World Food LA: Argentina

On this edition of World Food LA, we’re heading south of the border to Grand Casino Bakery and Cafe in downtown Culver City for some amazing Argentinian breakfast. Grand Casino is one of my favorite restaurants. It’s a jack of all trades, open all day for delicious pastries, breakfasts, lunches and dinners… all with a very Argentinian flare. Plus, you can’t go wrong with $3 beers for the best drink deal in LA (happy hour or not). So this time, say “buen provecho!” because we’re cruising to Argentina for some breakfast!

We started off with some ham and cheese empanadas, which were seriously so good that I honestly forgot to take a picture. And I know what you’re saying, “Brockwell, what the hell are you doing eating empanadas for breakfast?” And while I’ll admit, yes, they were a bit weird to have at breakfast… they were baked instead of fried, and because of that were a very light and delightful savory accompaniment to my breakfast. I know the beef and spinach/chicken ones are fantastic, but for breakfast, I’d stick with the ham and cheese.

For my entree, I got the Abuela’s Pascualina which was a traditional Argentine spinach, egg and ham tart, usually prepared for Easter. I had never heard of a Pascualina before and you know me… if there’s any food I can’t pronounce, I’m in. I took my first bite and the amazingly light, flaky and buttery croissant crust just melted into my mouth. It wasn’t tough or mushy like a quiche at all. The egg was perfectly cooked inside and the spinach provided a wonderful flavor cut into the hammy-buttery undercrust of the fluffy croissant pastry.

The Pascualina was served with a side of greens which really made me feel like I was doing my body a favor (plus, it went well with the empanada I had demolished about ten minutes earlier).

Finally, my Americano was exquisitely prepared (proper crema and all) and I would highly recommend any of their coffee dishes. Cruise Grand Casino for an amazing taste of Argentina, morning, afternoon or night!

Grand Casino Bakery & Café

3826 Main St, Culver City, CA 90232