Casa Nostra

1515 Palisades Dr., off Sunset, (310) 454-8889. L-D daily; $$. Reservations advised.

wine, water, and a view at Casa Nostra in Pacific Palisades, California

Tucked away in a canyon in the Santa Monica mountains, this Italian spot provides a spectacular view of the hills from its parking lot and a satisfactory view from the front of its extensive sheltered patio. The large and open indoor dining room is pleasant, too. The menu features many usual items, including pizza, but it is worthwhile to note that the ravioli, pappardelle, and gnocchi are housemade and delish. My dining partner and I split a colorful bruschetta plate piled high with colorful diced tomatoes, a satisfying chopped vegetable salad, and a perfect order of pumpkin-stuffed ravioli in a sage butter sauce. We left stuffed, and happy, too.