Walk into Osteria Mamma, and you’re instantly part of something bigger than just a meal. You’re stepping into a story steeped in tradition, passion, and the enduring spirit of Mamma Loredana—the woman who believed that the heart of any home is found in a simple, lovingly prepared Italian meal. Though Mamma is no longer with us, her spirit lingers in every dish, in every bite, and in the warmth that greets you as you sit down to experience true Veneto cuisine.
Since opening its doors in March 2010, Osteria Mamma has become a beloved institution in Los Angeles, a beacon of authentic Italian fare amidst Hollywood’s glitz and glamour. Featured on Buzzfeed Food, LA Eater, and The LA Times, it’s no surprise that KTLA’s Dayna Devon calls it her favorite spot for homemade pasta. But beyond the accolades, what keeps Osteria Mamma thriving is a story of family, resilience, and the timeless comfort of tradition.
A Taste of Veneto, A Legacy of Love
At the helm of Osteria Mamma is Certified Sommelier and Co-Owner, Filippo Cortivo, whose journey is as rich and layered as the wines he expertly curates. Sitting down with Filippo is like opening a cherished family photo album—each dish, each story, a snapshot of a life lived with passion and purpose.
“I needed an excuse to have my mom close by,” Filippo shared, a fond smile creeping onto his face. “She’s always been an incredible cook—for 50 people or 7,000, no problem.” But turning that passion into a business wasn’t always on the table. Mamma Loredana had offers to open restaurants in Italy but always declined. It wasn’t until Filippo invited her to Los Angeles to teach his staff traditional recipes that the seed of Osteria Mamma was planted.
“The first day she arrived at my previous restaurant, I told everyone to watch and learn. But when no one showed up for work, she just looked at me and said, ‘Put the apron on.’ And that’s how it started.”
From Humble Beginnings to Hollywood Staple
With the family’s move to Los Angeles, the vision became clear—open a restaurant that wasn’t just about food but about preserving the soul of Italian cooking. After selling their first restaurant due to partnership conflicts, Filippo and his family opened Osteria Mamma, a place where Mamma herself was the heart of the kitchen until her passing.
But even in her absence, her legacy remains. “We have guys in the kitchen who started from zero with my mom,” Filippo said. “They know how she wanted things done, and if anything ever feels off, me or my sister step in. It’s about respect, tradition, and keeping her spirit alive.”
While Osteria Mamma is rooted in tradition, Filippo isn’t afraid to innovate. The restaurant’s new lunch menu features Italian panini sandwiches served on house-made focaccia, a nod to both classic flavors and modern tastes. “We used to make our own bread, and we still do, but we realized our focaccia was even better,” Filippo explained. “It’s a simple change, but it’s those little details that make a difference.”
One of Filippo’s favorites? The Bombay—a breaded chicken Milanese-style sandwich tucked between slices of golden focaccia. It’s a dish that speaks to both his roots and his culinary creativity.
The Heartbeat of Osteria: Mamma’s Recipes and Family Bonds
For Filippo, the secret to Osteria Mamma’s enduring success isn’t just in the ingredients—it’s in the love poured into every dish. “When we opened, we had a choice: serve what Americans think is Italian food or bring them the real, traditional flavors from our home in Veneto,” he said. “We chose tradition.”
Dishes like Risotto al Radicchio e Salsiccia (radicchio and sausage risotto) are more than just meals; they’re memories. “Growing up, we had big family lunches—sometimes 30 or 40 people. My mom loved seeing people happy around the table, and that’s what we want to recreate here.”
Even as the restaurant evolves, Filippo remains committed to his mother’s philosophy: food is about connection. Osteria Mamma isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place to belong.
Plus Filippo has no grand plans for expansion—his dream is to keep Osteria Mamma thriving as a family-run gem. “We don’t see this as just a business. It’s our home, and everyone who walks through those doors is part of our family.”
The Final Course: A Legacy That Lives On
In the end, Osteria Mamma isn’t just about food; it’s about legacy. It’s about Mamma Loredana’s unwavering belief in the power of a home-cooked meal and the family who ensures her spirit lives on in every plate served.
So, whether you’re savoring a plate of handmade pasta or biting into a focaccia sandwich, know this—you’re tasting more than just Italian cuisine. You’re experiencing a love letter to tradition, family, and the timeless joy of sharing a meal together.
In a city that never stops chasing the next big thing, Osteria Mamma stands as a testament to the beauty of staying true to your roots. It’s more than just a restaurant—it’s a slice of home, a celebration of tradition, and a reminder that the simplest meals often carry the deepest meaning. Come hungry, leave as family. Visit osteriamamma.com
Address: 5732 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles
Hours: Tuesday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.
Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.
Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.
Friday, 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday, 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m.
Sunday, 5–10 p.m.
Monday, 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m.
Photo credits: Image Courtesy of Lorenzo Dela Rama and Osteria Mamma
