Maria's Italian Kitchen 16608 Ventura Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 91436

"I came in at 11:29am while they open at 11:30. I pointed at a lunch menu and the register guys said that the lunch menu works only before 2:30. I thought I am out of my mind. For $21 (with tips) I got a plate of angels hair pasta with cheap cheese and chopped pork sausage. That was basically one agglomerated blob. No soup or salad for that money. Also, they served my order for dine out without asking. I “enjoyed” my lunch in plastic plate using plastic fork. PS I figured out they didn’t add the promised garlic bread. Anyway, Papa’s plate has nothing to do with the picture on their website."

"REALLY GOOD FOOD & SERVICE! Maria's Italian on Ventura Blvd in Encino is a happy surprise, with wonderfully tasty food, a large and varied menu, pleasing ambiance, and the best kind of friendly service. Servers Isabella and Sammy make us feel like family, checking in frequently with helpful questions and suggestions throughout our visits. Big servings of hearty, satisfying food give us plenty for lunch plus leftovers for later. The entire staff is welcoming, and they seem sincerely happy to be there. We were surprised to learn there are several other Maria's restaurants, as this one feels like a nice mom-and-pop diner being run by a close-knit family that loves food and people. A meal at Maria's always brightens our day -- highest recommendation!!"

"I called on 11/18 and asked if I came in before 9pm, could we still dine in. I was told that we could, and I asked to pre-order and pay for the meals ahead of arriving. I was told that I couldn't and to just get there by 9pm. I arrived at 8:59 and ordered my food that came to $90+ and left a $22 tip and actually never had service!!! I was told that it had to be a to go order! The manager was not very friendly and seemed like he did not want my business!!! I was working all day and unfortunately couldn't get there til late. My mother was here from Ohio, and I was bragging about how amazing this restaurant was to her. We ended up getting the order to go, but we will never be back!!!"

"Had the papardelle and piccata dishes today. Great tomato cream sauce for the papadelle, and the piccata was solid. Will definitely return!"

"Lunch special deal is good, I add the table bread they offer for $1 with oil & vinegar. There is a few free parking spots in the back. I enjoy coming here."