Pasta Party

A plate of smoked bucatini carbonara doused with poached egg, pancetta, black pepper and parmesan cheese isn’t quite my idea of mindful eating– and would most likely scare away all cardiologists- however, I recently lost my mind while dining at Superba Snack Bar and heartily attacked this divine pasta creation- along with other provisions that included small plates of meats, charcuterie, vegetables, and snacks which are assembled daily by chef Jason Neroni, who co-ownes this superb spot with Paul Hibler.

A local neighborhood eatery in Venice, nestled among bungalows and other foodie-licious hangouts that line the burgeoning Rose Avenue- Superba is where food, art, and community intersect…according to Neroni, whose abstract Italian approach in his kitchen justifies the standard hour long wait for a table-  and is worth every minute. While Neroni has done a stellar tour of duty at some high-profile restaurants in his native Los Angeles, and New York- Spago, Le Cirque, and Blue Hill- Superba is his first solo project, where the funky wallpaper, high ceilings, open kitchen, and patio immediately swathes you in Venice-cool, all the while tucking into some impressive fare.

And only in LA, can you dine within blocks of the beach, surrounded by buzzy wine bars, other standout restaurants, and healthy juice bars– and be seated next to a television executive who reads palms, and eerily well. So that’s what I ordered…for dessert. It was all I had room for anyway, and after some dreamy Italian wines and carbo-over-loading, my reading was a sugar-free treat for sure…and I didn’t even have to tip. www.superbasnackbar.com