Jones Hollywood

Jones in West Hollywood is a beloved spot for Italian comfort food, offering a laid-back vibe with solid dining and cocktail choices

When Reema mentioned she was coming to Los Angeles, my mind instantly raced to the idea of a dinner reunion. After a quick exchange of messages debating the perfect spot, Sara, Reema, and I decided on a weeknight dinner at Jones in West Hollywood. It felt like the ideal choice—a place that promised great food and a lively atmosphere, perfect for catching up. After all, it had been nearly two decades since Reema and Sara had last seen each other, and I was eager to be part of their long-awaited reunion.

As for me, I’d had the pleasure of sharing meals with Reema before—once at RPM Italian in Washington, D.C., and another time at the chic Rooftop by JG at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. But, as it had been a few years, I truly looked forward to seeing her again.

With the reservation secured, we all looked forward to a dinner that promised not just great food, but the kind of connection and laughter that only old friends can share.

As the evening unfolded, I found myself nestled in the warm embrace of good company and even better libations. The night began with a toast to friendship, clinking glasses to the night.

I sipped on the  CIGARETTES AND ALCOHOL (Jones Signature Old Fashioned made with Jack Daniels Single Barrel Select, Jack Daniels Whiskey Bitters, Dirty Sue Cherry).

This was a masterful concoction that felt like a love letter to whiskey enthusiasts. And best of all – it was a strong drink that demanded to be savored, sip by sip.

As the conversation flowed, Reema, Sara, and I turned our attention to the PROSCIUTTO DI PARMA AND SEASONAL FRUIT (with pears). The dish was a study in simplicity. Thin, velvety slices of prosciutto draped alongside ripe pears was delicious.

Now, I will say the bread could have been better. We all thought it was a bit – tough to chew. But, the prosciutto was delicious.

When our main dishes arrived, I immediately loved the look my ORECCHIETTE WITH BROCCOLI RABE (House-made turkey sausage with spicy marinara and Parmigiano). With a little bit of salt and pepper, this dish was exactly what I wanted.  Each bite was a reminder of why comfort Italian food, when done right, can feel so indulgent and satisfying.

I also enjoyed a piece of Sara’s WHITE PIZZA (sun dried tomatoes, burrata, mozzarella, garlic, basil, white truffle oil).

As the night wore on, we found ourselves reluctant to leave.

The solution?

The JONES FAMOUS APPLE PIE FOR TWO (a slice of Jones Apple Pie served on a sizzling platter in a brown sugar sauce with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream).

The ice cream slowly melted as we all savored the night. It was decadent, yes, but also deeply comforting.

It was a fitting end to a meal that had been as much about the food as it was about the shared experience of reuniting high school friends.

When we finally stepped out into the night, we were all completely satisfied. It was a night that reminded me why dining out is about so much more than the food on the plate. It truly is about the conversations and moments you share, and the friendships that continue over decades.

- -