I’ve written about Hugo’s before, I’m writing about them now, and I’m sure I’ll be writing about them in the future. It really is that good! Considering that I’m an L.A. native, I’m a bit late to the game in terms of being a Hugo’s fan. Their West Hollywood location has been around for some [...]]]>
I’ve written about Hugo’s before, I’m writing about them now, and I’m sure I’ll be writing about them in the future. It really is that good!
Considering that I’m an L.A. native, I’m a bit late to the game in terms of being a Hugo’s fan. Their West Hollywood location has been around for some 30 years and their Studio City location for close to 10 years, and they are now expanding to Agoura Hills. I’ve been going to both the West Hollywood and Studio City locations for at least the last year and can honestly say, it’s by far, my favorite casual dining spot in L.A. It’s been my meeting place of choice when I’ve needed to meet clients for a business lunch and just a great place to go with the family anytime of day. There are more gluten-free items on the menu (and labeled as gluten-free) than I could possibly remember and everything that I’ve tried has been nothing short of fantastic.
I recently sat down with Rich, one of Hugo’s PR folks and went through the menu, item by item and was impressed with their knowledge of the gluten-free diet and the importance of preventing cross-contamination at every point between the kitchen and the customer. The owners of Hugo’s are vigilant in making sure the kitchen staff is well aware of these issues and should be applauded for their efforts. One example of this is the dedicated fryer for their french fries — it’s rare treat that I can enjoy french fries in a restaurant anymore. These are some pretty great tasting fries as well.
Other than the menu annotations, Hugo’s doesn’t make a big deal of their gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free options — they simply refer to themselves as “stealthy healthy”. I think that most people who care, know that Hugo’s is there for them. And, from the looks of it, that’s a lot of people in the know. I’ve never been to Hugo’s when it wasn’t filled with people. That by itself is always the first sign of a great restaurant.
I’ve lived in L.A. for most of my life and have tried many restaurants offering gluten-free menus. Some are merely a handful of regular menu items that have been identified as being gluten-free, some offer a very limited selection of specifically gluten-free items and there are places like Hugo’s. Hugo’s has a menu that is [...]]]>
I’ve lived in L.A. for most of my life and have tried many restaurants offering gluten-free menus. Some are merely a handful of regular menu items that have been identified as being gluten-free, some offer a very limited selection of specifically gluten-free items and there are places like Hugo’s. Hugo’s has a menu that is beyond belief — dozens of menu items clearly marked as gluten-free and a staff who seemingly gets what you’re talking about when asking questions about the preparation of the food.
On my last visit, I had the Lentils, Leafy Greens & Rice As A Casserole and the spinach lemonade (OK, I know that drink sounds disgusting to some of you, but it really is delicious). I’m not a vegetarian, but when getting meals like this, I know that I wouldn’t have a problem with being one. On other visits, I’ve tried the Black Bean Chili, the Chipotle Scramble and the Orange Ginger Chicken. There are so many more items that I’m wanting to try — I know that there are many more visits in store for me.
Hugo’s is quickly becoming an L.A. must for me. I’m sure if you try it, it will be the same for you. Oh, I almost forgot to mention their tea selection — if you’re into tea as much as I am, you’ll be happy.
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