Weeks in advance, Carol Ojeda-Kimbrough and I committed to go to 1917. I wanted to introduce her to a great place, outdoorsy that felt like a vineyard ambiance. Ever since this restaurant opened, its menu curated by Jo Quiambao Dijamco outside San Antonio Winery, Los Angeles, crowds grew and grew to enjoy charcuterie, wine tasting and live jazz music of Chuck Manggione. We were transported by the cooking of the fube hands of Chef Jo, who is inspired, and gives us flawless flavors and cooking.

We had arugula salad with salmon, funghi pizza, special of the day – ribeye on bread with romanesco sauce, topped with organic egg and chimichurri sauce, fresh prawns and Panna cotta with berries and honey.

The best part – the owner stood up from his reunion table with classmates, and introduced himself, welcomed us, and inquired about our experience. I told him “more than excellent.”

Even before we ordered Chef Jo asked what did we feel like eating. Later, Chef Jo shared his next culinary exposure/adventure and his immersive training in France, Italy and Spain. He is a hidden culinary treasure, and have opened most recently LA Belle Pinseria Romana and this fine gem in LA, 1917 Restaurant.

What did we talk about: upcoming and past projects, gardening, cooking, family, friends and affirmation of sisterhood lessons.