Elf Cafe

Tucked away on Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park, Elf Cafe feels like stepping into someone’s beautifully curated living room. The dimly lit space has an almost meditative quality—think Japanese incense, essential oil diffusers, and the kind of serene atmosphere that pairs perfectly with the neighborhood’s wellness-minded crowd. Since opening in 2006, this intimate Mediterranean spot has reinvented itself several times, and its current incarnation might just be the best yet.

While Elf Cafe has moved away from its strictly vegetarian roots, the menu still celebrates produce in spectacular fashion. The Turkish, Lebanese, and Italian influences shine through in dishes like blistered rainbow carrots drizzled with garlicky herb sauce and maple syrup, or silky warm hummus that’ll make you question why anyone serves it cold. For something more substantial, the smoked trout brandade arrives bubbling with melted raclette cheese—a decadent way to start any meal.

The real showstopper might be the lamb šiš kepab, which arrives steaming hot with warming spices that perfume the entire dining room. Tender meat rests on pillowy pita alongside charred vegetables, making a compelling case for why this neighborhood spot draws people from across the city. The small amari bar in the corner means you can linger over digestifs without rushing off elsewhere.

Elf Cafe is the kind of local treasure that makes you wish every neighborhood had one. It’s perfect for a relaxed weeknight dinner where you want something more thoughtful than takeout but less fussy than a special occasion spot. Grab a window seat, order generously, and let the gentle hum of Echo Park life wash over you.