AGO, the Italian Trattoria named after its celebrated chef/partner Agostino Sciandri, sparkles brightly in the firmament of West Hollywood’s prestigious restaurants. Created in partnership with Robert De Niro, the popular chef looked to bring his own rendition of an upscale Italian Trattoria to Los Angeles back in 1997. Since then, AGO has successfully captured the passionate flavors that define Tuscany and has become a culinary favorite among Hollywood elite. Chef Sciandri, who came into prominence as co-owner and chef extraordinaire of Toscana in Brentwood (and gained a loyal following among the star-studded clientele), notes that AGO is “just like the charming seaside or countryside trattoria in Tuscany.” Outside, 30-foot Italian cypress and rustic olive trees indigenous to northern and central Italy grace the southeast entrance, welcoming guests into a transformed Italian villa courtyard. Tendrils of grapevines and bougainvillea climb up the metal trellis along the east facade, softly diffusing the light through the windows. Inside, classic touches have been integrated throughout the space, from the sophisticated wood paneled bar to the newly redesigned main dining room. The bar, with its contrasting textures of stacked glass and steel back, casts a luminous glow throughout the room, creating a dining experience that exudes warmth and comfort. Just off the main dining room, the Patio houses the most coveted seats in the house. Set atop a warmly colored terra cotta tile floor and intimately spaced under romantic lighting, guests are treated to a magical and intimate spot to dine al fresco. For those seeking a bit of privacy, the Patio now offers its own private dining area. For even more privacy or for a larger private party, the Rotunda Room is as equally charming. Situated off the back entrance of the restaurant and housing AGO’s impressive vintage wine selection, this room is also often used as a private dining room for AGO’s A-list clientele. A stonewall archway beautifully frames the restaurant’s exposed, state-of-the-art, stainless steel kitchen with wood-burning oven allowing guests to watch the chef and his staff creating their culinary masterpieces. Specializing in regional Tuscan cuisine, Chef Sciandri entices guests’ palates with a captivating and satisfying array of pasta dishes, risottos, seafood and steaks, including house specialties such as the Spaghetti allo Scoglio, Ravioli di Magro con Funghi, Veal Milanese, the Branzino and the famed.
