Restaurant: chi SPACCA [1, 2, 3, 4]
Location: 6610 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038. (323) 297-1130
Date: April 29, 2025
Cuisine: Italian steakhouse
Rating: Fat is Flavor!
The little Mozza empire on Melrose now includes the Pizzeria, the Osteria, Chi Spacca, and Mozza 2 go. They do a great job with all their restaurants but their annoying corkage policy (2 bottles per table!) has limited my ability to attend. I only go to this sort of place with my wine groups (my wife being a near vegetarian) and so the limits make it near impossible. But anyway they do have a good (if pricey) Italian wine list and so it’s workable with 3-4 people.
Tongue in the background and charcuterie. The tongue is tender and mildly beefy, while the charcuterie brings a salty, aromatic richness and a pleasant chew.
Cheesy focaccia. Airy and olive-oil-brushed, with a gentle chew and a dimpled top bronzed under a blanket of melty, savory cheese.
Caesar Salad (with lots of parm and a hint of orange zest). Crisp greens and a creamy, garlicky dressing provide a savory backbone, while the bright zest keeps it lively.
Scotch Egg. A golden, crunchy breadcrumb shell encases seasoned sausage around a soft, jammy-centered egg—savory, rich, and deeply satisfying.
Bone Marrow Pie. So rich and so good. Silky marrow melts into a flaky crust with deep, roasted beefiness.
Shrooms!
Smaller bistecca. Juicy and beefy with a good char, the petite cut feels satisfying without being heavy.
Lemon tart. Bright, zesty curd in a crisp, buttery crust—silky, puckery, and clean on the finish.
Rhubarb pie. Tart-sweet and jammy, with ruby juices and a flaky, buttery crust.
The 2019 Bisci Verdicchio di Matelica Vigneto Fogliano is a captivating white wine from the Marche region of Italy. This expression showcases bright acidity, floral notes, and hints of citrus and green apple, making it a refreshing choice. It pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, particularly grilled calamari or a light shrimp salad.
The 2003 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon, hailing from the esteemed vineyards of Mount Veeder in Napa Valley, presents a rich and complex profile. With deep layers of dark fruit, cedar, and a touch of tobacco, this wine is robust yet elegant. Its full-bodied structure allows it to complement hearty fare such as a grilled ribeye or braised lamb shanks flawlessly.
The 2001 Rudd Oakville Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a stunning representation of Napa Valley craftsmanship. This vintage offers opulent
The Rudd Oakville Estate 2001 is a bold Napa Valley red that delights with its intricate layers of dark fruit, cocoa, and subtle oak. Full-bodied and velvety on the palate, this wine exudes sophistication and depth, making it an exemplary representation of its region. Perfectly paired with roasted lamb or a charcuterie board, it enhances both the complexity of the dish and the experience of enjoying a fine wine.