
SELECTED RESTAURANT
Los Angeles, United States
Discover Charcoal Venice: A Wood-Fired Culinary Gem in Los Angeles Beachside Neighborhoods.
Nestled in the vibrant Venice neighborhood of Los Angeles, Charcoal Venice invites food lovers to indulge in a unique dining experience centered around wood-fired meats and fresh, local vegetables. Known for its contemporary setting with cozy booths and a lively bar, this grill house offers a menu that is thoughtfully crafted for sharing family-style, making every meal a communal celebration of flavor and warmth.
Signature Dishes and Flavor Profile
Charcoal Venice shines with its expertly prepared wood-fired menu featuring standout items like the smoky grilled chicken wings and the intriguingly delicious cabbage baked in embers. Meat enthusiasts rave about perfectly cooked lamb chops, Wagyu, and skirt steak, while vegetable lovers can enjoy roasted potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and carrots, each imbued with subtle smoky notes. The baked potatoes, charred just right, and decadent desserts, especially the chocolate peanut butter cake, round out an indulgent meal.
Ambiance and Dining Experience
The energetic vibe at Charcoal Venice is both inviting and lively, perfect for groups and social gatherings. The bustling bar area complements the warm, wood-fired flavors with a curated selection of cocktails, beer, and wine. While the noise level can rise, reflecting the restaurant’s vibrant spirit, the attentive staff ensures each guest feels welcome and well cared for, contributing to a memorable dining outing by the beach.
Community Sentiment Highlights
Diners consistently praise Charcoal Venice for its flavorful dishes and exceptional service. The smoked chicken wings and ember-baked cabbage are frequently mentioned as crowd favorites. Although some guests note the elevated noise levels, many appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the restaurant’s commitment to quality and hospitality. Regulars often cite it as a go-to destination for special occasions and lively dinners with friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the happy hour hours at Charcoal Venice? Happy hour, known as 'Glass Off,' is from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday.
- Is there parking available at Charcoal Venice? Parking is available on the street; metered parking is in effect seven days a week until 6:00 p.m.
- Does Charcoal Venice accept reservations? Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable.
- Is Charcoal Venice wheelchair accessible? Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
- Does Charcoal Venice offer takeout or delivery? Yes, takeout can be ordered by calling the restaurant, and delivery is available through Uber Eats.
Charcoal Venice History Overview and Dining Experience Highlights in Los Angeles CA USA 90292 Venice Washington Boulevard 425 Restaurant Live Fire Cooking Family Style Menu Locally Sourced Ingredients Michelin Recognition Glass Off Happy Hour Burgers and Drinks 2019 2020 2021 Timeline Gourmet Seafood and Meats Contemporary Grill House
Nestled along the bustling Washington Boulevard in Venice, California, Charcoal Venice has established itself as a standout culinary destination since opening its doors in 2019. This contemporary grill house specializes in live-fire cooking, masterfully preparing an array of locally sourced meats, seafood, and vegetables. Its unique approach to dining—featuring family-style sharing plates—invites guests to savor each dish in a warm, communal atmosphere that reflects the vibrant Venice neighborhood's spirit.
Founding and early innovations
Since its inception in 2019, Charcoal Venice has been committed to elevating the art of live-fire cooking. The founders envisioned a dining experience centered around the simplicity and depth of flavor that wood-fired cooking imparts. Their menu was thoughtfully crafted to emphasize quality local ingredients, highlighting sustainable and fresh produce and proteins that appeal to food enthusiasts and conscious diners alike.
The glass off happy hour and growing popularity
In 2020, Charcoal Venice introduced its innovative 'Glass Off' happy hour, quickly becoming a local favorite. This initiative offered guests discounted drinks alongside a signature $12 burger, providing an accessible yet high-quality option for social dining. This move not only enhanced the restaurant’s appeal to a diverse clientele but also solidified its position as a must-visit spot for casual yet sophisticated dining in Venice and the broader Los Angeles area.
Michelin Guide recognition and culinary excellence
By 2021, Charcoal Venice’s dedication to exceptional cuisine and its masterful execution of live-fire cooking earned it recognition from the prestigious Michelin Guide. This accolade underscores the restaurant’s commitment to quality and innovation, distinguishing it among Los Angeles’s competitive dining scene. Patrons can expect expertly prepared dishes featuring robust flavors and a contemporary ambiance that complements the handcrafted menu.
What to expect at Charcoal Venice today
Today, Charcoal Venice offers an inviting setting with modern booths and outdoor seating options, perfect for gatherings and special occasions. It serves a menu rich with wood-fired meats, seafood, and vegetarian-friendly vegetables — all prepared with precision and shared family-style to encourage connection. The restaurant also features a curated selection of cocktails, beer, and wine, enhancing the overall dining experience. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the lively, yet relaxed atmosphere that makes each visit memorable.
- Live-fire cooking - Signature method emphasizing smoky, charred flavors.
- Family-style sharing - Encourages communal dining and exploration of multiple dishes.
- Locally sourced ingredients - Focus on sustainable and fresh produce and proteins.
- Michelin Guide recognition - A mark of culinary excellence and innovation.
Charcoal Venice in Los Angeles California Dining Experience Overview
Located at 425 Washington Boulevard in vibrant Venice, Los Angeles, Charcoal Venice offers a casual grill house experience focused on wood-fired meats, seafood, and vegetable dishes served in a contemporary setting with cozy booths. This restaurant is a hotspot for those seeking flavorful, smoky cuisine with a lively atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors alike.
Delicious smoky flavors and lively ambiance
Charcoal Venice is especially praised for its standout dishes like the smoky grilled chicken wings and the cabbage baked in embers, both delivering rich, flavorsome profiles that keep diners coming back. The energetic bar area adds to the bustling vibe, making it a great spot to enjoy happy hour specials including discounted drinks and a popular $12 burger. Whether you're sharing plates family-style or indulging in expertly cooked meats, the menu offers something satisfying for lovers of wood-fired cuisine.
Considerations for your visit
While Charcoal Venice offers a memorable dining experience, guests should be aware of a few potential drawbacks. The noise level can be quite high, which might affect intimate conversations, especially during busy hours. Parking is limited to metered street parking, which could be a challenge in the popular Venice neighborhood. Some diners have also noted that service can occasionally be inattentive during peak times, so planning ahead or making reservations is advisable.
Why Charcoal Venice is worth trying
- Flavorsome dishes such as the smoked chicken wings and ember-baked cabbage make it a distinctive culinary spot.
- Energetic and lively atmosphere with a bustling bar area perfect for socializing and happy hour indulgences.
- Happy hour specials like discounted drinks and affordable gourmet burgers that offer great value.
Overall, Charcoal Venice stands out as a flavorful and vibrant dining destination in Los Angeles. Ideal for groups and those who appreciate bold wood-fired flavors, it also welcomes diners looking for a casual yet refined meal. Despite minor challenges like noise and parking, the combination of stellar food, friendly staff, and a spirited environment make it a rewarding culinary visit in the heart of Venice.
Closed - Opens 5:30 PM
Monday
18:00–21:00
Tuesday
18:00–21:00
Wednesday
18:00–21:00
Thursday
18:00–21:00
Friday
17:30–22:00
Saturday
17:30–22:00
Sunday
17:30–21:00
Aggregated Ratings 4.4
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