We're no culinary savants, so we always try to defer to the experts when we can. Instead of racking our brains for the best hidden gastro gems on the west side of L.A., we knew we had to ask two of our favorite foodies Josh Loeb and Zoe Nathan of Rustic Canyon Wine Bar, Huckleberry Cafe and Bakery, and Sweet Rose Creamery. This ridiculously cool couple (swoon alert—their mothers set them up!) are two local tastemakers in every sense of the word, and we totally admire their commitment to seasonal and local approaches to cooking. Everything served in their three restaurants is grown within 1,000 miles of Santa Monica, and even the plates are made by local artisans. And though it's hard to imagine they would need a break from the delish dishes served up daily by Rustic Canyon's head chef, Evan Funke, when they do venture beyond their burgeoning food empire, here are the places they keep going back to for seconds, thirds, and fourths.
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Here are Zoe and Josh's take on west L.A.'s incredible edibles:
1. Kiriko Sushi: "The place is mellow and unpretentious but the fish is expertly prepared. The same three guys work behind the counter every day. It's awesome."
Kiriko Sushi, 11301 Olympic Boulevard #102 (at Sawtelle Boulevard); 310-478-7769.
2. Asahi Ramen: "We love the potstickers and the Mabo Ramen. It's real comfort food for us."
Asahi Ramen, 2027 Sawtelle Boulevard (at La Grange Avenue); 310-479-2231.
Asahi Ramen, 2027 Sawtelle Boulevard (at La Grange Avenue); 310-479-2231.
3. Gjelina: "While there are a lot of places that claim to do Farmer's Market-driven food, very few really taste like the ingredients come from there. Gjelina does a great job. We like going there for lunch."
Gjelina,1429 Abbot Kinney Boulevard (at Milwood Avenue); 310-450-1429.
Gjelina,1429 Abbot Kinney Boulevard (at Milwood Avenue); 310-450-1429.