What is it? Nancy Silverton’s temple to meat flame-grills tomahawk pork chops, cures fennel salami and dry-ages massive steaks so big they almost feel like they’ll rock the table when they land. For those in search of a great steakhouse, this Italian option is worth the splurge.
Why we love it: Few restaurants can accomplish what Chi Spacca’s shoebox setting can. With one of the best charcuterie programs in the city and a stunning open kitchen, the talented team knows how to best work the cozy space for maximum meaty results. You may be spending over $200 on a steak (it’s enormous!), but don’t think about skipping the sides of roasted seasonal veggies—nor that bubbling focaccia di recco, which oozes stracchino cheese and comes with its own pizza stand. Throw in the generously portioned quartinos of wine, which easily turn into two servings, and Chi Spacca is one of the best places in town to wine and dine someone.
Time Out tip: For those who truly love pork, Chi Spacca hosts the Pig’s Head Dinner: An Ode to Pork—a $125 tasting menu that’s only available Monday through Thursday and requires two days’ notice. A minimum of four guests is needed to participate, but I recommend coming with six or more, or you won’t get through every course. The star of the show is a crispy, roasted pig’s head served with seasonal vegetables, sauces and flatbread, but you’ll also receive Chi Spacca’s signature like focaccia di recco (topped here with ham) and the sumptuous pork tomahawk dusted with fennel pollen.
Address: 6610 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 6–9:30pm, Fri–Sun 5:30–9:30pm