A few new (and old) spots that I have recently tried around Los Angeles + my thoughts on each of them

SANTA MONICA

This is the latest restaurant in the Rustic Canyon family and let me tell you, it does not disappoint. Every single dish we had was better than the last so I don’t even know if I can pick a favorite. it’s all good, from the Blue Plate Special (especially the Mongolian Tri-Tip) the mushrooms to the rose petal pie. You can’t go wrong with anything you order, but whatever you do, make sure you get at least one order of one of the Texas Toasts (I’m looking at you, Sloppy Jeremy!).

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FIND THEM IRL // 2421 Michigan Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404

VENICE

If you’re on the Westside, need something quick to eat and love Greek food then this is the spot for you. They’re fairly new, which explains why they seem to have a few kinks to workout (i.e. definitely call your order in ahead of time, otherwise you’ll wait 20 minutes for your food), but don’t let that stop you from trying this spot. The food is so good that we actually ate there twice in three days, something that we literally never ever do (so that tells you just how good it was). Everything tastes super fresh, comes in generous portions and is decently priced. The moussaka is delicious and comforting and the short rib gyro with tzatki (skip the tahini sauce) is literally TO DIE for. And if you’re craving something sweet, don’t forget the baklava.

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FIND THEM IRL // 307 LINCOLN BLVD. VENICE CA 90291

SANTA MONICA

Ok, technically we didn't eat here, and the much-anticipated restaurant isn’t even open yet, but we did come here for a drink in the lobby bar. From a hotel perspective, this place is incredible and something that was desperately missing from LA, especially on the Westside. From the decor to the vibes to the atmosphere, I almost don’t even feel like I’m in LA. So, with that in mind, know that you will be paying prices to match those vibes. The drinks were delicious, but incredibly expensive and I will say that the service was terrible (i.e. the bartender spilled my very expensive drink, didn’t offer to fix it and even worse just walked off, never bringing over napkins or cleaning it up….it took a good 10 minutes to get another person’s attention to even give us napkins). Regardless, I’m still looking forward to trying out the restaurant and going back to check out the rooftop.

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FIND THEM IRL 700 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

HOLLYWOOD

If Neopolotan pizza is your thing, then you will love this place. This is the first US location of the infamous Napoli pizza joint and it does not disappoint. Delicious pizza and a beautiful space! The one downside- it’s Hollywood location means it’s a nightmare for us Westside people to get to and park is a bit tricky.

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FIND THEM IRL // 1534 N McCadden Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90028

CULVER CITY

This restaurant, once a frequent hang-out for the Rat pack, has such a cool history. Sadly, it hasn’t always remained what it once was, changing owners, going through transformations and now the building is set to be torn down in April 2021. But until then, the OG restaurant has been restored and brought back for a limited-edition run. It’s tight, it’s dark, it makes me feel like I’m in NYC instead of LA, its full of history and it’s got exactly the kinds of foods you’d expect to find at and old-school Italian joint. Definitely get yourself here before it’s gone for good! And while you’re there don’t miss out on the table-side caesar salad, chicken parm (ask for a side of pasta and marinara) and the chocolate hazelnut cake for dessert.

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FIND THEM IRL // 11208 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90230