Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo are two of the hottest chefs in Los Angeles. Animal, their flagship restaurant, has been around for a few years now as well as Trois Mec and Petit Trois, who they partnered with Chef Ludo Lefebvre, to create French modern and French bistro style cuisine.
Jon & Vinny’s is their casual pizza/pasta restaurant, just across the street from Animal, creating fantastic Italian comfort food. The modern styled restaurant is small in nature with some counter seating to view the chefs at work.
As for the food, it’s rustic without being outdated and hits the spot on so many levels. The Salad & Market Section of the menu ranges from traditional Antipasto to Eggplant Parmesan and Heirloom Tomato Caprese. I went for the Gem Lettuce with Calabrian Chili Dressing, sort of a Caesar with some heat. The chili gave this salad so much personality without being too over powering and I loved the light dusting of crunchy breadcrumbs. I believe this recipe was in the Los Angeles Times Food Section a few weeks back.
If it’s pizza you are craving, they make theirs with Caputo flour (Italian blend) and fresh yeast to create an authentic tasting pie. I recommend the Supreme with Mortadella, Mozzarella, Provolone Picante, Red Onion & Mustard Greens. The blend of tangy, spicy and creamy flavors in this pie were perfecto!
And most of all if you love Meatballs like I do….this is the place. I know I have a great recipe for Meatballs, but these meaty globes of goodness are some of the best I have eaten. They serve their meatballs with a fresh dollop of ricotta cheese and homemade focaccia, yummy! I tried to buy some of their focaccia, but they only make enough for the restaurant…bummer.
Jon & Vinny’s is open daily serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. If you haven’t been to this outstanding Italian eatery, you definitely need to go.
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