My husband Saif took me on a lovely date this past weekend. We started late Saturday afternoon at one of my favorite restaurants in Glendale, Raffi’s Place, which I’ve had on my list of LA Essentials for years. Although I’ve been eating at Raffi’s for almost two decades this moment felt like the first time because I was sharing it with my love. We ordered Hummus, Shirazi, and the Chicken Soltani plate. Saif ordered an Armenian beer called Kotayk and I got buzzed off an imperfect but satisfying mojito. It was another parfait afternoon in one of my favorite neighborhoods.

After our delicious meal, we decided to go on a drive and take in all that this rapidly evolving city had to offer. Whipping through Los Angeles's many curves with the top down is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Glendale-Atwater-Silverlake-Echo Park, never a dull moment on that beautiful stretch downward.

Our journey inspired us to make another stop, one that would deliver satiation to our sweet-tooth cravings. While Saif was behind the wheel, I opened my phone to see what restaurants I had saved on my TO EAT list. I was instantly reminded that I was eager to try Bacetti, the Roman-inspired trattoria, recently opened by the team behind Tilda Wine. Upon scrolling their Instagram, I spotted a heavenly pavlova that I instantly had my heart set on.

It was an early Saturday evening and unfortunately, no same-day reservations were available on Resy. I’ve had a ton of luck with walk-ins so I thought, why not? We pulled up to Bacetti and were greeted by the loveliest hostess who was happy to seat us. I hadn’t been inside the restaurant prior so I was genuinely taken aback by its unique design and architecture. It reminded me of a lux-crunchy 70s vibe à la The Sea Ranch, Esalen, and Laurel Canyon. Obvious California cool. 

We cozied up next to each other, basking in the natural rays beaming through the overhead skylights. It was relaxed and romantic. The vibrations were high. We informed the server that we’d only be enjoying beverages and dessert but were nonetheless excited to be there. She was cool, as was everyone we interacted with at the restaurant. Top marks for hospitality and customer service. Superb, truly! 

I was dying for a cappuccino but all that was offered in the way of espresso was a classic shot of Canyon Coffee. Although I was disappointed with having only one option I still jumped at the chance for some coffee and ordered a bottle of Pelligrino to enjoy alongside it. All praise is due to the barista who delivered perfection to my cup. Two drinks are rarely enough so I began to browse their robust wine list. Tilda Wines is a neighborhood favorite for natural wines and Bacetti, is simply her older sister, so I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed. Once the server saw I was interested in imbibing further, she struck up a conversation to see what I might enjoy most from their selection. We concluded on a funky orange wine which I wish I had jotted down not only so that I could tell you but so that I could purchase it again in the future. C’est la vie! 

Our Meringa made its way out to the table. Made with meringue, fresh cream, and an assortment of berries, it was an absolute stunner to behold. It was everything I had hoped for on a Saturday evening with my love. We took turns feeding each other in between kisses and for that moment in time, we were whisked away to our own planet made for two. It was already an incredible day further punctuated by a delightful dessert date in Echo Park. I would highly recommend it.

Location

Bacetti
1509 Echo Park Avenue
Los Angeles, CA. 90026
+1 213-995-6090

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