Driving down Ventura Boulevard looking for a place to eat can be difficult. Not because of the lack of dining options, but for the exact opposite dilemma. Restaurants, cafes and coffee shops crowd the popular street.

Knowing where to go for great food at a reasonable price can save time and money. Il Tramezzino in Tarzana, Calif., is a popular Italian caf’eacute; located in the recently renovated Village Walk Plaza. It’s also a quick 15-minute drive from CSUN.

Locals like to refer to it as ‘Il Tram,’ for short. The caf’eacute; offers a varied menu including specialty salads and sandwiches, pasta and pizzas. Il Tram’s pizzas are handmade by using a special type of dough called filo, which is popular in Europe and has a great texture and consistency.

The caf’eacute; has both indoor and outdoor seating. The outside patio is well-shaded and is always buzzing with conversations from the patrons. Part of the appeal of Il Tramezzino is its similarity to trendy Los Angeles caf’eacute;s that are as much about atmosphere and the style of customers, as it is about the food.

The food is rather standard Italian cuisine, with no particularly exceptional items. There’s enough of a selection, however, to satisfy a group of friends grabbing a quick bite or for those who want to enjoy a leisurely lunch.

The grilled chicken breast Italian sandwich for $10.95 is served on grilled bread with cheese, tomatoes and roasted bell peppers. The flavors complement each other well and the bread is crunchy and delicious.

The penne arabbiata priced at $8.50 is served with spicy tomato sauce and the pasta is cooked to perfection. The large portion makes it a great dish to share with friends. Many people order a salad to start with and then share entrees, such as splitting the sandwiches and pizzas. Il Tramezzino has a relaxed atmosphere that truly allows customers to unwind and enjoy meals while having long conversations with their friends.

Although alcohol, mostly beer and wine, is also served at the caf’eacute;, the real indulgence is actually the dessert menu. One of the most popular dessert items has to be the Nutella croissant, combining the best of both worlds.

The Nutella croissant at Il Tramezzino is not served on your typical French croissant. Instead, the restaurant serves up a crunchy alternative. For $4.50, diners can satisfy their sweet tooth with a croissant sliced up into several pieces filled with just the right amount of Nutella, a chocolate spread, sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Il Tramezzino is a great caf’eacute; for people interested in spending a couple of hours with friends, in a relaxed atmosphere, that serves good food at a decent price.

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Il Tramezzino
18636 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana, CA 91356

Monday thru Thursday:
10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m.- 10 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m.- 10 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.