When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Varilla Pizza and Pasta
Why Varilla Pizza and Pasta is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Varilla Pizza and Pasta, located at 1011 S Alvarado St in Los Angeles, is a vibrant spot that captures the essence of Italian cuisine with its authentic dishes and welcoming atmosphere. This restaurant is ideal for casual meetups with friends or family gatherings, offering a variety of delicious options such as New York-style pizza slices, chicken alfredo pasta, and garlic knots. The staff is known for their friendly and attentive service, making every visit a memorable experience. With its convenient location and wide range of menu options, Varilla Pizza and Pasta is a go-to destination for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Italy in the heart of Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of Varilla Pizza and Pasta
As of recent, Varilla Pizza and Pasta holds a 4.5-star rating based on 378 reviews.
Varilla Pizza and Pasta has garnered a strong reputation based on customer reviews, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars across 378 reviews. Many users praise the restaurant for its excellent food quality, noting the great sauce to cheese ratio on their pizzas and the crispy crust. The New York-style slices are particularly highlighted as being among the best in Los Angeles. Additionally, the fried mozzarella is often mentioned as a must-try item. Positive reviews also commend the staff for their friendly and efficient service, which contributes to a pleasant dining experience. However, some users have noted that while the pizza is delicious, it can be pricey, and the crust sometimes lacks a char. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus is that Varilla Pizza and Pasta provides a satisfying meal that replicates the flavors of Italy. Overall, the reviews suggest that Varilla Pizza and Pasta is a great choice for those seeking authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Al Gz
Really good food. Came in with 2 friends and everyone liked what they got. Super friendly service!
Visit Vegas Places
Proper Pizza offers a truly authentic dining experience. The garlic knots were a standout appetizer, and the pizza was of exceptional quality. The restaurant's nostalgic ambiance and attentive service contributed to a highly enjoyable late-night visit. I wholeheartedly recommend Proper Pizza to anyone seeking a delicious pizza in L.A.
Connor Cooper
Genuinely amazing. On our honeymoon, my wife and I found this place within walking distance to our hotel and decided to try it out. As a New Yorker, I had high expectations. This place blew me away! If you order from here without getting the garlic knots, you're missing out on one of the greatest plates of food in your life. Don't sleep on Varilla!
Fernando Ortiz
Pizza by the slice, freshly made and wide variety, definitely will come back to try their pasta!
Tamer Fouad
The food is delicious. They’re friendly and cooperative. I asked them about Hallal food and they said we will do for you anything as you like.
How to reach Varilla Pizza and Pasta
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Why Varilla Pizza and Pasta may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
If you and your friends are searching for the ideal Los Angeles hangout—one that combines the casual ease of a classic pizzeria with a welcoming, lively atmosphere—gather at Varilla Pizza and Pasta. Boasting a formidable 4.5-star reputation from nearly 400 reviews, this spot stands out as a local favorite, celebrated for its hearty New York-style slices, inventive pasta bowls, and the kind of service that makes everyone feel at home. The secret to its appeal? A menu packed with universally loved comfort food, portions made for sharing, and an open, bright dining room where laughter spills over just as easily as melted mozzarella onto a dish. Whether your group craves gooey cheese, crispy-crusted pies, or loaded calzones, there’s something for every appetite. It’s not just the food, though: with friendly staff who remember regulars and deliver quick, efficient service, Varilla Pizza and Pasta feels like an extension of your own living room—only with a better oven. For friends looking to catch up, celebrate, or simply unwind, this is the rare LA spot that manages to feel both special and unpretentious, making it the perfect rallying point for memorable nights out.
Why rally at Varilla Pizza and Pasta with your friends?
