The Italian restaurant elevates Calabrian cuisine with innovative vegan options in a rustic yet elegant setting.
Civico 2064, the latest culinary gem from the famed Civico 1845 team in San Diego, opened its doors in Los Feliz August 5. Continuing the legacy of their celebrated original location, brothers Dario and Pietro Gallo are set to redefine the Los Angeles Italian dining scene. This new venture offers a refined blend of traditional Calabrian cuisine and a contemporary, vegan-friendly twist, all served up in a rustic yet modern setting.
Interior of Civico 2064 Photo by Jakob Layman
A New Chapter in “Calabr-ifornia” Cuisine
Building on the success of Civico 1845, a cornerstone of San Diego’s Little Italy since 2015, Civico 2064 promises a rich menu that merges the culinary heritage of Calabria with health-conscious innovations. The Gallo brothers are known for their commitment to fresh, light, and coastal Italian dishes, using organic, seasonal, and farm-sourced ingredients.
Chef Pietro emphasizes, “Nearly half of our menu is dedicated to vegan Italian dishes. We aim to offer meals that are both delicious and health-conscious, using seasonal vegetables, premium tomatoes, and Italian olive oil. We’ve perfected our vegan versions of classic Italian ingredients, such as rice-based mozzarella, ricotta from almond cream and soy milk bechamel, to create dishes like lasagna that are both satisfying and innovative.”
Vegan Lasagna Photo by Kevin Preval
Plant-Based Innovation at Civico 2064
Chef Pietro’s expertise, honed under Italy’s leading vegan chefs, is reflected in Civico 2064’s plant-based menu. The vegan Milanese, featuring a breaded and fried eggplant cutlet topped with rich tomato sauce and vegan mozzarella, is a menu highlight. Other offerings include house-made vegan ricotta using almond cream, vegan Parmigiano made from nuts and nutritional yeast, and a vegan ragù with plant-based Beyond Meat. Partnering with Los Angeles-based Orto Farm, Civico 2064 ensures the freshest heirloom tomatoes, zucchini, basil, and herbs, offering a genuine “Calabr-ifornia” dining experience.
Vegan Milanese Courtesy of Kevin Preval
Rustic Elegance and Arte Povera Influence
The restaurant’s design, crafted by Agostino Sannino of Itaca Design Studio, blends modern elegance with rustic charm. Civico 2064’s interior features a bright, white-washed, shabby chic style, with natural and reclaimed materials creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Brick barrel arches, reminiscent of Italian wine caves, and metallic accents add a contemporary touch. Drawing inspiration from the Arte Povera movement, Sannino incorporates reclaimed materials like pots and pans, enhancing the trattoria-style charm. Mixed chairs and strategically placed plants complete the homey feel, making Civico 2064 a perfect setting for communal dining.
Interior of Civico 2064 Photo by Jakob Layman
Civico 2064 is located at 2064 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 and opens daily from 5pm. Reservations can be made through OpenTable.
