North Italia, the modern Italian haven known for its from-scratch fire-kissed pizzas and handcrafted cocktails, has opened its doors with a new retro, coastal-inspired outpost at Westfield Topanga.
I, your friendly self-proclaimed restaurant queen, was lucky to snag a glimpse at this gorgeous new spot for a mouthwatering Italian brunch. Picture this: lush greenery bursting from hanging baskets, vibrant murals, and a cute outdoor dining area whispering tales of Amalfi coast vibes right here in the Valley. And the scent? Ah, the scent! Fresh focaccia dances with simmering tomato sauce, a symphony of aromas promising culinary adventures.
And the food, oh the food! My inner dancing queen did a happy jig with every bite. We kicked things off with the Calamari Fritti, crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside, and served with a tangy Calabrian aioli and robust marinara. Following the appetizer came our delightful entrées. I had the Roasted Salmon, a masterpiece of flaky perfection draped in caramelized romanesco, lemon gremolata, and affinato, and paired with fresh broccolini and fregola smothered in the tasty house pesto. Simply put, my salmon was delicious. Meanwhile my friend had the Breakfast Sandwich: Italian sausage, applewood bacon, shaved porchetta, egg, roasted pepper, cipollini, scamorza, Calabrian aioli, and crispy hash potato. He said each bite was an explosion of textures and flavors, and he didn’t want it to end.
And let’s not forget about the glorious dessert! The Seasonal Butter Cake stole the show, a warm, pillowy slice of sunshine infused with the delicate scent of citrus and served with a dollop of ice cream that had us swooning and dancing in our seats.
But North Italia Topanga isn’t just about brunch. This place is a culinary chameleon, serving up lunch, dinner, and a happy hour that’s guaranteed to make your weeknights sizzle. Think wood-fired pizzas with toppings of prosciutto & arugula, fresh pasta made daily with love, and seasonal dishes that showcase the bounty of California’s farms. And the cocktails? Everything from the Breakfast Mule to the Espresso Martini is a boozy masterpiece that pairs perfectly with every meal.
Basically, if like me you’re a seasoned Italian food lover or a newbie ready to dive into the world of pasta perfection, add North Italia Topanga to your must-try list. Get ready to transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched Italian paradise, right here in the heart of Canoga Park. Trust me, your palate, your stomach, and your soul will thank you. $24+; Mondays – Thursdays, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, Fridays, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Saturdays, 10:00 am – 11:00 pm and Sundays, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm; Westfield Topanga Shopping Center – 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Suite #52, Canoga Park, CA 91303; 818.710.7246
