Gjelina Chef Change

[BSW6490]

I understand the Chef left to open Laurel Hardware. Any info on the new chef or any changes?

[cookie monster]

Which chef? Travis Lett is the chef / co-owner at Gjelina, and I don't think he's connected to Laurel Hardware.

[Servorg]

From Grub St. LA regarding Laurel Hardware:

"Chef Mario Alberto, who astounded Downtown with his modern Peruvian food at Chimu and has also shed blood and sweat at Gjelina, Freddy Smalls, Mo-Chica, and Lazy Ox, is in charge of lunch and dinner menus here, stuffed with super-seasonal small plates, burgers, salads, and pizzas."

[Thor123]

Just tried Laurel Hardware. IMO its more of a bar with food than a restaurant, but a very cool, loud bar. The pizza was nothing special and the food was just ok.

[EricDC]

You know what would be great? If they changed the staff's attitudes while they're at it.

Always liked the food there. Was always annoyed at how the staff acted like I should be licking their boot heels for the privilege of eating there.

[Porthos]

Only been 3 times but never got attitude by the staff. The hostesses are a bit sullen but probably because they're swamped. Waiters are always nice and willing to chat food and wine.

[wienermobile]

...agree with Porthos. Have always had excellent service in addition to their tasty brussel sprouts.

[nosh]

I have always been treated fine at Gjelina. I know when I call for a reservation they can't promise the patio, but I ask when I reserve, ask when I confirm, and ask when I arrive -- almost always works out.

[westsidegal]

porthos:
i've been there many more times than three and have ALWAYS been treated well and nicely by the staff.

[Discokill]

I normally don't put much stock in one off service complaints but I went once thought the food was great but had such a bad service experience I vowed never to return.

Since I don't put stock in it you shouldn't either but know service quality goes both ways.

[westsidegal]

since i go at approximately the same time on weekdays only, it's also possible that i'm experiencing a different "shift" of servers than you did.

[Thor123]

I was there with a party of seven. The check came and appeared to include gratuity. It was dark and hard to read, so I wanted to be sure. Our primary server could not be found but I asked another server who had helped our table if tip was included. He said, "yes, didn't she [the main server] tell you?" I said, "no, but it would have been nice". He said "well you should have know with a party your size" and walked away. Our service was otherwise very good, but this was not handled well.