590010 Thu Jan 22 17:29:36 -0800 2009 1 2 Los Angeles Area 0 4349290 I stopped by the new Locali store this morning on Franklin Ave. next to the Mayfair (or is it Gelson's now?) The concept may sound a little self-conscious but it's pretty cool -- nearly everything is either locally-sourced, organic or sustainable in some way. Today most of the food was pre-packaged from M Cafe and several other salad and sandwich companies. A lot of items are vegan but not all. They're going to have freshly made sandwiches and soups soon. It's pretty small, but there's a good selection of California and even L.A. and Orange County beer, ice cream from Carmela, and eco gadgetry. It's a nice idea, although the little minimall on trafficky Franklin doesn't seem like the most convenient spot. http://www.localiyours.com/ Thu Jan 22 17:29:36 -0800 2009 12460 Chowpatty 1 4475388 I stpped by here last week to pick up dinner. They are now preparing fresh deli sandwiches, and have a selection of meats and cheeses. As Chowpatty says, it's mostly organic, with a heavy vegan influence. To my disbelief, they have pre-packaged food from the Ethiopian restaurant Rahel. I got the vegan lentil wrap, and as suggeted by the guy behind the counter, I ate it cold. It had an interesting, complex spice melange, and when eaten cold, it was relatively un-messy, despite being a rollup. I also got some organic chevre, which was quite tasty, but a bit on the pricey side. I hope this place stays in business. They have unique items that can't be found nearby. But the minimall they're in doesn't get any traffic unless you're specifically going there. By the way, Tang's the donut shop next door has decent pressed sandwiches. So if you want organic, and your BFF wants pressed, this is ground zero. Or maybe you're entertaining your family from out of town. You want to eat organic or vegan and they just want to eat.....and none of that frou frou stuff. Again, this is your center. You can get a nice healthy lunch and they can have a dozen glazed next door. Thu Mar 05 05:46:11 -0800 2009 4349290 13464 lil mikey