconvenience is that they close at 3 and reopen at 5 but other than that I love this place. Highly recommended!
(5)Richard L.
Sometimes you just have to give a business a second try as we had much better results this time. The bread with garlic as always rocked. This time I knew what to order. We ordered spaghetti and meatballs, A large pizza with peperoni, meatballs and mushrooms, a large antipasto chopped salad. The service was much better this time. The waitress was personable and was way on top of everything! Defiantly a good experience but until I hear otherwise I will be staying away from the chicken dishes.
(4)Cherry C.
Quite possibly the best Italian food on the Westside.!the chopped salad is delicious, the bread they serve with garlic & oil is amazing and all their pasta dishes are yummy.
(5)David F.
It looks like a hole in the wall with only room for maybe 20 people but I am very happy we stopped here. I had the Chicken Parmigiana with Spaghetti Pomodoro and my partner had the Gnocchi. Both were very good and let me add - Do not come here unless you are hungry!! Big portions and friendly service. And the price is not bad, either. It's not big enough for a really big group but 8 or 10 at a time will be glad they ate here. Highly recommended. I'll be sure to come back the next time I visit the LA area.
(4)Stefan P.
OMG!! OMG!!! Best linguini & clams I have ever, ever had. Awesome olive oil & chopped garlic bread dip and bread too! Service? Fast and friendly and genuinely nice (not phony nice). It's a small place with very good prices. I've gone to fancy-schmancy places with double and triple their prices yet to be disappointed when the food arrived. Not here at Eddie's. The food is soo good, and the portions are good sized too, Eddie's prices are actually too low (sshhh, don't tell them!). Parking is a little challenge in this 7-11 small corner center, BUT, the food should be on TV and in a fancy place 30 stories up downtown somewhere, no I am not exaggerating. If you like Italian food you will LOVE Eddie's Italian Restaurant!
(5)Nick S.
I stopped in here at 30 min before closing and didn't want to be a pain so I planned on getting take out. The guys working insisted we stay though, and offered heading next door for a bottle of wine to compliment dinner. It's BYOB, no corkage fee and they provide all the fixens. I had their chicken piccata but opted for a cream sauce on my pasta rather than the standard marinera - figured it would be a more notable compliment for my taste buds. With a $12 bottle of vino from next door, I left beyond satisfied - as did my wallet! Eddie's might look like a hole in the wall worth overlooking, but I assure you the service, price, and food quality will all prove this place has the class of their uppity competitors.
(5)Jack M.
Very good calzone, linguini Alfredo. Awesome oil/garlic with fresh soft bread. Really good food :)
(5)Keith L.
best Italian in the area delivery kid is very fast
(5)Elton W.
Crummy ravioli Crummy lasagna Good bread and oil/garlic to start, and a good salad. Thus very disappointed when all the mediocre food came out. In a strip mall Meh.
(2)Xavier X.
This place has Delicious Italian food. The owner Eddie is always on sight. The service is prompt and aware of your need in the blinkbof an eye. ByoB. Just awesone! 7eleven next door. Couldnt ask for a better dinner experience.
(5)Lorenzo G.
Once upon a time this was a great eatery. Their service was once exemplary, the food superb. NOT NOW!!! Something happened, I suspect a change in management. On a recent visit, I sat and waited for a menu....after nearly 10min wait for a menu I got up and got my own, then we waited for a server to take our order. Now mind you there was only my wife and I along with one other couple in the restaurant. Normally the Chef's salad is a hot ticket, but now the lettuce is saturated with water, and there is virtually no turkey meat or tomatoes in the salad. I should have known something was fishy when I had my pick of parking stalls. Normally the lot is full to capacity, especially at lunch time. Disappointing to say the least, because this was once a great lil' local jewel. Oh well.
(1)Christa T.
since moving to the westside this has been my favorite italian food spot byob great fast service always making my boyfriend and i feel welcomed. The food is delicious and the portion is huge great to share !! or makes even better left overs!!
(5)NIck R.
Crazy little un-gourmet place next to 7-11. It's good, it's quick, and it's got more garlic than it needs. Just like I would do it. I read someone saying it's changed. Did they add more garlic? In my opinion, and has been my experience absolutely nothing, or very little has changed here in the last 10 years. I keep going, and I have no real complaints so after that long...
(5)Lawrence L.
What was once Alejo's Presto Trattoria Italian Restaurant on the corner of Lincoln and Washington is now Eddie's Italian Kitchen, although the management and the menu remain virtually unchanged; the sister location (actually aunt's) up the street closer to Manchester retains it's name. Situated within a somewhat janky strip mall along with neighbor 7eleven, their homestyle Italian classic dishes and their corkage free BYOB policy is what keeps people coming here from all over... yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… The service from everyone we encountered was very friendly and accommodating. We were never short on complementary toasted bread yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… , which btw was very addicting along with the chopped garlic infused olive oil. Our water glasses seemed never half-empty. They have protected wifi and the signal is strong, I was able to use it while we were there after I asked Eddie (?) for the password... Bring your peeps and share, that's the best way and that's what we did when our good friends took us out to celebrate Mrs. L's bday. The menu is fairly straight-forward, simple and affordable, and is augmented by a whiteboard above the counter with the specials... The Mixed Salad yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… has finely chopped lettuce and red cabbage with tomatoes and garbanzo beans and comes already tossed and slightly overdressed; knives are unnecesary, just serve and eat... The Spaghetti with Meatballs yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… came with plenty of thick marinara sauce and could have used more noodles imho. I like my spaghetti cooked just short of al dente for more bite and dressed with sauce like a salad, but this is my own preference. The dish came with 4 thick and prodigous meatballs that took up a large portion of the plate's real estate. Nothing really fancy here, just very filling... The seafood selection was a Linguini and Shrimp dish from the specials whiteboard yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… . The shrimp was sauteed in a white wine sauce and topped with chopped tomatoes and finished with either chopped basil or Italian parsley. These noodles were cooked just right and had good texture... I loved the savory flavor of the Chicken Marsala dish yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… , it came with a generous amount of sliced, sauteed mushrooms, and capers for that subtle hint of brininess. The chicken was boneless skinless breast meat that I believe was either butterflied or pounded thin; sort of on the side of or on a bed of spaghetti noodles lightly doused with marinara on top. I would have wished for just the marsala sauce tossed with the spaghetti pasta... They hand toss and make the pizza dough from scratch and the results are terrific. The doughy crust has nice rise, just beginning to blister along the edge and is thick enough in the middle to support the scant marinara sauce, mozzarella, and generous Italian sausage slices and halves... yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… We did a pretty good job already on the food, but there was still enough room for a small surprise for the bday girl: two slices of the very popular Tiramisu dessert on the house, a very nice gesture indeed... yelp.com/biz_photos/eddi… These sizable portions left the 8 of us feeling very full and satisfied and in need of a walk at the nearby Venice Canals afterwards. If you want a simple, satisfying Italian meal in the MDR, then give Eddie's some consideration... Tip: People sometimes run next door to the 7eleven where they have a decent selection of wine for BYOB...
(4)Dan F.
Incredible pizza, bread and speed! Pizza arrives quickly and hot out of the oven! Bread is always fresh and amazing.
(5)Karen L.
