Discovering Oste Los Angeles: A Culinary Gem
Oste Los Angeles
My first visit to Oste Los Angeles was on April 8th, 2021, and the experience is still fresh in my memory. As I drove down W. 3rd Street, my hunger was palpable, but it was the striking European façade of Oste that caught my eye. Having visited Italy a few years prior, I was eager to relive those memories of delicious pasta and refreshing Aperol Spritzes. Little did I know, this new spot in LA would capture that Italian charm.
On that day, the owners, Jocelyn Bulow and Alessandro Iacobelli, were engaged in lively conversation with a table of customers on the front patio. It was between lunch and dinner, and their genuine interaction with patrons immediately set a warm, inviting tone. Jocelyn excused himself from the table, guiding me to my seat and eagerly recommending some favorites while making me feel genuinely welcome.
I started with an Aperol Spritz, and Oste’s version, “Fake It 'Til You Make It,” exceeded my expectations. It transported me to an Italian café, with its perfect blend of flavors. Following that, the Roman-style Calabrese Pinsa was an absolute revelation. Fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly light, it was an ideal choice for my first visit.
Now, my son and I are regulars at Oste. He loves ordering a variety of dishes, allowing us to sample almost everything on the menu. If you’re dining with friends, I highly recommend sharing multiple dishes – it’s hard to stick to just one when everything is so delicious!
I particularly enjoy starting with something from their Burrata Bar, or my ultimate favorite from the Antipasti section, the Cambozola Fonduta. This dish features Cambozola cheese, a delicate blue cheese with a creamy, almost spreadable texture. Paired with roasted garlic confit and rosemary pinsa toast, it’s absolutely divine—so much so that my bestie claims it’s “better than sex.” Another go-to is their Lasagna Al Forno, with Bolognese ragu, béchamel, and Parmigiano; it’s the best version of this Italian classic I’ve ever tasted. It’s also hard to resist the Pappardelle Alla Vaccinara or Gnocchi Rossi, among many other tempting options. And if you’re having trouble selecting the perfect glass of wine, Jocelyn, Alessandro, or any of their knowledgeable servers can help you find the ideal pairing—it’s been perfection every single time.
The atmosphere at Oste is a wonderful blend of European elegance and LA vibrancy. The space itself is beautifully designed, and the owners and staff create a welcoming environment that makes every visit special. If you haven’t experienced Oste yet, make it a point to visit this LA gem. And if you do, don’t be surprised if you spot me enjoying a meal on the patio!