"When opening Companion, husband-and-wife team Nick and Dakota Monica wanted somewhere that felt like they were hosting friends in their living room. That dream of a laid-back vibe and warm hospitality evolved in their new all-day cafe and restaurant right around Lincoln Boulevard in Venice. During the daytime, Companion serves coffee and pastries, plus sandwiches filled with porchetta and bolognese from chef Jack Goode ( Quarter Sheets, Bab’s, Jac’s on Bond). At night, the restaurant flips into a wine bar serving a Caesar salad that swaps lettuce for Romano beans, a panzanella salad, rigatoni Bolognese, and a wagyu New York Strip. Stick around for dessert to indulge in homemade ice cream topped with a double ristretto shot. — Rebecca Roland, associate editor" - Eater Staff