Our new neighborhood go to, Eddie's is so good! We love garlic and Eddie's does too. So apparently, does the entire neighborhood (Marina/Venice) as the line is usually out the door on the weekend both for dine in and take out. Servers are so nice and the cooks are very friendly. Start off with the deadly garlic dip and I do mean deadly. Do not, and I mean do not, plan on kissing or even going within 10 feet of someone who has not eaten this dip with you. You will surely repel them! The bread is soft and perfectly soaks up the dip. Try not to over do it, like I do because you will be full. The Caesar salad is really good and so is the chopped Italian. These salads are big, so share with a friend. We always get the pizza with pepperoni and sausage.Chicken Picatta with white wine and lemon sauce is one of our favorites as is spaghetti with meatballs, and Linguini Al Olio (basil, garlic, and olive oil). We also love the Linguini Alfredo (ask for the sauce on the side) and Linguini & Clams. You can't go wrong with Eddie's especially if you love garlic!
(5)Andy P.
Can't comment on the hot food because so far I can't get past the great chopped chef salad (a step up from a classic Italian chopped salad) on the lunch special. All the ingredients are fresh and in perfect proportion, topped off by an amazing vinaigrette. And yes, the bread too. Friendly staff and never seems too busy at lunch.
(5)Zoey T.
My favorite hole in the wall Italian restaurant. It does get crowded in the evening and the seating is cramped, however the staff is very attentive.
(4)V T.
DO NOT HAVE IT DELIVERED!! I've been eating at Eddie's for many years now, even when it was Alejo's. For the first time last week, I had an order delivered. I was told that there was no cost for delivery if the order was over $20 and within 3 miles (which I am within). My bill was $27, but they added in a $4 delivery charge anyway! Unfortunately, I didn't catch it in time, as my husband was the one who met the delivery guy at the door. So we ended up paying a tip on top of the food total and the delivery charge. Up until now I had been 100% satisfied with Eddie's. But with this latest experience, I may be willing to have food on a take - out basis, but never again will I have it delivered.
(1)Taylor F.
I came here with a few buds, looking for a place to grab a bite before heading to a night of competitive turtle racing at nearby Brennan's. From the outside, I was skeptical. Being neighbors with a 7-11 and dry cleaners doesn't exactly scream "fine dining." I was basically expecting a McDonald's version of Italian food, but it was really great! Like REALLY good. They serve of fresh baked bread with fresh garlic pressed in olive oil -- incredibly flavorful! The plates themselves look like something you'd get in a $$$$ restaurant. The seafood pasta was beautifully plated and elegant. The house salad was HUGE, very generous portions, and the pizza I was told was also really good. The toppings are big and chunky, but my friends overdid it with something like 5 toppings, so their pizza got a little over-burdened by all the extra add-ons. Again, this was the fault of my friends, NOT the restaurant. Great experience, pleasant surprise! Best little hole in the wall. AND BYOB!
(5)anastacia h.
Fast & very friendly service! Great food, always hot, fresh & large portions one of my fav is shrimp filleto , yummy & Caesar salad , fresh unlimited bread , we have been regulars here for years & always great!
(5)Cheryl S.
We came here last night for the first time since the name change. We had a take-out order. The bread and garlic oil were great! As was the chopped Italian salad. This time we ordered pasta with meat sauce and it was just okay. We like the pizza with prosciutto more than the pasta. Parking can be an issue.
(4)Sherri B.
Well, I am a regular at this place so I must like it. Although I must say it is very old skool (translation . . . full of bad calorires . . . The salads are very good and the pizza is very good. I always like the seafood pizza, its got a thick crust and clams, shrimp and peppers. It is very yummy indeed. The service can be spotty depending on who you get. It's a small place that serves delicious bread with garlic oil. So you won't be so hungry. It's the old Alejo's but with a new name. You can bring your own wine, no corkage fee. Small parking lot.
(4)Peter S.
GARLIC They're not afraid to use it. The pasta is fresh, the sauce is wonderfully seasoned and the people are super friendly. I've been going here for years and make it a point to visit when i'm in the area. Eddies is all about he food! Recommendation: Chicken Piccatta (tip order it with the angle hair pasta) then drizzle the olive oil and garlic on the pasta. That is unbelievable........ One more (it's not on the menu, but you can ask for it) Ask for Chicken Diablo (on the menu it's Shrimp Diablo) this is a fantastic dish and again, add a bit of the olive oil and garlic. These are my GO-TO dishes, please try them and let me know what you think.
(5)Emily W.
This place is good for what it is. It's by no means an upscale Italian restaurant one would order seafood at. If you want an affordable, small neighborhood spot you can fill up at, then this is it. They have tasty pizza, good salad, no corkage fee for bringing your own wine and the prices are very affordable. It's not the best I've ever had, but it's clean and a good choice if you want to sit and be served instead of preparing food at home. The salad is chopped fine and drenched in dressing so, if you want it light, ask for dressing on the side.
(3)Clara L.
i myself would have never discovered this gem but D has been coming here since he was a kid grabbed a bottle of wine shared: seafood pasta in red sauce spinach pasta with seafood chopped salad and that ridiculously addicting bread & garlic oil a genuine neighborhood 'hole-in-the-wall' spot for no nonsense italian
(4)Stephen R.
I've been coming here for about 20 years, it used to be called Alejos, but Eddie took it over and kept the menu the same. I always order the pizza with pepperoni and mushrooms extra crispy. The pizza reminds me of this one place I used to go to as a kid by culver city called Chris' Pizza, but they are long gone. Eddie's spaghetti with meat sauce is really good too. We also always start it out with the Italian chopped salad. The fried calamari is really good too. One thing I didn't care for was their fettuccine alfredo, their white sauce didn't have much flavor. Still, I always look forward to going here.
(5)Joey C.
If I were to tell you about an amazing hole in the wall this has to be it!!! We found this place by chance and it is really that good. It is in a small and I mean very small corner shopping center. Parking can be hard but it is well worth it. We had their cheese pizza which was sooooo good! Not only that but this place is B.Y.O.B yeahhh did I mention this place is B.Y.O.B??? We picked up a 6 pack before we came and they had ice cold beer glasses waiting for us upon arrival.. Yeah on that note "I'll be back."
(5)Tiffany L.
Now that I've been here 3 times I think I can honestly review. This has become my go-to Italian place! My first attraction to Eddies was the fact that they don't charge a corkage fee. Bring all the wine you want folks! On my last visit we brought 7 people and 6 bottles. Wiiiiiiiiiii The only 'not so great' thing I've had at Eddies is the Pesto Chicken dish. It's a little dry. Everything else I've had... AMAZING! My friends really liked the calimari (not for me) and my mom love their beef lasagne. My husband always gets the chicken parmesan with white sauce added to kind of make it a pink sauce. Oh, and you must try the chopped salad. Do they put crack in it? I don't know and I don't care. Delish! Service here is really great. The staff just seems happy to have people around. They are more than helpful and have twice given us free flan (once for my birthday). Parking lot is very small and is shared in a tiny strip mall with 7-11 and a laundry place (i think). There is street parking as well if you cant find something.
(4)David A.
What a bummer! I love the bread and garlic oil, but everything else was bad. The Caesar salad was so overdressed, it was soggy, the garlic bread with cheese was soaking in oil, and not toasted, finally the shrimp Fillette came out with the driest, over cooked shrimp I've ever seen served with flavorless pasta. The service was good, and prices too, but the food was terrible.
