Giada De Laurentiis

We started watching the Food Network right around the time Giada showed up on the scene. Who knows why…but we quickly developed an interest in Italian cooking. Us and every dude that has lived in a college dorm since the early part of the last decade. There are men in their mid-twenties all over this country that can not only make a panzanella salad in their sleep, but who also perfectly pronounce words like “marscapone.” All thanks to Giada.

Not only does Ms. De Laurentiis preside flawlessly over an Italian TV kitchen, but she also (obviously) knows where to go for good EATS. So we hit her up for a Friday Fives, and she gave us some excellent picks for Los Angeles.

That makes for our second LA Friday Fives in just a few weeks. Watch out, West Coast. We’re coming for you soon.

Giada’s “Perfect For” Picks

Eats With a View

Hash at Hotel Erwin (1697 Pacific Avenue, Venice Beach, CA) – “The roof top here is awesome. Brunch is great – they are known for their hash, and you can make your own bloody mary. Perfect weekend spot.”

Full On Pork Indulgence

Animal (435 N. Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles, CA) – “Like meat? Well, you will love Animal. Amazing dinner every time I go.”

Good Vibes

A-Frame (12565 Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA) – “This is the place for fun, unique drinks. My two picks are the Two Time (vodka, passionfruit, hibiscus, lime, and bitters) and the Anchorman (scotch, ginger, agave nectar, and lemon.)”

Late Night Eats

Gjelina (1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, CA) – “They serve dinner until 12am, which by LA standards is late. Love to go and grab a late dinner, it’s a cozy spot with a hip vibe, and top notch eats.”

Vegetarians

Urth Caffe (Various Locations) – “After being on the road, when I want a healthy meal, my go to spot is Urth Caffe. They have simple, fresh, organic food. And killer coffee – a must try is their Spanish Latte, made with sweetened condensed milk… Mmm.”

Giada’s Twitter People

@DaveZinczenko – Gives simple, daily tips that I love…

@AndersonCooper – Up to date info and what’s going on in the world.

@RyanSeacrest – Get my behind the scenes American Idol fix when I am on he road and can’t get to a tv.

@PeopleMag – I’m just being honest, I love my People Magazine!

@Mariobatali – Always tweeting pix of great places he’s eating, love his suggestions.