Venice Weekend: An Abbot Kinney State of Mind

Venice is a charming neighborhood by the shore in Los Angeles. The traffic is horrendous, the parking a nightmare, but once you arrive on the charming Abbot Kinney boulevard you will feel an immediate sense of relaxation and contentment wash over you.

A little known fact is that in 1906, trolley service was available from downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica. This revelation seems almost criminal given LA’s current disregard for public transportation. But, I digress. Having parked on a crowded side street or in a pay parking lot, you might question where to start out first in Venice. Our recommendation is to indulge in a late lunch at Gjelina to sustain you for the day’s events.

Gjelina is a small but busy restaurant on the South end of Abbot Kinney Street in Venice. Locals flock to Gjelina for the casual atmosphere, antique ambiance, and wood fire baked pizzas. Enjoy a leisurely late lunch of pizza. We recommend the Classic Marghertia with Buffalo Mozzarella (and Prosciutto for carnivores), and a glass of Pinot Noir. The 2004 Hallcrest is highly sippable and the rich fruity texture provides a nice contrast to the acidity of the tomato sauce in the pizza.

Next, meander down the street and observe the art, furniture, and clothing shops that line Abbot Kinney. Admire the latest bohemian plaid button-up shirts at the Steven Alan Annex, and Principessa and the local artisans that display their work in the local art galleries.

When you reach Elvino, a local wine store halfway between Washington Bld. and Main Street, it will be time to stop in for a themed weekend wine tasting. Owner Bart Miali selects weekly themed wine tastings which often include many international wines. Tastings are usually $10 and include fresh bread and olive oil to cleanse your palate between selections.

With a healthy buzz from the tasting, you may feel less intimidated perusing the selection of high-end, retro inspired furniture pieces at Plantation. Liquid courage and no commitment folks, this is the best way to find inspiration.

Towards the end of the neighborhood, you’ll find Primitivo Wine Bistro. On Sundays, the very popular Sangria Sunday’s event from 4:00 pm – 6:30p.m., is sure to ignite your senses. On Saturdays, you’ll find local wine enthusiasts and neophytes alike schmoozing the bartenders and local patrons at the casual bar. Ask Matthew, the bartender, for a personal recommendation. We found the Sokol Blosser Mediterina blend to be a tasty sipping wine. The staff is friendly and can be counted upon to provide you with terrific wine recommendations worthy of a fabulous early dinner.

Afterwards, stroll back down Abbot Kinney to the Other Room. The Other Room is a hip wine bar with a variety of seating options and a menu of wine and beer specials sketched lovingly on a blackboard above the bar. Venice locals are able to bypass the ever-present nightly line; however, since you arrived early, you are able to secure a prime location at one of the seating areas near the open windows.

Having enjoyed a fun and fulfilling day on Venice’s Abbot Kinney Blvd. proceed home with caution. After all, this isn’t 1906.