(2)Ivy L.
You can not go wrong with this place. No risk involved. Everything I've ever ordered has been incredible. You can tell its made with love and authentic recipes. They also load up on the free parm and give you a mountain of soft delicious bread with garlic olive oil to dip in when you order. Another thing... I love their salad dressing like you wouldn't believe.
(5)Jessica Y.
A customer of mine brought over a dish of spaghetti with mushrooms and chicken. Oh my wow!! It was love at first bite! I look forward to tasting the spaghetti with calamari. My co worker had the fresh bread and garlic olive oil for dipping and she loved it! Looking at their pictures of many dishes here on Yelp, makes me look forward to visiting often for lunch. Everything looks so yummy!!
(4)Sarah R.
I love love love Alejo's... er.... Eddie's... whatever. I've been coming here for many many years (when it was Alejo's) and the food is superb. I wasn't too keen on the name change, but the food has stayed the same, so it's all good. Eddie's has the best pizza. If I come for lunch, I get a small basil and red pepper pizza. It's nice and cheesy. The sauce is delicious. Enough for 2 people to have a filling lunch, and I appreciate that. Throw in some of their delicious bread with fresh garlic and olive oil and you can walk out of there full for a reasonable price. My husband and I often come here for dinner and I almost always order the chicken picatta. It comes with a side of pasta.. which I have them put picatta sauce on instead of the marinara it comes with. Try it! Best dish EVER! My husband has tried most of the items on the menu and adores their food as well. I'm not much of a wine drinker myself, but one of the biggest perks at Eddie's is that you can bring your own wine... and they don't charge a corkage fee! That makes a huge difference. The Alejo's up the street isn't so kind. Intimate restaurant. Nice and romantic for a date. Highly recommended :)
(5)Katie H.
The name may have changed but the food has not. I've been coming here for over a decade and I've pretty much ordered the same thing every time: cheese ravioli with red and white sauce. SO GOOD! Last year I had my birthday here. They were very accommodating for such a large group in a smaller restaurant but the 12 of us were very happy. BYOB which helps keep things affordable and make sure you're ready to smell like garlic for about a week because the irresistible garlic and bread, though delicious will leave you reeking.
(5)Steve M.
We have been going here for 15+ years, the crew is friendly and the food is great, we tend to be creatures of habit, a chopped salad, pepperoni pizza, Chicken Parmesan with Angel hair pasta and a bottle of Heineken from 7 Eleven. Since my kids like this place, its a winning combination for my family!
(5)Dean H.
Where to start??? Ok, Just got a 14" pepperoni pizza and an order of mozzarella Marinara from this place and while it delivered quickly, quality took a big hit. Half of the pizza was a wet, doughy, slimy mess of a crust while the other side housed all of the toppings from its barren cousin. And it tasted like the cheese was some strange mixture of rubber and plastic, a chewy, cheesy pepperoni flavored bubble gum nightmare. And the mozzarella marinara was a frozen single square block of hardened fat in a tepid pool of mediocre marinara. Never. Again. Two words...grey block.
(1)X B.
had the lasgna... loved the cheese BUT it was too salty
(2)Janet V.
YUMM! Had dinner her on Sat. night. Great service and great food. I'll be back!
(4)Victoria S.
I have been searching for this place for really long time since my friend took me there and I don't remember the name. I finally got the name and wanna tell every yelper that this Italian restaurant is the best Italian food I have ever tried yet in LA, good price, amazing taste!!! Don't hesitate, go for it !!!
(5)Christophe B.
Outside is not great parking, not easy in this litttle business mall. but if you are looking for a familly italian restaurant, you are really at the good place Bread and garlic are irresistible Chop salad and speciality Calamary salad Are what you want Pastas with saussices and peper, cover of parmesan cheese is what i am dreaming. cannot wait to come back
(5)Sheila R.
Sitting here right now!!! Great crowded atmosphere!!! The food.....oh my...I cannot explain how mouthwatering delicious it is...we had the lasagna and the spinach ravoli....couldn't eat it all,had to bring it home,it was just so good!!!! Next time we will bring some wine...we will absolutely be back!
(5)Bobbie W.
Don't judge a book by it's cover! I drive by this place everyday on my way to work and I never thought this would be a place I would try. It's in a small little plaza right next to a donut shop and from the outside, doesn't look like much. Boy was I wrong! My boss wanted to order take-out from here for a work meeting and I automatically opposed being the brat that I am. He insisted and I'm glad he did because everyone, including myself, loved their food. I got the fresh fish of the day alla checca style with veggies. It was seabass covered in a very tasty tomato, garlic and basil sauce. Really light but really flavorful! I also tried the eggplant mama mia and linguini pescatore. Both were also really good. We also ordered the chopped italian and mixed salad which were both fresh and tasty. The best part is they give you tons of warm bread to dip in their amazing garlic olive oil sauce. So yummy and definitely hard to stay away from!
(4)Jessie M.
I am so fortunate to have stumbled across Eddie's as the location is misleading for how amazing the food is. If you love amazing authentic Italian food, you will love Eddies. It is a bit pricey, but well worth it!
(5)Jacqueline S.
I love Eddie's (although, I was sad to see the name changed. Alejo's just flowed so well)! I come here regularly, and am obsessed with their shrimp arrabbiata. The dipping sauce that comes with the bread is amazing (uhm... GARLIC!) and I love there is no corkage fee! Sometimes I will walk over to the 7-11 in the same shopping center, grab a bottle, and enjoy it with dinner. I like that the place is small and I usually get the same server. He's always been very friendly. Oh, and the meatballs are fantastic. A man at the table next to me generously offered us one of his, and it was wonderful!
(5)Justin A.
I have to admit, I was a little skeptical when my girlfriend and I arrived at Eddie's. I am glad I didn't judge a book by a cover because this place was awesome. Yes, its BYOB. Yes, you can bring beer! Yes, there is no corking fee. That is all that needs to be said. Garlic Bread....delicious. Margherita Pizza.....delicious. Chicken Ravioli....delicious. Needless to say, I will be back.
(4)D W.
There are pretty big gaps in time between me coming here. And I'm happy to say that every time I come back, the Eggplant Parmigiana is as delicious as I remember it. No. Even better! The soft egg battered eggplant melts in your mouth. Seriously. It lays on top of a bed of spaghetti with marinara sauce. (My choice. There are other options.) The sauce has just the right amount of tang. On top of it all is a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. Yum! Then there's the fresh baked bread. Warm and soft. It just can't be beat. But that's not all. Here's the topper... The garlic infused olive oil. It's absolutely delicious but intense. I sop up the pieces of garlic with my bread. I even pour it on my eggplant parmigiana, not thinking at the time about it being raw garlic. Well, not until later, after I've eaten and the garlic taste is still in my mouth. And the next day, when the garlic taste is still in my mouth. But guess what? It's well worth it! And I will be doing it again.
(5)Amy K.
I love this place! Now don't be scared of the sketchy strip mall location and the ever changing name. This is Italian food at it's most delicious! I love the chopped salad, the dressing is amazing. I also dip the bread in it. For pasta the shrimp linguine is awesome. I usually get take out but if you bring a bottle of wine to eat in, there's no corkage.
(4)Amy P.
Great pizza. Lots of garlic... Which I love! No alcohol but the 7-11 next door has wine...
