As I’m prone to do on weekends for lunch, I explore and sample different ethnic restaurants that are in close proximity to home. I initially looked for Turkish or Persian food after discovering that Shawarma Land in front of the Turkish grocery had been replaced by a not-yet-opened Hot Nashville Chicken Restaurant. Nothing struck my fancy so I researched the adjoining restaurants to the unopened space.
I had passed by Coppelia’s several times on my previous jaunts to Shawarma Land and recalled that their breakfasts and Lomo Saltado looked interesting. Surprisingly, Coppelia’s has a much more vibrant interior than its previous neighbor. The walls are painted in mustard and pumpkin hues with framed artwork and photos of what I can only assume is a representation of Peruvian towns and life in Peru. The fans seem to cool the space quite a bit so it’s very comfortable dining in as opposed to necessitating takeout.
Fernando quickly greeted me with a menu after I seated myself. I ordered the half Peruvian rotisserie chicken with crispy fries and black beans. It took about ten minutes or so before I received my entree. It was piping hot. I started with the thigh as all foodies do because if that’s not tender and moist, all hope is lost for the white meat portion of the chicken.
It did not disappoint. The meat practically fell off the bone. The chicken had a unique tangy marinade mixed with black pepper and a hint of citrus. The skin was slightly crispy and savory. Surprisingly, the breast was equally tender though obviously not as moist since it’s a leaner and denser part of the chicken. The beans and rice combo seems like it would have been better suited for the roast chicken rather than the fries that I ordered but I still enjoyed them.
All in all, for the amount of food, it’s definitely a good value. I’ve eaten at other Peruvian restaurants like El Pollo Inka and Lonzo’s Restaurant as well as a few other Peruvian pop-ups at Farmers Markets. What I’ve discovered is they each offer a unique take on the cuisine. Coppelia’s rotisserie chicken is quite delicious so I will definitely be back to sample more from their menu. Stay tuned!!
Coppelia’s Bakery & Cafe
10825 Venice Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
http://www.coppeliasbakery.club/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=Coppelias%20Bakery%20&%20Restaurant&utm_term=5c991267eea1da0001a9301a
La Esquina has been on my must try list since it first opened. I’m actually glad I waited a bit to try it because it’s not exactly in the best location for visiting at night. It’s on the corner of Venice and National in the same strip mall as Goodwill. In time, the area will be gentrified as Apple and HBO will be moving in the office buildings across the street but for now, there are some questionable loiterers in close proximity. Luckily, it was a bright sunny Sunday afternoon and there was a father and son eating outside so it seemed safe.
It’s a very casual restaurant where you place your order with the cashier and the two person kitchen crew puts the orders together in plain view.
I ordered a carne asada bowl which was delicious and without tax was under ten dollars. The beef was tender and citrusy and it sat on a bed of lettuce with rice and black beans underneath. The onions, salsa and guacamole rounded out the flavors, with each bite getting better and better as all the various flavors began to blend cohesively.
La Esquina is an easy recommend for its value, quality and close proximity to home. I’ll definitely be back!
La Esquina
8905 Venice Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
https://laesquinaonvenice.com
Grace Gambin
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