"We've lived in the Sherman Oaks environs for many years but we've never eaten at Spumoni Italian restaurant until recently. This past week, we were taken to Spumoni by some friends who have dined here before and were welcomed by the owner with genuine open arms. Since it was an early weekday night, there was no crowd so we were seated immediately. The place is sort of a non-descriptive room with minimal decorations but clean and pleasant. The waitstaff was quick and attentive and served an unordered plate of crushed black olives, olive oil and wine vinegar along with good pieces of sour dough bread as a starter. For my dinner, I ordered Ciopino and my wife had Spaghetti and meatballs. The food came quickly, well prepared, hot and tasty. I've had Ciopino many times before and this order was average, at best. It had a fair sampling of shell fish bathed in a fairly bland red sauce (my fault-I had requested limited spiciness). The plate was of moderate size, I guess, commensurate with the high cost, these days, of the ingredients. My wife's Spaghetti and meatballs was average, also but, she enjoyed it. Our co-diners ordered wine which we only sipped since we are not drinkers. Following the main course, we were served a portion of Tiramasu as a gratis dessert and this was enjoyed by all. The owner stood by and was ready and willing to engage with his diners and was very friendly. The price for this meal with the wine was fair and, if we want an Italian style dinner again, we'd consider Spumoni. Parking, limited in amount was free and right behind the restaurant as well as on Ventura Blvd. with parking meters as on any commercial street. So, in summary, this visit was good but not superb and can act as a nice local Italian eatery,. Food: 3 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 4"
