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

Classics Flowers and Confections

Flowers, tea and pastries anyone?  Classics Flowers and Confections is your one stop shop.  It's a hidden gem in Cypress, California.  There's no other like it in the area.  It is absolutely a charm!  

I've watched this little neighborhood charm grow from its original location in La Palma and later expanded its flower and gift shop to our local shopping center nearby.  However, just a few months ago, Classics moved to an even better location with more traffic.  Only this time, a bakery/tea shop was born.  So while you wait for your beautiful arrangements (by the way, Classics uses only the best and freshest flowers), you can certainly relax and have hot or cold tea and maybe a bite or two of some delicious pastries.  This place is truly unique with its personable staff who will take care of your needs.  

Planning an event or looking for a quaint and charming venue to host your party?  This is the place.  Classics offers their place on Sundays and after close of business to hold your event.  I did.  I celebrated my birthday with friends at this lovely place.  Everyone loved it!  

               Location:  10069 Valley View St, Cypress, CA  

The Menu

Chocolate Macarons & Strawberry Pie Cupcake

So refreshing on a hot day....Raspberry and Pomegranate Tea!  

An assortment of tea -- many so fragrant and flavorful!  Only the best! 

I loved that there was a set menu for my event! 

For starters, we had Butternut Squash Soup and Croque Monsieur (grilled ham on toasted brioche with gruyere cheese, topped with béchamel sauce).

  Very unique!  Every table had its own charm from the table cloth to the dishes! 

All so deliciou! 

Each table had its on plating of delicious treats! 

Apple Galletes, Chicken Pot Pie, and Smoked Salmon Crostini

And to end my birthday celebration, we had an assortment of pastries for our dessert!

My birthday celebration with friends!