As fireworks paint the sky this Fourth of July, Echo Park will witness the blossoming of two new culinary ventures by the team that brought locals the charm of Lonely Oyster. Chef Dom Crisp alongside owner Don Andes are expanding their gastronomic landscape, launching the Scandinavian-inspired Piknik inside the landmark Echo Park Lake boathouse, in addition to the Winner Winner fried chicken truck which will firmly park itself outside Andes' bar, Little Joy Cocktails, as reported by Eater LA.
According to Eater LA, the boathouse, refreshed in 2018, is no stranger to eclectic eateries, yet Piknik aims to become a steadfast favorite with its European flair. Maia Domingues, the newly appointed chef de cuisine, has curated a morning selection featuring madeleines, a gouda-laced pão de queijo, and a rich chocolate hazelnut cake. To quench morning thirsts, they're slated to serve up fresh-pressed juices and a suite of Be Bright coffee brews from 8 a.m. “until sold out.” When noon hits, a savory spread takes over with seasonal salads, inventive sandwiches, and a remarkable potato chip-crusted wagyu schnitzel among other delicacies.
Simultaneously, Winner Winner is ready to firmly establish its roots by providing an indulgent fried chicken experience from day well into the night, Thursday through Sunday. Masterminded by David Moreno, previously seen at the treasured Taix French restaurant, the truck is bringing its name to life with offerings like fried drumsticks paired with sesame-miso salads and boneless thighs positioned perfectly in honey butter biscuit sandwiches—as per Eater LA.
Dodger supporters in particular may find these spots an appealing pre-game stop. "The boat house and Echo Park are special to me," Crisp told Eater LA, reflecting on his connection to the area. Piknik will be open daily from 8 a.m. until the lights go out at 11 p.m., ready to satiate the neighborhood's hunger, "until sold out". Those looking to fully experience a fried chicken extravaganza can visit Winner Winner at 1301 Portia Street, Thursday through Sunday, from noon until they make the last call at 2 a.m.
