As we continue to uphold the government’s social-distancing guidelines amid the coronavirus pandemic, activities like getting a bite to eat have been completely revamped.
Whether you are craving a sit-down experience or looking to recreate the vibe of a restaurant at home, Della Terra owner Michael Simhai has the answers for Us.
The West Hollywood eatery has taken extra precautions to make socially-distanced dining safe by installing a new outdoor patio and bathrooms that require zero contact with sinks, soap and doors. The menus can easily be wiped down with sanitizer and UV lights are to sanitize pens used by staff and customers too.
“We want our customers to feel just as safe dining with us here that they do at home,” Simhai tells Us.
Beyond feeling comfortable physically, Simhai also provides comfort with Della Terra’s cuisine consisting of Northern Italian and French inspired dishes including homemade lasagnas, pastas, pizzas, salads and more.
Some standout items: The signature Luganica pasta made with pappardelle and homemade sausage, the carbonara with bucatini and the truffle mushroom ravioli.
Besides enjoying delicious food, expect to feel like you’ve been transported to a home away from home with the special decor details influenced by Simhai’s roots.
“I’m originally from New York, so when I opened the restaurant over 10 years ago, I wanted to bring the vibe of a New York restaurant with me. … I used to go back and forth between L.A. and New York a couple times a month, but due to the travel restrictions resulting from COVID-19, it has made it incredibly difficult to travel and visit my friends and family,” he shares.
To combat his homesickness, Simhai enlisted a local artist to paint different murals on each wall of Della Terra’s patio space ranging from the New York skyline, Old Hollywood movies, iconic actors and more.
“I wanted to design this mural with the hope that it would help ease the longing of my customers that wished they could go back to visit, but sadly for the time being aren’t able to. … We also add to that charm by projecting old classic movies on the wall in our front patio area, providing you with a unique experience while dining,” he explains.
If you prefer to convert your home into a mini-restaurant with their takeout menu, Simhai recommends stopping by Haute Mess, his Italian market and deli located next door to Della Terra for some add-ons.
”Pair a bottle of wine with your meal or pick up beautifully prepared cheese and charcuterie boards that you can enjoy as a starter. … You can even bring out your creative side by picking up fresh pasta and sauces in order to recreate signature dishes from Della Terra,” he notes.
To take it up a notch, Simhai suggests displaying flowers from a local farmers market and turning on an old movie to really make you feel like you’re out to eat.
Regardless of what you choose, the restauranteur says tasty food and company is what’s key for a memorable experience.
“We believe that a great meal is at the center of bringing family and friends together to enjoy laughs and great conversations. When you have good food that you enjoy, you’re happy and so are the ones dining with you.”
Della Terra is located at 7675 Beverly Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90036 and offers brunch and dinner. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
