A cozy café by day and a charming Italian-inspired restaurant by night, Companion is set to take over Venice with a fresh and intimate vibe.
Created by the visionary duo Nick and Dakota Monica, owners of Santa Monica’s Gnarwhal Coffee — Companion is the manifestation of a dream that started with a logo sketched five years ago. Featuring two people holding hands, the logo not only represents their enduring ambition over the years, but also reflects the warm, welcoming atmosphere they aspired to create.
| Images via @companion.la on Instagram
During the day, Companion serves an enticing array of coffee, sandwiches, and pastries — making it an ideal spot for a leisurely break or casual meal. As night falls, the focus shifts to an Italian-inspired dinner menu crafted by Chef Jack Goode, known for his work at renowned places like Quarter Sheets and Bab’s. His menu promises inventive pizzas, vibrant salads, and dishes featuring the best of California produce.
The name “Companion” represents the restaurant’s goal of bringing people together over exceptional food. A clear sentiment shared on their site, “The word companion comes from the Latin roots com — (“with”) and panis (“bread”), with its origins meaning someone who you broke bread with. Breaking bread is one of life’s simplest, yet greatest pleasures. Whether we are hosting friends and family or enjoying a more intimate moment, we believe this experience should always be romanticized.”
Designed by Glen Bell of Studio Dex, the intimate space features natural wood elements accented with pops of color — and a high-fidelity sound system curated by Chef Goode. This setup fills the room with the warm tones of classic vinyl records, creating an unbeatable ambiance.
Companion is currently open in Venice but will launch its full operations, including dinner service, on September 18, 2024. As they fully open their doors, they promise a heartfelt space where guests can gather, enjoy a good meal, and share in life’s simple pleasures — like dining out with your companions.
🌐 Website: You can visit Companion directly here.
📍 Location: 1700 Lincoln Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291