Linni Eats L.A.: Gaby's Mediterranean

Tucked between a flashy sushi joint and a Starbucks, it would be easy to pass quickly by Gaby’s Mediterranean at 10445 Venice Blvd, but don’t be deterred by the meek blue awning that boasts “Creating a Healthy Habit Everyday!” Even if you’re in a hurry to escape the mumbling bum who followed you from the beach, give this surprisingly delicious ethnic establishment a chance.

You can watch the onslaught of Schwinn Stingrays and skateboards float by if you sit outside, but the midday rush makes this difficult. Once inside, you might get distracted by the dessert case, but hurry up and sit down because no sooner will your butt hit the seat before they are bringing baskets of warm pita and plates of zaatar, the house specialty sauce made with olive oil, sesame seeds, oregano and thyme with diced onions and tomatoes. I lost count of how many of these they brought us.

The falafel came out a little mushy in the center and the grape leaves were too minty for my taste, but they don’t slack on the old hummus standby, which was served on a huge plate with lemon juice and spices. Don’t be afraid to branch out beyond the basics, though—just because you can’t pronounce it doesn’t mean it isn’t amazing! I recommend rakakat, a puff pastry roll filled with cheese, onions, and tomatoes. If you’ve got leftover pita, soak it up in the creamy, tangy pureed golden lentil soup, or the garlic cream sauce that comes with the rotisserie chicken entrée.

It’s easy to order too much food with their ludicrously low prices, but save room for dessert. The menu lists many enticing choices, but only the baklava was available when I visited. It was made with cashews and orange blossom honey, but was a little on the mild side despite these unique additions. Even though some areas need work, there were still so many mysteriously named items I can’t wait to come back and try. Open from 11am-1am, it’s a great spot for those late nights when the thought of another dorm party or Taco Truck run makes you want to hide in the closet.

Linni Eats L.A.: The Omelette Parlor

Preface: I have packed up my bags and moved to Southern California this fall, so my apologies to any Chicago readers who cannot attend the restaurants I will be writing about. I now have a food column in the weekly newspaper at Occidental College and will be writing on a variety of Los Angeles restaurants--hopefully you can all come out here to try them sometime!

Some people come to Occidental College for the sense of community, talented teaching staff, or abundance of palm trees—I came for its proximity to The Omelette Parlor.


I first experienced breakfast heaven at this Santa Monica Pier eatery while visiting Oxy last spring and their old-fashioned beachside charm won my heart. The name was enticing enough, but the Colonial décor, lace-covered windows and Surfer Crossing sign didn’t hurt. You can sit in the vintage main dining room, at the soda shop counter, or on the outdoor patio, quaintly enclosed by brick walls lined with vines and flowers.


You might go in expecting an omelette, but prepare to be blown away by their extensive menu. I got oatmeal with the works, which included walnuts, raisins, strawberries and bananas and made me feel full without feeling like a fatty. You can also get it with a warm banana topping; both come with their honey-nut English muffin and apple butter, served with all main dishes.


After dreaming about it all summer, I returned this fall for an omelette. They have creative recipes like the Renter’s Rights, which has bacon, potato and sour cream, but I made my own with sausage, feta, tomato, and spinach. Omelettes come with a side of fruit and an English muffin and the egg dish itself is about the size of my American Experiences textbook, so save room for this or split it with a friend if you’re strapped for cash. An omelette should only set you back about eight bucks, and the oatmeal was around four.

The chef makes a daily pancake, raspberry or butterscotch nut to name a few, and they’re also known for their diced potatoes. Service is timely even during peak hours and its location on Main Street is perfect for a weekend shopping trip. Surfing got you beat? Sick of scrambling to find a decent breakfast at home? Come to this affordable adorable café at 2732 Main St. and get your omelette on.