I wasn’t humming the theme song to the 1970’s show Baretta when I entered Vitello’s restaurant last night. But I couldn’t help but think of the song’s words when I pulled into the Studio City parking lot:

“Don’t do the crime, if you can’t do the time.”

It was outside the restaurant in 2001, where Bonnie Lee Bakley was found murdered. Although Robert Blake (her husband and star of Baretta) was acquitted of the crime, many LA residents compare the result of the case to that of the OJ trial.

Inside Vitello’s, the smell of garlic and the sound of jazz music filled the air. I recognized the vocalist from a few years back and she sent me an imperturbable wink. One of those, I know I’m cool but I feel you kind of vibes.

The Italian fare ranged from Tortellini to the House Specialty, Braciole (top round filled with prosciutto, seasoned bread crumbs, cheese, hard boiled eggs and raisins).

Live jazz is played upstairs every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. Visit www.vitellosrestaurant.com for an updated schedule and menu.