Urban Food Adventure

Gjelina
1429 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291
It was definitely worth the wait to sample some new dishes while strolling along Abbott Kinney Boulevard in Venice, CA.  Gjelina had a variety of dishes to choose from -- a vegetable dish were among the few items we set our eyes on.   Although a bit disappointed the dandelion, anchovy, parmesan, lemon & breadcrumbs (Gjelina's take of a Cesar Salad) salad was not available, our vegetable choices were not bad at all, most especially the roasted fennel.

I like the casual atmosphere of this place.  It had a rustic feel and much to our surprise,  there was a back patio to accommodate even more guests as our host took us towards the back.   I liked it.  And yes, I would definitely return to try the other dishes on the menu and I would recommend this place if ever you're in the area.

First veggie item: Charred sugar snap peas, soffritto, mint & prosciutto

Second:  Roasted Fennel, white wine, blood orange, & fennel pollen 

Third: Grilled broccolini, garlic, chili & vinegar

Grilled octopus, braised lentil, fennel & smolked tomato
Squid ink chitarra, asari clam, chili, garlic, parsely & breadcrumb 

Housemade chorizo, tomato, cream, fennel, chili & basil

Rhubbard strawberry with caramel ice cream and butterscotch pot de creme

Table for Two @ Pizzeria Mozza

We actually sat at the pizza bar.  We like to see our Sous Chef Nikko in action @ Pizzeria Mozza on Melrose.  And as always, we had a lot of food just for two, but who's complaining!  In addition to what we ordered, a few dishes were sent out compliments from the kitchen, and our drinks were on the house.  Woohoo!  Thank you Nikko for always taking care of us.

Currently not on the menu..."Sardines"

If you like bone marrow, this is one of the best I've tried

I don't like meatballs, but this you must try.  

Compliments from the kitchen, "deep fried cauliflower" a family favorite  

Rapini, cherry tomoatoes, anchovies, olives & chiles

Another compliments from the kitchen..."Pea Pizetti" as if one pizza isn't enough! But, who's complaining! 

Still managed to devour a slice or two even with the amount of food.

Ordered the Meyer Lemon Gelato Pie, but came out with three desserts to fill our tasty palates! 

And of course, our togo boxes for all the left over food! 

Bugatta Melrose

Bugatta Restaurant & Bar is among the row of restaurants on Melrose Avenue in LA.  It has a vibrant atmosphere and quite lively!  I love that every room is different!  For a more romantic and quiet atmosphere, Bugatta has the outside patio dining area with different sections to your specific liking, or big groups of up to 15 can be seated in one of their lounge areas for cocktails and appetizers.   Each area in the Outside Patio has a theme: The Patio Dining Area, Miami Seating,  The Bungalows, and The Bar.  I like The Bungalows best -- a white curtain drapes down to give it a more romantic feel.   The white furnitures also gives it a cozy feeling, especially the one next to the fire and ice fireplace.

I can see this place to be great hang out.  Even with its casual atmosphere, one can still dress up and enjoy an evening with friends without feeling stuffy.

Our group was seated in the Dining Lounge.  It was very casual.  We shared appetizers and enjoyed champagne and wine to cleanse our palates.  It was great!  Our server, Gillian and host, Annette were  amazing!  The birthday celebrant, Xerez sure picked a great place to celebrate her special day with friends.

Valet parking is available right outside.  Unfortunately, it's LA so parking is scarce and a permit is required to park in the streets.

                         Location: 7174 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

The Bungalow

One of the seating areas in the Patio Dining

Crab Cakes  - Truffle Oil Corn Puree, Citrus Apple Slaw, Pea Sprouts

Tuna Tar Tar - Jalapenos, Scallions, Avocado Mousse

Calamari - Spicy Marinara 

SPICY BBQ CHICKEN - Smoked gouda, mozzarella, onions, chilies, cilantro

Xerez, the birthday celebrant! 

Cheers to another fun birthday celebration! 

http://www.bugatta.com/bugatta/http://www.bugatta.com/bugatta/