Imagine walking through the door after a long day, catching the scent of slow-simmered tomato sauce and just-baked dough, and being greeted by a chorus of “Welcome back!” from the staff—this is the feeling Varilla Pizza and Pasta cultivates with each visitor. The ambiance strikes the ideal balance between bustling pizzeria and cozy neighborhood joint, a place where groups can sprawl at big tables, share a mess of plates, and not worry about being rushed. Guests consistently rave about the variety on offer: from classic pepperoni and margherita pies to options that cater to vegan, gluten-free, and specialty diets, ensuring that even the pickiest eater in your group leaves satisfied. The open kitchen adds energy to the experience; you can watch the action, see your food being made from scratch, and anticipate the moment your pizza comes sliding from the oven. What sets Varilla apart is the attention to detail—each pie is crafted with a thin, hand-stretched base, a generous sauce-to-cheese ratio, and carefully selected toppings, resulting in slices that stand up to the fiercest New York or even European comparisons. With generous portion sizes and late-night hours, it’s a dependable choice for both midweek meetups and post-party cravings. Combine all that with an attentive, approachable staff, and it’s clear why so many regulars consider this their go-to spot for group gatherings.
What kinds of pizza and pasta does Varilla Pizza and Pasta offer?
What truly wins over groups at Varilla Pizza and Pasta is the depth and diversity of its menu, anchored by a broad selection of both pizza and pasta that showcases the kitchen’s commitment to quality and creativity. The pizzas are New York-style at their core—thin but foldable crusts, golden-brown undercarriages, just enough chew, and toppings piled high but never overwhelming, so you get flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every bite. You’ll find classic cheese, pepperoni, and veggie options, as well as specialty pies and build-your-own options, ensuring even those with dietary restrictions can join in. The pastas are equally impressive, from timeless spaghetti and meatballs to decadent alfredo dishes, baked ziti, and robust bolognese, all prepared with fresh ingredients and served in shareable portions. The restaurant’s signature pies and pastas, like the 20-inch “New Yorker” or the creamy, garlicky chicken alfredo, are especially popular for group orders, making it easy to feed a crowd without sacrificing taste for quantity. Every dish is prepared to order, and many guests note that the savory, tangy tomato sauce, the quality of the cheese, and the perfectly cooked pasta are highlights worth returning for time and again.
What are some of the most popular dishes to order with a group?
When you’re with a group at Varilla Pizza and Pasta, the menu truly shines in its ability to bring people together over large, flavorful dishes designed for sharing. One standout is the 20-inch pepperoni pizza, which sits at the center of any gathering, its slightly sweet sauce and salty, crispy pepperoni slices drawing repeated praise from regulars and newcomers alike. The fried mozzarella appetizer is another crowd-pleaser, arriving hot and gooey, perfect for splitting among friends and family while you wait for the main event. Don’t overlook the pasta offerings: the lasagna, baked ziti, and spaghetti and meatballs are all generous, comforting dishes that encourage passing plates and swapping bites. For something lighter but just as satisfying, the burrata salad offers creamy cheese, ripe tomatoes, and bright greens—a refreshing counterpoint to the richness elsewhere. And for a true “family style” experience, order a sampling of garlic knots, wings, and a variety of pizzas—each one delivering on the promise of quality, flavor, and plenty to go around.
How is the atmosphere at Varilla Pizza and Pasta for group gatherings?
Atmosphere can make or break a group outing, and Varilla Pizza and Pasta gets it just right, striking a balance between the energy of a classic pizzeria and the cozy familiarity of a neighborhood spot. The dining room is spacious but never cavernous, with large tables and booths that easily accommodate bigger groups, plus quick table turnover during busy hours so you rarely have to wait long. The open kitchen adds a lively, approachable vibe, letting you catch glimpses of your food being made and creating an interactive, engaging experience. The staff is known for being friendly and efficient, always ready to help with recommendations, adjustments for dietary needs, or just a quick laugh to make your evening even better. The interior is bright and casual, with little touches that make you want to linger—tempting aromas, the hum of conversation, and genuine warmth from everyone behind the counter. Whether you’re there for a birthday, a casual reunion, or a weekly catch-up, the place feels like it was made for groups looking to eat, talk, and just be together.
Is Varilla Pizza and Pasta suitable for families with kids?