(4)Trish G.
Was in town for a day and found this very quaint restaurant. Do not shy away from the outside appearance. Go try it!
(5)Katey G.
Wonderful service, the waiters were so nice! They give you amazing bread and the olive oil and garlic was to die for. The chop salad was one of the best salads I've ever had. The calamari was also good. The chicken piccatta with angel hair pasta was unreal. Eat here!!
(5)S H.
Ordered takeout and found the food to be average. I had spaghetti and meatballs. The marinara sauce is good, but not anything special. I was disappointed with the meatballs which were very dense and didn't seem to have much flavor. One highlight was the garlic bread with mozzarella cheese which were tasty, though I had to heat them in the oven once I got the food home.
(3)J W.
Worst restaurant experience I have ever had!! I called this evening to place a delivery order, I gave the girl my order and my credit card number and she went to hang up the phone, I had to stop her and remind her she needed my address. I should have known this was not going to be a good experience!! I placed my order at 6:40pm and she quoted me 50min so when my food still had not arrived at 7:56 I called to check on it. The same girl answered the phone and told me the order should have gone out. At 8:40, yes that's 2hrs later, I called again. The same girl answered the phone and I let her know it had been 2hrs and I still had not received my order. She again told me it should have gone out. At this point I was starving and I getting very irritated. I asked to speak with a manager and another girl got on the phone, and told me the manager was not there right now!!! So I explained to her what had happened and she asked me if I wanted the order sent back out. I said the order was never sent and she said no. I said you never made the order so now you will have to cook the food and then send it out, how long will it be? She responded, right now another 40min!!! So now I have waited 2hrs for my food and they wanted me to wait another 40min!! The best part is they didn't manage to send the food but they did manage to charge my credit card!! I told her to cancel my order and to refund my credit card. She told me she would send the voided transaction with the driver. I was confused, why was the driver coming?? She said "oh you don't want the food". No I don't want the food, I just want my money back!! But they couldn't even get me canceling the order correct!! This was the first time I ordered from here and it will be the last. The people taking the orders obviously have no idea what they are doing and even worse they are left there with no manager!! I would have given no stars if that had been an option!! I wouldn't even have written this if I had actually spoken with a manager but they couldn't manage to do that right either!!
(1)Sarah B.
The food here SUCKS. Cesear salad was olive oil and processed cheese and drenched in oil. The carbonara was terrible - not like any carbonara I've ever had, reddish sauce. Everything needed salt. Service was decent but I will never be eating here again.
(1)Tarra M.
I just tossed $40 worth of takeout in the trash. Calamari was over cooked. The Alfredo sauce was separated with overcooked linguini. The shrimp in the sauce was old and overcooked. The caesar salad had the dressing already on on it. Needless to say, romaine soggy and wilted floating in a tray of dressing. Extremely disappointed meal...not even edible. DO NOT EAT HERE!!!!
(1)Scott C.
Loved Alejos, now Eddie's Italian, when I was a local and may love it even more now that I no longer live in Venice. As has been stated, it's easy to miss in the mini-strip mall on the corner of Lincoln and Washington (SE corner), but definitely worth finding it! Food is excellent at very reasonable prices. Service is decent - it doesn't set the world on fire, but it's not poor either. They do not take reservations, so if you've got a big party, be sure to arrive either early or late in the evening. It is BYOB, but the 7-11 next door has updated its wine selection considerably in the last few years to offer a decent selection. Great italian at reasonable prices - what more can you ask for?!
(5)Emily S.
Formerly known as Alejo's, Eddies is a great place for Italian food. I love the garlic-y oil dip they bring out with their bread. I can put that on everything. The pasta dishes are big, and is enough to make two meals out of it. I also am a fan of their chopped salad. Most of the time, I order the angel hair with chicken because I like angel hair pasta, but they have a variety of noodles for you to choose from. Also, lots of people here bring their own wine, but I'm not sure if they have a corkage fee or not. Regarding the parking, they have a pretty small lot shared with a few other stores... if the parking there is taken, you can park on the street behind the restaurant.
(4)Vivian L.
five stars for no corkage fee alone! there is a 7-11 in the same complex with a variety of wines. the garlic olive oil for dipping bread in is also amazing.
(5)Phillip V.
I've been here a few times when it was Alejo's never as Eddie's. I don't think it was a management change, but some sort of legal name issue. So I'm sure the food is still good as ever. The portions are huge here. I never finish my meal here, but it could be that I grubbed out on too many breadsticks before the entree even hit the table. If craving italian while in Marina Del Rey, Eddie's is a must try.
(4)Michael F.
Eddie's used to be Alejo's, but recently changed it's name. Probably because there is another Alejo's location, also on Lincoln BLVD, just a few miles away. I had never been to this Eddie's/Alejo's location up until recently since I lived closer to the one in Westchester. I recently had the opportunity to give it a try, and I liked it a lot. The menu is identical to Alejo's in Westchester. However, I did notice a few differences in the dining experience. I ordered the three color ravioli for my entree, and the portion size was much more than anytime I had ordered the same thing at Alejo's. The service at Eddie's was also much quicker, which I believe can easily be attributed to this place being tiny. The negative about Eddie's is that it is not as nice in appearance as Alejo's (which isn't all that nice to begin with). Eddie's is not romantic at all, and feels more like a place I would want to grab lunch with my coworkers than a place to take a date. The food at Eddie's was good, and was everything that I had come to expect from Alejo's. I really liked the three color ravioli, and the bread and garlic oil were good as well. I enjoyed my meal here, and would love to come back soon to dine again. If I was to suggest an Italian place to take someone on a date, I would say go to Alejo's. If I were to suggest where to go to for lots of good Italian food fast, I would say Eddie's.
(4)Emily C.
My order was just... Not good. The chicken on my chicken parm was so tough and thin it didn't even taste like chicken. The spaghetti was under cooked too and the whole meal kind of made me sick. it got there quick but I'm mad I spent $27 total for a gross lunch :/ oh and not to mention the delivery driver didn't even try to come to my apartment door. She made me walk all the way down cuz parking was too difficult for her. Never had problems with other drivers?... I guess I shouldn't have tipped the driver ahead of time.
(1)Daniela R.
Best chopped salad I've ever had! Pizza is so so good and pastas are delicious as well! This is gonna sound totally crazy but the only downside to this place is that they tend to add too much chicken to pastas with chicken in them... I know I know usually you never get enough protein in places it'll be like a 1/5 chicken and rest pasta. But this place is 1/2 chicken 1/2 pasta its ALOT of chicken lol.. Yes it was still super good but I like my pasta!! I still come here at least once a month :)
(4)Jack L.
One reason I like coming here is that when I order the "Chicken Catcher Torre," based on the urban legend involving former catcher (and former Dodgers manager) Joe Torre, my wife and I smile. Plus I enjoy that dish, as well as the bread, the chopped salad, and the pizza. Parking often is tough, but sometimes we walk here.
(5)Eric L.
AMAZING. Go for the chopped salad and shrimp al diablo. Expect to leave with garlic breath. And if your girlfriend leaves her purse, expect the bus boy to come chasing you down the street to give it back. Do yourself a favor and eat dinner at Alejo's.
(5)Veronica R.
