This neighborhood bistro feels like it's been lifted right out of Italy, and we're not talking about the tourist traps that mar the Venice canals.

Patrons are instantly welcomed by a hearty "Buena sera!" from co-owners Antonio Mure and Stefano De Lorenzo (the former is the chef, the latter is the host) as they enter Piccolo, just steps from the beach. The multilayered din of chatty customers, frenzied cooks and Italian music fill the cozy room, where divine aromas mingle with the breezy beach air. Even after some minor renovations in 2005—yes, there are now in-house bathrooms!—the place still remains as charming and friendly as ever. The menu reflects the duo's backgrounds (one from Cortina, the other Sicily) and experiences at LA venues like Locanda Veneta, Allegria and Il Moro. Pasta is made in-house, like the tender tagliatelle ribbons doused in rich, meaty tomato sauce and chunks of lamb, or the ravioli stuffed with potatoes and figs; the wine list is small, but appropriately Italian. Like the good Italians they are, Mure and De Lorenzo spread the love with regular cooking classes and wine tastings every month. —Lesley Balla