Smack dab in the middle of the busiest section of Ventura Boulevard in Studio City (just west of Vantage mid-block) is The Grain and the Greens—a small, boutique organic market that is modern in look, global in inventory, and homespun in hospitality and house-made food. Sherman Oaks residents and husband-wife team Kathy and Ash Avanessian opened their storefront just a few weeks ago and welcome all customers with bright smiles and free Pasquini (organic) coffee. 

The space is organized into sections: frozen and refrigerated products, children, cleaning supplies, pasta, condiments, canned goods and fresh produce. There is a global selection of products from Italy, France and the Middle East.

A highlight of this 818 version of a neighborhood "bodega" is the salad bar for $9.99 a pound, which is really much more than salads. It’s perfect “take-away” for a lunch or dinner; if you want to relax, there are a few tables inside.

Kathy cooks everything on the premises in a back kitchen. There are usually about 40 items on hand, including soup, stew and grains. The salad bar selections change according to what is in season and what inspires her. "My goal is to provide fresh healthy choices with options for everyone, whether their needs are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free or low-carb," says Kathy.

When I visited, prepared standouts included: curry chicken,  shrimp salad, eggplant and peppers, baba ganoush, tabouli, stuffed eggplant, tzaziki, artichoke salad, eggless egg salad, grilled tofu, dolmas and an interesting selection of stuffed olives. The salad bar also incorporates fresh lettuce, spinach and an assortment of vegetables to create any combination with or without the prepared dishes. 

During breakfast hours, there’s a small breakfast bar with fruit, yogurt and baked goods. There are also grab-and-go sandwiches and salads made on-site in the refrigerated section. 

The salad bar

Imported from Italy

Household products and kid items

International olive oil, vinegar and international gourmet products

Cadia products are prominently featured.

Bars and sweets

Specialty items like Urbani Truffles

Grab a quick bite with free coffee.

The Grain and The Greens, 12196 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, 818-308-7484. Street parking and public parking garage across the street.