While the BF was watching his daily dosage of Food Network, he saw a mean looking chicken pot pie, which he, of course, had to tell me about. After finding out that that particular Brazilian chicken pot pie was skillfully handmade everyday, I was curious to see what this place, known for its Brazilian cuisine, was all about.

Small yet stylish, Wood Spoon is the place to be when looking for a simple, sit-down lunch. Located within downtown LA, this little place is a local hit. While circling around Fashion District, unable to find street parking, we had to park in the public lot- $3/15 minutes ($12 max)! Looking around, we spotted the iconic representation of the wooden spoon. There was no other sign yelling, “Wood Spoon”, just that simple image.

As soon as we opened the door, it felt as though I were walking into someone's home, getting ready for a home-cooked meal. The simplicity of Wood Spoon, from the chairs, to the artwork on the walls, to the daisies on the tables, was all inviting. Seated by the open kitchen, it truly felt as though Natalia Pereira, owner and chef of Wood Spoon, was extending her invitation for all to come to share in her love for some comfy Brazilian food.

After some refreshing, ice-cold cinnamon water, perfect for the 83-degree weather we were in, the BF and I started with the Yam Fries (6.00). A good decision for a side dish! The wedges were mushy, but not too much, making every bite enjoyable. The only thing I was puzzled about was the ketchup. Although I fancied these very basic fries, I was disappointed when I chose to dip my fry into their watered down ketchup.

Not wanting to get full off the fries, we patiently waited for our main courses. Because the food is made fresh, it does take a little while for the meals to be prepared -- perfect time to mingle if you're with a group! Since the BF had been talking about the Brazilian chicken pot pie (13.00), I decided to let him have it, planning to steal some of his when it came out. However, when it did, I only got to take a couple bites, as the portion came out smaller than expected (perfect for just one person). The roasted corn with the potpie's flaky crust along with the dish's side salad topped with mint dressing made me want to switch my dish with his!

I, on the other hand, wanting to get something different, went with the Brazilian Grilled Beef (14.00), which came with rice, beans, collard greens and plantains. The beef was tender and the rice and beans complemented the dish overall; however, this dish would not be something I would order again. If I wanted some Brazilian meat, I would head over to M Grill, an all you can eat, authentic Brazilian Steakhouse, which has a lunch deal for $18.

Although I don't recommend the Grilled Beef, considering its price and portion, I would definitely encourage getting the chicken pot pie, which is what I'm going to order next time, whether the BF gets the same dish as me or not.

 

Wood Spoon 107 West 9th St Los Angeles, CA 90015 213.629.1765

 

Reach reporter Janice Kim here.