If you drove down the boulevard this past weekend and caught sight of the crowd at Ventura Blvd and Hazeltine, you were witnessing half the neighborhood—so it seems—line up for The Valley’s first Mendocino Farms.  It’s about time the popular sandwich shop and marketplace migrated to this side of the hill.  We can appreciate their prosciutto and free-range chicken sandwich just as much as the next person, and don’t even get us started on the pork belly banh mi—perfection between two slices of grilled ciabatta.  But good things come to those who wait, and here are five reasons why we believe this is the greatest Mendocino, yet. 

1. FOR LOCALS, BY LOCALS

Mendocino founders, Mario Del Pero and Ellen Chen, are long-term Valley residents, and this is their local baby.  Each feature of the 3000 square foot space was designed to cater to the neighborhood and the families that live here. 

 

2. WINE AND DINE

Who wouldn’t want a glass of cabernet with a ham and mac grilled cheese sandwich?  This is the first location to have a wine program, which will accompany their craft beer selection (beginning in November).  Just like that—this lunch spot became a great dinner option, too.

 

3. KIDS’ CORNER

Ah, to be young again.  The space is outfitted with a kids table and chalkboard, so the little ones can doodle on the wall.  We’ll be honest—we’ve seen adults make use of it as well.

 

4. FIRE PIT AND PATIO

This is SoCal.  We have a sun-kissed look we have to upkeep, which is why every restaurant needs a patio.  Mendocino is on top of that, and theirs includes a fire pit.  You know, for those really chilly SoCal nights.

 

5. COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

You’ve got to love it when the new kid on the block throws a mean party.  The Sherman Oaks Mendocino is celebrating their move into the neighborhood by hosting a Family Fun Day on October 26^th 2013, featuring a photobooth, arts and crafts, and face painting.  We have a feeling this is the first of many community programs and events.  Let us be the first to say it:  Welcome to the neighborhood!

 

Mendocino Farms, 14141 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423.  (818) 205-9744.