Forma

Where Italian tradition meets theatrical presentation, Forma Los Angeles transforms the humble cheese wheel into culinary theater, elevating formaggio from accompaniment to star performer across two distinctive locations in Santa Monica and Venice. Executive Chef Piero Topputo and General Manager Mario Sabatini founded Forma in 2015 with a revolutionary vision: making cheese the centerpiece of the dining experience. Drawing from Topputo's Puglian heritage and years of California restaurant experience, the duo developed the signature "dalla forma" technique.

Their Santa Monica flagship on historic Montana Avenue quickly gained a devoted following, leading to Venice expansion in 2020. The concept emerged from guest enthusiasm for their experimental cheese wheel pasta specials, inspiring a dedicated restaurant where over 70 artisanal cheeses from Italy, France, Spain, and America take center stage. Forma's contemporary Italian menu revolves around the mesmerizing tableside preparation where fresh pasta meets hollowed-out wheels of Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, and Bella Lodi.

Signature dishes include Tortellini with mushrooms and truffle oil tossed in Bella Lodi, Chitarra Cacio e Pepe finished in Pecorino Romano, and the dramatic Burnt Spaghetti Assassina with arrabbiata. Beyond pasta, the kitchen crafts grilled Spanish octopus with lentils and harissa, Mediterranean Branzino with roasted vegetables, and rich Pappardelle with wild boar ragout. Chef Topputo's philosophy, inspired by his mother's cooking, emphasizes quality ingredients over heavy sauces, celebrating exceptional olive oil, tomatoes, and cheese in their purest forms.

The restaurant's modern yet warm atmosphere centers around the prominent cheese bar, where guests witness the theatrical pasta preparations while sampling from the extensive cheese selection. The open-concept main dining room flows seamlessly into intimate spaces, including a semi-private room accommodating 24 guests and a traditional bar with high-top tables. Venice mixologist Vincenzo Marianella crafts exclusive cocktails like the "110 Navy" with bourbon and Cynar, while the Italian and Northern California wine program perfectly complements the cheese-forward cuisine.

Service balances neighborhood warmth with refined professionalism, with knowledgeable staff guiding guests through cheese pairings and wine selections. Forma represents Los Angeles fine dining at its most innovative yet approachable, where the ancient art of cheese-making meets contemporary culinary theater. Reservations are recommended.