Ago Sciandri to open Vespaio downtown; Cardamom, the One Up are open

Chef and restaurateur Ago Sciandri (Ago) will open a new Italian restaurant called Vespaio in downtown L.A. at the Emerson later this year. The 5,500-square-foot space will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week as well as weekend brunch. Sciandri plans to also have extensive pastry, bread and cheese displays as well as a full bar and fresh pressed juices. The outdoor patio features a retractable roof and more seating is available bordering the nearby park. There will also be a grab-and-go takeout area as well. 225 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, (213) 784-4377, www.TheEmersonLA.com.

Cardamom Indian restaurant is now open on Beverly Boulevard in the former India’s Oven space. The restaurant has a tandoor oven powered by charcoal instead of gas and its menu includes more than 100 items with dishes representing different regions of India. Dishes include chutneywala paneer, made with cheese stuffed with spices and grilled in the tandoor; singara, a variation on the samosa from the Punjab region of Northern India, jhinga koliwada marinated and deep-fried prawns and more. 7233 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, (323) 936-1000, www.CardamomLA.com.

The One Up, a new restaurant and arcade in Sherman Oaks, has opened. The restaurant features a menu with small plates including corn hush puppies, fried chicken banh mi, mini corn dogs and more. There is also a full bar with a small selection of beer and wine. In addition to the food, there are 12 arcades with more than 400 free classic arcade games. 13625 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, (818) 849-5181, www.theoneup.com/.

It’s on like Donkey Kong. Follow me on Twitter @Jenn_Harris_