Less than a mile from Fullerton College campus is Angelo’s and Vinci’s Ristorante off North Harbor Boulevard. The restaurant specializes in authentic Italian food using recipes passed down from the late founder’s family, Steven Peck.

Peck was a former dancer, actor, and choreographer before he opened the restaurant in 1971. Peck played roles in movies such as “Some Came Running,” “I Spy,” “Johnny Cool,” and more. He also owned and ran two dance studios which is where the inspiration to open Angelo’s and Vinci’s came from. It was initially opened so that he could feed his dancers.

When he died at age 76 from cancer, Peck’s wife Cynthia took ownership of Angelo’s and Vinci’s.

The restaurant is well known for its décor and inspired by Peck’s life. From his family to his passions and interests, a piece of Peck is displayed in every corner and room of the restaurant. For private and intimate events there is the Stanza di Luna (Room of the Moon), which is hung with twinkling lights. There is also the Terrazza di Amor (Terrace of Love), where you can have a candlelit dinner on a balcony overlooking Downtown Fullerton.

For larger gatherings, there are three banquet rooms that each come with a dance floor, a disk jockey set up, a bar, and a private entrance; The Romeo and Juliet Room for a romantic setting, The Sicilian Room with Sicilian inspired décor, and The Venetian Room with Carnival inspired décor. Additionally, there is the Monster Wine Cellar which is dedicated to horror figures such as Dracula, Frankenstein, and other monsters from iconic horror films.

Because a large part of Angelo’s and Vinci’s appeal is attributed to its décor and overall ambiance, COVID-19 could have been detrimental for business. Luckily, the restaurant has overcome the hardships brought on by the pandemic and has been able to maintain stability.

The food has kept customer’s coming amidst the pandemic. The restaurant has a 4.5/5 star review on Google. In fact, their pizza won an award in 2004 for top pizza in Orange County.

“One of my favorite places to go and eat PIZZA! I travel 40 miles, thats how much I like it!,” wrote a Google reviewer of Angelo’s and Vinci’s.

Because of its raving reviews, award-winning pizza, and ability to stay busy even during a shutdown, this local gem is well worth giving a try.

Angelo’s and Vinci’s are currently available for outdoor dining, as well as to-go orders. It is open from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. every day and is typically expected to be busy throughout the entire business day, with weekends being the most impacted time. Visit their website for more information.