Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Modern Italian-Californian dishes with standout pastas and creative starters in a lively room; great for dates and celebrations, but expect high prices, loud acoustics, small portions, and a 4% surcharge.
Hippo delivers competitive quality on par with respected neighborhood destinations through exceptional food quality—duck ragu, scallops, and inventive vegetable starters showcase careful technique—and strong service knowledge. However, inconsistent execution with occasional oversalting and pacing issues alongside tight spacing and noise on busy nights prevent grade A territory. Michelin Guide recognition and loyal following affirm its standing as a worthwhile Highland Park destination for diners seeking creative Italian-Californian cooking.
Hippo buzzes with a warm, lively energy in Highland Park where servers guide you through pastas, seafood, and vegetable starters that feel both familiar and fresh. Diners rave that the duck ragu is "deep and satisfying," while another notes the room can be insanely loud on peak nights. Service often shines, though a few guests experienced slower pacing on busy evenings. The cooking leans modern Italian with global spice accents rather than strict tradition: think tandoori-spiced bass, aji panca chicken, and pristine crudo alongside silken tagliatelle and tortelloni. It suits diners who enjoy creative, produce-driven plates and polished cocktails; portions trend small, pricing is premium, and flavors skew bold over comfort. Expect an inventive menu crafted with strong ingredients and careful technique. For families, there is no formal kids menu but staff will do a simple pasta with butter and Parmesan on request; rolls, chicken thighs, and mellow pastas please many young eaters. If your crew prefers plain fare or big portions, plan to share an extra pasta or two, or choose the outdoor patio for a slightly quieter kid-friendlier setup.
Area: Trendy historic corridor drawing creatives and young families; bustling evenings with bar and restaurant traffic.
Safety: Generally safe with active foot traffic; typical urban caution at night.
Nearby: Along Figueroa near bars and boutiques; walkable nightlife cluster in Highland Park.
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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