I have just tasted the most amazing almond croissant and in the process fallen in love with a delightful little French cafe in Culver City, CA. Café Laurant is just the kind of place where a cook can go to enjoy a breakfast, brunch or a casual afternoon meal that is going to inspire their own creations. Laurant claims that the spirit of adventure that led to the creation of the cafe began “in a old kitchen in a 14th century house in Normandy” when as a five year old he attempted the “delicate task of making a “blancs en neige” and “thirty years latter I am still at play in the kitchen.” Well that playful spirit translates to the food any cook who relishes culinary improvisation can appreciate.

I have heard tell of some Angelenos complaining about the slow service, but like the best cafes this is a place to take your time. If you are in a rush I hear the drive thru down the street delivers a meal in a hurry. For my part I will be sitting in the outdoor patio savoring the day.

• Breakfast 7:30a until 11:30a
• Lunch 11:30 -2:30
• Brunch until 11:30 on weekends