Jilly Bites

    10 Jun 2010

    Literati - persons of scholarly or literary attainments; intellectuals.

    The Literati Cafe, a delightful, thoughtful, colorful spot, that draws in the type of clientele who read, study, and ponder.  Had the Literati Cafe been in existence in their day, I imagine it would have attracted the likes of great writers like Harper Lee or great thinkers like Einstein and his scientific cronies. There are books and laptops and caffeinated beverages crowding the limited space on the tables.  But while the tables and chairs are set close together, it’s not in a negative way, it’s in a very neighborly way that encourages conversation and friendly smiles.  

    From the moment I accidentally stepped into the Literati Bar and Grill (the big sister to the Literati Cafe), instead of the cafe and was redirected by a very nice waitress, it was a lovely, peaceful, inviting experience.  The counter staff was so accommodating and helpful to my numerous inquiries as a first timer, even offering me a taste of each soup when I couldn’t decide, and my iced cappuccino and tomato basil soup with mixed green salad and fresh baked multi-grain bread were delivered to my seat overlooking Wilshire Blvd. quite quickly.  My iced nonfat cappuccino was sooooo good. Soooo good. I guarantee that I will get cravings.  My mixed green salad with their homemade balsamic dressing made my body just feel like it was being rejuvenated from the inside out.  And truly, is there anything better than fresh-baked bread? *Sigh*  I saved the tomato basil soup for last for a reason.  I am a lover of tomato soups.  Here is the thing; I hate tomatoes, loathe them and their texture.  But I love tomato soup, ketchup, and tomato sauce.  Food texture is a tricky thing for me, but I digress.  The tomato basil soup was so warm, so rich, so salty, peppery and tangy, with just a kick of basil for good measure.  I have to rank it in my top ten of amazing tomato soups!  (On a side note, I think I should create a post on just the best tomato soups in the LA area.  Who’s with me?! (-: )

    I have to thank my friend and reader, Abby Craig Weber, for her recommendation of the Literati Cafe.  It was even better than I thought it could be Abby! Thank you so much!  (Also, click on her name, it will bring you to her fabulous blog! (-: )

    Oh! Two more things: major plus, they have free WiFi and in addition to their oh, so yummy cafe menu, they offer wine by the glass.  Amazing!!!!