do you love good food? well, so do i. food to me is comfort, learning, embracing, and community. growing up, my parents showed their love to me through cooking and food. any time i’d be upset, my dad would be ready to cook me a hearty bowl of pho. i associate food with a way of connecting with good company.
here is a list of places i frequent + what i would order at each spot. most of my recommendations are going to be in southern california.
ospi — venice, california
ospi has the best spicy rigatoni in los angeles. there i said it. controversial? maybe. the ambiance is very lively, especially during dinner time. perfect spot for intimate gatherings or for a formal business meeting.
highly recommend: spicy rigatoni, crispy provolone, copione pizza, meatballs
pro-tip: go during lunch hours, they have great happy hour deals
shibuya — calabasas, california
pictured above: yellowtail and salmon nigiri
shibuya, shibuya, shibuya… best sushi spot in town. embarrassing to admit, but i have waited 3 whole hours just to get seated. it’s a hole-in-the-wall type of spot, so seating is minimal. quality, portions, and prices are all amazing.
highly recommend: shibuya roll, salmon nigiri, yellowtail nigiri, albacore nigiri, tuna rice cakes, baked crab roll, spicy yellowtail roll, battered shrimp, the whole menu honestly…
pro-tip: show up significantly earlier to put name on waitlist
basta — agoura hills, california
basta is a staple in the agoura hills community. they always emphasize quality. pasta is rolled out fresh daily. first come first serve type of spot. this place is the epitome of community coming together.
highly recommend: cacio e pepe, vodka pasta, pistachio lava cake, arugula & burrata salad, carbonara pizza, paloma (cocktail)
sugarfish — calabasas, california
pictured above: salmon and albacore
sugarfish is convenient, consistent, and are in many locations throughout LA county. it’s always a delight. they are a no-tipping establishment, but a % will be added onto your bill.
highly recommend: trust me box. *i usually sub the hirame for salmon and sub the handrolls for cut rolls. tuna sashimi, albacore nigiri, salmon nigiri, and the crab roll are some of my favorites.
hank’s bagels — calabasas, california
hank’s bagels is a community staple. the bagels are sourdough-based and freshly made everyday. i come here at least once a week! they rotate their special bagels daily. my personal favorite is the cheddar serrano every friday.
highly recommend: ejc (everything jalapeno cheddar) with angry cream cheese toasted, the number 1: fried egg (i sub for scrambled), maple-glazed bacon or homemade turkey sausage, sharp cheddar, tomato, aioli, salty chocolate bagel with blackberry cream cheese.
(p.s. saia is the best employee)
pasta sisters — culver city, california
pasta sisters offers an array of options when it comes to fresh pasta. they give great portions at reasonable prices. this place holds a really special place in my heart.
highly recommend: three cheese pasta, pesto pasta
LA’s food scene is honestly one of the best parts of the city. whether you’re into low-key neighborhood spots or trendy places everyone’s talking about, there’s something here for everyone. comment down below any spots that you guys enjoy!
—sincerely, crtnei
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