I always forget about this place but I'm not sure why. I'm assuming its the fact that its located in a tiny shopping center and has like 5 tables. But the veggie pizza is one of my all time favs and the pasta dishes are always pretty solid!
(4)Alexis B.
A favorite casual place to stuff my face! First come, first serve - tight area, exposed kitchen, BYOB and endless amounts of fresh ciabatta bread to dip into the olive oil (its not butter FYI) and chunks of garlic! Come onnnnn - you can't tell me that doesn't sound awesome? The portions are a good size, that easily feed two people well. We get the house salad, share that - which again, delicious. A favorite of mine is the clam linguini and the veal ravioli. Now the ravioli has a double sauce, half white, half red - try it. It'll blow your mind and send you into a food coma.The clams are seasoned perfectly, garlic and butter, laid out on fresh linguini. Bring your own bottle of wine, no corking fee, and they have cute 4 ounce glasses to drink from. Have yet to try the pizzas, but I prefer the staples.
(5)IntheEyes I.
Went back again tonight alone for a nice peaceful dinner. I'm a total foodie. Xmas Eve, no work till Friday. A treat to myself. An employee accused me of taking his phone that he supposedly left in the restroom. As I came out of the restroom, he said to me.."Uh..did you see an Iphone in there." I said to him no, in which he then became very confrontational . I have had my HTC One M8 for 5 months, as I despise Apple products. After this accusation, it turns out that this gentlemen ended up leaving his precious IPhone at the register where I assume he was working. It is very disappointing as a long time loyal customer to experience this irresponsible unprofessional behavior from this establishment. I was extremely shocked. I spoke with the owner and he did reciprocate that the matter would be attended to. As a medical professional, my phone is turned off in my work setting. My phone stays in my pocket during work so I do not risk losing it. I felt very bad to have such a great Xmas Eve spoiled, temporarily of course, by an irresponsible employee whom cannot keep track of what seems like his most prized asset. I HOPE YOU FELT LIKE AN IDIOTIC SIMPLETON WHEN YOUR H, J OR I PHONE WAS IN THE FRONT ALL THIS TIME, Truly sad buddy. I hope you and your phone have many wonderful experiences together. Merry Christmas. Eddie was very professional, staff was a hit or miss tonight. My coworkers and I were planning a nice dinner here Saturday night but we have changed our plans for the 14 of us. Tony P's....we will see you soon. There are so many great places to dine here in the Marina. Your employees represent your brand and it's trademark. One sour experience is enough.
(2)Nova P.
Consistently good food, great service, casual, small, cozy seating with neighbors, and BYOB. Most of the times I've been to Alejo's it fills up quickly and many times had to go on a wait list. If you forget to bring drinks, there is a 7/11 in the same lot. Located on a busy corner, the parking lot is tight, so be prepared to get lucky with a spot or park nearby. Great place to share family style. I've been coming here off and on for the last few years, and these are my favorites: *Spaghetti with meat sauce - generous sauce, may require more pasta or bread for dipping *Italian chopped salad - sooo goood *Eggplant parmigiana - not a huge fan of eggplants in general, but I really like this dish
(4)Adam G.
I'm Italian and I love to cook Italian food. I've tried three things on their menu, the linguine with clam sauce, pizza with meatballs, and the chicken Alfredo. All were below average by my standards. Very little flavor, the meatballs tasted frozen, the clam sauce was bland and runny, and the bread is very chewy. The only reason I gave them 2 stars instead of 1 is bc the garlic and oil they bring to the table is great. But you can't just eat bread and olive oil... There are better Italian options for the same price. Next time I'll just cook at home.
(2)Michael S.
Are you hungry? In the mood for big portions of hearty Italian? On a budget? Eddie's (formerly Alejo's Presto Trattoria Italia) in the Marina is the place for you. Driving by this tiny strip mall on the corner of Washington and Lincoln, it is very easy to miss the small white sign for the restaurant. The parking lot is also undersized and littered with trash. Seriously, it's not a very inviting environment, but don't let it deter you because the bread and pasta will make the visit worthwhile. The free Soft Bread served with meals is hard to put down because the Garlic and Oil Dipping Sauce is filled with real pieces of garlic. Everyone in the party will carry the smell with them for the rest of the day. I say, don't hate it... celebrate it... We could tell by the dishes at tables near by that the portions were huge. So, we split a couple orders. The large chopped Alejo's Salad is an Italian salad with Turkey, Bacon & Red cabbage. Almost like a zesty Italian Cobb. For a main entree, we selected the Veal Three Color Ravioli served with both Red & White sauce. The ravioli itself was pink. The presentation was beautiful, but the sauces required more spice (aka crushed Red Pepper). Overall, Eddie's is sort of a dive Italian Restaurant. The kind of casual place you bring your own alcohol and simply hang out eating pasta and talking with friends. I'm a fan.
(4)Andrew S.
Rest restaurant, great prices. My wife and I stopped in after reading a few reviews on Yelp and we were pleased with the food and service. On top of that they allow you to bring in your own wine or beer so that cuts down on the overall cost. They brought out a large basket of bread with a garlic oil sauce. My wife thought it was a tad bit too garlic, but I enjoyed it. We split a pepperoni pizza with extra cheese and I added mushrooms to my half. We found ourselves wishing we had a similar restaurant in our area.
(4)Dina B.
The food here is fantastic. The location and ambiance, not so much. Grab your food to go and avoid the nightmare parking lot if you can. I don't know why they decided to change their name after having a good reputation as Alejo's -- the rumor is they were sick of people confusing the two locations. But plenty of other restaurants manage to have multiple locations with the same name, so who know why anyone does anything. What I do know is that the pizza here is AMAZING. The dough is fresh and homemade daily, and the ingredients are high quality. Absolutely delicious. I also love the chopped salad with their special tangy dressing, and the angel hair pasta with tons of veggies. They also provide you with free bread, garlic/olive oil dip, and Parmesan cheese, even if you're taking your food to go. Good prices, great food.
(4)Jens A.
What a great place for authentic Italian wether ur needing take out, dining in, or catering they know how to take care of their customers very well!!!
(5)Jenn L.
Summary: Parking - small lot with small spaces. avoid door dings and park on the street behind Alejo Price - $12-15 Food - great, I liked my eggplant mama-mia Portions - large Service - great Ambiance - not great, cafeteria-like, tiny place BYOB - free corkage! :) :) :) GAAAREAT! My experience: I had no idea where my good guy friend was taking me so I had no expectations prior to coming here. But it's on his company dollars...so no complaints from me. My initial reaction upon arrival was... this area is freaking ghe-tto..... I saw an empty cheap whisky bottle among other trash littered on the sidewalk as I stepped gingerly out of the car on the street behind Alejo where we parked. I clutched my purse tighter as we passed a group of shady looking/homeless people hanging out in the corner, and then witnessed a crazy looking guy totally fall off a bicycle while crossing the street cause he had stuff strapped onto it... "Did I remember to lock my car?" was my friend's initial reaction as soon as we entered Alejo. He went out to double-check as I sat down near the back of the lackluster restaurant. This is not really a date spot...unless you plan to not score. The place is tiny. I mean, maybe 20 people would fill it to capacity. But, it did have the feel of a popular local good eats spot. Our server was phenomenal. He was so attentive and professional, I almost forgot we were sitting in a cafeteria-like restaurant. Bread with a bowl of garlic in oil (really just canned garlic in oil) held us over until we got our food. We never saw the bottom of our ice water cups (with weird advertising on it). I ordered the Eggplant Mama-Mia with a side of steamed veggies instead of pasta $15, and my friend had the Spaghetti with Meat Sauce ($12 + add mushrooms $1) Both were delicious, especially mine. It arrived piping hot and delicious. Despite the lack of ambiance, I'd come back with some friends for the good food and fair prices. I'd definitely show up with bottles of wine next time too and take advantage of the free corkage!
