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Marcello Ristorante

Marcello Ristorante, 140 W Hillcrest Dr, Thousand Oaks

4.4
RESTAURANT RATING: 
EXCELLENT
4.4 out of 5 (18 Ratings)
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2.5 miles California State University Channel Islands
About Marcello Ristorante
The Spotlight on Marcello Ristorante

Authentic Italian Flavors in the Heart of Thousand Oaks

Marcello Ristorante is a cozy, family-owned Italian restaurant in Thousand Oaks, just minutes from local music venues and performance spaces. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and traditional menu, this charming spot delivers a relaxed yet refined dining experience that perfectly balances pre-show excitement with classic comfort. Expect authentic Italian cuisine served with a personal touch, all in a setting that feels like a neighborhood favorite.

Why Concert-goers love it

Marcello Ristorante is ideally located for a pre-concert dinner—less than a 10-minute drive from most live music venues in the area. Guests love the efficient, friendly service that gets them in and out in time for the show. The ambiance is quiet enough for conversation but lively enough to get you in the mood for a night out. And with its generous portions and satisfying pasta dishes, it’s a great way to fuel up before taking in a performance.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends sharing antipasti and wine before the show
  • Solo travelers looking for a relaxed sit-down meal with great service
  • Couples kicking off a romantic evening with candlelit Italian dining
  • Fans wanting a low-key but stylish pre-show spot
  • Budget-conscious music lovers who want quality without the splurge

What People Say

Diners rave about the house-made pastas, welcoming service, and intimate setting. Many reviewers highlight the authentic feel of the dishes, comparing them to meals enjoyed in Italy. The wine list, while not extensive, is well-curated and reasonably priced. Locals often mention that this is their go-to spot for both casual dinners and special occasions, thanks to its consistently high-quality food and relaxed vibe.

Areas for Improvement

Some guests note the dining room is on the smaller side, which can mean a tight squeeze during busy hours. Reservations are recommended, especially on concert nights. While the menu is traditional, those looking for modern twists or fusion dishes won’t find them here—it’s classic Italian all the way.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a reliable, charming Italian restaurant to enjoy before a show, Marcello Ristorante delivers comfort, flavor, and friendly service just minutes from the stage.

Average Price
$31 to $50
Cuisine
Italian
Opening Hours
Mon-Thu 5:30 pm-9:00 pm
Fri, Sat 5:30 pm-9:30 pm
Sun 5:00 pm-8:30 pm

Marcello Ristorante Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Marcello Ristorante is #8 of 286 things to do in Thousand Oaks

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: William G
Fri 4 Apr, 2025
l We love the great Italian food and the people! The decor is a cut above. You can skip the menu as there are nightly specials, or go to the menu for your favorites. We try to eat there regularly...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Stargateman, Orange County, California
Thu 6 Jul, 2023
l As appetizers, we had Burrata (tomato, buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto) and Tortino Melanzane (eggplant and cheese) which were both excellent although the eggplant was a bit better in our opinion. As...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Julianne5
Fri 4 Dec, 2020
l Amazing Italian cuisine! Our favorite couples restaurant for a romantic evening. Never disappoints from start to finish-

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Marcello Ristorante 140 W Hillcrest Dr, Thousand Oaks