Felix Trattoria has opened in Los Angeles’ Venice neighborhood with interiors by Wendy Haworth Design and architecture from locally based David Hertz, in collaboration with with construction management firm Shawmut Design and Construction.
From chef Evan Funke, the restaurant is the first U.S. outpost from Janet Zuccarini and the Canadian restaurant group Gusto 54. The existing 2,492-square-foot restaurant space was demolished, while wood floors, exposed wood roof, and historical façade were all preserved. The existing open-air patio was also overhauled into an enclosed dining area.
The eclectic setting mixes modern elements with nods to Old World Italy, embracing natural light and a relaxing beachside flair. A focal point of the dining room is chef Funke’s pasta laboratory, where guests can watch the chef make pasta by hand through steel framed windows surrounded by vibrant tiled walls. The kitchen was also upgraded with a wood-burning pizza oven, while a vintage Italian chandelier adorns the new bar.