(3)Amy V.
Just ordered Eddies delivery. Took over 1.5 hrs. I got the gnocchi and it was a pan of rock hard white sauce and bland pasta. No flavor. The garlic break tasted like a block of oil. I threw it all out. Extremely disappointing to say the least.
(1)Serena V.
Good food. Garlic olive oil and bread awesome. Service was great, the waiter refilled water cups three times. Pizza had plenty of mushrooms and quality cheese. Parking lot is kind of gross but once you're inside who cares.
(5)Joy S.
We got there at around 6PM and the place was fairly empty, by the time we were leaving, the place was starting to fill up. Get there early. The bread and garlic dipping were amazing! We ordered Linguini Pescatore, which had shrimp, clams, and calamari in a wine garlic tomato sauce. I absolutely LOVED it! The portion was large, and the restaurant was very generous with the seafood. The Chicken Marsala we ordered was not as good as expected. There sauce still had a lot of alcohol taste from the wine. It over-powered the flavor of the mushroom and chicken. Overall a really good place for a weeknight dinner...
(4)Joe I.
Raymond gave me a wonderful tip about using a bottle opener. Chicken Cacciatori. Mixed vegetables. Tiramisu. BYO Wine. Great Service. Friendly staff. Food is really hot (not spicy). Hole in wall but worth it. :-)
(5)Amber B.
Crack olive oil + garlic dipping condiment for the soft chewy sliced bread. I would come back for this alone...but not on a date. Unless he's into double-garlic-breath making out. BYOB with no corkage.
(4)Christina K.
I'd actually give this place 2.5 stars, but rounded down for a couple of reasons. Start with the bad news first: -Red sauce was much too tangy and sweet. I overheard the coupe at the next table saying the exact same thing. When I eat pasta, I want savory. I couldn't eat much of it due to this fact. -For 2 people they sure do waste a lot of bread. And the garlic butter was a big bowl of melted butter with a lot of garlic on the bottom. It was not a good idea to put that in such a deep bowl. And boy was I tasting garlic for 2 days!!! Reminded me of when I ate dinner with friends at Stinking Rose and we had the bright idea to go clubbing afterward...FAIL! Or should I say "pee-eww"! Good stuff: -The portions are humongous! Each order can easily feed 2-3 people. If you're going to do family style that'd be ideal-io. -The caesar salad was rocking! First time trying anchovies on a salad and I liked it. -The service was friendly. -Plenty of tables when I visited, but I hear it gets crowded and they often have a line. Pretty small venue. Take out is popular at this location for this reason. What I ate: Fettuccine al Fungi (spinach fettuccini & mushrooms in marinara sauce). Again, just too tangy. Wasn't memorable. And I'm one who loves pasta on day 2 as leftovers. I left mine purposely at my friends house. bon appetite. Friend had Chicken Parmigiana (lightly breaded, served with red sauce & mozzarella cheese). Sauce was still too tangy, but I enjoyed my bite of the chicken itself. Nice breading. Lots of cheese draping the top. Parking: Kind of sucks ass. Small lot with tight spaces. Maybe holds 8-10 cars. You may need to park in a neighboring lot and walk a short distance if busy. *Maybe I'd go back to try something else, but nothing with the red sauce. That's unfortunate.
(2)Paul S.
This used to be a restaurant called "Alejo" some many years ago. It too was an Italian restaurant. The wife and I decided to go here because the reviews were high and my recollection of meals here was great. The ambiance is quite nice. The tables are a little close (you gotta pack the tables in if you're in the high rent district) but it was comfortable. We ordered a main dish and a large salad. That was definitely enough for two adults. The salad was filling and flavorful (we couldn't finish it). The pasta had a great tomato sauce and seasoning (it was yummy). Oh, how could I forget the garlic and bread. Before you order your meal, they give you a bowl filled with crushed garlic and extra vigin olive oil. They also give you some great Italian bread to eat with it. I almost got filled up on the bread and garlic dipping sauce (it was so good). So, taking in the 3 disciplines (hors d'oeuvres, salad and entre), Eddie's hit the nail on the head. This is definitely a restaurant worth visiting time and time again. It is now one of my favorites when I'm on the west side of L.A.
(4)Stuart P.
Came by last night after checking Yelp reviews + less than a mile away. Yelpers pretty darn spot on! We liked Mamma's Eggplant alot. Great garlic dip.A little overload chicken to pasta ratio wise in the fettuccine but still good. Will be back!
(4)Stylestyle L.
We went back last night and had a wonderful dinner: I had a pasta with frutto di mare and can not be happier! We also tried the new calamary salad!!!!!!
(5)Shirley K.
Restaurant name has been changed to Eddie's Italian Kitchen. The complimentary bread is served with crushed garlic in olive oil - tastes great! My overall impression of the food is 3 stars but because the service is excellent, it gets 4 stars! Parking: Free parking provide in the small lot.
(4)Alex V.
This is a hole in the wall Italian spot that's popular with the local crowd. The food is very good, the service is great, and the decor is ok. Wish we had discovered this place sooner, but we'll definitely be back. Definitely loved their bread and garlic olive oil and the traditional Caesar salad.
(4)Chris H.
garlic!
(5)Dani Z.
Reasonable prices, huge portions and soft tasty bread with garlic and olive oil. Easy to miss if you are not familiar with the area. It's in the corner center with the 7-11. Enjoy!
(4)B D.
This place was terrible! I got excited to try it seeing all the great reviews and my wife and I completely got our hopes up! It was the worst meal we've had since we moved to California. Frozen pasta in the grocery store isle made in the microwave would be better and absolutely DO NOT order the Garlic Bread! Find a different place and stay away from here!!!!!!
(1)Suzanne C.
(Formerly Alejo's) Eddie's truly embraces garlic, that's for sure. They serve you bread with a heavily garlic infused olive oil when you arrive. I've had different pasta dishes here - bolognese, meatballs, clams, and mixed seafood. They are tasty. The thing I enjoy most is their chopped salad and fried calamari. They don't serve alcohol and you are free to bring beer or wine (no corkage). There is a 7-11 right next door too. This 7-11 has a pretty decent wine selection because of Eddie's. Parking is really challenging. Since the restaurant is pretty sterile and I only live a mile away, I usually order take out.
(4)Fabian V.
The italian food at Eddie's is off the chain with very addicting complimentary bread and garlic oil dip. My family and I have been coming here for about a year now & are hooked. My wife likes the sea bass linguini that comes with plenty of garlic lol. I personally love the huge calamari with marinara sauce and Eddie's pizza is delicious!! It's thin crust and packs plenty of flavor. The Linguini Pescatore is very flavorful and we usually order it extra spicy since we love spicy food. Their staff is very friendly, attentive & won't let your glass go empty. They really make you feel at home in this place. I'd recommend Eddie's to anyone who's looking for great food at an affordable price.
