Macaluso's Competitors

Maria's Italian Kitchens often remind guests of the casual, sometimes boisterous, neighborhood eateries of another era. Each Maria's Italian Kitchen is a direct descendant of the Alfano family's take-out kitchen that Maria Alfano opened in 1975. Growing up in Hoboken New Jersey, Maria learned all the delicious nuances of Napolitano family recipes, soups, dressings, pasta dishes and other regional Italian foods from her mother, Luisa, who was born in Naples, Italy. She must have learned her lessons well because that first Maria's Italian Kitchen was a huge success. In 1985, Maria’s daughter, Madelyn Alfano followed in her footsteps and opened the first table-service Maria’s Italian Kitchen in Sherman Oaks. Madelyn ultimately expanded the successful concept to nine more locations, and still personally supervises the kitchens and oversees all the restaurants. Each one carries on the Alfano tradition of warmhearted service, painstaking attention to detail, and a commitment to using only the highest quality ingredients. To this day, Maria’s Italian Kitchen is proud to be a family-run operation. And we will welcome you like a member of our own family.

Giovanni’s Pizzeria & Kitchen is a neighborhood Italian kitchen guided by heritage and crafted by heart. Since 1994, we’ve been bringing people together around handcrafted pizza, timeless Italian favorites, generous portions, and genuine hospitality. Our approach is rooted in tradition, from scratch-made recipes and quality ingredients to the care and craftsmanship that goes into every plate. More than a place to grab a great meal, Giovanni’s is built to feel like part of the neighborhood. We believe in warm welcomes, familiar faces, and creating a place where guests can gather, connect, and leave feeling full and fulfilled.