February 05, 2013

Olive & Thyme


There is a quaint cafe that sits on the border of Toluca Lake and Burbank.  It serves fantastic coffee and brunch.  It sells cheeses, cured meats, truffle salts, oils, and various other delicacies that every foodie fancies.  Its name?  Olive & Thyme.




Gluten free macarons?!

Salts, spices, what have you.


The indoor space is not very big, so you may have a wait.  If you don't mind sitting in the sun and people-watching, I suggest sitting outdoors and taking advantage of LA's gorgeous weather.






Short Rib Hash -- braised short rib, red onion, smoked applewood bacon, roasted potatoes, topped with a sunnyside egg and sriracha -- $12

My short rib hash was good, but it was missing something that I can't quite put my finger on.  Maybe I was just craving some bread or tortilla on the side.


Chinese Chicken Salad -- romaine lettuce, shredded chicken, almonds, carrots, scallions and cilantro -- $12

For a healthier option, there are plenty of salads to choose from.  The Chinese Chicken salad combines fresh ingredients for a simple, familiar taste.

Braised Short Rib Sandwich -- with horseradish creme fraiche, caramelized onions on country sourdough -- $13

The real highlight of the meal was this short rib sandwich.  Unlike the hash, the short rib here was presently simply with just a hint of horseradish creme fraiche spread on a side of the bread and a subtle sweet from the caramelized onions.  Let me tell ya, they do not skimp on the short rib, and for that I am very grateful.




Short rib sandwich > short rib hash.  Both are good, but if you had to choose, I'd go with the sandwich.

Overall, the service was good, food was solid, and experience was pleasant.  Olive & Thyme, I shall return again soon!



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Olive & Thyme on Urbanspoon

cuisine: American
location: Toluca Lake
hours: M-Th, 9 AM - 8PM; F, 8 AM - 9 PM, Sat, 9 AM - 3 PM
websites: { O&T | yelp | twitter | facebook }
attire: Casual
parking: Street meters
notes: Another great cafe nearby is Sweetsalt.