Jon & Vinny’s unveils new locations in San Fernando Valley and South L.A.

The beloved Italian-American restaurant, Jon & Vinny’s, is set to expand its culinary footprint to the San Fernando Valley. The news was confirmed through an Instagram post featuring the restaurant’s signage at the new location on Moorpark Boulevard, where Studio City meets North Hollywood. The post, which was met with enthusiastic comments and a “shush” emoji from Jon & Vinny’s official account, hints at the excitement surrounding this expansion.

The new location is expected to offer the same delectable menu that has made Jon & Vinny’s a staple in Los Angeles. Patrons can look forward to favorites such as marinara braised meatballs, rigatoni with broccolini, and Anson Mills polenta. The opening date remains under wraps, but the processing of two liquor license requests suggests that preparations are well underway.

The Bear Connection: A Culinary Inspiration

Jon & Vinny’s has not only made a mark on the culinary scene but has also found a unique connection with the popular FX series “The Bear.” Chef De Cuisine Jose Garcia of the Slauson location reflects on how the show resonates with his experiences at the restaurant. Garcia, who has a rich background in cooking from his family of chefs in New York, worked his way up from a busser and prep cook to his current position.

Courtney Storer, the former Head Chef of Jon & Vinny’s and now a culinary producer for “The Bear,” has left a lasting impact on the team. Sous Chef Herbert White recalls how Storer’s passion and creativity influenced their work, particularly in moments like the episode where pastry chef Marcus focuses on making donuts instead of cakes. This dedication to creativity without compromising the main job is a testament to the ethos at Jon & Vinny’s.

The connection between the kitchen staff and the show’s portrayal of the culinary world is palpable. Adrian Cervantes, a waiter at Jon & Vinny’s, notes that the adversities and challenges depicted in “The Bear” mirror their own experiences, including the delicate balance between work and life. General Manager Liliana Gastelum shares that the episode “Forks” from season two hit home, emphasizing the importance of teaching and understanding in the culinary profession.

Community Engagement and Expansion in South L.A.

In addition to the new Valley location, Jon & Vinny’s is also planning to open a third location in South L.A.’s View Park neighborhood next year. The chef-restaurateurs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo purchased a 5,000-square-foot building, formerly Yee’s Chinese Food restaurant, for $2.4 million. Initially intended as a commissary kitchen for their catering operation, Carmelized Productions, the space will now be transformed into a full-service, all-day restaurant following community interest.

The new restaurant will serve the neighboring suburbs of Ladera Heights, Windsor Hills, and Baldwin Hills, known for their affluent, predominantly African American communities. This area, often referred to as the “Black Beverly Hills,” has seen concerns about gentrification and shifting demographics due to the rapid redevelopment of Inglewood, just a mile south of Yee’s future site.

To address these concerns and engage with the community, Shook and Dotolo hosted an informational “open house” event at Yee’s space, offering free pizza and showcasing renderings of the restaurant’s interior, designed by Jeff Guga. The design will feature a white oak interior similar to other Jon & Vinny’s locations and a wine store curated by partner director Helen Johannesen.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles is a city that thrives on its diverse culinary landscape, and Jon & Vinny’s is a shining example of this vibrancy. For occasional travelers, visiting one of Jon & Vinny’s locations offers a taste of authentic Italian-American cuisine with a Californian twist. Make sure to book your reservations in advance, especially with their new partnership with Visa Infinite, which provides exclusive access to sought-after dining spots.

For expert travelers, exploring the different neighborhoods where Jon & Vinny’s is located can offer a deeper understanding of L.A.’s cultural and social dynamics. Each location, from Brentwood to the upcoming South L.A. spot, reflects the unique character of its community. Engaging with local events, such as the “open house” hosted by Shook and Dotolo, can provide valuable insights into the ongoing conversations about development and community engagement in Los Angeles.

In conclusion, Jon & Vinny’s continues to expand and evolve, bringing its beloved culinary offerings to new parts of Los Angeles while maintaining a strong connection to its roots and community. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at Jon & Vinny’s.