(5)Zotto N.
Best creamy pastas in town...hands down! Garlic baby! Garlique. The only thing i miss about having moved to Silverlake.
(5)Joey L.
There's not much more to add to what's already been said. I can't believe I hadn't already reviewed them. Everything is great from their pizza to their pastas. -Cheap -Generous -Delicious -Friendly -Parking -Free bread -Consistant
(5)Kyle D.
Some of the best family style Italian I have ever had period. Don't judge this book from its cover... Outside may be rough but you have to give it a try and find out for yourself.
(5)Lisa M.
This place doesn't look like much from the outside - hell, it doesn't look like much from the inside either. Located in a strip mall and sparse inside, but don't be fooled. The food, oh my god, the food... Had the chicken piccata, which was perfectly prepared with thin but juicy cutlets of chicken breast, a tangy lemony wine sauce and AMPLE garlic. I love garlic... The pasta came with fresh basil and more fresh garlic. (So maybe don't come here on a date unless they're eating the same thing...) Seriously though, I'm drooling again the next morning while writing this. It was amazing. My husband had the lasagna, which he said was ok - he thought the tomato sauce was a little "pasty" and that there should have been more noodliness, but he's kind of a negative Nancy and this is my review, so I'm giving it 5 stars. Service was great as well - very friendly, attentive and fast. You should go here. And eat til your buttons pop.
(5)Petey K.
Great little place in a strip mall. The downside is parking.
(3)Tommy L.
I've only been here twice--when I have to pick up or drop off someone to LAX. And both times I enjoyed my food a lot. Parking is hard to find because its on a busy street but if you go into residential a little bit, its not that difficult. The restaurant itself has a very homey feeling. The first time I went it was around 7pm and there was a wait. The second time I went around 5:30pm and it was not as packed. The bread they serve is SOO yummy. Seriously I can get full off the bread and not order anything else haha. Both times, I ordered the spaghetti carbonara. Its sooo good. I normally don't like marina sauce in my pasta but they made it soo goood. I repeat sooo goood. The portions are rather large too. I will definitely come back again. Well whenever I need to drop off someone I hate or pick up someone I love. :).
(4)Travis R.
About the best pizza I've had in the entire MDR area. Not the cheapest, but it's worth the extra dollar or two.
(4)Nicholas L.
I was with my wife and our friend, I felt like pizza and they were ok with Italian so here we came. Here's how we did... Alejo's is changing their name to Eddie's Italian Kitchen soon. I was told that everything is staying the same (menu, staff, decor, price) except the name. This was my first time so the name doesn't matter. I ordered the pep and mushroom pizza (pic,) and it was ok. It was thin crust which I love but just super greasy, I had to pat it dry with the napkin. My wife got the salad Alejo, probably soon to be called salad Eddie! I took a pic, it looked great. It was all kind of crunchy veggies and a perfect portion for my health concious wife. God she's hot! Our friend ordered the spinach ravioli (pic) which I tried that night but it tasted better when I reheated it the next day. The presentation was outstanding though, this type of dish inspires me to bring out better looking meals out home! The free bread was nice and soft. It comes with garlic olive, we asked for balsamic which is mandatory. A dip in the garlic olive oil and then a dip in the balsamic and Viola, an amazing starter. This was my first time here and I noticed that almost every table had a bottle of wine.... all different. After a small inquiry i found out that there is no corkage fee. That is a nice gesture! Service was very nice and I hope they make it as Eddie's Italian Kitchen. Will I again?.... Yes, but with so many food options in this area, it won't be for some time.. Tutalu!
(4)John L.
I like this little hole in the wall and hope it remains a secret but with Yelp, everything gets out after a while. I just want to comment that the food is great. Even the Fish is fresh and super juicy. The bread that comes before the meal is highly addicting so I would strongly suggest to eat maybe one or two. Because if you don't control yourself you can finish the basket of 12 by yourself and the main meal will be impossible to finish.
(5)Jessica I.
I was totally craving Italian food and was not feeling like getting off the couch..ha! Found these guys on yelp..I went a few years ago but was not impressed, I think it was called something else at that time. Anyways I ordered it to be delivered with their delivery service they offer. I think it was 4 bucks charge plus tip. The food came in like 20 minutes..on a Saturday night! I ordered the calamari and it was still crispy which is rare when you get take out. Sauce was tasty and it came with bread witha garlic olive oil dip..delish! I was disappointed with the spinach and cheese ravioli,s sauce was too chunky for me and the ravioli s were kind of tasteless..but I'm Italian from ny so I am picky! I would definitely order from eddies again and try something else!
(4)Heather F.
Hole in the wall Italian place but worth a visit. Everything is cooked up fresh here so you don't have to worry about the pre-packaged taste. Their bread and oil with garlic is pretty tasty and so is the rest of their entrees. Salads are very popular here. The noodles are not fresh Italian noodles or anything so don't be expecting authentic stuff there because it just isn't quite that. The actual restaurant is small being in a small strip shopping center next to a 7 Eleven so parking can be a problem. Check their hours before going because certain days of the week they close during certain times of the afternoon. PS: Portion are HUGE so you can get more than one meal out of your dish. Yea!
(4)Heather R.
I've been here twice now and will definitely be back. The first time I had the clams and linguini in a red sauce. I've tried this dish other places and I thought this was the best I've ever had. Fresh clams, perfectly cooked pasta, very flavorful sauce. This past time I ordered the same dish, with very high expectations, and was quite dissatisfied. There was something off about the flavor, maybe the wine had gone bad? I'm not one to send food back, I can't think of another time when I have, but I really had to say something. The server was so so kind and very willing to make me a new dish. It is so refreshing to get such gracious customer service! The fresh bread and garlic oil is very addictive. It's hard not to fill up on that before your entree arrives. I also took some advice on ording the chop salad and very glad I did. It was soo delicious! So even though my linguini didn't turn out quite like I expected, I'm still giving five stars because of the way the problem was handled, the quality of the other food and because I'm just assuming it was an off-night and will probably try the clam dish again next time :)
(5)Tina N.
Delish & all at a great price. Not to mention great service and best of all, there is no corkage fee! So nice to be able to enjoy dinner and bring a bottle of wine. I do have to say the place is a bit quaint and small, but who cares.
(5)Andrew G.
Very nice pizza. Quick, tasty. My friends did not like the shrimp/seafood pizza (I think it may be called Alejo's special or something). I loved it. Maybe I need new friends! In all, we rate it highly. A little pricey perhaps? We did pickup and it was hot, ready, and fresh. A good choice for the area.
(4)Brett D.
Taking the top spot on my list of "Things I Miss About Living In Mar Vista" is that I'm no longer walking distance from Alejo's! The food is flavorful and plentiful. They don't kid around with the minced garlic in olive oil that they serve with the bread appetizer - Stinking Rose would be proud and it's fantastic. The prosciutto, olives and melon appetizer is another fave. I've had pastas up and down their menu and have yet to be disappointed. Plus, the portions are gigantic - I've got a rep as my group's human garbage disposal and I don't think I've ever walked out without lunch for the next day. Of course, I couldn't do a review justice without mentioning...no corkage fee! It's the perfect place to go if you've got a big group and you're each armed with a bottle of wine. The staff is very accommodating and any patrons inside know that they've signed up for a boisterous experience before walking in the door. Yes, the parking lot sucks...but you can park with zero problems on Del Rey Ave., a brisk 60 second walk from the front door. A last quick word about the food, people...It's nestled between a donut shop and a 7-Eleven, so don't go in expecting some kind of Mario Batali-esque revelation. Kick back and appreciate a true diamond in the rough.
