02 Jan It’s a Beautiful Night at Neighbor LA in Venice

Is there a better name for a neighborhood restaurant than Neighbor? Seems simple and is the perfect name for the Venice neighborhood spot. Located on the northern end of Abbot Kinney, Neighbor is in the space that once housed Govind Armstrong’s Willie Jane. Open since 2017, Neighbor looks a lot like how I remembered the space when I last ate there when it was Willie Jane. The vibe is comfortable, warm and inviting. It feels like being in the living room of a friend. There are two comfy couch areas in the front of the restaurant that lead to a set of stairs. At the top of the stairs is the hostess stand and then a long bar that runs the length of the interior. There are a few tables inside as well but the majority of tables, as well as lounge seating, are outside in the covered patio. It’s a Lovely Night at Neighbor Venice The wine-by-the-glass list is approachable yet interesting, featuring both domestic and international small producers. The cocktail list includes classic and flirty selections, as well as tequila and mezcal choices. We enjoyed the Berries & Herb made with tequila, homemade strawberry puree, rosemary, lime, and agave. The menu created by chef Joshua Luce features seasonal ingredients for California-inspired dishes with Asian, Indian, and Mediterranean flavors. Autumn Beetroot – Super tender and sweet beets are paired with pecan, mission fig, vadouvan and labneh.   Scallop Sashimi – Slices of creamy scallops are served with meyer lemon, evoo, trout grow and chive blossom. There is also chili oil which gives the dish a very spicy finish. Cauliflower – A large heart of cauliflower is roasted with tahini-miso, coriander, oregano and white sesame. Maitake Mushroom – Three roasted mushroom florets are topped with wasabi mayo, terriyaki and pickled ginger. Skuna Bay Salmon – Perfectly cooked salmon with very crispy skin is cooked in brown butter (magical words) and served with kohlrabi, green apple and hazelnut. Pork Tomahawk – A large pork tomahawk is sliced and served over green curry with pepitas, mint, and maple syrup. For dessert, the Dark Chocolate Gelato is a dark rich chocolate topped with green tea, sea salt, and meringue. Neighbor in Venice is a friendly neighborhood spot that welcomes everyone and will satisfy all.