Osteria La Buca

There are some places that inexplicably a part of my lived experience. Returning from Texas after burying my mother, I remember sitting on the couch and just crying. At some point, I remembered that I needed to actually feed myself. So, through red eyes, I ordered Uber Eats and come comfort food from Osteria La Buca. A few bites fed me, when I was staring at the great beyond.

A few years later, the day before my fibroid removal surgery, Onnik and I had dinner at Osteria La Buca. I tried to smile through absolute terror of the unknown. The food was delicious and truly – as always – comforting.

A few years later, I faced an unexpected milestone: My mother’s 5th death anniversary. The day was absolutely brutal for me. I felt overwhelmed by the weight of the world and also myself. Sara saw this and offered to met me for dinner. When she suggested Osteria La Buca, it was only right for me to say yes.

There’s something incredibly special about sitting across from a friend you’ve known since 4th grade. Also, there’s something brilliant about meeting at a comfortable restaurant, in which you trust the food will nourish you in a way you desperately needed.

I began with the NEGRONI BIANCO (Wilder CA Gin, Bordiga Bianco, Amaro Angeleno). Each sip lifted the haze of grief – bit by bit – from my body.

The CACIO E PEPE ARANCINI (arborio rice, pecorino, black pepper, panko) was, as always, outstanding and full of cheesy, spicy goodness.

When the PAPPARDELLE VERDI (arugula pappardelle, zucchini, garlic, lemon, pecorino, chili flake) arrived to the table, Sara and I were laughing about a 7th grade river rafting trip to Colorado River, at the California and Arizona border.

It was then, that I found a sense of joy again. The energy between us felt light and easy. We talked about our grey hairs, how fast time had moved into the future and the memories we shared together.

The SOPPRESSATA (mildly spicy salami, tomato, mozzarella, oregano, garlic) was absolutely delicious.

In an unexpected way, Osteria La Buca has truly been there for me through the hardest and most challenging points of my life. And is the very definition of how food can soothe your soul.

And shout out to the real Day One friendships. The friends that can watch you cry, shower you with care and help you find your way up the Emotional Guidance Scale to smile once again.

That’s love.

Previously at
Osteria La Buca

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Reconnecting with Brett has been such a joy. There’s something truly refreshing about engaging in thoughtful, stimulating conversation. He’s someone who brings depth and intelligence to every topic. I especially love hearing about his travels with his family. His stories – and hotel recommendations –  are always rich with warmth and adventure.

After our first major catch up over coffee and great conversation at Love Coffee Bar, we quickly made plans to meet again. This time for lunch.

Unfortunately, first spot I chose ended up being closed. But, Osteria La Buca was just a mere few feet away. As I’d dinned there a handful of times over the last few years, walking through those doors again for another meal brought a wave of excitement to my stomach.

There’s something special about a spot that chooses to focus on a select few dishes – and executes them with excellence. That’s how I felt browsing the lunch menu.

We started with the CACIO E PEPE ARANCINI (arborio rice, pecorino, black pepper, panko). This is one of my absolute favorite appetizers. It was perfectly crispy, slightly creamy, and perfectly seasoned with a hint of spice from the pepper.

For my main course, I had the PAPPARDELLE BOLOGNESE (pork & beef ragu, pecorino, basil), which was everything I hoped it would be: comforting and hearty.

My conversation with Brett flowed easily, touching on travel, wineries, and current political events. Honestly, it’s been incredibly fulfilling to surround myself with people who spark thoughtful dialogue and challenge my thinking in meaningful ways. In a world often dominated by shallow distractions and utter mindless crap, it feels like such a gift to share meals that fill both my body and mind.

As we said goodbye and made plans for our next lunch meeting, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the time of life I’m in right now. In a world of division, I take pleasure in the fact that I focus on connecting with outstanding people that provide connection, conversation, and an open mind over good food.

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