Fodor's Expert Review Lola Valentina

Lori Dumm, former executive chef of Mango Cafe, has brought her talents to the heart of El Pueblo. Providing a unique take on Caribbean-fusion cuisine, she creates all of her own recipes and makes every menu item from scratch. Start with blue corn empanadas served with tamarind dipping sauce. The shrimp-stuffed red snapper is topped with creamy poblano peppers, and the chicken kabobs are bathed in a peanut-coconut sauce. Breakfasts of coconut French toast and eggs Benedict are equally divine. Those with dietary constraints will appreciate the variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options, including a vegan chocolate cake.