Cafe Catalina Los Angeles

Said it before, "Simply the best!" Empanadas and Chorizos no other I consider eating!

I remember my parents shopping there in the early 1970's, when Bambi bakery was next door (Catalinas eventually expanded to occupy that space). Back then, Hispanic goods (other than those of Mexican origin) were not readily available at the grocery chains. In particular, some of the produce would only be available at markets such as Catalinas. They were an island of comfort for many non-Mexican Hispanics. Although of Argentine origins, Catalinas made an effort to offer goods from all of Latin America. I recall it's where my parents would go to purchase "Harina P.A.N" a necessary staple for all Venezuelans. Even back then, they were a deli, a "bodega, and butchers, as they are today. Having learned many of the recipes my parents cooked as a child, I continue those traditions today. And for over 40 years, Catalinas has made it possible for me to carry those traditions forward to a new generation. Try the breaded Milanesa, or their home made sausages (Morcilla for instance) for instance. Ive always found their meats to be fresh, and recommend newbees to be adventurous and learn how to cook a different cut of meat. For me, having a good butcher and bodega are basic necessities, and Catalinas meets those needs perfectly.