Drago Brothers Tanino, Giacomino and Calogero Join Forces Again to Blend Authentic Regional Italian Cuisine with Warm Service and the Renowned Drago Charm
(Sherman Oaks, CA) May 20, 2004

Panzanella Restaurant and Bar, located at 14928 Ventura Blvd. in Sherman Oaks, opened after much anticipation in early 2004 to a Valley of eagerly awaiting loyal Drago customers.

Tanino, Giacomino and Calogero Drago, a trio of brother restaurateurs with long-successful establishments such as Tanino Ristorante Bar (Westwood), Il Pastaio, Piccolo Paradiso (Beverly Hills) and Celestino (Pasadena), have expanded their reach to bring the Drago tastes, charm and service a little closer to home for their loyal San Fernando Valley diners.
"We really had no choice," explained Giacomino, "our customers demanded it.” With this space becoming available we knew right away it would be the perfect location for our next restaurant.”
“ In a way, it is a thank you for those who have driven over the hill to the Westside to dine at our seven other family-owned restaurants for so long," added Tanino.

Prepared by chefs Tanino Drago, Giacomino Drago and Marco Pizzola, The Panzanella menu includes many of the Drago classics such as Tortelloni di Zucca, homemade tortelloni stuffed with pumpkin in a sage cream sauce, Risotto al Nero di Seppie, Carnaroli rice with squid ink, shrimp, scallops and calamari; and Panna Cotta con Frutti di Bosco, creamy custard with mixed fresh berries. Additional specialties include Baccala Mantecato, a salted cod fish mousse with grilled polenta; Fegato D’Oca al Mosta, sautéed foie gras with grilled Trevisian radicchio and mosto sauce; Strozzapreti Con Ragout di Piovra, homemade pasta with octopus ragu; and Costolette D’Agnello Scottadito, grilled Colorado lamb chops with a white balsamic mint sauce.
With the floor and operations led by the congenial Calogero Drago, all guests enter to the familiar face and warm welcome that is a signature aspect of Drago dining. Sophisticated yet comforting cooking, a well-chosen wine list and now a convenient location have made Panzanella an instant hit.
Located in the heart of Sherman Oaks, Panzanella possesses a warm and inviting atmosphere. A decorative bar graces the entry and a two-sided open dining area has comfortably spaced tables, banquets and generous booths. The restaurant has three private rooms that seat 20 guests each and can be opened up to one large room that seat 70. With a total dining area capable of seating 140, Panzanella offers full-service event planning and catering for private parties, corporate luncheons and dinners both at the restaurant and off-premises.

Panzanella is open from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Monday – Friday for lunch and 5:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Monday - Thursday for dinner. Friday – Saturday their dinner hours are extended to 11:00 p.m.

Valet parking is available and the dress is casual to elegant. Panzanella accepts most major credit cards. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling the restaurant directly at (818) 784-4400.