Restaurants & Bars

Popular LA Italian Staple Osteria La Buca Opens In Sherman Oaks

A popular Southland Italian eatery in Melrose has opened a second location in Sherman Oaks.

SHERMAN OAKS, CA — A casual Italian joint that is considered to be a Southland staple has opened up a second location in Sherman Oaks. Osteria La Buca has mastered the take-out method in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic and even offers take-home pasta kits.

While the original location in Melrose is known for its ambiance — drawing cocktail sippers and lovers of simple, traditional Italian dishes alike — the Sherman Oaks joint on Ventura Boulevard is only offering take-out, for now.

But Osteria La Buca has proven over the course of several months that it isn't just the popular joint's warm and welcoming design that draws customers. The eatery has withstood the early lockdown days and adapted to life during a pandemic by offering grocery delivery services and quality takeout amid several challenges.

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Back in June, an employee tested positive, according to multiple reports.

"We’ve had the luxury of building a rainy day fund," owner Stephen Sakulsky told Eater L.A. "…That’s why we do these things, so we can be prepared for this.”

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While customers may miss with red brick walls and rose hued walnut tables of the original location before the pandemic, they are still able to enjoy takeout cocktails and meals in a seating area outside of Osteria La Buca's Melrose location.

And as for Sherman Oaks, customers can look forward to comfort staples such as short rib ravioli, chopped salads, chicken parmesan, tiramisu, meatball subs and tomahawk pork chop.

Osteria La Buca in Melrose also offers a grocery service, offering pick-up and delivery. "Buca Grocers" offers veggies, prepared food and alcohol. Find more information here.

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