Hollywood’s dining scene is graced by the arrival of Da Barbara, an intimate culinary experience crafted by Chef Barbara Pollastrini. Nestled discreetly in a corner of Hollywood within an unparalleled private and enchanting ambiance, Da Barbara invites patrons into a realm of refined, contemporary Italian-inspired cuisine.
Da Barbara quietly launched in December 2023 with a tasting menu format (4-courses for $85; 5-courses for $120; 6-courses for $145) and now offers dishes à la carte, along with the introduction of lunch service beginning in May.
Chef Barbara Pollastrini, hailing from Rome with a dream to introduce her eponymous culinary vision to Los Angeles, showcases her unwavering dedication to presenting innovative Italian cuisine. Recently recognized with the prestigious 2-fork award by Gambero Rosso, the global authority on Italian food, Da Barbara promises guests a rich tapestry of Italian flavors, meticulously crafted with the freshest seasonal produce sourced locally and imported from Italy.
“I am thrilled to unveil Da Barbara to the discerning palates of Hollywood. Purely a labor of love and my dream for as long as I can remember, I want to give my guests the feeling that they’re coming over to my home to enjoy a meal with me. It’s a unique dining experience unlike anything else I’ve seen pulled off in Los Angeles,” Pollastrini said.
The intimate setting transcends an ordinary dinner out in Hollywood. Unlike a traditional restaurant built in a commercial space with a robust staff and full brigade, Pollastrini manifests her intricate menu single-handedly from a compact kitchen in front of guests. With an energy akin to a dinner party, guests are seated comfortably at one of eight tables, either on the first floor or upstairs. Each floor can accommodate up to 12 guests at a time. The design exudes timeless elegance, with rich green hues, plush furnishings, and soft lighting creating an inviting atmosphere ideal for date nights, group gatherings, and secluded meetings.
Pollastrini’s symphony of courses highlights the best of authentic Italian ingredients and locally sourced produce, seamlessly blending Italian tradition with California’s bounty. From delicate handmade pastas crafted with imported Italian flours and cheeses to succulent seafood sourced from the waters of Santa Barbara, alongside refreshing desserts featuring farmers’ market favorites, each dish exemplifies the harmonious fusion of Italian tradition with Southern California’s abundance. Additionally, an appealing corkage policy attracts wine connoisseurs and collectors, allowing them to enjoy their favorite bottles optimally alongside Pollastrini’s creations.
This venture marks Pollastrini’s first solo endeavor after nearly two decades in Los Angeles, where she made a mark as a food stylist, private chef, and in local restaurants. Her appearances on cooking shows (Food Network, Discovery Channel) and exclusive collaborative dinners (Rossoblu, the Pasta Sisters) have captivated diners with variations on her signature blue pasta—a fresh dough made with spirulina to create a vibrant sapphire hue.
Da Barbara promises to be a sanctuary for food aficionados and wine-minded dining enthusiasts. As Hollywood’s best-kept secret, Pollastrini anticipates savvy diners ready to embark on an innovative culinary journey.