(5)Julianne B.
It's true, you can smell the garlic as soon as you are in the near vicinity of this place! Only tried take out which was great. Portions were LARGE. We tried chicken marsala (they asked if we'd like it served over pasta which is my favorite way to eat this so I liked that a lot) and also the meatballs. Will definitely be frequenting this place again
(4)Cjka K.
My husband & I had a late dinner here this evening,first time . Now the location is sketchy but don't let that fool you.The food was wonderful,service exceptional ,friendly waters and staff. We will be back for sure! 5 star Eddie!
(5)AdaPia D.
Pretty damn good! The pizza is yummy, the service is quick and there's parking. This is a good quality and value Italian on Lincoln. Though it is the 'after Alejo's' and not as quite as good, it's closer to home and not a bad substitute.
(4)Joel G.
LOVE this spot. Super tiny but that's ok. Bring your own bottle of wine! Chicken parm is heavy but you will leave without an ounce of regret. The first time I went the calamari was some of the best I've ever had, but trips since it hasn't matched up. Not sure what happened that first time. You will leave stinking of garlic but completely satisfied. Just a hidden gem in Venice/MDR.
(5)Ida C.
3.5 stars but rounding up since others I came here with either are or were locals with an affinity for this mom & pop establishment. Bread & garlic dip - Other in the party loved this and I thought it was simply lacking in flavor. The bread was at room temperature and could benefit from a few mins of being warmed or toasted in the oven. To add oomph to the garlic dip, I made two different concoctions for myself by mixing the garlic oil with balsamic and parmesan cheese. Chopped salad - Large portion with bits of salami and cheese. We were able to share this one salad between 4 ppl. Meat Lasagna - Also a significantly sized portion. The lasagna itself was really tasty although I thought there was waaaay too much sauce. The sauce was more sweet than tangy as well whereas I prefer the latter. Shrimp Diablo - The sauce could have been more substantial and less watery but I still really enjoyed this dish which paired really well with the sauvignon blanc we brought. We were seated in the back of the resto so the weak AC machine above the front door did a poor job of keeping us cool. By the end of the meal, we were all sweating like pigs :(. One of the BEST aspects of this resto: NO CORKAGE FEE!!!
(4)D N.
Pro: Customer service outstanding and though no wine sold you can bring your own bottle without corkage fee. Con: Tight parking lot, small restaurant and the food was missing an Italian flavor.
(3)Mathew M.
Great place. Have been coming for years from when it was called Alejo's. We eat here at least once every other week. I nearly died of a heart attack when we pulled up for dinner one night and saw the name Eddie's over the door. Panic set in as I considered that the best neighborhood Italian restaurant was no more. Thankfully as we walked in we saw all the same familiar faces and learned that it was a change in name only. That being said, I'm born and raised in New York City. I know, I know...I've heard it before..."You New Yorkers think that New York is the center of the universe." To which I reply, "we don't think NY is the center...we KNOW it is." And that certainly includes food. This is the only neighborhood place I've found in LA that rivals NY food. The pizza is pretty good, but that's not what I'm talking about. I mean their amazing marinara sauce and all the good old favorite dishes from parmasagne to zuppa de pesci (they call linquini pescatore), to an amazing chopped salad. Place is small and unfancy...and that is part of the charm. Staff is always friendly and the food is always great. Prices very reasonable too. A winner on the West Side.
(5)Marta P.
I have been wanting to try this place for years, but was always scared off by the claustrophobic inside. Verdit: the food is officially worth the panic attack I might get as a result of being crammed in such a tiny restaurant. The only complaint I have is that they don't deliver! PLEASE PLEASE start delivering and you will have a very loyal new customer!
(4)Vic B.
Close to, if not at, the top of my short list of favorite Italian restaurants. Marinara sauce is one of the best I've ever had. Looks like a dive from the outside but the food is great!
(5)Ken S.
I saw how many people already chimed in on this great restaurant, and I thought my words would only prove redundant. But then I read some negative reviews by cretins who complained that they were brought "too much free bread", or that the bowl the garlic in olive oil made her "breath stink for days". That's all it took for me to give Alejo's 5 Big Stars! I have to counteract the nimrods who are compulsive whiners. I've loved this place for over a decade, and they always are friendly, prompt, and accurate with my orders. I'm a vegetarian and they accomodate any dish that I ask that meat be omitted. It's not fancy, but the food is better than a "fancy" joint. So if you're here for the food, you scored. If you're here to see and be seen, find that woman whose breath stinks for days. This is where you go when you're hungry and thirsty, and when you leave, there's a huge smile on your face.
(5)Tim P.
NOW CALLED EDDIES! Oh man. This place is awesome. Great service, incredible food and huge portions. Come hungry and bring a bottle of wine. It's a tiny restaurant near a 7-11 in a strip mall which makes it even more of an anomaly. I had the spaghetti and meatballs which was perfect. The sauce is tangy and fresh, the pasta is perfectly al dente and the meatballs were perfectly spiced and nice and big. The lady had a ginormous plate of chicken alfredo which was also really good. Perfectly cooked chicken chunks, great sauce and good noods. We also shared a delicious caesar salad with anchovies and a basket of really good soft bread and garlic dip so needless to say our breath was pungent. Washed it all down with a '09 Coppola Cab that we brought. I joked that I would have gladly paid twice the amount for that level of service and tastebud happiness. Can't recommend this little gem highly enough.
(4)Anne Marie B.
Eddie's was great!! We got the vegetable pizza which had carrots and was quite yummy. The meatballs were very yummy. The tri-colored ravioli was excellent - creamy, rich, very filling - and a huge portion. The calamari marinara was also a huge portion and very fresh. The oil at the table is very garlic-y -- good if you like that, surprisingly spicy if you do not. The service was friendly and efficient.
(5)Steven K.
This is the worst italian restaurant experience I've had in my life. Between the five in our party, every single dish tasted like cardboard smothered in canned sauce. The service was shoddy at best, one of our party's meals was completely forgotten about, and we had to remind the server twice about it. The only good part was the bread and garlic oil served with it. It also appears you have to walk through the kitchen to get to the restroom, which is incredibly inconvenient. If I could give this place less than 1 star, I would. The fact that people here were seeming to enjoy their meal is truly shocking. We will be stopping at in n out in the way home, at least we can be sure we will get a decent meal there.
(1)Becs L.
Be sure to give it a chance, people do not come here for the atmosphere but the food is absolutely delicious. This place is definitely more than meets the eye. From the outside, it is this hole in the wall that seems a little sketch and then you walk inside and there are a lot of tables in the small dining area so it seems a bit cramped but it's not really and you'll be thankful for the extra seating if you plan to eat here during peak dining hours because this place can get busy (the long wait can be a major downside sometimes). They start you off with bread and a garlic oil dip that is quite good but make sure you don't fill up on it because the food portions are huge; so sharing entrees is a good option or just go ahead and prepare yourself to take half of it home. I've never had a dish here that I didn't like, all of it is tasty.
(4)