GJelina on Abbot Kinney

My hand chopped lamb burger was grilled to one’s liking, sandwiched between arugula, a slightly spicy herbal seasoned red sauce, and pain rustic was to die for. The skinny fries are lightly seasoned with herbal sea salt cooked to perfection, my standard, of course. I have visited Gjelina twice so far, the service is consistently impeccable yet very friendly and casual cool. The décor is arty Italian country modern with lots of aged wood, table and floor. We love the clear light bulb chandelier above the bar! The space is airy, comfortable, and it just always offers a delightful dining experience.

GJelina
1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 450-1429

Cafe Ugo in Culver City

What I love about this place is the tasting room with automatic wine tasting stations. You can taste as many or as little wine from the tasting station as you like. The ambiance is cozy, relaxing and casual. The food was OK on the tasting room side. A great place to hang out, try some new flavors and you don't have to shout to have the conversation.

Perfect Herring

I am crazy about fish roes. These elegantly shaped herring roes can be found in most of Japanese markets in southern California. They are perfect when you feel the need to challenge your palate with an extraordinary crunchy texture.



Recipe

Roe Dressing
Caper, a few
Parsley, few leaves, finely chopped
Paprika, a dash
Olive oil, about 2 tablespoons or as desired
Zest of lemon

For Salad:
Micro greens, as desired

Salad Dressing:
Olive oil, about 2 tablespoons or as desired
Muscat vinegar, a few drops
Freshly ground sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Soak the roes in water for ½ day. The ones in the Japanese market will require at least ½ day of soaking.

Mix the roes and the salad dressing separately then set them aside.

Sauté the roes in butter and olive oil in a large pan until brown and fully cooked. Make sure not to over cook the roe or it will be tough.

Place the cooked roe in a serving plate. Drip the dressing over the roe for taste and presentation. Arrange salad next to the roe, pour over the salad dressing and serve.