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Gjusta

RESTAURANT SUMMARY

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Where California's farm-to-table philosophy meets artisanal craftsmanship, Gjusta Los Angeles transforms the humble bakery-deli concept into Venice's most coveted culinary destination. This industrial-chic marketplace, born from the acclaimed Gjelina Group, has redefined Los Angeles fine dining through its counter-service approach to gourmet cuisine since opening in 2014.

Founded by the visionary Gjelina Group under Fran Camaj's leadership, Gjusta began as a commissary kitchen before evolving into Venice's premier artisanal food hall. The restaurant's founding chef Travis Lett established a legacy of seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine that continues to influence the kitchen's philosophy today. What started as a support operation quickly garnered critical acclaim, earning recognition from Pulitzer Prize-winning food critic Jonathan Gold and securing its place among the best restaurants Los Angeles has to offer.

The cuisine celebrates California's abundant seasonal produce through an ever-changing menu that showcases house-made excellence. Signature offerings include the legendary smoked fish platters featuring silky house-cured salmon and rich whitefish salad, alongside the coveted Porchetta Melt with succulent pork, rapini, and fontina on freshly baked bread. The in-house bakery produces exceptional artisanal breads, buttery croissants, and the Instagram-famous baklava croissant. Dinner service after 5 PM elevates the experience with sophisticated plates like moules frites, wild striped bass, and NY steak frites, positioning Gjusta within Los Angeles fine dining circles despite its casual format.

The open-loft space creates an immersive marketplace experience where guests witness the culinary magic unfold across multiple stations—from the smokehouse producing exceptional charcuterie to the bakery crafting daily breads. Counter service maintains accessibility while handcrafted ceramics by local artisan Ernie Lee elevate each presentation. The bustling atmosphere extends to the coveted outdoor patio, where Venice's creative community gathers over seasonal salads, house-made granola, and the city's most sought-after banana bread.

Gjusta reservations aren't required—this walk-in-only establishment operates on Venice time, where the best experiences come to those who embrace the neighborhood's spontaneous spirit. Whether seeking the perfect morning croissant, a leisurely lunch of heirloom tomato and burrata salad, or an evening charcuterie exploration, Gjusta delivers an authentic taste of Los Angeles' luxury food scene that continues to captivate the most discerning epicureans.

CHEF

Fran Camaj

ACCOLADES

(2025) EP Club Recommended Restaurant

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Cheap Eats in North America Ranked #22

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Cheap Eats in North America Ranked #18

CONTACT

320 Sunset Ave, Venice, CA 90291

+1 310-314-0320

FEATURED GUIDES

NEARBY RESTAURANTS

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