Los Angeles has vast selection of shops catering to the culinary-inclined. National chains like Williams-Sonoma and Crate & Barrel dot shopping centers from Ventura to Long Beach and regional chains like Sur la Table are growing ever more popular as the Food Network takes hold of our TVs and our kitchens. But those who take food seriously know there is nothing quite like Culver City’s Surfas.
Owned and operated by the same family since 1937, Surfas is a restaurant supply, gourmet specialty food market and cafe. They specialize in commercial kitchen installation, and a wander through their aisles will reveal everything from monster-sized mixers to mini muffin tins. The food side of the store features foodstuffs both bizarre and exotic, as well as items you never knew you needed. There is a case of caviar, a table where you can sample dozens of olive oils and a freezer full of Italian gelatos. The spice section is most impressive, and you could spend an entire Saturday afternoon just trying to choose a salt.
After shopping, sustenance is essential. Exit the store and step into Cafe Surfas and choose from their selection of soups, salads and “redefined” sandwiches (I’m particularly fond of the home-style pickles). Eat lunch out on the patio and admire the floor - the cement is imprinted with cooking utensils!
Surfas, located at the corner of Washington and National in Culver City 310.559.4770
Hours: Monday - Saturday 9am - 6:30pm, Sunday 11am - 5pm
Photo by threelayercake via Flickr.
1 response so far ↓
1 Clo // Jan 29, 2008 at 3:31 pm
This came at the perfect time. I had a GC to Sur La Table and was not happy with how few items I actually purchased. Can’t wait to go explore!
Thanks, C!!
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