Absolutely—Varilla Pizza and Pasta is a natural fit for families, thanks to its casual, welcoming vibe and a menu that delights both kids and adults. Parents appreciate the variety of classic pizza toppings and pasta options, ensuring even the pickiest young eaters will find something they love. The staff are quick to accommodate special requests, from extra cheese to splitting dishes for young ones, making it easy to tailor the meal for everyone at the table. With late hours—open until midnight most nights—it’s also a reliable option for post-soccer practice or post-movie snacks. The restaurant’s efficient, friendly service means you’re in and out with full bellies, and the relaxed atmosphere means kids can be kids without anyone raising an eyebrow.
How does Varilla Pizza and Pasta cater to different dietary needs?
Varilla Pizza and Pasta understands that modern gatherings often include guests with a range of dietary preferences, and their menu is thoughtfully designed to accommodate. Alongside classic cheese and pepperoni pies, you’ll find vegan pizzas, gluten-free crusts, and a variety of vegetable-loaded options, ensuring everyone—regardless of dietary restrictions—can enjoy a slice. The staff is proactive about answering questions and accommodating special requests, so those with allergies or sensitivities never feel left out. The pasta menu includes vegetarian and dairy-heavy options, and many dishes can be customized to exclude ingredients, so you’re never left scanning the menu for “the one thing I can eat.” This inclusive approach makes group gatherings smoother, ensuring that every guest, from the gluten-free cousin to the vegan friend, can join in the feast without compromise.
How do the prices and portion sizes work for group dining?
One of the best things about Varilla Pizza and Pasta for group dining is the value: generous portion sizes and reasonable prices mean you can feed a crowd without straining your wallet. The 18- and 20-inch pizzas are designed for sharing, and many of the pasta dishes come in hearty, filling servings—perfect for passing around and making sure everyone gets enough. While the prices may be a touch higher than budget chain spots, the quality and quantity more than justify the cost, especially given the use of fresh ingredients and the care that goes into every dish. For groups, splitting a few large pies and a couple of pasta dishes is often the most economical and satisfying way to dine, leaving everyone satisfied and maybe even with leftovers for later. This combination of value and quality is a big reason why families, friend groups, and casual meetups find this spot so appealing time and again.
What is the service like at Varilla Pizza and Pasta?
Service can truly set apart a good dining experience from a great one, and Varilla Pizza and Pasta consistently delivers attentive, friendly, and efficient service that keeps guests coming back. The staff is known for their welcoming demeanor, remembering regulars and making newcomers feel at home with genuine warmth. Orders come out quickly, even during peak hours, so you never feel like your group outing is dragging on. Special requests—extra dressing, a missing fork, a forgotten topping—are handled with a smile, and the kitchen is happy to adjust dishes for dietary needs or preferences. For group gatherings, this reliable, fast-paced service means more time enjoying your company and less time waiting around. The staff’s approachability adds an extra layer of comfort, turning your meal into an occasion to look forward to rather than just a quick stop for food.
What are the hours and how busy does it get?
Varilla Pizza and Pasta keeps its doors open late—until midnight most nights—making it a go-to for both early dinners and late-night cravings after concerts, movies, or just a late shift. While it can get busy, especially on weekends, the staff is skilled at managing the flow, and turnover is quick enough that groups rarely have to wait too long for a table. Midweek evenings and earlier on weekends tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience, while later hours, especially on Friday and Saturday, bring a livelier, more energetic vibe—perfect for groups looking to wind down after a night on the town. No matter when you arrive, the kitchen is consistent with its quality, so your pizzas and pastas are always served hot, fresh, and delicious.
What makes Varilla Pizza and Pasta a “must-try” for Los Angeles?
In a city filled with trendy, expensive, and sometimes fussy restaurants, Varilla Pizza and Pasta stands out for its authenticity, generosity, and enduring appeal. It’s not trying to be the “coolest” spot or the most Instagrammable—instead, it’s focused on serving tasty, dependable comfort food in a setting that feels like home. The pizza has earned acclaim as some of the best New York-style slices in Los Angeles, and the pasta menu is robust enough to keep you coming back for new favorites. For groups, it’s a rare find: a place where you can order a feast that pleases everyone, linger for as long as you want, and leave feeling like you just had a true local experience—not just another meal. That’s why, for families, friends, and everyone in between, Varilla Pizza and Pasta is a culinary rallying point, a slice of community in the heart of the city.