I Tried a Cult Favorite Dessert in Los Angeles and It Was Every Bit as Good as They Say

People lose their minds over the Butterscotch Budino at Pizzeria Mozza, so we had to find out if it actually lives up to the hype. This dessert has its own fan base and somehow manages to steal the spotlight from some of the best pizza in Los Angeles. Created by Nancy Silverton, the Budino is rich, creamy, and impossible to forget. One bite in, we got it. Here is why this dessert deserves the obsession.

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What Is Butterscotch Budino

Butterscotch Budino is a creamy and smooth dessert, kind of like pudding, made with a sweet butterscotch flavor.

It’s usually topped with caramel sauce and sometimes served with whipped cream or cookies. It’s velvety in texture and can be combined with other flavors like chocolate and fruit.

Why Try The Butterscotch Budino At Pizzeria Mozza

A close-up photo of a dessert in a glass with a dollop of white cream on top, next to a small pastry with a rosemary leaf on it, on a table with a lit candle in a dimly lit restaurant. — Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

You know it’s going to be good when Julia Child once cried after tasting one of Nancy’s desserts!

An award-winning chef, Nancy Silverton is a pioneer when it comes to California cuisine. Using fresh ingredients from Southern California farms, she puts her twist on Italian recipes.

Nancy’s expertise in bread-making initially brought her into the culinary spotlight, and she has since built 3 acclaimed restaurants at Melrose and Highland, including Pizzeria Mozza, Osteria Mozza and chi Spacca – all of them are Michelin-starred.

The Butterscotch Budino at Mozza was created by both Nancy Silverton and pastry chef Dahlia Narvaez. This iconic pudding also includes caramel sauce, crème fraîche and Maldon sea salt with pine nut rosemary cookies.

Dahlia added caramel and sea salt to the pudding, while Nancy added the cookies. This vegetarian dessert is priced at $16 on its LA menu.

While this dessert isn’t easy to replicate, it has gained a cult following, becoming a must-try for both locals and tourists visiting LA.

What’s It Like: Butterscotch Budino at Pizzeria Mozza

Although it’s usually best to reserve a table at Pizzeria Mozza, we decided to take a chance and walked in around 9:30 pm, hoping for a spot. Luckily, there were open tables and once of them set just for the two of us to enjoy our dessert.

As we settled into our seats, we asked for hot water, and the waiter brought us each a small tea kettle filled with hot water, pouring it into our cups. This small gesture added a touch of sophistication to our experience.

Then came the Butterscotch Budino. This dessert was unlike anything we had tasted before. Its rich butterscotch flavor, complemented by the caramel sauce and a dollop of fresh whipped cream, was so good yet surprisingly not overly sweet.

Each spoonful of Butterscotch Budino is a harmonious blend of flavors, with the creamy texture perfectly balancing the sweetness.

The Butterscotch Budino pairs perfectly with the pine nut rosemary cookies, creating a balance of textures and tastes. The buttery crunchy texture of the cookies, infused with pine nuts and rosemary, complements the creamy caramel of the budino.

We were surprised at how it satisfied our sweet tooth without leaving us feeling overloaded with sugar.

A photo of a dessert in a glass halfway eaten with a spoon in it, on a table with white plates and a cup in a restaurant with dim lighting. — Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

This dessert was the most expensive we’ve ever had – comparable to an entrée for one! But we were paying for more than just a dessert – we were paying for an experience.

The ambiance of Pizzeria Mozza *chef’s kiss* – with lit candles on each table, dim lighting, and a distant fire coming from the pizza oven, the restaurant had a romantic and cozy atmosphere. You can also hear the sounds of talking and laughter and clinking cutlery – adding to the dining experience.

It wasn’t just about the taste; the whole experience of enjoying this dessert at Pizzeria Mozza is what makes it special.

How To Get To Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles

Pizzeria Mozza is located near the corner of Melrose and Highland. If you’re driving, add this address to your Google Maps: 641 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036.

The restaurant offers valet parking for $15. Or you can look for street parking along Melrose Avenue or on the neighboring streets. Look for the “Piazza Mozza” street sign that’s right in front of the restaurant.

A street sign at night that reads 'PIAZZA MOZZA' with a tree next to it, and cars parked in the background under streetlights. — Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

You’ll need a bit of patience to find a spot. We found a spot just a block away from the restaurant. Just be sure to check the street signs for any parking restrictions.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free journey, consider Uber or Lyft. It’s a great option if you’re not familiar or comfortable with LA’s streets and its parking rules or if you plan to drink a glass of wine or two with your meal.

If you’re taking public transit, the closest bus stops to Pizzeria Mozza are Melrose / Highland for Metro 10 bus and Melrose/Highland for Metro 10/48 bus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the word budino?

In Italian cuisine, budino refers to a type of dessert that is similar to a pudding or custard. The word itself comes from the Latin term “botellinus,” which means “small sausage.”

How do you pronounce budino?

In Italian, the phonetic pronunciation would be “boo-dee-noh.” The emphasis is placed on the second syllable, with a slight lingering on the “d” sound.

What is the difference between budino and flan?

Budino is like a thick pudding cooked on the stove, while flan is a smooth, jiggly dessert baked with caramel on top.

What is the difference between budino and panna cotta?

Budino is creamy and made with eggs and milk, but panna cotta is wobbly but firm because it’s made with cream and gelatin.

How do I make a butterscotch budino?

While it isn’t easy to replicate, some have re-created it. Here’s the recipe from LA Times.

Final Thoughts

Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

The Butterscotch Budino at Mozza was more than just satisfying a sweet craving. It was an immersive experience that combined unique flavors in a romantic ambiance, making it an unforgettable end to our day. For anyone looking for a unique dessert to taste, the Butterscotch Budino at Pizzeria Mozza is a must-try.