Introduction to Bianca Sicilian Trattoria
Italian-born chef Michele Galifi wants to take people on a trip to Sicily through a route lined with the house-made pastas, antipasto, steaks, seafood dishes and pizzas he’s creating at his latest restaurant, Bianca Sicilian Trattoria.
“What I feel is that I’m bringing the Sicilian culture, Sicilian flavors and hospitality here to L.A.,” said Galifi, who was born and raised in Palermo, Sicily, where he discovered his love for cooking at 8 years old while working alongside his father in the family restaurant.
“Once people walk through the door I want them to feel transported to a different space and time,” he added.
The Restaurant’s Ambiance
The chef, who previously opened Casa Mia Sicilian Restaurant in La Puente and Farina Pizza in Koreatown, opened Bianca in late September. It’s housed in a 1931 corner building that sports a brick facade with a weathered look, which makes it seem as if the restaurant has been there for decades. But with its marble bar, wood floor and teal and gold accents, the interior gives it a more modern vibe that fits in with the trendy Arts District neighborhood in Downtown Los Angeles. The restaurant also offers patio seating.
The Menu
But of course it’s the food that Galifi hopes will keep his customers coming back.
“I do take dishes that are traditional and what I do is elevate them on the look and the way we treat the elements of the dish,” he said.
Italian-born chef Michele Galifi is serving house-made pastas, antipasto, steaks and seafood dishes at his latest restaurant Bianca Sicilian Trattoria. (photo by Jakob Layman)
Some of the star dishes include the Aglio & Olio. It’s a pasta dish made with Mafalde pasta, anchovies, roasted garlic, lemon, parsley and toasted bread crumbs.
“This is the most simple but most flavorful pasta. I would say this is an icon of Sicilian pasta,” he said.
Signature Dishes
Another highlight on the menu is the Polpo, a roasted tentacle with octopus salad. It’s a traditional sous vide dish that sits for six hours in extra virgin olive oil and bay leaves. The octopus is seared right before it’s served so the outside is crispy while remaining tender inside.
Italian-born chef Michele Galifi is serving house-made pastas, antipasto, steaks and seafood dishes at his latest restaurant Bianca Sicilian Trattoria. (photo by Jakob Layman)
“You get almost this crazy flavor of acidity, a hint of charredness and it’s really tender. Obviously if you love octopus this is your dish,” Galifi said.
For those coming in for the first time he also recommends the Burratina, an antipasto made with pistachio crumbs, figs, basil and aged balsamico as well as the Arancine, which are fried rice balls filled with cotto, mozzarella and bechamel sauce.
“In Sicily this is a staple, it’s street food that you find everywhere,” he said, referring to the Arancine.
Italian-born chef Michele Galifi is serving house-made pastas, antipasto, steaks and seafood dishes at his latest restaurant Bianca Sicilian Trattoria. (photo by Jakob Layman)
Future Plans
Galifi first made a name for himself with his pizzas at Farina Pizza. While they’re not on the menu at Bianca yet, the chef said he is working on new pies and will be serving them by the end of the month.
Restaurant Information
Bianca Sicilian Trattoria
Where: 1200 E. 5th St., Los Angeles
Hours: 5-11 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday
Information: 213-915-0052 or biancasiciliantrattoria.com
Conclusion
With its unique blend of traditional Sicilian dishes and modern twists, Bianca Sicilian Trattoria is a must-visit destination for foodies in the LA Arts District. Chef Michele Galifi’s passion for bringing the flavors of Sicily to Los Angeles is evident in every dish, and his commitment to using only the freshest ingredients ensures that every meal is a delicious and memorable experience.
FAQs
Q: What type of cuisine does Bianca Sicilian Trattoria serve?
A: Bianca Sicilian Trattoria serves traditional Sicilian cuisine with a modern twist.
Q: Where is Bianca Sicilian Trattoria located?
A: Bianca Sicilian Trattoria is located at 1200 E. 5th St., Los Angeles.
Q: What are the hours of operation for Bianca Sicilian Trattoria?
A: Bianca Sicilian Trattoria is open from 5-11 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.
Q: Can I make a reservation at Bianca Sicilian Trattoria?
A: Yes, you can make a reservation by calling 213-915-0052 or visiting their website at biancasiciliantrattoria.com.
Originally Published: October 7, 2025 at 10:19 AM PDT
