Eclectic Kim Review: All Time

I’ll admit that my very first encounter with a staff member at All Time – during a previous attempt to pop in with Matt for dessert and drinks – was absolute garbage. But, as nine months had passed, I assumed that the bitch ass ray of sunshine I originally met as a hostess had found a different line of work. Or, at least she’d hopefully stopped making other people as miserable as she clearly was that night.

After all – nine months seemed like enough time for personal growth. Or at least a career pivot.

So, when Carla reminded me that it was my turn to choose a lunch spot, I suggested All Time. Why? Because even if a place annoys me during my first attempt, I’m – sometimes – willing to try again.

This time, my experience at All Time was a full 180 turn – from trash to deliciousness.

This time, the host, a humorous and attractive guy that laughed at my joke about mayonnaise, was an absolute delight to talk to. As Carla and I ordered at the host stand, I was immediately excited for the effortless cool and vibrant energy of the space.

My LAVENDER LEMONADE arrived first. I will admit that upon first sip, I expected more lavender flavor. But, it was cool and refreshing on a warm summer day. And that’s what mattered most.

Once my WAGYU BURGER (Black Hawk Waygu, cheddar, gem lettuce, tomato, red onion, All Time secret sauce, pickles, housemade brioche bun) arrived, I was rather impressed. Then, I took my first bite. And all was forgiven.

It was delicious. Especially, with my chosen smashed potatoes as a side dish.

As Carla and I talked, caught up, and celebrated her incredible personal milestone, I couldn’t help but feel deep gratitude. I was so fortunate to have met her during my training as a newly licensed real estate agent at our former brokerage. Since then, she’s been a steady source of mentorship, wisdom, and true friendship.

But perhaps most profoundly – when she showed me the architectural plans for her new home, being built to replace the one lost in theAltadena fires – I remembered her of a promise I’d made. During a past trip to Brown Napa Valley’s tasting room in Napa, I’d purchased a bottle of wine with one purpose: to open it with her once her new home was complete, as a toast to Black excellence, perseverance, and love. When I reminded her of this, she showed me with words of love, affirmation and appreciation that I felt watered my very soul.

And that’s what life is all about – human connection over delicious meals.

At the end of lunch, All Time set out a basket of unsold morning pastries. Carla and I each left with a complimentary mixed berry scone.