[Oski]

I live in SoCal. and I would also like to reap the benefits of this thread. Unfortunately, I don't have any real "great ones" to add to the list.

I do like "Bella Sera" in Monrovia, its not too pricey or upscale; but it is certainly not the checkered tablecloth type either.

One hint. I am of the understanding that there are some nice, authentic Italian restaurants in San Pedro. Not only have I heard such by word of mouth, but I have seen some featured on Cooking Channel (I think it was called, America's best..something or other).

Anyway, maybe some others have been there.

Best Italian food in U.S.? Let's hear from you.
I have seen a few sources say Boston; I have heard many say Cleveland. The best I had domestically, was in San Francisco (I have not been to Boston or Cleveland).

Best, overall was in Sienna, with Cinque Terre and Venice a close second (they were in the photo-finish). Of course, to further the debate, one should distinquish between Northen, Southern, and Coastal Italian foods.