"What were your first impressions when you arrived? It's hard not to feel like you've just walked into what promises to be the best night of your life—well, perhaps of your week–the moment you step inside Mother Wolf, set within the 1931 art deco Hollywood Citizen News building. The massive Romanesque dining room is ornate and opulent (yet keeps a safe distance from kitschy Vegas vibes), the crowd is boisterous, the food is delicious and plentiful. What’s the crowd like? Look around and you're likely to spot an actor, a model, or maybe a rock star - or at the very least, they just look the part. Everyone is here to have a good time, and Mother Wolf delivers. What should we be drinking? Expect classic Italian cocktails and adventurous wines from Piemonte, Sicilia, Campania and Veneto Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. Chef Evan Funke brings his usual passion and fatto a mano (made by hand) dedication to Mother Wolf, his ode to Rome in the heart of Hollywood. The rigatonicini with oxtail ragu is nothing short of a revelation. Tender and flaky, the branzino is grilled to perfection. The pizza is airy, light and crispy. The torta di ricotta with figs and raspberries is to die for. And how did the front-of-house folks treat you? Mother Wolf can seat an impressive 150 people and the staff, with a smile on their face and a pep in their step, seem to manage the packed room just fine. Though you might see them break a sweat now and then — the space is huge, after all. What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? Dishes are generous and meant to be shared so go with a group of friends or on a double date. You'll be in for a good time and, if you're doing it right, for a long time." - Celeste Moure
