PicoBlog

You’ve probably driven past Blair’s and not given it a second thought. It’s the little white building on the corner of Rowena and Herkimer, covered in string lights, with an arrow fashioned out of lightbulbs pointing right to the entrance. And despite the inviting aesthetic, I hardly ever meet anyone who’s actually eaten at Blair’s.

That’s a shame, considering that this restaurant offers one of the most quaint and cozy dining experiences that you can find on the east side. Erected in 2002, the Italian influenced menu presents a long list of scrumptious small plates and an impressive wine selection. Upon your immediate entrance, you’ll find a snug bar— perfect for a dinner date or a low-key catch-up. Beyond the bar are two large, classic dining rooms— the kind with wooden accents, thick tablecloths, and crystal wine glasses. The pandemic-era addition to Blair’s is a large outdoor area, set up in the back parking lot, complete with wooden picnic tables and plenty of heat lamps, which makes coming here with a large party a lot easier than it was a few years back.

But beyond the charming aesthetic of Blair’s lies the golden nugget of the restaurant— the food. A seasonal menu provides incredible sharing plates. The Grilled Wild Octopus is a must try. Seasoned with olives and salsa verde and accompanied by expertly made potatoes, the dish feels fresh and not fishy, and the texture of the oil covered soft potatoes and chewy (yet crunchy) octopus will leave you licking the plate.

The Roasted Cauliflower is also a crowed pleaser, covered in fresh herbs and charred unevenly in some sort of light but sweet sauce that serves as the perfect appetizer before a main. Speaking of which— my personal favorite main course at Blair’s is the Sausage Gnocchetti. The huge portion of sausage and chard is served in a creamy pecorino-based sauce that isn’t too sticky, which helps to separate the flavors in the dish.

I’m not sure why Blair’s has been overlooked by my community, but I certainly struggle to find friends who’ve eaten here before. In fact, when I was photographing this piece, I ran into Lucy Sandler, smiling ear to ear. She was enjoying a postprandial drink, talking about how much she enjoyed the meal, surprised by the fact that she’d never been to the place before that night. It feels like everyone has been to Little Pine, but most people haven’t ever thought to try the restaurant across the street.

Blair's Silverlake* 2901 Rowena Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90039 Mon-Thurs, Sun 5:00PM - 9:00PM Fri & Sat 5:00PM – 10:00PM 

$$$

Parking: Street (neighborhood)

My order: Grilled Wild Octopus, Sausage Gnocchetti, Orange Wine

Pro tip: They offer delivery— but it’s so much nicer to go in person see the presentation on their dishware instead of in a cardboard box.

Pairs well with: Edendale (.1 miles), Magpies Softserve (.4 miles)

*They also have a location in Eagle Rock. I have not been there.

ncG1vNJzZmismJrEprHKpbCappeauaa6zmeqrpqjqa6kt42cpqZnoGSvra3Iq6o%3D