Chainsaw Cafe Evokes Paris and Caracas in the Heart of East Hollywood

"Purple and yellow tilework; a patchwork yellow accent wall; and a mismatched collection of stools, chairs, and milk crates imbue the space with an intentionally eclectic feel. Throw in the lush assortment of produce that's suspended behind the bar and the tiny cafe feels reminiscent of the small, vibrant neighborhood hangouts found in many cities across Europe and Latin America."

"For a proper lunch, look to the Pead & Barnetts pork collar milanesa served with lemon pepper nata (the Venezuelan take on crema), tamarind barbecue sauce, and a lightly dressed salad (ensaladita) topped with hearts of palm. Take a knife and slice into the craggy, crunchy pork cutlet, dab it into the side of sauce, and intersperse it with bites of refreshing ensaladita for the best effect."

"The passionfruit lime icebox pie may have put Subero Pittol on the map during the pandemic lockdown, but the apple, date, and strawberry double-crust pie - a seasonal item - offers a subtle yet sublime twist on a classic dessert. It's the pie to visit Chainsaw for now. Pint-sized arepas come stuffed with bean and cheese, jamón serrano and cheese, or slow-cooked beef. Paired with lemon pepper nata, they make for a comforting but not particularly filling snack, so order two if you're actually hungry."

Karla Subero Pittol opened Chainsaw Cafe, a pint-sized restaurant across from LA Grocery & Cafe and Little Fish Melrose Hill. The space features purple and yellow tilework, a patchwork yellow accent wall, and mismatched seating, with produce suspended behind the bar, evoking small European and Latin American neighborhood hangouts. The menu is limited and draws on Venezuelan heritage, offering savory dishes, caffeinated drinks, passionfruit lime icebox pie by slice or whole, and seasonal sweets. Standout items include the Pead & Barnetts pork collar milanesa with lemon pepper nata and tamarind barbecue, pint-sized arepas, and espresso tonics. Seating is extremely limited; visit solo or with one other person.

Read at Eater LA