Hippo

While James Beard award winner Matt Molina is best known for his work at LA essential Osteria Mozza, his latest venture Hippo is where he really comes into his own. More neighborhood joint than a see and be seen spot, Hippo is a place you can feel comfortable strolling in on any weeknight and ordering a couple plates to share amongst some friends. We always like to start off with one of the constantly changing raw fish preparations and the royal hamachi crudo with kumquat Prosecco relish on a recent visit did not disappoint. It comes as no surprise that the pastas are standout but the sweet corn cappellacci with a rich and comforting sauce is truly one of our favorites in the city. Order it without fail and while you’re at it, spring for the hearty fettuccini with heritage pork ragu or better yet the Lasagna if you catch it on a rare night. While Molina isn’t reinventing the wheel with any of his dishes at Hippo, it’s approachable food that you, and everyone you know, constantly wants to eat.