Old Italian fave remains the same

In 2004, Fullerton fave, Il Ghiotto changed its name to the easier-to-spell Spadra, which used to be the name of Harbor Boulevard (the street it faces). If there's one thing Spadra appreciates, it's history. Other fine Italian restaurants might hang posters of Italy on their walls — at Spadra, they hang framed photographs of historic downtown Fullerton. Most restaurants use their menu copy to talk about food. Spadra's menu copy barely mentions fine Italian dining before waxing historical about the building, which actually dates back to 1917 and used to serve as the Pacific Electric Railroad Station.

This sense of history extends to the clientele, most of which seem to have been coming to this place forever. Maybe it's because with copious upstairs, downstairs and patio seating, there's little chance you'll have to wait too long for a seat (though reservations are recommended). Or maybe it's because of the fine Italian menu which features cold and hot appetizers, salads and quite a number of regional pasta, chicken, veal, fish and beef dishes. Either way the fancy-schmancy vibe of the place and just-expensive-enough prices make it the perfect venue for that intimate anniversary, birthday, will-you-marry me dinner.
— Ernessa T. Carter

 For reservations, please dial (714) 447-0775. Thank You.