Cosa Buona (Los Angeles, CA)

Cosa Buona
2100 Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Dining date: 9/1/17

Cosa Buona is one of the most talked about restaurants openings in LA this summer. The restaurant is from Zach Pollack, who first opened Sotto with co-chef Steve Samson then opened Alimento. Cosa Buona is the most casual and simple of his restaurants so far, meant to be a neighborhood pizza joint. In fact, the restaurant replaces a similarly-named pizza joint (Pizza Buona) which had been at this location for over 50 years.

The restaurant takes reservations for parties of four or more; otherwise, it’s walk-in only. Our party of two came early on a Friday to avoid waiting for a table.

smokey mozzarella sticks marinara

meatballs burrata, marinara, toasted focaccia

sausage mozzarella, mustard greens, chili

white clam oregano, mozzarella, garlic

cookies and cream semifreddo pie

With so much buzz about this place, I came in thinking it would disappoint. It didn’t and, in fact, may have exceeded my expectations. The prices here are more expensive than the “neighborhood pizza shop,” but the food really delivered. Mozzarella sticks were really well-executed here, finding that right balance between crunchy exterior and oozing cheesy exterior. Meatballs were also a highlight, tender and flavorful and complemented beautifully by the fresh, cool burrata. Pizzas reminded me of Pizzeria Mozza in look and style. The pizzas were highlighted by some excellent balance in toppings and its chewy yet soft, charred crust. My favorite of the two was the sausage complemented by greens and mild chilies. I would definitely return.