Felix Trattoria

Winner of the Los Angeles AIA People's Choice Award. Felix was a dream project for the team giving us the opportunity to work with chef Evan Funke and his partner, of the Toronto-based Gusto 54 restaurant group, Janet Zuccarini. In developing the design direction for the restaurant, the primary consideration for Janet and Evan was that the space should feel warm and inviting, as if you were visiting someone’s home. They also wanted to enter into the Venice community respectfully by honoring its spirit of unpretentious approachability and authenticity. The 1920’s building is the former home of the Venice institution, Joe’s. The space flows through different rooms, as if it was a home in Naples that has been occupied by generations. The space is layered with understated Italian references, from the Gio Ponti inspired walnut millwork, to the Fornasetti wallcoverings and rich fabrics. Felix keeps true to its roots by featuring authentic vintage Italian light fixtures, pottery, and art throughout, adding to the inviting ambiance. The focal point of Felix’s dining room is the glass walled pasta lab. The pasta lab gives diners a unique opportunity to watch handmade pasta being made. The lab is clad in bold geometric black and Vespa-green tile. This color scheme carries through to the custom made iron and cane barstools in the lounge and the vintage inspired wallpaper in the rear dining room. Other touches of old world warmth and charm are found in the host stand that features Italian hand-marbled paper, and the classic black and white marble floors and bar top. These rich layered textures work together to transform the space into an intimate one-of-a-kind dining experience.