Coffee Table Bistro & Lounge | Eagle Rock, CA

Next time you find yourself stopping into a neighborhood eatery, take inventory of not just what's on your plate, but also what's around you on the walls, the floor, the windows, and even the tables and chairs. Sure, the real artistry is what's on the plate (and we've seen some pretty spectacular culinary presentations), but many proprietors have taken great pains to provide a welcoming atmosphere to enhance their patrons' dining experience. Take for example, The Coffee Table Bistro & Lounge in the town of Eagle Rock in Los Angeles, California. The murals and mosaics seen throughout its dining area is a testament of their support of local artists, writers, and musicians. They've been doing it since calling their nondescript 1930s building on the corner of Colorado Boulevard and Shearin Avenue home. And the relaxed, colorful atmosphere has made this a regular stop for the locals to hang out, be casual, and be creative ... I should know. While living in SoCal, some of my best writings happened right here!

But don't just come to The Coffee Table Bistro & Lounge for the scenery and a cup of coffee. After all, it's still an eatery. SO, DO COME HUNGRY!!! 

The menu is chock-full of simple and light dishes that run you through the day. Breakfast specialties include their Super Breakfast Burrito, the Yo-Yo Benny O Scramble, and the Eggs From Hell. Lunches cover everything from wraps and sandwiches to burgers and melts, and the dinner menu, while small compared to everything else, boasts a flavorful Chicken Gumbo, Seared Cajun Salmon, and Grilled Moroccan Chicken. And by the way, if enjoying the nightlife or happy hour is more your thing, be sure to wander over to the lounge where small plates and appetizers are served alongside a choice of over 100 bottled beers and 16 drafts on tap.

They are open everyday from 7:00a-10:00p. 

 

Coffee Table

1958 Colorado Blvd

Los Angeles, CA  90041

OOTK's "12 Days of Christmas" | The Seventh Day

On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me:

7 different kinds of vintage, hard-to-find, imported soda

In this photo: Plantation Style Mint Julep Soda from Galco's Soda Pop Stop. With over 500 different kinds of pops on the shelves, Galco's is the mecca for all soda pop enthusiasts.

Location:

Galco's Soda Pop Stop

5702 York Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90042

Auntie Em's Kitchen | Eagle Rock, CA

Auntie Em's Kitchen has been a regular dining spot for the surrounding community for as long as I can remember, but it wasn't until recently that it's popularity (and reputation) grew beyond the borders of Eagle Rock, CA.

During our long-overdue visit, we were captivated with the friendly staff, the colorful art on the walls, and the free-spirited atmosphere that had everyone feeling comfortable and at-home. And the food? Auntie Em's Kitchen boasts a full menu of comfort food favorites that are certainly a treat for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. All are made fresh with seasonal ingredients from local farmers and artisans. For example, in the summer months, choices include an heirloom tomoto salad, watermelon gazpacho, chilled cucumber soup, and a selection of berry pies. Winter brings hearty stews, chowders and gumbos as well as savory bread puddings and apple pie.

These creations and so much more are the brainchildren of former punk rock musician turned chef, Terri Wahl. And what do I mean by "so much more?" Auntie Em's Kitchen is also home to a cheese shop, a full service catering and organic home delivery service, and a renowned bakery where cupcakes, especially the red velvet and coconut variety, are extraordinary. To Chef Wahl, we can only say "thank you."

The Oinkster | Eagle Rock, CA

To categorize The Oinkster as just another hamburger stand would be a great injustice, especially when they offer other choice selections such as the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich and the Oinkster Pastrami. As good as these are, however, none holds a candle to their all beef counterparts, including The Royale, a 1/3 pound behemoth that is blanketed with slices of pastrami, their house-special chili, Gruyere cheese, red cabbage slaw, and crispy bacon. Now, that's finger-licking good times!!! And did you save room for dessert? My recommendation ... the Horchata or Ube shake made thick and creamy from Fosselman's ice cream.

Founded by celebrated chef, Andre Guerrero, The Oinkster is located along Eagle Rock's Colorado Boulevard in what was once known to the surrounding community as Jim's Burgers. Fully restored and redefined, they describe themselves as being "innovative, affordable, stylish, and fun. We tread where no Los Angeles eatery has gone before and combine culinary classics with a no-attitude style." No argument here, especially given that The Oinkster is now among my son's top ten faves.

Swork Coffee | Eagle Rock, CA

In as many years as my wife and I have been married, we've been coming to Swork Coffee, one of the original small business establishments which helped spearhead Eagle Rock, CA's revitalization. And the attraction was not what we were getting in our cups, but rather Swork Coffee offered a no frills place to meet and laugh with friends, family and neighbors.

Got kids? No problem, meaning that the little tykes are taken care of as well with an available children's drink menu and a play area known as Sworkland, where there are toys and books a-plenty. Founded by entrepreneur Tricia Neal in 2000, Swork Coffee offers nothing but the best with its beans coming direct from growers in Guatemala and its blends developed through its own beverage lab. Whether you're having one of their signature Sworkuccinos, Gelatoccinos, or Smoothies, you know you're getting quality and rich flavors that are not watered down. So, avoid that other "coffee house" across the street and stop into this true original. You won't be disappointed.