Shhh....it's Confidential

This post marks the start of my Shhh….It’s Confidential series. I will be bringing you some of my all time favorites places in LA - from my favorite restaurants, coffee shops and juice bars to the best kept secret beauty and clothing boutiques. These are my handpicked choices and the places I frequent the most.

Heading west to Venice, Abbot Kinney is home to a great variety of boutiques and the original Intelligentsia Coffee, but for me, it is all about the food. Gjelina has been a longtime favorite.  Here is a recent meal I had with my mom and sister. It has been on my mind ever since.

For the first course, our server suggested the Reed Avocado with Radish, Chive, Bottarga, Nori & Cracked Pepper. Reed avocados are seasonal and while this dish looks simple, it was deliciously satisfying. Next we shared a pasta dish, Leek Ravioli with Brown Butter, Thyme and Walnut. It was decadent and rich, yet the homemade pasta kept it light.

Gjelina's pizzas are a must-have, so this time, we had the Pomodoro Crudo made with incredibly seasonal cherry tomatoes, burrata, garlic, and basil. 

For dessert, and the highlight of the meal, was the Warm Plum Crisp with Hazelnut Gelato. A welcome change from apple or peach, the perfectly ripened plums arrived bubbling in their dish with a warm crisp topping and a scoop of the most heavenly gelato. 

Insider Secret: Request the patio, it is worth the wait.  Order a glass of rose, and enjoy this little food oasis  tucked away in Venice. 

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