It was 1993 when the Tom Bradley Wing of the Los Angeles Central Library opened its doors, a gleaming architectural marvel overlooking the historic Maguire Gardens and a regal restoration project of the LA Library’s iconic location dating back to 1925.
Just two years later, just outside the west wing, Joachim Splichal’s Cafe Pinot would offer diners the warm ambiance of delicious French-California cuisine within its indoor and outdoor patios, becoming a community favorite for business class lunches and romantic date nights.
Since Cafe Pinot has closed its doors, leaving the space to anticipation since August 2019.
Settecento bar, (rendering 2023) made with imported Italian marble, decorated with antique books, Italian Renaissance artwork, and a chandelier of instruments – photos provided by Settocento DTLA.
However, with the new year, a new beginning as Global Dining Inc., the group that brought 1212 Santa Monica and La Boheme to West Hollywood brings Settecento DTLA, a bold new look (and menu), downtown’s newest Italian restaurant promising to bring fresh energy to this historic garden.
“The new, thoughtfully curated menu by Executive Chef Francesco Angri and Pizzaiolo Mario Orsini is an ode to Italy’s vast culinary heritage, with each dish rooted in original recipes that have been refined through the ages,” says a spokesperson for the group.
Settocento’s soft opening already has guests praising their robust truffle and mushroom pastas, seafood linguine, and wood-fired pizzas, with restaurantgoers leaving room for Filet Mignon, Pollo Arrosto, and Settecento Pesce, among other menu delights.
At the bar, guests can experience a vibrant showcase of Italian mixology, where classic cocktails such as the Venetian Spritz and Tuscany-inspired Negroni are reimagined with Settocento’s magic touch.
“This is so exciting and a needed addition for that block,” says Melynda Choothesa, owner of Quirk Vintage & Modern, Couture Zen LLC & former DLANC at Large Resident Advisor. “Macguire Park and Pershing square could be the DTLA equivalent of Bryant Park in Manhattan. I can see that in our neighborhood’s future.”
Blending indoor and outdoor seating, creating a timeless atmosphere, Settecento proudly offers outdoor live music at night—the only restaurant in Downtown Los Angeles to do so—serenading diners with Italian classics.
Italian businessman Luciano Tudor‘s Global Dining Inc., sets Settecento’s official open date to the public on January 24th, 2025. www.settecentodtla.com
