Fah Sakharet gives us the inside scoop on five of the hottest culinary spots for lunch and dinner in Los Angeles.
Gracias Madre
This Mexican vegan spot makes even the most hardened of meat-lovers question their tastebuds. Once an antique warehouse, the converted space with high vaulted ceilings and open plan is decorated with comfy throw pillows, sofas, communal tables and a massive outdoor porch with fireplace. For lunch, you can’t go wrong with the 3-course tasting menu, at $20 a head it’s a bargain, especially in this posh part of town. Our favourites are the spinach salad and cauliflower starters, followed by the rolled taco with sweet potato entrée, and the Mexican wedding cookies with chocolate ice cream dessert tops off the meal nicely. All we can say is… thank you, mother!
8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, Los Angeles. +1 323 978 2170, graciasmadreweho.com
Sqirl
This unassuming spot across the road from a garage draws in the foodies and hipsters of Silver Lake. If you think you can avoid the queues and arrive after the breakfast and lunch rush, think again – on the bright side, the food is worth the wait. Try the crispy rice salad and doorstep slice brioche, generously slathered with ricotta cheese and homemade jam of choice, plus a refreshing rhubarb lemonade. Once you’ve ordered, find a seat outside or along the counter seating that runs along the inside of this small but cosy restaurant, or at the central communal table.
720 Virgil Ave #4, Silver Lake, Los Angeles. + 1 213 394 6526, sqirlla.com
Gjusta
Don’t let what looks like a madhouse as you enter the screen doors deter you from taking a ticket and queuing up. Everything in this bakery, pizzeria, deli, and café-in-one looks and tastes delicious! You might not think to order the sardine sandwich, but this pickle-y goodness sandwiched between fresh greens and whole grain bread is great, as is the smoky brisket banh mi. There is no seating indoors, but stand at the marble counter towards the back or grab a spot in the outdoor porch area.
320 Sunset Ave, Venice, Los Angeles. +1 310 314 0320, gjusta.com
L.A. Chapter
Located on the ground floor of the hip Ace Hotel, this buzzing brunch spot is a scene in burgeoning DTLA. The owners of the much-adored Five Leaves in Brooklyn, Jud Mongell and Ken Addington, have created a classic European and American hybrid menu, while the black and white chequered floor and brass detail reflect a French style bistro. Don’t hesitate to order the fluffy ricotta pancakes with honeycomb butter. The aged-cheese burger is also a go-to dish, and the brunch cocktail menu is short but well-crafted.
Ace Hotel, 929 South Broadway, Downtown, Los Angeles. +1 213 623 3233, acehotel.com
Republique
The 1929 building that once served as Charlie Chaplin’s office is now a popular rustic eatery, with counter seating, wooden communal tables in the centre, and intimate back rooms for easygoing vibe. You’ll find a mix of flavours from Italian to even a hint of Asian, but the cuisine is fundamentally French. Start your evening with bread from their bakery and signature Normandy butter, followed by a selection of oysters. To continue the decadence, the escargot en crôute or bone marrow with toast are both rich and indulgent. Lighter fresh alternatives are the yellowfin tuna crudo and grilled octopus salad.
624 S La Brea Ave, Hollywood, Los Angeles. +1 310 362 6115, republiquela.com
This post was written by Fah Sakharet for LUXE City Guides. Follow Fah on Instagram @jetsetloves.
