Restaurants near Westfield Culver City

I've been going to Citrin's restaurants since Melisse opened in 1998, I believe. He's my favorite chef. I've been to Dear Johns around 10 times since he took it over. I really feel like it is now complete. Guests had to eat on the patio during covid, and possibly even after. Even then he made it special. But now that the dining room is in the state its in, there's a feeling of completion. It's dark, romantic, moody, and intimate. It has its own character. The food is always incredible, same with the service. Can't wait to go back!

I was a big fan of the DTLA restaurants Broken Spanish and BS Taqueria, and sorry we lost both of them. Now we have Broken Spanish Comedor, which is wonderful. Last night (5/5), they reprised the BS Taqueria menu, including the extraordinary rice & beans (reimagined). The refried lentils (an appetizer) are rich with cheese, and served with freshly made blue corn tortillas of the highest quality. We had the Caesar salad, which is both generous and delicious. I had the enchiladas for the first time, which were filled with chicken and covered in a green sauce and crema. For dessert, the tres leches cake (with a bonus caramel nodule inside) can't be beat. Now, if they can only bring back the churros with chocolate from BS Taqueria . . .

Gjelina is a gem- period. From the wonderful humans that greet you (Philip) at the door, to the lovely humans that curate the dining experience (Barbara, Ektor, Lance, Andrew, Madeline and the list goes on)- there is no other place in Los Angeles (imo) that captures what a perfect restaurant should feel like. The food is always impeccable- honoring the simplicity of locally sourced bounty but always with a twist (snap peas, broccolini and Japanese sweet potatoes- I’m talking to you.) The pizza is comparable to some legends with perfect leoparding and just the right amount of chew to the crust- and the pork belly was to be repeated. Oh, and the black was light, and swimming in a glorious broth. I could go on and on (oops- already have). So… Yes, this is a love song to Gjelina- and all the people that make it so special. Bravi, bravissimi- you make it feel like home.

The staff was outstanding from the moment we arrived until the end of the evening. Everyone was incredibly attentive and made us feel well taken care of throughout the entire experience. The food was amazing, as always, and the ambiance was absolutely beautiful. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a great meal at a reasonable price, paired with excellent customer service.

Excellent service, very hospitable. The Pizookies are a staple, highly recommend!