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ZipPicks Awards
Best Instagram Worthy Brunch in Culver City
Best Brunch in Culver City
Best Breakfast in Culver City
Best Middle Eastern in Culver City
Master Critic Review
esme
8.6
This design-forward cafe blends California ingredients with Middle Eastern and Latin flavors in refined dishes like shakshuka and merguez sandwiches. Founded by Ivan and Gabby in their deeply personal vision from 2017, the bright space showcases thoughtful plating and a warm community atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shakshuka, Merguez Sandwich, Barbari Bread
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Husband-wife founded cafe merging Middle Eastern-Latin flavors with California seasonality
Who should go: Food enthusiasts seeking creative flavor combinations and thoughtful execution
When to visit: Tuesday-Saturday 9am-4pm, closed Mondays
What to order: Shakshuka, merguez sandwich, house-made bread
Insider tip: Small space fills quickly, arrive early for best seating
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Washington Blvd and side streets, typically easier mornings/early afternoon. Public lot on Culver Blvd (2 blocks) $2/hr
Dress code: Casual-cool - think nice jeans and a button-up or sundress. Instagram-ready but comfortable
Noise level: Intimate and conversational - small space keeps volume low, perfect for catching up
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min wait typical, faster before 11:30am
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - shakshuka, multiple veggie-forward plates, house bread with spreads
Vegan options: Moderate - 3-4 options available, staff accommodating with modifications
Gluten-free options: Limited but available - can modify some dishes, ask about bread alternatives
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for early dates (brunch/lunch only). Intimate but not overly romantic, interesting menu gives conversation starters, and the aesthetics make both of you look good in photos if things go well
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations. Arrive by 9:30am weekends or after 1pm to avoid peak waits. Solo diners often get seated at the counter quickly
Is it kid-friendly? Works for well-behaved kids 8+ but not ideal for toddlers - small space, no high chairs, sophisticated atmosphere. Better for special occasions with older children
How long should I plan to stay? Leisurely 90-minute experience is the vibe - food comes at a relaxed pace, people linger. Not a quick bite spot
Is it worth the wait? Yes if you appreciate thoughtful cooking and unique flavors. Skip if you're in a rush or want traditional American brunch - this is more refined and globally-inspired
Best For
Better for: Esme excels at ingredient-driven creativity and intimate atmosphere - choose this over Republique when you want a quieter, more personal experience with globally-inspired flavors rather than French technique. Better than Gjusta for an actual sit-down meal vs. market chaos
Skip if: You want traditional eggs Benedict/pancakes, need kid entertainment, are in a hurry, or have a group larger than 4. Head to Huckleberry for family-friendly or Destroyer for equally creative but faster service
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday4pm - 9pm
Wednesday4pm - 9pm
Thursday9am - 5pm, 5:30pm - 9pm
Friday9am - 5pm, 5:30pm - 10pm
Saturday9am - 5pm, 5:30pm - 10pm
Sunday9am - 3pm