ALONG COMES MARY

There’s no denying that Los Angeles is the place to be if you need a specialty diet. Gluten free, non GMO, Vegan, Vegetarian–LA has you covered. While it’s great to have these options, it doesn’t always mean they are the best. I have had my share of fantastic gluten-free meals but, also the not so memorable. So, when Locali invited me out to preview the fare at their newest location, opening this week on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, I was intrigued.

Locali is fast becoming a popular franchise chain here in Los Angeles. With locations already popular in Downtown, Hollywood and Venice, Locali is a great option for those that are health conscious of what they are eating, as well as those in need of something sans gluten, animal products or are looking for the best possible deli meats they can find.

A franchise approach, Locali are fast popping up throughout LA and to rave reviews. Known for their sandwiches, especially their Bad Ass Breakfast Sandwich (and, breakfast is served all the time), I cruised the menu for a bit and decided to try half of their Peaceful Warrior and the other half, the Daybreaker. While their vegan meats like tempeh bacon looked inviting, most of their meat substitutes are not gluten-free, with the exception of their vegan chicken. If you are gluten-free and vegan, your best would be their Hungry, Hungry Hippie–which I have mine on for next time!

The Peaceful Warrior on their gluten-free bread almost looked too good to eat. India-inspired flavors that tickle your taste buds., the Peaceful Warrior boasts turkey, Swiss cheese, arugula, red pepper, mango chutney and curry. I admit, I am not a huge traditional sandwich type of person. I usually make a dozen substitutes or have ingredients omitted. Swiss cheese is not usually a go-to, either. But, this one? It tasted as good as it looked. The bread was fresh, and the veggies as well.

While the Daybreaker looked fantastic and would be to the average sandwich lover, it was not my cup of tea. It’s another diner pleaser and dubbed “The perfect picnic sandwich” on the menu, the Daybreaker has chicken, Monterey Jack, spring mix, avocado, red onion, honey mustard and miso mayo. Beautifully crafted, it lives up to its title and I can see why it’s a favorite.

And, the goods just don’t stop at sandwiches with Locali. I also got to try their Southwest salad which would be enough to be a meal in itself. Spinach, quinoa, black beans, avocado, bell pepper, tomato and chipotle lime make up this dish. Another popular salad I was eyeing is their Boss’ KO kale salad that you have the choice to make naughty or nice. Naughty entails sundried tomatoes, walnuts and cayenne while Nice isn’t too bad, either: cranberries, walnuts and a dash of agave. Being naughty or nice never sounded so good!

And, of course–what is a great cafe without coffee and dessert? Locali has you covered with an array of organic and Fair Trade coffee’s and teas. Their best kept secret? The Whoopie Pie. A decadent chocolate cookie sandwich with a creme filling. Thank the gluten-free Gods that it is safe for us! I could make that a meal in itself.

Locali will have their grand opening in West Hollywood TOMORROW (November 16th) and the first 100 visitors will get to experience their Bad Ass Breakfast Sandwich on the house. Get all the deets HERE.

(*Disclosure: I was a guest of the media to preview Locali West Hollywood. All opinions are my own.)