Nyesha Arrington Eats Collard Green Lasagna with Issa Rae in Los Angeles – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pixabay)
Los Angeles – Nyesha Arrington wrapped up her California food journey back in her hometown, diving into the city’s diverse flavors during the latest Plateworthy episode. The tour’s final leg highlighted innovative eats that blend tradition with local flair. From neighborhood bakeries to beachside spots and cultural hubs, Arrington sampled dishes that captured LA’s culinary pulse.
A Pastry-Packed Morning in Highland Park
Arrington began her day at Santa Canela in Highland Park, where pastry chef Ellen Ramos demonstrated her creative takes on Mexican sweets. Ramos prepared champurrado doughnuts using fresh masa, conchas filled with burnt-vanilla cream, and churros shaped like the LA skyline. These treats offered a playful nod to the city’s identity while honoring classic flavors.
After watching the process, Arrington settled in for a breakfast heavy on these sweets. The experience set a whimsical tone for the day, showcasing how Highland Park’s bakers fuse heritage ingredients with contemporary twists. Such stops underscored the neighborhood’s rising status in LA’s food scene.
Bike Ride Leads to Mentor’s Fried Chicken Gem
With her dog Bleu Ginger in tow, Arrington pedaled along Santa Monica’s Main Street toward Augie’s on Main. The casual eatery comes from her mentor, chef Josiah Citrin, who has long influenced her culinary path. There, she savored a fried dirty chicken sandwich, its bold seasoning delivering a satisfying crunch.
Post-meal, Arrington headed to the nearby beach, blending food with the coastal vibe. This segment highlighted the ease of LA’s laid-back dining options, where quality bites pair seamlessly with outdoor leisure. Citrin’s spot proved a perfect midpoint, bridging casual indulgence and personal connections.
Somerville’s Fusion Feast Draws Stars and Locals
The day peaked at Somerville in South Central, where culinary director Geter Atienza guided Arrington through the making of collard green lasagna. The dish featured house-made spinach pasta sheets layered with greens, creating a cheesy, comforting twist on Italian classics infused with Southern elements. Arrington then joined Somerville’s co-founders – Issa Rae, Ajay Relan, and Yonnie Hangos – for the meal.
The group also enjoyed fried chicken sandwiches topped with caviar and a rich short ribs preparation. Conversation turned to the venue’s role as a restaurant and jazz lounge, which has drawn more visitors to the area. Issa Rae’s involvement added star power, yet the focus remained on community impact and innovative hospitality.
Somerville represents a broader shift in South Central, where spaces like this encourage exploration beyond typical tourist paths. Atienza’s lasagna stood out for its creativity, merging collard greens – a staple in Black cuisine – with pasta techniques. The shared table fostered genuine dialogue about neighborhood growth, blending food with cultural revival. Dishes like the caviar-topped sandwich elevated familiar comfort food, appealing to diverse palates.
Why This Episode Captures LA’s Food Evolution
Arrington’s LA itinerary reflected the city’s knack for reimagining staples through local lenses. Pastry innovations at Santa Canela echoed immigrant influences, while Augie’s embodied mentorship and accessibility. Somerville, however, emerged as the emotional core, tying celebrity draw to grassroots progress.
The episode invites viewers to discover these spots themselves, from churros mimicking the skyline to lasagna redefining greens. It paints LA not just as a dining destination, but as a canvas for chefs pushing boundaries. As Arrington concluded her tour, the flavors lingered as a testament to the city’s enduring appeal.
