Primitivo   

1025 Abbot Kinney Blvd
Venice, CA 90291
310-396-5353
www.primitivowinebistro.com

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If there's one thing that's clear about this Mediterranean bistro nestled amid Abbot Kinney's trendy restaurant row, it's the staff's passion for eclectic cuisine. At Primitivo, find an outstanding array of tapas recalling not only Spain, but France and Italy as well. The cold tapas selection includes cheese and olive platters, Spanish antipasto with salamis, prosciutto, mixed greens and grilled bread. Continue your international tasting escapade with hot tapas from the scrumptious fried calamari fritti with fiery, arrabiatta sauce, empanadas or grilled quail over crispy polenta with wine sauce. The salads are equally as diverse featuring the popular caprese -- buffalo mozzarella with heirloom tomatoes and basil, to the Ahi tuna nicoise with butter lettuce and roasted red potatoes. Wine connoisseurs should appreciate the sommelier's recommended wine selections listed alongside each dish on the menu. Although these folks are serious about food, you won't find the attitude that usually accompanies such culinary aficionados. The atmosphere is refreshingly laid back with a crowd of artists, hipsters and business folk dining among the modern, shabby chic decor. For an extra special treat, reserve a spot on the patio, which reminds one of a turn-of-the-century, wooden back porch.