Primitivo Wine Bistro in the heart of Venice has been in business for ten years. Started by owner Daniel Deny, a former wine distributor, Primitivo is the first wine bar opened in LA. Daniel started his business by offering wine flights by varietal. Primitivo was an instant hit and has grown exponentially over the years. His extensive and very cultivated wine list changes seasonally as does the menu.
Our delightful and attentive host started us off with a sampling of their Happy Hour vinos including the Sangria, both red and their house special which is Elderflower infused sparkling white sangria. Each of these was fantastic and a real steal of a deal at only $4.00! Daniel also shared with us a very special wine, Adelsheim Auxerrois 2009 Ribbon Springs Vineyard Ribbon Ridge. This grape hails from Alsace and is a cross between a pinot noir and a variety called Gouais blanc. The rest of Daniel’s unique, sophisticated and worldly wine list is well worth a relaxing Happy Hour pondering and sampling.
Primitivo’s Chef Eddy Shin was recently the executive chef at Chapter 8 Steakhouse, Nick & Stef’s in Downtown Los Angeles and the famed Patina Group. The menu at Primitivo reflects his specialty, global cuisine, and has a very strong Mediterranean slant. His use of fresh seasonal ingredients in these innovative dishes is delightful!
Daniel treated us to a magnificent sampling of Happy Hour small plates including the Southwestern Black Bean Patty (Avocado, red onion, jack cheese and roasted bell pepper aioli), Tortilla Espana (Spanish potato and onion omelet with romanesco), Croquetas de Jamon and Queso (Black forest ham and Gruyere cheese with quince aioli), Bacon Wrapped Medjool Dates with chorizo, Chipotle BBQ short ribs with Bacon-Aligot Potatoes, Mezze Platter (Hummus, baba ghanouj, mahammarra, spuma di tonno and pickled turnips with grilled pita bread), Slow Roasted Pork with jerk sauce and crispy corn tortillas, and Moroccan Lamb Patty with Tzatziki Sauce. Each dish surpassed the last. The portions were substantial and value driven.
If you enjoy brunch, Primitivo hosts acoustic brunches every Saturday & Sunday from 12:30 pm to 3 pm. Local artists and musicians play on the beautiful back patio. Sangria Sundays are always rocking!
Daniel hosts monthly wine tastings ($37-42 per person) featuring different grape varietals, a tapas buffet and sommelier presentations. This is on the third Wednesday of the month. Whether you are a newbie or a wine aficionado, you are sure to enjoy these intimate, informative and very well-priced gatherings.
On New Years Eve Primitivo will have two seatings serving from the regular menu with added specials and festive décor. Primitivo also hosts private events on the back patio or in The Barrel Room which can seat up to 40 guests. Primitivo has an experienced catering staff if you would rather have a party at your home or office.
The atmosphere at Primitivo is comfortable and homey, both indoors and out. This is a great place for dates, business meetings, parties, or just catching up with friends. As a wine enthusiast myself, I highly recommend you treat your taste buds to a visit. You will be glad you did!
Primitivo Wine Bistro
1025 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, CA 90291
310 396-5353
Email: eryn@primitivowinebistro.com
Web site link: Primitivo Wine Bistro
HH Hours: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm M-Th at bar; 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm Sunday
Featured Wines: Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon
Featured Beers: Stella Artois
Featured Mixed drinks: Sangria, Red and White; $16 pitchers on Sundays
Featured Foods: Sliders, bacon wrapped dates, short ribs
Price range for drinks: Everything $4.00
Price range for food: $2.50-$9.00
Name of chef: Eddy Shin
Name of owner: Daniel Deny
Name of manager: Jimmy Bradley
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