Obicà Mozzarella Bar

Los Angeles, CA (The Joy of Food) — A trough of cheese is the happiest of lunches for me, but some accompanying tapenade, pestos, vegetables, and salumi can make the meal more well-rounded. They use the good stuff here.

Obicà achieved a small reputation as the world’s first mozzarella bar concept, one that caught the attention of chef Nancy Silverton of La Brea Bakery and Mozza fame. If you’re familiar with the mozzarella bar at Mozza, Obicà was the inspiration.

At Obicà, it’s all about the buffalo mozzarella, a delicacy that’s readily available readily in Campiana, Italy, where it originates. Outside of home base, it’s tough to find in its fresh, still springy, magical tangy form.

Here, the mozzarella is flown in twice a week from these cheesemakers of the gods — smoked (affumicata), classic (delicate), and creamy (burrata) varieties, still firm and fresh with ample milk spilling out when cut. Be prepared for an unmistakeable mild and tangy flavor that lingers.

For your lunch or dinner, you might also consider the pizzas, focaccias, or one of the other breads executed from the wood-fired oven, all showcasing a crispy-chewy texture that only the best bread makers can achieve.

The simple focaccina is a highlight, lightly dusted with oregano and sea salt flakes. The bruschetta sampler is also delightful, a trio of grilled breads that host a cornucopia of tomatoes, olives, prosciutto, and even more glorious mozzarella.

Other dishes pay tribute to authentic Italian tastes and preparations using simple recipes and artisanal ingredients, the result of which is a mix of Italian classics and regional specialties. This includes the Schiaffoni di Gragnano, a dish of large tubular pasta lightly coated in organic tomato sauce and topped with buffalo mozzarella and basil. The tomato sauce sings of pure sweetness.

Century City is now studded with dining options of all kinds and sorts, an ever-evolving foodie hot spot where, among other places, Eataly planted its flag not too long ago. Thus, Obicà isn’t the draw it once was, but it still ranks high on my list in this part of town. Even better, it comes at a much lower price point than meals at Bestia, Rossoblu, and Mozza, what I’d consider the epitome of Italian dining experiences in L.A.