Prima Donna - A Cute Neighborhood Italian Kitchen Placing a Twist on Classic Fare
If you ask me, you can never go wrong with an Italian meal. When I heard about a newer establishment in Culver City that adds a dosage of creativity in every bite - I knew I had to check it out. Located within The Shay Hotel, Prima Donna may be your new neighborhood gem.
Prima Donna has officially taken over the space, previously known as Etta. Created by Mosaic hospitality group, Prima Donna is serving wood-fired pizza and twists on modern Italian favorites from Chef Michael Santoro. The playful menu highlights Santoro’s Sicilian-American heritage and delivers an impressive bite. The appetizers have a few showstoppers such as the yellowtail crudo, Sicilian oliva da, and Sorrento lemon for a fresh light take. The plate itself is topped with lemon water tableside and a taste of olive for the brine and salty crunch. The wild mushroom arancini is paired with black truffle aioli and parmesan. These small gooey balls of goodness are a must-order. The lamb meatballs are presented on a plate of braised greens, and tomato, and served with grilled garlic bread. The appetizers at Prima Donna don’t miss and are a great start to a divine meal to follow.
Although there are many delicious bites at Prima Donna, the breadwinner of the space has got to be the wood-fired pizzas. The selection may be a bit bare; however, the flavor and infusion of unique flavors are enticing and paired to perfection. The classic spicy pepperoni pizza adds linguica, tomato flor di latte, and oregano. The “White Lotus” pizza includes fennel sausage, white sauce, caciocavallo, crispy potato, and red onion. White sauce pizzas may not be high on your list, but trust me, this is one you’ll want to take a risk on.
The creativity spans beyond the food menu - the cocktail menu is reason enough to pop in for after-hour drinks. One of the top cocktails was their take on a classic espresso martini. The “First Act '' is vodka, fresh espresso, cold brew liquor, tiramisu liquor, dry curacao, cocoa powder, orange bitters, and a kiss of amaretto. The drink is served up. The essence of light orange bitters is what really sets this espresso martini apart from others. At Prima Donna, you'll want to get dessert! Opt for the Matcha Pistachio cake. A cake that's so delicious, you'll want your own!
While Prima Donna may be a trek for those who do not work on the West side - it’s an savory journey with a hearty reward once you arrive.
*Photo Courtesy of SUPERHUNGRY
