I Discovered An Amazing Chef At Abernethy's In Los Angeles And Can't Wait To Experience More
By Natasha Kayes|Published April 12, 2024
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Natasha Kayes
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I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
To say that Los Angeles has an exciting food scene is something of an understatement, to be sure, and there is always something new to discover – from restaurant openings to up-and-coming chefs to creative cuisines. I was recently invited to dine at Abernethy’s in Los Angeles, a unique concept restaurant that has become known for showcasing relatively new and exciting culinary talent in the city. Not only was I impressed with the chef-in-residence, but cannot wait to see what’s next.
Per journalistic integrity, we disclose that the writer of this piece was invited to this location by White Oak Communications, with expenses covered. However, all opinions and thoughts expressed in this piece are their own.
Abernethy’s is located at The Music Center in downtown LA, at the Jerry Moss Plaza. Every few months, this essentially becomes a different restaurant as some of the best emerging chefs throughout LA County are invited for seasonal engagements.
Natasha Kayes
Each chef transforms the space and menu, sharing their specific flavors and creativity with guests.
We were seated in the cozy but elegant dining room. Don’t let the photos fool you - both the indoor and outdoor dining areas were full, but since most diners come here before heading to a show, we had the place to ourselves by the end of the evening.
Natasha Kayes
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The patio area is spacious with pretty lights and lovely views of the Music Center plaza.
Natasha Kayes
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The current chef was John Cleveland, co-owner of the restaurant Post & Beam, known for what he calls “California comfort food,” combining Southern influences with seasonal, local produce.
We started with a couple of signature cocktails, which I have to admit, made us hesitant when we saw them on the menu. But after asking our amazing server about them, we had to try them, and they did not disappoint. We also had to have the cornbread, served with creamy whipped honey butter - a classic for a reason.
Natasha Kayes
Both the chef and our server recommended the maple-brined pork chop and the tender short rib, so we ordered one of each. All I can say is *chef’s kiss.* I would order them both again in a heartbeat.
Natasha Kayes
The bartender, waitstaff, and kitchen crew stay on with each new chef, so I am pretty confident that whatever is on the menu will be done well.
I am a sucker for flourless chocolate cake, and no surprise here, it was the perfect way to end my meal. My friend had the apple cobbler which was more of a crispy, flaky pastry. So good.
Natasha Kayes
The restaurant is a popular spot for diners heading to an opera at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, a play at Ahmanson Theatre, or another local event, but I can now say it is a worthy destination in its own right.
Natasha Kayes
Have you had the chance to dine at Abernethy’s in Los Angeles? We would love to hear about your experience here. Find more information and make reservations by visiting Abernethy’s online and stay up to date with new chefs and menus by following Abernethy’s on Facebook.
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